I am a 2/yr pilot with 150 hours and an Inst rating, looking at purchasing a plane this winter/spring. I really like the Maule for many reasons, but mainly because of back country flying, and keeping up on my inst practice. I ,so far, am a renting C172 pilot, including the 195hp XP and the RG. It looks like I can afford a 70K plane and a quick internet search proves hopeful. When I checked on Insurance, WOW!
![Shocked :shock:](./images/smilies/icon_eek.gif)
I have 0 tailwheel experience
![Embarassed :oops:](./images/smilies/icon_redface.gif)
and this seems to be the driving factor for a 4K/yr charge. They require 25hrs dual time, which is no problem in my opinion, other than I have to find a good Maule instructor near Eugene, OR. So my questions..
Do I try to get tail wheel experience before the purchase? Renting eats up savings for the plane.
How do I get the plane here for the purchase inspection by my Mech?
How do I get the 25 hrs dual if the closest Maule experienced CFI is in Portland, or Seattle, or Medford?
Should I take the hint, and have my first airplane be a 172? A 170?
Do I just grin
![Very Happy :D](./images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif)
and pay the man and do everything I can to get the cost down?
Anyone gone through a similar experience?
Thanks in advance, Erick