300mph Airplane Barn Find!

[@brianjump8767]

Great channel, Jimmy! Aerostar 600A in Daytona was my first flying job back in the 90’s and it is a great flying machine. I have roughly 500+ hours in it. But like others have said, it requires training, currency and a healthy dose of respect. Speed is your friend in this airplane. Plus, deep pockets for maintenance. I trained at SimCom in Orlando once a year and it was invaluable. I wouldn’t discourage you from buying one but would definitely encourage you to have an experienced Aerostar pilot fly with you for a while (especially, being newly multi-rated). Also recommend experienced Aerostar techs work on it. I used to take ours to a place in LAL called No Toro aircraft services (not sure if it’s still in business). Keep up the great work and thank you for your service!

[@dieselyeti]

His insurance co would require dual time with an Aerostar pilot before he could solo. As a new twin pilot that could easily be 50 hrs if they'd even allow it at all.

[@msteele3199]

MX Mullens aviation in Florida for Jimmy?

[@KutWrite]

If he's close to you, check with the guy who runs the channel "Aerostar Pilot." He's quite knowledgeable and may even know this "aero" plane.

[@gmanchurch]

Very much true on all accounts sir…..

[@stratobee]

Owned one for years. Wonderful aircraft, built really strong (no in-flight breakups ever). Nothing quite like it. But its tightly cowled and the twin turbos aside run hot, so it's not an easy plane to work on. Complex, but very well supported (you can get any part overnighted, it just ain't cheap). You need people with Aerostar experience to wrench on it, otherwise you'll be paying a fortune for someone to learn on the job. Flies like a fighter jet with all push-pull rods and no cables - amazing handling. Nothing else comes close. Very honest flying capabilities, but wing does not like to be slow, so it's easy to load up in a turn and get too close to the edge if you're not careful. This is a $350-450/hr plane to run, so be prepared. Not a good candidate for neglect and cheap maintenance.

[@danf4447]

350-450 an hour?? ouch

[@billakers6082]

I have probably 12 to 15 hundred hours in all types of Aerostar and is still one of my all time favorites. Fuel management is critical as you can exhaust fuselage fuel with fuel still in the wings that WILL port during turns. Operated 10 freighter Aerostars during the 70's and lost 8 engines in one night as FBO fueled 4 601's with jet fuel. Nose gear can get stuck in the wheel well if tiller split switch is somehow activated when gear is retracted. Debating on whether to start flying again after retirement , however, the most dangerous things in aviation are: 1. Two airline pilots in a light twin. 2. A doctor and a lawyer in a V tail Bonanza. 3. A flight attendant with a chipped tooth.

[@ual737ret]

Or two chief pilots in an airplane.😁

[@accousticdecay]

#2 is familiar; I flew right seat in several V-tails, one with a doctor and a couple others with fellow patent agents. I suppose I dodged a bullet. LOL

[@jerrystevens1865]

#3 could be in a 65 Plymouth .

[@alexmikhael5061]

@@accousticdecay SOME PEOPLE KARMA IS just not HUNTING DOWN :) hehehehehehe some people KARMA IS ACTIVLY HUNTING... that's prolly the difference!!! :) GOOD LUCK!!

[@Skinflaps_Meatslapper]

Careful, Bill. My experience has been that high time pilots who were retired and get back into it are the most likely to crash. Lost several friends this way. When they were flying regularly, their skills were honed and they were capable pilots. They get back into an airplane after several years of letting those skills deteriorate and thinking they can get right back in the saddle, so they get themselves into situations that they used to be able to work in but aren't able to now. Take it easy and work yourself back in slow, you're not the same pilot you were before you retired...but you can be again if you take it easy.

[@flyboyc182]

Jimmy- I've been loving your channel. I rebuilt a Cessna 182- took me six years. Flew it all over - even to the Bahamas with my buddies. Then I too got the Aerostar bug. I actually traded my 182 to a gentleman for his Aerostar. I was a 601- meaning it was turbocharged but not pressurized. A prior owner had it converted back to non-turbocharged and I love the speed without the complexity or expense of turbo chargers and pressurization. Cheers buddy! I'd love to come see it. I just got a wild hair and flew to Venice Fla to scuba for Megaloldon shark teeth. These planes are time machines man! 😁😁😁

[@gregoryhurley9833]

Love the channel bro. Retired military guy, aviator for over 40 years, and you are funny and keep it real! Keep it up!!! Can I get a “CLEAR PROP!”

