I Bought a Cherokee 6 for Less Than $30K and It Changed My Life | An Airplane Renovation Story

[@TrentonPalmer]

Awesome work, she’s beautiful! I originally wanted a Cherokee 6 before I went with the Kitfox, it’s still on my list 🤘

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Your awesome videos make me really want a Kitfox to do the type of flying you do! Looks super fun. We should chat cinematography sometime...

[@TrentonPalmer]

Haha, thanks man! And always happy to chat about cinematography!

[@Tommyflies]

Just found this channel watching Trent's videos! Subbed immediately. Awesome work. 🤙

[@nightfall22]

Been a fan of Trent’s for some time now. Awesome to see him on here too. Subbed here as well. Gotta support another southern Cali brother

[@tonywulff9665]

Seems to be a common thought......we want a Cherokee 6 as our family commuter, paired with our existing Pacer Bush plane. Tied of driving 1200 miles each way to see the extended family!

[@tarobrob513]

This is honestly the most high quality story telling I’ve ever seen

[@RK-MTB]

Couldn't agree with you more. I'm not even into airplanes but this was an awesome story!!!

[@OldEnoughToParty]

He does this for a living

[@ery9077]

Agree👆🏿

[@flyingaardvarks1133]

Right?!?!?! Just crushed it.

[@cstay3]

Hi How much total after upgrade and repaint? How I can do similar thing And is the aircraft still FAA certified ?

[@metaobserver657]

"I'm a professional cinematographer" ahh makes sense now

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

:)

[@d3rfv547]

Ha! Had that in mind to! Great video!

[@Gunshinzero]

Right. That cleared up a lot. I was thinking this video is too legit. Lol.

[@Bland-79]

When I seen what this guys job is I instantly immediately looked up a cost estimate of owning a plane. The cost of the pilots licence and the initial airplane purchase is the cheap part. The upkeep is more than most people can afford.

[@edb7742]

I am very impressed by the quality of the videos and as soon as I heard him say that, I thought, "No wonder they're so good!"

[@fairysox221]

That's it... this video has finally made my mind up, I've been undecided for a while now and after watching this and seeing how much fun the aircraft is we've decided to splash out and get Microsoft flight simulator 2020...

[@Justin-eq6vd]

I’m gonna buy it too :D

[@Vejitasei]

May I advise you look at X-Plane instead. Much better graphics, physics and database. Also available for MS/Mac/Linux for life. X-Plane 11 added VR support (if you have the setup and are into that sort of thing) which is also awesome.

[@Farms2000]

Vejitasei not fsx he means the new flight sim

[@D_T_W_D]

@@Vejitasei why would he buy x plane? MSFS 2020 literally comes out in 12 days and has much better graphics than any other flight sim by a mileeeeeeeee.

[@kidamere2408]

@@Vejitasei xplane is inferior in every aspect to 2020

[@fknight]

6:17 “I’m a professional cinematographer.” That… that explains the quality here lol great video!!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks!

[@PhlyDaily]

well told story! great cadence and b-roll to match.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks! I appreciate that!

[@davitohacks9289]

War thunder

[@goodbyecruelworld7005]

Playvwith german please!(our german tank always lose, you were my only hope)

[@muhammadaliffadhillah7547]

Buy a plane Phly

[@sub4freerobux340]

wait what is phly doing here?

[@AlexChoi1]

I was wondering how the cinematography and editing was so ridiculous for a vlog and then you telling us your job at the end explained everything.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks!

[@JustSayN2O]

agree.

[@vincentmegale4805]

I was thinking the same. Incredible job.

[@Gettinherethehardway]

I think he has done this once or twice......great production

[@llama307]

Yea was thinking the same thing, wow awesome video,

[@marvininthemiddle4586]

Moral of the story: completely ignore your wife.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Definitely do not ignore your wife! And be appreciative when she is super cool and gets over her fear of the airplane so you can pursue your dream...and then you can have a laugh about the whole thing and make fun of yourselves in a silly video on youtube... ?

[@fredpinczuk7352]

LOL, at your own perils.

[@FlightChops]

Haha - came here to say this :P

[@christopherbowers7219]

Awesome story, AWESOME PLANE!!!

[@AVadim]

А лучше вообще не женитесь. 😜

[@thomasellis1516]

As an A&P and Commercial Pilot, I’ve watched this video half a dozen times and shared it with countless others. What a great story about how aviation can change your life.

