85 engine case

dcmflydude · Post by **dcmflydude** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 13:25

I bought a project and it included a Cont. 85 case. The case looks as if it is new...it has no data plate, no holes where plate goes. I don't know if it has been reworked or what. How can I determine if it is any good or how much it is worth? Thanks Dale

Paul Agaliotis · Post by **Paul Agaliotis** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 13:53

Dale,
You have a couple of options.
Send it to a repair station for inspection and they can provide an 8130. Or find a power plant mechanic to dimensionally check the case for use. Using the first option will be considered a serviceable engine when used. The latter would be considered a repaired engine.
Paul

dcmflydude · Post by **dcmflydude** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 15:16

Thanks Paul...I know of one about 25 miles from where I live in Tuscaloosa, AL. If it is good, and I don't need it, what would a reasonable price to sell it at? Thanks Dale

Post by **joea** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 15:54

If you do not need it, Nathan Hammond on this list was looking for a C-85 engine. He might be interested in it.

Also Nathan did a "Dons Dream Machines" STC on his old engine (his Father took it and after flying it for a while on his Aeronca is not giving it back!) and loved it, so if you keep it, might think about his. They use an O-200 crank and other giblets to make a very nice engine.

Joe

Paul Agaliotis · Post by **Paul Agaliotis** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 16:08

Another 'bama' boy. My family was one of the biggest bootleggers up in Culbert County.
Dale,
I wouldn't want to guess on the value. I've seen them both high and low. The last one I bought at an auction for $85.00. I have also watched the online auctions where they went for $400 plus. In cases like this I,ve found horse trading to be the best. Find something you need and swap the case for it.
Paul

dcmflydude · Post by **dcmflydude** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 16:19

Thanks guys...btw..this NAA web site is great stuff!
Dale

Post by **joea** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 16:32

dcmflydude wrote:Thanks guys...btw..this NAA web site is great stuff!
Dale

Three posts and you already feel that the site is great? Get your feet wet, dive in the other threads and then we will really have you addicted!

Glad that you like the forum!

Joe

Nathan K. Hammond · Post by **Nathan K. Hammond** » Thu Feb 21, 2008 21:39

Howdy Dale,

No data-plate holes are a good indication the case went through an Overhaul shop and hasn't been returned to service. Generally O/H shops will weld them up because the drive pins elongate the old holes and new pins don't hold. But, before the case can be used, it needs to be inspected like Paul said and have a Form-8130 (Yellow Tag.) Some FBO's might have the equipment, but you'd do better sending it to an O/H shop where they can do the whole deal; zy-glow, line bore, re-hone etc...

If you decide to let it go, I'd be interested.

nkh

drjeff · Post by **drjeff** » Fri Feb 22, 2008 00:27

Hey Dale,
Welcome to the site! I'm just east of you in Chelsea, AL. I am in the mist of a L-16A rebuild that I hope to have finished this......June if my wife will loan me more money! Glad to see more intrest in a great little plane close to home!
Jeff