New/used Sportcopter

[Gyro-nut]

I need some advice guys. I ran into (but didn't hurt) a gentlemen today while milling around at the airport who is thinking of selling his like new sportcopter lightning for $10K. He purchased it just a couple months ago from a couple who hadn't flown it for a long time. The current owner and hasn't flown it (or even fired it up) but wants to buy a 2-seater (he couldn't pass up the deal).
The SC doesn't have an 'N' number, so what would I need to do to get it registered? Tear it down and rebuild it? (which is what I'd like to do anyway)
Also, what should I be looking at when purchasing this bad boy. It's got all the instrumentation sans radio. Even comes with a trailer.
What do ya'll think????? Any and all input is welcome for this newbie gyro-head!

I'd like to eventually have a 2-seat machine myself; but I figured I better get some time and experience under my belt before I decide to put others at risk ;)

Thanks in advance to all who reply...

[GyroRon]

Sounds like a fair deal to me... pending the gyro is not got any hidden problems. How much do you weight? Want to make sure it will have enough power for you.

As for registration, Email Tom Milton. He is not too far away and he can help.

[Gyro-nut]

Ron, I weigh about 180. I believe he said it has the Rotax 503 and 26' disk (older style aluminum blades). Your thoughts?

[Udi]

The SC Lightning is supposed to be an ultralight, so you don't have to register it. Another Lightning with less than 10 hrs on it was sold recently on eBay for $7600. There seem to be many SCs laying around that were built in 2000 and were never flown.

The standard SC blades are 25 ft and, with your weight, and a 503 it should fly just fine.

Udi

[Gyro-nut]

Thanks for the reply Udi. This SC has the prerotator and pod, so I think it may actually fall outside the weight limit for an ultralight.... but I'll find out more.

Thx again

[PW_Plack]

A Lightning with a 503 barely makes it under 254, but the pod and prerotator will put it well over.

First step is to find out the kit serial number or name of original purchaser, and call Sport Copter, (503) 543-7000. They keep good track of their machines, and may be able to tell you if there has been any damage, and which parts if any have been replaced.

[Gyro-nut]

Thanks for the advice PW. If I take it apart and rebuild it, would I need to get all new hardware (nuts,bolts,etc) are is it all re-usable?

[PW_Plack]

Jim, I'm no bolt expert, and opinions vary. Put that on your list of questions when you call Jim Vanek at Sport Copter. He will have definite advice on what to replace.