[@noleftturnunstoned]

especially if you have lots of money and work in the film industry

[@campgroundsacrossamerica]

Just found your channel and how nice. I'm just getting my certificate at the age of 73 and enjoying flying. I always wanted to fly since a kid and finally decided to do it. Against all odds and lots of people saying things like your too old and can't do two things at one time. WoW that really made me want to do it even more so I did. I studied and studied and finally went and passed my written test and have 5.1 hours under my belt now and am working on more. I'm hoping to finish up my training before the end of September. Hope all those saying I couldn't do it can wake up and enjoy their own lives. I'm sure going to keep enjoying mine. In the Wild Blue Younder. :)

[@jaypisme2343]

You’re awesome sir

[@q1o2]

How did your training turn out? Did you get your PPL?

[@campgroundsacrossamerica]

@@q1o2 Yes! Thanks

[@callbackdons]

"..climbs like a homesick angel." Wow what a line. I was all mad about it not really being 30k but that line won me over.

[@2811JPR]

Right? So witty and eloquent, gonna have to steal it.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I would love to take credit for it but all those colorful phrases are direct quotes from my mechanic buddy himself. LOL

[@spannaspinna]

SoCal Flying Monkey lol touches down like like a butterfly with sore feet

[@technomentis]

"Climbs like a homesick angel" your videos rocks.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks!!

[@daver6468]

Just for the record, the homesick angel thing...not exactly original.

[@BlackGryph0n]

looking at buying a Piper Cherokee PA-28 for my dad, but after this video, wondering if I should just get the 6 for our whole family...

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

we had a PA28 and quickly outgrew it with the amnount of stuff evberyone wants to take. The 6 isnt that much more in maintenance or fuel. (maybe 33% more fuel)

[@motionpictureconsult]

Wow. I am a film production consultant and a pilot that flies a Saratoga and happened across this video, and your channel. All I can say is WOW. You are amazingly skilled at both shooting and piloting (and writing, editing, lighting...). Can't wait to see the rest of your channel. Congratulations on everything you have accomplished so far and best of luck on your future travels and films! You should be so proud.

[@FlightChops]

Solid story telling here - that's the hardest part of making engaging content and you crushed it - great plane as well - I recently got to do a pile of flying with my family in a Cherokee 6 all over Mexico - normally aspirated made for a challenge getting around some of the mountains down there, but it was a tank and did a great job for us.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for the comment Steve. I've been watching your channel for a long time and I have to say it's really great and it inspired me to get out and create my own stuff. Glad you've had a chance to fly the Cherokee 6 - it's a real work horse and super comfortable. Looking forward to seeing how your RV turns out! (forgive me I am behind on episodes) And yes I agree we need to tell stories not just show flights. It is the essence of good content and key to sharing the human condition.

[@hollysuniverse5706]

The storytelling is amazing! Lighting, depth of field, editing, and voice over is so engaging. Wow!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

@@hollysuniverse5706 thank you that is very kind!

[@hobblyjig]

I also have a family of 4. I completed ground school when I was 18 back in 2002. I'm finally in a position where I'm starting to think about getting my license again. This video nearly made me cry. I hope I can follow in your footsteps and own a plane that gives my family the freedom some amazing experiences. In the mean time I'll following along with your channel. Thanks for sharing!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I had to take a 15 year break after nearly completing the PPL. Ran out of money. Got engaged, then Marriage, kids, house, life and then 15 years later jumped back in. I say go for it. There are many ways to make aviation work as part of your life. Flying clubs, partnerships etc etc etc.

[@ranman7729]

You just inspired me to finish my ppl training, I had stopped because it was getting expensive, but I'm gonna push through.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

be sure to check out my next video. (tomorrow) I'm glad you are getting back into it!!

[@ranman7729]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey ok

[@livewellwitheds6885]

do it!!!!

[@Nors1e]

Dude you are gonna do so well on youtube, keep up the good work!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you! Its been super fun creating lately!

[@JustEvan7]

"I wanna buy a plane" "Only if you want a divorce" *BUYS PLANE* LOL also the production value and family inclusion is hilarious.

[@Dakarn]

"Can't divorce me at 1500 feet!"

[@안재헌-b6s]

Him to her.. "WTH!?! But you promised to divorce me if I buy a plane!!"