[@Capt_Ron]

I own N601HB. She’s a 1979 601P with many mods including intercoolers. I wanted the long props because they pull better than the short props. Also, wanted the high compression 290 HP, IO-540-S1A5 engines for LOP ops. The cockpit is quiet in cruise, and with modern headsets there’s no concern for noise like the old days. Mine is fast, economical as Aerostars go, has everything I wanted and doesn’t miss anything. I absolutely love it!

[@amcconnell6730]

I love the Aerostar. Used to operate one on freight runs in Australia. One of our pilots reached back to close the door while taxing and took the top of a finger off with the prop once.... Rocking the Biggles mustache, as well, Jimmy. :D

[@GlideYNRG]

Saw one in Kununurra years ago, mid 90s. Left an impression.

[@thedogman14]

Does Jimmy know who Biggles is?

[@paulkerr782]

Rear Cylinder change is a nightmare. Everything is shoehorned in under those cowls.

[@noonehere1793]

I love all the aero stars! One of the most beautiful designs for a twin….and a hand full of plane that you don’t want to get behind!

[@garyplewa9277]

I used to maintain and annual a 602P with a Machen conversion for a customer. He let me fly from the right seat from time to time. Having the fuel totalizer next to the airspeed indicator on the copilot side was sobering, and visual proof that speed costs money.

[@stevepurduski2932]

Jimmy, I love watching your videos and love flying, having been a pilot for over 30 years. Have never flown an Aerostat, but have known it's reputation for a long time. I have always been told this is not an airplane for casual users. Considering the operating cost and the STEEP learning curve, I have concerns about you buying it. The speed is seductive, I know, but remember, that gets you to the scene of the accident that much quicker, the pilot is the first one there, and you don't want to find yourself in the situation of single engine ops in this beast.

[@samrodian919]

Sage advice sir, not that Jimmy will take it of course!

[@markanton2349]

I've got some time in an aerostar 600a the airplane is a pussycat to fly the only thing it does not like is getting behind the power curve on one engine. Vmc and stall are very close together, the aerostar will not accelerate below a certain speed on one engine. Other than that specific issue it does fly well on one engine. That of course is based on the stock 285 horsepower engines if you have the 350hp it's a non-issue.

[@jpcii]

I always have admired the Aerostar, but when I bought my twin I went with Miller conversion twin comanche. 200hp vs. 180 on stock Pa30. True 500 fpm on single engine from takeoff if needed on hot humid MS day. 16-18 gph at 175 knots. The Aerostar was a bit too racy for me with the lack of dihedral and insurance was gonna eat me alive even with around 800h in twins. Never had an incident. Insurance did not care. I always wondered how consuming it would be to hand fly in the soup if need be. Also had a twin comanche friend that bought one of these and augered in on takeoff after a service. The fuel tank management is tricky. He flew fighters in Navy. Very experienced guy.

[@Capt_Ron]

I own a 601P… fuel system is very straight forward.

[@JonnyMainframe]

I've been following your channel for months and compared to some of the other "barn finds", the Aerostar seemed on a different level than those. Maybe there is more I'm not seeing, but both engines started right up, the panel and avionics looked clean, and with the exception of the missing seats which if I heard corectly are getting re-done, it seems like a good airworthy find. I give a thumbs up to adding that gem to your stable!

[@Skinflaps_Meatslapper]

I dunno if you'd call this a barn find, really. The guy wasn't neglecting it, he was restoring it but looks like he's wanting something else instead. It seems to be a pretty complete and probably airworthy aircraft, just needs some paint and an annual. People regularly fly worse.

[@ethanhiggins4887]

yeah except the operating costs are insane. This is a million dollar airplane lmao

[@garysmith5256]

I'm with Ethan... Electric nose steering for example, things like that make me shudder just at the probable cost of an annual for this thing. "Needs another 1000 feet of runway" etc... You really sure you want to get into something that specialized? When the huge support costs overcome the 300 mph thrill, will it be difficult to sell?

