The words “cheap” and “overhaul” aren’t known to appear in the same sentence, but it’s true that smaller, modest engines are cheaper to overhaul than high-horsepower sixes. But what about old and modest, specifically Conti-nental’s numerous A-65 series and its offshoots? Are these the gateway to affordable flying or just doddering antiques getting ever more expensive to maintain?
The question is more than academic as many buyers turn to legacy airplanes that qualify for light sport status. They’re looking both for flight privileges without fear of medical loss and for affordable ownership, which means an engine that won’t decimate the bank account if it crumps a cylinder or eats a valve. The news is mixed. Smaller engines like the A-65, A-75 and A-80 series and the C-series offshoots aren’t exactly cheap to overhaul, but despite their advanced age, they remain eminently supportable. Even the utterly orphaned Franklin engines remain viable.