[@hefeibao]

@@안재헌-b6s I should try that. Um, not.

[@otacon1024]

"So... two birds with one stone? SOLD!"

[@brucedeloop]

Apart from being an inspiring story, this video is a really good example of excellent film-making. Well done!!

[@brucedeloop]

oh, and then I see at the end you're a pro! Ha, no wonder! So good man, so good...

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you so much!

[@stevenavedissian9534]

This is probably the best edited video I’ve ever seen in my entire life

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

LOL. Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@leonardodrummond9415]

I keep thinking: what on earth goes on in someone's mind when they click dislike in a video like that? Informative, entertaining, great shots, incredibly well-edited... it's all there. What's not to like? Fantastic job!

[@roncooke2188]

Very important view i do agree

[@Gunshinzero]

Sometimes I wonder if KZbin just throw them in lol. Then I saw some idiot make a negative comment on a video because of the KZbin ad. So basically people are idiots.

[@Grasss]

it's a tool for adjusting youtube suggestions. if you suddenly a hit a cooking show while you watch planes you will hit a "dislike" to see less of cooking, not because you hate the food shown. it's stupid to take dislikes personally .

[@texnorthman]

06:17 - I was like "ahaaaa, that's why this KZbin video is so brilliantly shot and edited!". Great work, subscribed :)

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

haha yeah unfair advantage I suppose!

[@beenlowe19]

My exact thoughts when he said what he did for a living lol.

[@DanielFernandez]

What a refreshing video, first time seeing your channel, you've got a new subscriber.

[@travelrideandfly8355]

I was about to comment "what a great video & editing.Looks just like a pro!" …… then you revealed your daily job 😃! Great job.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks!

[@loverboy4894]

Never watched your channel until just now. I’m hooked. As someone who wants to get into flying and potentially owning an aircraft for the family, this is super great to watch! Love the video editing!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you. There is a lot of great information on the internet and youtube from passionate aviators for when you start getting into your training. Check out The Finer Points youtube channel. Lots of great instruction from a great CFI over there.

[@loverboy4894]

I will be sure to take a look at those channels! Thanks!

[@andrewgrischenko]

This is an amazing production and a very inspirational story! I watch a few KZbinrs on aviation, but your is really unique! Thank you for doing it!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you for the encouragement! I appreciate it a great deal.

[@biglee13m]

"I'm a professional cinematic photographer" ok... that explains the quality of this video.

[@Cat-Branchman]

I learned at KWHP in 1989, BFR at Vista and also work in the TV and film industry (below the line). I love your stories and they really are an inspiration to involve my family in aviation more. With two redheaded girls as well and a wife that doesn't like small planes to, you've touched my heart. Thank you!

[@jessendelft-1]

Because of this video I'm suddenly really tempted to get my flying license, get my own plane and start doing the same. I live in Norway, but my family lives in the Netherlands. Being able to fly to them in my own plane would be amazing, as well as taking vacation trips all around Norway using this plane. My mind is racing, and I love it. Thanks for this inspirational video, mr. Monkey!

[@gregwilliams9854]

don't think about it... just do it

[@GrantOakes]

I was just about to compliment you on your video editing skills and how cute it was dubbing over your wife and kids voices. Then at the end it all made sense since you're a cinematographer. Great job! Since I'm a professional wedding photographer (now retired), I look at the tiny details.

[@TheLombardProject]

"This thing takes off like a scalded dog and climbs like a homesick angel" love me the Don.

[@Whataboutit]

Well done video presentation and a fun story to tell. Beautiful job restoring the Cherokee! ♥️

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks so much!

[@mr.spaceboy9785]

WAI family for life

[@TardyTaz]

I love the CAP planes in the background. Grew up in that organization and can't begin to explain how much it's benefited me throughout the years

[@codycushing2385]

Same i just had my first O-ride

[@blinimationstudios1717]

same! I thought I’d seen N939CP a couple weeks ago too but apparently I got it mixed up with another, either way it’s an amazing organization

[@박영준-w1h]

Wow! What a amazing story! Your wife and daughters are good actors!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you very much!

[@nestakwame1367]

Thanks a lot for having me come along on the journey with you.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for watching!

[@heinzpilot]

Great video! It made me smile. I'm a grounded airline pilot after losing my medical to lung damage from Covid-19 last year. I have been flying for 34 years, so this has been difficult. But I came across this video and it put a huge smile on my face today! What a great way to tell a love story for aviation and including your family was awesome! Well done!