[@Skinflaps_Meatslapper]

@@garysmith5256 If you think an Aerostar is expensive, just imagine what the expenses of the FJ-80 turbofan conversion would've been...at least the 400kt cruise would make it hurt a little less.

[@Captnoatp]

Might be smart to give your insurance broker a call before you do anything else. The Aerostar handles absolutely beautiful once you got the hang of it, but it could be a handful. I loved that plane and after a thousand plus Aerostar hours I still do. With electric fuel selectors and electric nose wheel steering among many other “special” systems it’s like nothing else. Make sure you have a solid maintenance budget. Would be nice to see you getting this plane, but be careful. Good luck from across the Atlantic 👍

[@dennythomas8887]

Very very solid advice.

[@BAZZAROU812]

Sketchy at best..

[@ericfletcher8454]

I think he's going to have a hard time getting the MIG insured and a near impossible time getting the Aerostar insured. Dont Forget that on his Multi check ride he was so task saturated he didn't put the gear down and almost bellied the plane

[@TheSoaringChannel]

I feel the Aerostar is almost an airliner style aircraft. It's pretty complex, VERY high performance, and it comes at the cost of pilot capacity vs pilot performance. You can get way in over your head in seconds in one of these. I remember my dad (25,000 hours) taking an Aerostar for a test flight and when he came back he said something to the nature of "I don't plan on killing my entire family in that thing." He's a pretty apprehensive GA pilot, but the reaction has always stuck with me. The engine failure on takeoff plan I've seen on KZbin from Aerostar owners.... Is sobering at best. And that doesn't even begin to contemplate the insurance or maintenance of one. "How much is the insurance and maintenance on one of these?" "Yes."

[@Mike-01234]

This is Jimmy's World logic above doesn't apply. That's what makes this channel fun to watch.

[@joetroyner]

This plane was a favorite with our southern exporters. You might want to check all the nooks and crannies for any left over "product". It could help pay for the build 🤣

[@larrymayberry2312]

Great find jimmy. Hope it finds its way home with you soon

[@frankkirby2467]

My Dad's friend Rod Fraser bought 6 of the 600 models back in 74, when Ted Smith was struggling to keep the company going. He sold 5 of them and kept one. Man it was such a cool airplane looked fast just sitting on the ramp. I was 13 at the time he gave us a ride, it was an absolute rocket. I love Aerostars do I'd say go for it, make sure all logs are up to date. Best of luck with it.👍🎣

[@Harleybuc01]

I flew cancelled checks in the Aerostar for a few years, absolutely loved the airplane. As many others have said, this airplane is unique and can bite. With that said and with proper training on its quirks, it is safe and rewarding, not to mention its an absolute joy to fly!!! with pushrod controlled ailerons it moves on the roll axis by just thinking about it. Another cool trait is on take off, it sits on the ground slightly nose low so you actually have to rotate it like a jet to fly SO COOL! I hope you get it, I'm very excited to get into the Aerostar again via your videos

[@XY_Dude]

Like the look of the three bladed chopped propellers. Cool looking. Like the instrument layout. Time to write that check!!

[@dieselyeti]

I did some flying in an Aerostar 601 years ago, and that is an airplane that demands attention or else. Type training is a must. I don't know how much multi time you have, but the 700 is NOT the plane for noobs.

[@renoflames]

Jimmy, I flew that aircraft in 2006 from TPA to Toranto Canada to meet with GE on some Jet Engines I bought for my Principal who had bought an Air Canada passenger jet and was converting it to a Luxury Jet for overseas business travels. It made the Trump Jet look like a worn-out Volkswagen. Me and my buddy Dave had a good trip in it.. He is right about the GPH and the fuel pressure and not sticking your arm out of the cabin for any reason. Those Ice Scratches were there then but they look bad now. Long time ago.

[@goodisnipr]

Toranto.... Intrasting. For the slow crowd: Toronto.... Interesting.