[@jms241965]

Fly a light sport like an RV12…I’m building one and hope to be finished in a couple of years

[@dr.dfargo2921]

What is your current status with flying, was this Vac. Related

[@teenice894]

This is what I call " money to play with ".. I'm sure he works hard for what he has.

[@Jeeptalkshow]

I learned in a Piper Archer. Boy I liked that plane. I remember thinking I'd like to have that 6 place Piper, 300 hp, constant speed prop. lol I still can't afford a plane, but I did buy a Jeep Cherokee in 1998! Wow that plane is gorgeous. Inside and out. All those beautiful big screens, wow, I'm going to have to sit here for a few minutes and watch baseball.

[@keithlucas6260]

I have a 1998 Jeep Cherokee as well....adjusted for inflation they would be selling for $35,000 today..... Our Civil Air Patrol had a Piper Pa-28 back in 1972 we flew all over the place..... If we sell our property, I will definitely look into flying again, and lifting the Jeep 3 1/2 inches with 33's.....

[@thepurpleufo]

If there has ever been a perfect aviation video, this is it.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

hey thanks!!!

[@NateLeeProductions]

Title should have been “ how I spent $100k on a Cherokee 6”

[@DavidDavid-jb1cy]

then you probably wouldn't be down here commenting

[@austinoquinn6461]

still a really good price for a Cherokee 6

[@johnsnyder6646]

I'll bet it was more than that! Beautiful transformation!

[@soconnoriv]

Between the paint, overhaul, interior, and avionics upgrades, I bet he ended up spending over 150k

[@alienxyt]

Agreed!

[@firecosman]

Hey Eric, I was the guy who stopped by your hangar while you were finishing up this video. You have an awesome story and great content creativity. See you on the ramp...Gerald

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Gerald it was great meeting you at Whiteman. I hope you are enjoying your 182. When this virus thing subsides I'd love to see it. Hit me up at [e-mail] to stay in touch and stop by the hangar anytime!!!

[@FlightRisk2010]

I love seeing worn out airplanes being brought back to life. You videos are amazing by the way. You should have 100k subscribers in no time.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Yeah me too. I like seeing old things becoming new again.

[@teresaacevedo4825]

Yes me too .. I enjoy watching the progress of Refurbishing all types of aircrafts. It’s a work of Art all to itself.

[@SusheePerumal]

Amen!

[@Buc-eesGurl]

You're channel popped up on my feed. I don't know why I started looking for an airplane to buy, but you've convinced me to get my pilots licence first. Love you channel btw.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

awesome! Hope you get started. I have a good getting started guide at socalflyingmonkey.com.

[@kellyodegaard5718]

Excellent video. I liked the tease about the 30K but after hearing about all you have done to this beautiful plane I can only guess what you have into it - Yikes! Looking forward to watching more of your posts.

[@olensoifer9901]

Gorgeous plane at the end. But, it is deceptive to say you bought it for $30K. What did you put into it on top of the price? $80K $100? or more? I would guess that I might be low...since an engine rebuild can cost more than you paid for the entire original "beast".

[@noleftturnunstoned]

Too true. Nothing inspirational about having lots of money and using it to buy your family a new plane.

[@bmac8130]

I’m also curious about this. I hate deceptive titles. I figured this was going to be a I bought a budget plane and slowly upgraded as I could story.. Obviously 30k was the starting point but what was the total? Another 100k is my shot in the dark.

[@jamesgardner1875]

He did say it flew well even before all that

[@d.j.roberts187]

Yeah.. I was fooled too.. but it is a beautiful plane

[@JimBronson]

Nothing says you have to put an expensive glass panel in it right away, if your intention is to fly it daytime VFR for a while. Or fancy leather seats, fancy paint job, etc. The engine rebuild costs are real though, figure 20K on that. I'm looking at one for around $25K with a engine less than 100 hours from timing out. The paint and interior are in good, but original, condition. If it was a classic car they'd call it a survivor. But anyway.

[@TheHarleyRoadshow]

Gotta be honest, I’m not really into planes but like the way it was filmed, so you’ve got my subscription

[@aldohattonduran5227]

Probably the 14th time I've watched this 😂😂😂 love the energy.. family interest.. the rendition of the youngest daughter mechanic with fake moustache 😂😂😂😂 and the voice overs discussing the investment aspects 😂😂😂 I see how you made it so professional being a cinematographer! Mega shout out 💪🏼💫🌞🌛🏆✈️🛫🛬🇺🇲

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks so much! I really appreciate this.

[@kumsin]

Thanks for sharing, but obviously this costed a lot more than just $30k. Would you share your breakdown and total cost?

[@DanSlotea]

Probably not, his wife might see it. She knows about the initial 30k.

[@osto1094]

@@DanSlotea lmao

[@lawrencenisbett7579]

Has to be another $30k on top..

[@normancarter5419]

@@lawrencenisbett7579 is Probably closer to another additional $100K on top, based upon everything that was done, and that was his FRIEND doing it at a reduced rate.

[@joshuaespinoza534]

I think about 200k on top. No joke

[@ibgarrett]

Great video. I suspect a "1" got added to the leading edge of the overall cost once the engine overhaul was done, avionics, interior and exterior work was done. :)

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Yes indeed.

[@samrutkowski1]

Exactly! Great content and production value, but certainly a "clickbait" title. Oh, and I am beyond jealous. Fly safe.

[@rpcraighead]

That's the thing, though. If you buy one 'equipped', you pay 125K ish. But you don't have exactly what you want. You don't KNOW what's about to go wrong... I think he did it right! I'm thinking of buying once this Covid thing is over and I pass my CFI ride... Have my students pay the bills!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I don't disagree- I think it's hard to find a balance between something that will grab people's attention and something that exactly represents everything in a video. I definitely struggle with the titles. In any case, I try to have the content be as strong as possible and hopefully not disappoint. But duly noted.

[@franciscoh.demello6518]

Amazing video!!

[@Robisme]

It won’t surprise me if “Don” falls in love with planes in the future. Especially with that mustache.

[@aldohattonduran5227]

Broooooo totally loved the video!! Great voice overlays and with your daughter doing the role of mechanic in Florida 😂😂😂😂 way awesome! ✈️🛬🛫💤🇺🇸

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Glad you liked it!! thank you

[@TheRcSaylors]

This is such a wonderful video and story 😃 I absolutely adore the shots of your "mechanic" flying the plane by herself, lol!! We too are a family of aviation lovers, just on a much smaller scale. I would love to fly with you one day 👍⚓😎

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for the nice comment!

[@jwe]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey How exactly did you even get that shot?

[@captain052A]

He makes the upgrades sound like he bought them off ebay. Lol

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

we did get some parts off ebay. :)

[@Roy_xp]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey lol

[@aeromechmike]

I just want to say that your videos are fantastic, and that you've inspired me to resume my flight lessons that I postponed in 2013. Thanks and keep up the great work. Fly safe.

[@andreribeiro12]

Ah, at the end I could understand why the video looked like so professional! Hello from Brazil 🇧🇷

[@propnose]

Holy cow! I have 125hrs in that plane, back when it was a freight dog! It's great to see it again, and to see that you and your family are enjoying it so much! Looking forward to more videos.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

That's awesome! I have been hoping to connect with someone who flew it. When I get in turbulence I always look at the wings and wonder how it was treated and in what kind of conditions it was flown, especially being a freighter. We call it the Millenium Falcon...also a freighter and the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy. Haha.

[@propnose]

SoCal Flying Monkey I certainly don’t think the plane was ever flown outside it’s limits. We hauled bags of cancelled checks around. I was always amazed at how many bags we could fit in the back & still be within W&B limits. The Cherokee Six can certainly & literally haul the freight! It was such a good airplane.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

That's good to hear. With the potential wing spar AD coming down for PA28 and PA32 since the wing separation accident at ERAU its always in the back of my mind if someone was hot dogging in the airplane or had a ton of hard landings or flying through terrible storms. :)

[@chadwilson5569]

Aviation really is a small world!! I was hooked by the video title, then I saw the before pictures of your plane and realized that I also put around 100hrs flying bank checks around in her. I love seeing that you family is making memories like I did in that plane.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

@@chadwilson5569 nice!!!

[@COOLMANGAIMZ]

can us viewers take a sec to appreciate the production. Spot on

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks!!