[@wayneroyal3137]

Jimmy, I know that you will get a lot of mixed opinions on the A-star, I have a lot of time in serial number 3324, you are looking at 3319. I absolutely love the airplane but there are some things that you must do. Please feel free to contact me, I would love to see this project succeed because of my absolute affinity for the Aerostar line of airplanes. Also, I have a very good friend close to where that airplane is that is an Aerostar Guru. It would be an honor to help you out with this as there just are not a lot of guys that have experience in that airplane. By the way, you will absolutely LOVE the way it handles and flys

[@alfredduhaime6692]

I'm in love. I had a lot of time in a 600A back in the early '80s and I have to tell you it is by far the most beautiful twin engine plane ever with the flat short skinny wings and that 707 looking tail. I know they did a jet version of the aerostar but I was never aware of this particular hot rod. Used to take it out of Santa Monica over the Catalina for Buffalo burgers at least once a week. You are so lucky to find this airplane and I hope you fly the hell out of it. Love your show

[@safeflight9189]

Jimmy, thanks for responding to questions like how you find planes. You've mentioned before how you afford to do much of this, we know married with kids, and that you actively serve our country. My big question is WHAT IS YOUR SECRET TO TIME MANAGMENT? You must have a secret. Between being Dad and Husband, saving the 310, galivanting about the country looking at planes, being in the military, and shooting and editing YT, you sure seem to have more than 24 hours in your day. I work full time, parent full time, and serve in my community, and I still haven't been able to find all the time I want (or need) to fly. Please, is there a secret clock I am missing!? Thanks for sharing your World.

[@oldschoolmotorsickle]

I believe the secret of Jimmy’s productivity is to sleep about two or three hours per night. It’s how Mike Patey does it. It’s how all your heavy hitters do it; they just don’t sleep. Roger Penske is another well known non sleeper.

[@chrisruf7590]

Retirement saves a lot of time

[@samrodian919]

Yes Jimmy, I too would like to hear how you manage it all, does the US military do part time? Lol

[@ZZstaff]

@@samrodian919 Reserves & National Guard, until deployed overseas.

[@thewraith1977]

really would love to see you do a series on a 337 skymaster, its my favorite small plane. A friend of mine who is no longer around had one and it was a unique flying experience. Great content as always...keep it up.

[@eldeguello9573]

That's definitely a cool plane! I think it would be a great addition to Jimmy's World Garage!

[@danbell8508]

I was in Florida last week watching grandson play volleyball at the Orlando Con Center. I've watched you now for maybe 8 months. You are amazing with all the knowledge you have about planes. I think the Aerostar is a great choice. I've admired this plane for years. I used to fly before heart attach. I have IFR , commercial and multi engine rating and now live 100 yards from an airs 72trip. I see planes everyday take off and land. Going 300 miles and hour will be awesome. Dan Bell here in Shelter Cove Calif. I'll be keeping track of the progress with the Aerostar.. Thanks for your channel.

[@christophergeorge6581]

hi Jimmy love your channel now retired from flying last aircraft was a Aerostar 600A non turbo the most reliable aircraft on the planet. Easy to fly, climbs up to 2000 ft per minute cruise all day 220 nts at 800o ft. Very easy to land, controls are the best you will find in the market place, this aircraft is twice as strong never heard of one breaking up in flight, over 1000 hours in this aircraft, read the manual, learn all the sytem once you go aerostar you never go back. Hope you close the deal on this unit. Christopher from Ottawa Canada

[@dougpartington1843]

Thanks for sharing how you find your airplanes. The Aerostar is an amazing plane. I can see a lot of adventures with "Jimmy's World" in that plane. The 50+ GPH at takeoff is the major downside of operating a speed machine like this but you are getting into the corporate level of flying with the Aerostar. Ibsee more intense training in your future. Thanks for all the great videos. Is the 310 going to make Oshkosh? So many projects so little time. Already anticipating your next video!!

[@FrederickHeald]

The first one on your list caught my attention, it's a Grumman Albatross flying boat. At $15,000 I wouldn't expect much, they tend to run about $600K in good condition. But I'd still have clicked. Thanks for your channel!