[@Ulbre]

I'm thinking "Wow, this dude knows how to make a fun you tube video".....and then a couple of minutes later explains he's a cinematographer.........and suddenly it all make sense....great job

[@dianachapman9331]

I'm another wife who was not thrilled about being up in small planes and said we will never own one. But my husband said he really wanted to have his own plane and it was watching this video that turned me around. He is now a proud owner of a '72 Cherokee 6. It needs some love and we are excited to fix her up and take her own some adventures. Your videos are really inspiring and we look forward to seeing more of your adventures here. P.S. My husband says you are a godsend!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks so much for this message. Knowing that our content inspired you in some small way is amazing. I highly suggest you check out our next video...hopefully coming within the week.... :) Let us know what you think of that one if you get a chance to watch it....

[@TLaks-eo3wj]

This is great! The story, the video, and specially all the cast! Well done!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you so much!

[@mohitmorris]

Awesome! Did I miss hearing it? or, did you not mention total cost of the project? Would love to hear how deep a dent that TLC put in?

[@bobreid5079]

Subscribed 3 minutes in. Love the acting and the magazines.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@SuperKingcobra33]

I love the solo with your daughter as PIC!

[@bosatsu76]

Shoot... I thought this was about getting an airplane cheap... "I bought a plane for 30k and then put 190k into it" is not my plan... But it WAS a fun video to watch anyway... Enjoy your beautiful plane.

[@TheMaxik]

Yup, kinda clickbait title

[@prasad530]

@@TheMaxik It's not clickbait, the video is exactly what the title was. You are at fault for making assumptions.

[@robertkotula5389]

So my Florida "buddy Don" not only finds a high time cargo plane that's been flown hard and put up wet, he can rebuild it. Imagine the luck. Then my "buddy Don" manages to separate you from your money for 18 months. Still buddies? Your story telling was great. Excellent video. Pilots will understand my comments. Gamers won't understand the details.

[@alangarrett1181]

A Cinderella story if there ever was one. GA is just so over the top expensive in the USA. My wife and I were were thinking of getting back into flying after retiring but prices have more than tripled in 20 years. It’s a crying shame.

[@SteeloFilms]

I looked at the way the scene was lit 💡 in the bedroom and I was like hmm..... This KZbinr has some skills. Then I stayed till the end “Professional Cinematographer” 😎.

[@motor-head]

You never said how much you spent on it after purchase. I'm guessing 4 or 5 multiples of it's initial price? At any rate, she is a beautiful plane you can be proud to own!

[@pepperpeterpiperpickled9805]

The editing on this video is fantastic. The highlight was the adorable old man saying "it takes off like a scolded dog and climbs like a home-sick angel"

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

thanks so much!

[@Aviation101]

Anddddd subscribed. That was amazing.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks! Great work on your videos. Saw you were in L.A. awhile back flying the SFRA and Catalina. Next time feel free to hit me up - would be fun to talk planes. Are you from TX?

[@WolfPilot]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey I think I am figuring out how KZbin recommends videos. What an amazing aircraft! This is the same way I do vehicles. Buy something with a solid skeleton and "freshen" everything up the way you want it! Count me as a new subscriber! Also, Aviation 101 (Josh) is based in New Braunfels.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

thanks for the comment and info. Love New Braunfels. Schlitterbahn!!!

[@elik1491]

If Aviation101 subscribed, how could I not lol

[@CIOPilot]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey My wife and I ran into Aviation 101 at the Airport Diner (next to the Hangar Hotel) in Fredericksburg, TX while we were visiting family down there. We were prepping to head back to New Mexico.

[@rockelino]

Great editing and Oscar-worthy performance by your daughter!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you very much!

[@ankurshah23]

Looks great but after the 30K .... How much more did you spend in upgrade parts and labors?

[@nicholasbaran7413]

Alot... Those things aren't cheap

[@ThunderAppeal]

@@nicholasbaran7413 Yeah, thats why this video is click bait bullshit. Adblocker for the win.

@@ThunderAppeal Relax friend, did you actually think he wouldn't do any work. Geez. I thought it was an excellent video.

[@nicholasbaran7413]

@ThunderAppeal I mean anyone who knows anything about aviation knows its expensive, no matter what. If you rebuild a plane or buy one brand new, it tends to be the pass time of the affluent

[@agent8699]

Don't forget he's a cinematographer and can probably write off a lot of his refurbishment off as business expense. Tax code for the win.