[@cropdusterpilot1937]

Jimmy, That is a nice airplane :) I remember the early ones had a main spair problem, alot of them needed to have them replaced. Also, speed translates into more inspections, which is more money Check the Engines close as high-time engines are very, very expensive along with the turbos. Is he including an annual in the deal? How about the nice interior? How about some training on the plane? As he said there is a lot of difference in that plane from the one you are used to. I would talk to other owners that have Aero Stars and see what they say about the plane. Good Luck pilotcropduster

[@brownlee62534]

Love your channel Jimmy. I'm a past pilot an injury prevents me passing the medical. Not trying to be a spoil sport, but, l flew with several pilots of twins and some fast ones. Bob had the Aerostar your looking at. He wasn't shy about telling others it was a twitchy rocket ready to kill you for not paying attention. My mechanic wouldn't work on it and wouldn't even get a hamburger with Bob in it. My flight instructor told me to stay out of it, saying Aerostars required constant training and a lot of current time in the seat. Bob owned a huge company and said his plane was really expensive to maintain and fly. Really Jimmy l have a bad feeling about you and your family in that plane. An aircraft broker l know lost his son delivering a barn find back to their field. I believe you are intelligent and careful, but get some more twin time. My flight instructor had a rule of thumb, don't jump up in speed more than 100 mph at a time, then fly that for a year. When l did the cockpit got really busy in a hurry. I then understood her rule. All the best, God Bless you and your family.

[@44hawk28]

Great looking and playing, I love that cockpit. And it looks like a very nice autopilot. But those have been pretty good for several years. You could keep some of the old instruments and go to a glass cockpit if you want as just an augmentation and still have some analog instrumentation for backup.

[@nolanworley5094]

Oh yes. You definitely need this !!!

[@gmcjetpilot]

*Jimmy I have +400 hours in that airplane.t will KILL you with out mastery, competence, currency, and vey good understanding of fuel system. IT IS LIKE A JET IN FEEL TAKE OFF and LANDING.* THE EARLY STOCK SHORT WING TED SMITH VERSIONS (TS61 Pre-Piper PA601 and PA702P) were faster, could cruise at 220Kts to 235kts. Not 300mph, Tops speed was 250kts and drinking massive jet like 100L fuel numbers. If you buy and fly it GET type specific training. It does not require type ratting but might as well should. It is more complicated operationally (fuel system known for mismanagement and VERY unique) than the Jets I have flown and fly now. Engine out on take off or in pattern and approach could be demanding. This is NO Piper Apache or Aztec which is docile.

[@ericsandberg3167]

And that is why the slang name for these planes was "DeathStar".......didn't they make a movie about drug running with an AeroStar.....Tom Cruise was the pilot....???

[@AZVIDS]

@@ericsandberg3167 “American Made”

[@billmoran3812]

I would think with that kind of HP an engine loss on takeoff would be a beast to handle. That bird would want to roll on its back like a fighter jet.

[@zxggwrt]

This is a guy who bought a frikin' Mig, right? He's literally asking for it.

[@whaledriver5457]

@@ericsandberg3167 Yes and they crashed it.

[@thomasplaisted3579]

Yes! Youwill love it. I have flown in one and it was terrific! Get it@

[@jamesmichael3998]

Great show I love every episode. I used to have an Aerostar it was lots of fun to bad it was a Ford. Cheers from Jacksonville Florida 🌞

[@brad6920]

Yeah, I had one of those Aerostars too! 👍

[@billjamison2877]

We all love and enjoy ya'll..if you buy this beast, please, please, please get the necessary training so you can watch those kids of yours grow up and fly with you. This is not your average twin and it will bite you hard if you don't respect it. It is a beautiful plane though. Keep having fun!

[@deloresmorton3136]

Jimmy, I’d like to borrow your money replicator for a few days when you’re not using it.Just long enough to make a pickup load or two.Keep the videos coming,love them

[@robertpardini9084]

I built these Aerostars in Santa Maria. i worked in the option shop back in the day. fantastic aircraft

[@jakebrodskype]

While taxiing on the ramp toward our tiedown spot, my CFI noticed an Aerostar. His remark was "Oh, look! An Aerostar that hasn't crashed yet!" Jimmy, they can be a handful. They have a reputation of being terribly unforgiving aircraft.

[@romanlightman4937]

If you have an engine cough on takeoff when your heavy, your name better be Bob Hoover. If you hesitate or start swimming in glue when its time to cage one, you aint gonna make it. I used to fly overnight freight back in the 80s, we kept hearing about these go fast airplanes augering in when the single pilot got behind it and lost situational awareness. Never mind an engine out scenario clipping your wings. You are operating at near jet speeds when your aproaching the airport, Add in a little overconfidence and some MVFR. I wouldnt want to be sitting in the back. Next thing you will find is an MU2. If your not a talented and experienced stick, dont push you luck.

[@dwaynemcallister7231]

@@romanlightman4937 My brother flew a long wing turbo Aerostar on his first multi engine flying job in the Canadian arctic, actually his company also had the short wing Aerostar too. One day the turbo over boosted on take off he thought he lost a engine because of the yaw but the over boosting engine was making so much power before it blew he almost shut the wrong one down, he brought it back on one engine no trouble but it was a costly repair.

[@romanlightman4937]

@@dwaynemcallister7231 if your not an A&I, an Aerostar will empty your wallet quick.

[@stuartblack9258]

Never thought i could get this interested in airplanes but this channel is awesome❤ thankyou Jimmy!

[@Ruonkrak]

Jimmy, I really enjoy watching your content. It's always an adventure. One thing I miss in your content that I sometimes see in other aviation channels is ATC comms. I just love listening to the clearances, instructions, etc. It'd be cool if you could sprinkle some of that in sometimes when you're flying. Keep up the good work and SAVE THE 310!!

[@mikesclocks3666]

Just found this video. What a plane the Aerostar is! I worked for a company out of Pontiac, MI for several years and flew the 600, 601, 601P. I've got over 2,000 hours flying the Aerostar and it was by far my most favorite airplane. I will say that I never flooded an engine on start up but I also started them with the mixture a little more retarded than what I saw in the video. Never had a single problem with them. Of course, we had a fantastic mechanic who watched over our fleet. Just loved flying them!

[@Britcarjunkie]

I don't know, Jimmy...you buy that, and you might say "Screw saving the 310!"!

[@farmerkevin]

Cleetus brought me here. Loving the content and digging the 'stache. Keep it coming. As far as this plane goes, anything that is the "fastest" is good with me.

[@TheFirePilot]

There was a 701 at my airport for a couple of months. It's the only (piston) airplane that has made me jealous. The 310R is a beauty to fly but the 701 is just sexy as can be! Let's meet up at OSH!

[@jimmbbo]

The Aerostar is on my short list of the most enjoyable airplanes to fly. I can only imagine it with 700 hp... It's a sports car with impeccable handling, and it was very well designed and built for speed by Ted Smith, who also designed the Aero Commander series of airplanes. It's a real step up in the multiengine world, and I suggest you get at least 10 hours with a good Aerostar instructor (your insurance company may require more, given that the ink is still wet on your multi rating), as the speed and complexity can be overwhelming. It's more like driving a transport category airplane than an Aztec... Hope you can close the deal.

[@mickey1299]

That explains the similarity in overall shape .

[@billwessels207]

You are absolutely, Plane Crazy, and I love it.

[@Newman0072]

Pass on it until some of the other projects get finished, don't dilute your free time between too many projects.

[@kvnkaveman]

The Aerostar is a plane that if you happen to come a cross you buy.

[@brentmcmahon8188]

This is the perfect plane for you and your family and plenty room and weight to spare and does well over the speed that you are looking for . Just need some that works on these bad boys. Buy buy buy all day long if the price is right and is it easy to buy parts and are there parts out there for this plane !!

[@robinj.9329]

Agreed! Our "Founding Father's" would be shocked at how intrusive our government has become. Tracking our every word or every move. It's both scary and sickening.

[@seangetsinger5881]

%100!!!

[@ZCV7853]

Aerostars are awesome airplanes! I had the pleasure of flying 2 different ones around FL and loved it. The unpressurized models are considerably cheaper to maintain. Also there used to be an Aerostar mechanic in LaBelle that had about 20 planes in pieces for spare parts. Might be worth checking him out.