[@DoogieFresh]

"Don" did such a great job in this video!! :-)

[@nskr160]

6:19.....hmmmm, that’s why I keep thinking this guy isn’t just some KZbinr, he’s a pro.

[@albak5495]

Wow that was brilliant! Such a good way to tell a story that might be boring for some and make it very entertained for everybody! Congrats mate! Awesome job on the plane 🤙🏼

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nater8355]

What an amazing story! I'm just now starting my pilot journey and these are def aspirational goals! Keep up the good work. Subscribed.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

That's awesome that you are starting out in aviation. The learning new things part is the most fun, in my opinion...

[@motiv311]

Your daughter rocks as your ol' gruff airplane mechanic! keep up the good work

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for the encouragement!

[@theflyinglife1]

Would you share the cost breakdown afterwards? Any lessons about finding these deals if you plan to overlay? I hear a common strategy is buy with the avionics you want and OH the engine as that gives you the best return. I'm curious what your all-in is

[@winebox]

Yeah, I would also like to know how much this cost to rehab. Looks great.

[@zuestoots5176]

"How i bought a Wreck and Restored it for a quarter mill"

[@colinboone9920]

Was going to say 😂

[@coffeefish]

75K more like.

[@waynecarson8635]

Jealous?

[@Grasss]

i will admit i am jealous. but title is still misleading. frame might have been indeed 30K, but i do not see how the parts + labor were under 100K at least to complete this. good for the OP to be able to afford this. maybe i'll own a plane to some day...

[@DJ-px1ds]

@@coffeefish Engine and paint probably 75k. 100k in avionics, easy.

[@GlenAndFriendsCooking]

Thanks for this! I've been rethinking my drive to build a Vans RV lately, and videos like this make me think that bringing an 'older' certified Piper back to life with a glass panel is doable. Keep up the great work - I'll be watching. P.s. Have you ever shot any commercials in Toronto? Wondering if we've crossed paths or have people in common.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

yes i've shot a few things up there, last one maybe 2 years ago, and shot a feature there back in 2005 or so. I enjoyed my time there.

[@Makingthetransition]

GREAT video! Thanks for sharing something personal and extremely beautiful that you and your family do together. I pray you have thousands of safe flights and a lifetime of enjoyment together.

[@2a-usa476]

So how much did you spend on all the refurbishing the interior and engine and all the technology upgrades? Planning to do something very similar within a year or so and it would really help to have an idea of cost on your project

[@dinbee4611]

You: "I think I wanna buy a plane?" Wife: "Yeah only if you wanna divorce!" You: "BOUGHT ONE!"

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

LOL. Obv it was an exaggeration of the dynamic! She's been awesome and supportive. :)

[@charlesreed3206]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey t

[@timd6468]

Better to ask forgiveness than permission.

[@안재헌-b6s]

Him to her " where is the divorce you promised me?"

[@CoachKristoffersen]

Great video. I'd love to see some kind of breakdown of the cost of the renovation. Looking to get either a Cherokee Six or a Malibu/M350 within a few years

[@WePlusThreee]

Amazing video. Most definitely have opened my eyes to different ideas. Father of three and looking for our first plane. Great video!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

That's very exciting. Aviation continues to change our lives and show us who we are. It has been the best adventure. Our next episode dives into this a little more... :) coming VERY soon

[@michaelschueler1383]

Who is the mechanic in Florida? Looks pretty close to me, he needs a good recommendation since he does great looking work.

[@rumym]

Did you ever get an answer to this? I am looking for someone to help me restore a Piper 6

[@thomasellis1516]

I’d love an answer to this one too.

[@carlosbetancourt7241]

Dude your story telling and cinematography is MINT! This inspired me to start researching on getting my pilots license, thank you 🙏🏼

[@evenios2831]

if my father had been this cool maybe we would still be talking lol

[@liveyourlife318]

Go call him on the phone or face time...it's that easy my friend !!!!!!!

[@EdA-dp3nk]

Inspiring! since I was a little kid I dreamed of flying but life happens, now that my youngest just turn 18 and will have more time..... the sky is calling me. Thank you for the video, you have a new subscriber. cheers.

[@zeyadtamir9018]

next time he upgrades his plane :"i added f35 electronics with 50 calibar machingun with some double turbojet engines and some aim-9 sidewinder missiles for more safety"

[@Yotanido]

That is an adorable mechanic you have. How did you find him? Seriously, though - this video was great. The acting of (presumably) your daughter was absolutely spot-on as well. That was hilarious. I'd love to know what the total cost of it was, though - considering you advertised the price of the frame in the title, but never mentioned the cost of any of the upgrades.