[@PistonsProps]

Also I’d be curious of what your insurance quote is as a lower time multi engine pilot.

[@Irontrucker]

Buy it

[@RelativeWind]

Jimmy don't care what us peasants pay

[@jimcear1766]

Get ready to be required to go to the sim and/or minimum time with an insurance comp approved instructor. The Aerostar Owners Assc should be very helpful.

[@rogerb4436]

OMG, I LOVE JIMMY'S CHANNEL, not the money he spends BUT THE CONTENT IS AWESOME. THANX MATE.

[@LannyDAllen]

Jimmy, how many “projects” do you have now? All I can say is, you are one lucky dude!!

[@Bizones16]

Hey Jimmy, I know that you are not an A & P mechanic BUT, My dad who was an A & I got in good with the insurance companies and we had Ssooo many damaged airplanes that we had to bring them to the house and put them in the back yard (The house sat on 3 and 1/2 acres) That how I got my Cessna 152 II (started out as a 1976 150 Commuter) which I got my Private ticket in. This is also how I got 1978 Piper Aztec ( which I got my Commercial tick with Instrument and Multi ratings in) Once I got my Commercial Pilots and the ratings, I started building my hours by fairing planes across the pacific, flying out of San Diego. This is were a LOT of funny stories come !

[@davidmangold1838]

Yes, ALWAYS get an insurance quote before you strike up a deal! My friend had an Aerostar twenty years ago, and loved it. He’s now in the market for another one. He says, and I’ve always heard, if finances are not unlimited, avoid airplanes with turbocharged engines! If you need it for most flights you make, then they are very helpful. Planes are costly enough to maintain and operate, then you add turbochargers to the equation…🥴 There are other Aerostar models that are non-turbos, that have great performance.

[@daveself6386]

I'm telling ya there a great Beech 18 that's been sitting in a hangar in SC, it was completely gone through in 2008-09, then flown 4 times and is now sitting, would be a good annual, set of batteries and I know it would fly home. It's a 59 Super 18, tall cabin all metal. Hit me up if you want the lead, I know there's a spare engine and even the factory jacks for doing the gear swing

[@dirtcurt1]

Those were the safest aircraft in WW2.

[@retireddoc6145]

Go for it, Jimmy Sweet Airplane

[@PistonsProps]

Dude! Don’t even tease us with you buying an Aerostar! Every time I hop in my 100kt Cherokee I dream of owning an Aerostar.

[@dirtcurt1]

Get a Bonanza. Best GA aircraft ever made. Very little has changed in the BO since 1947. The wing is still used on King Airs. I have a D-35 and the more I fly it and maintain it, the more I see how Beechcraft got it right the first time.

[@MRxMADHATTER]

When I see that plane, the movie "American Made" pops into my head. The metal didn't look bad. The previous paint job just probably didn't have a good prep job. New paint, and enginge OH and it should be good to go.

[@Repinnc]

I flew night freight in these 30 years ago, 4hrs a night 5 nights a week. Be VERY CAREFUL if you decide to buy this plane. They are very unforgiving airplanes, major runway hogs, very critical wing, limited rudder and this one’s hopped up as well. IF you get it get thoroughly trained and stay proficient. He’s right about the nose wheel taxi switch bty., the ones moved to the glareshield were more natural than the original lower pedestal mount.

[@ericfletcher8454]

Every single "Buy it Jimmy it will be amazing" comment is from a non pilot who doesn't understand how demanding the DeathStar is. This is not the plane for a low time pilot much less the low time multi-pilot

[@kvnkaveman]

No Pilot would call it a DeathStar. Eric Reese has trained a lot of low time multi engine Pilots on the Aerostar, one of his latest video's is helping one get an Aerostar airworthy again. The Aerostar is complicated and fast, with the correct training and learning of the planes characteristics it isn't any more dangerous than any other twin piston engine. In fact every Pilot on youtube that has flown the Aerostar has stated that it is a very docile flying aircraft, that you have to be aware of it's speed and do's and don'ts.

[@ericfletcher8454]

@@kvnkaveman it’s nickname among pilots IS the deathstar. And is a very demanding aircraft to fly which it’s obvious that you have not flown it.