[@waynecurr9569]

Nice that your wife believed in you !!! You made a great choice !!

[@theohlinsguy4649]

I got a private pilots license in the 70s and was a commercial salmon fisherman in Bristol Bay Alaska in the 80's out of Naknek. Hardly any roads so you had take a plane anywhere you needed to go. The plane of choice for small commuter airlines was the Cherokee 6. They preferred the low wing. They flew out of short rough undulating rocky "runways". The leading edges of the stabilators were all dented up and patched with duct tape. This is a testament to the ruggedness, safety and reliability of this aircraft.

[@studiojace]

It’s an awesome looking plane!!!!! How much do you think you ended up spending on it with the paint and new instruments?

[@jonmorris9645]

$30k for the plane, additional six figures in renovations.

[@mattivirta]

normal can buy 4000-12000 $ many many good ready to fly and use good gondition planes in usa. 30 ooo$ can buy super fine plane and many new plane too.

[@dell7054]

yeah lol.. average joe cannot afford this...

[@okGDJ]

@@mattivirta uhhh.. definitely not

[@PoplarForest]

@@dell7054 he is an average Joe. He just worked harder and stayed more focused than the rest of us. I'm interested in flying, but if it was a passion I'd be a pilot. I excel at my passions as much as he excels at flying.

[@davidshepard3708]

@@dell7054 Average Joe is not a pilot.

[@eeyore.official]

Yeah bought it for less than $30,000....Then put another $150,000 into it.

[@davidwright873]

that's what i thought....WHy not just buy a whole new plane? Like restoring a car...totally not worth the money....lol

[@fotografiasromero]

@@davidwright873 because a new plane with those features will run him 500k or more new

[@markpitchford7375]

@@davidwright873 Cherokee 6 is pretty unique with it's relatively quick economical cruise, high useful load, and cargo door. There are tons of good 4 seaters. The world changes when you try to seat 6 and maintain single engine.

[@oliverbiss2747]

Where u get money from what u did before flyibg

[@ekbusdriver]

Even as a 20yr ATP, I found this a really great story, and an amazing video!! Keep’em comin’!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for the encouragement!

[@SeanBrennan007]

This looks awesome, love the plane, colors, interior and the approach you took with it. Reality is that this is more around $150k+ at this stage of completion. Congrats on the joy it brings you and the family.

[@jekanyika]

6:17 That explains the production value.

[@logicreversed18t]

There's so much here to like, I'm giving the clickbait-ish title a pass. As a dad with two daughters of his own, these moments you've shared here capture my aviation goals perfectly = family. Not only is there a lot of talent in the composition of this video, but the humor and creativity set it way, WAY above many others. Ya' got me. Subscribed. Next time, however, if you're gonna tease us with some numbers, give us the real numbers!

[@smaze1782]

What exactly is clickbait-ish about the title?

[@logicreversed18t]

​@@smaze1782 1. The aircraft that has changed his life cost him about 130k for the life-changing privilege. Sure, the project plane started under 30k, and it's technically true the under 30k plane is featured here, but it's disingenuous. I'm guessing the title "I bought a plane for 130k and it changed my life" would have netted very different results 2. This title sort of implies your life can ALSO be changed by spending less than 30k to get an aircraft. So you're left thinking this will be a budget minded video about how a cheap plane can bring you lots of life-changing joy. That's not at all what this video is about. If you look at some of the other comments, people agree, and even the content creator apologized and admitted he had a hard time finding the balance between catchy titles and potential click bait. So that's why I added the "ish." It genuinely didn't seem intentional, but it was certainly misleading overall.

[@onebravotango]

What an incredible journey and transformation for N631BW! It's inspiring to see how your determination, along with the expertise of your A&P/IA friend, brought this Piper Cherokee 6 back to life. As a fellow pilot with a pilot license and the privilege to fly under the name of One Bravo Tango, I can truly appreciate the joy and satisfaction of being intimately involved in the restoration process. From engine overhaul to avionics, paint, and interior, every step of the process must have been a labor of love. Wishing you countless safe and joyful flights in your beautifully renovated aircraft! 🛩✨