[@kvnkaveman]

@@ericfletcher8454 It's very easy to tell you know nothing about the Aerostar at all, especially the performance abilities of the Aerostar 700. With that being said the Aerostar is A maintenance hog and you better have a good A/P that knows the Aerostar well. Then again aviation isn't cheap and speed is A cost multiplier.

[@ericfletcher8454]

@@kvnkaveman you’re wrong on your assumptions we’ve had three of them including a Machen Superstar 680 so I am very familiar with them

[@nicojonck]

Yep buy it Jimmy. It looks cool 😎

[@BMcD79959]

Blancolirio is going to do a crash review on you I fear…

[@klassyedward9718]

Low hours for the age, looks great and has been cared for. If you do buy it, enjoy the bird for a while.

[@danandkimpage958]

Hello Jimmy. Love to see that you have such a great interest in airplanes but we have not seen you complete a full restoration of any airplane. You just completed your multi training and you have absolutely no business getting into an Aerostar at this time. I am a retired airline pilot and even I would go through extensive training on that airplane and I know your insurance company will not even give you a quote because of your lack of experience and qualifications. Do not do this. Please just finish your current projects.

[@ecktoeman]

Airline pilots have no business flying twin piston airplanes.

[@danandkimpage958]

@@ecktoeman I started in corporate multis and I understand the difference between all of them.Having flown Barons, Navajos, 310, 340, 414 and 421’s I know they all handle differently. The airline training helped me understand things on a different level and the Aerostar is a hot rod.

[@keithbaker2885]

I use to turn wrenches for an Aerostar dealer in PA They are a like a Ferrari sexy but needed to be looked after and were delicate. DO NOT FLY THEM INTO KNOWN ICEING does not matter if they are certified for it or not. We lost two planes and crews that way Also the Door has been known to pop open during takeoff nothing will get your attention like that door coming open and that prop right there at full take off power. Requires an shorts change

[@BMcD79959]

Might be even smarter to realize your a novice multi engine pilot and the Aerostar will eat your lunch before you know it has!

[@Jeffrey-ed8sz]

Bob Hoover proved the abilities of the Commander series.😮

[@donny526]

Jimmy is a careful and prudent pilot.

[@russmarchand3962]

Go for it Jimmy

[@alpha2830]

Reminds me of Jimmy "ZAR" Franklin's Starship Pride...thank you for the nostalgia!

[@jdgretz]

I am a big Aerostar fan having flown several models of them. Way back, I sold Ted Smith a brake bleeder for use in his facility at VNY. You (actually I) need that aircraft.

[@rodneycichon5993]

Buy it !! That is a cool aircraft 300 mph, hell yeah

[@bobmoyer8864]

Buy.... this is beautiful.... thanks for sharing

[@firemanforever3000]

Kid in a candy store. Everytime I watch one of your videos. It’s awesome to see you being you.

[@chrishawkins9530]

Love it, awesome airplane! Buy It!

[@psychogaming9908]

i wish i knew when i was a kid that civilians could own and operate personal planes. i would have chosen a better path in life. FLY HIGH JIMMY #SAVETHE310

[@petermendoza1170]

FANTASTIC JIMMY! FANTASTIC!😅

[@miguelriego9254]

Great plane. Its your pass to Jet type aircraft. A demanding plane, but beautifull to fly, once you get the Hang for it. Could be a great buy

[@rascalszx2]

Hell yes! Buy and do your thing to it, Jimmy!

[@danblack4033]

The future of aviation hardware is up to each generation coming up. I think you getting this aviation example is your bet on the future. Good luck on passing aviation history along.

[@donaldlang95]

WOUW, what a beautiful plane. I hope you get that Aerostar.

[@hammo1935]

Aerostar is a fabulous looking plane and sounds great in the air

[@Xpyburnt_ndz]

Soon as I saw the shadow of your page, I knew you were heading into my fave plane! The sexiest plane built next to the P-51 and the F4U Corsair!!! Hope you can make it happen Jimmy!!! Put a sweet paint job on her and GO!!! LOVE the Aerostars!!!

[@JoeSmith-nu8oo]

I see one of these on a not so regular basis flying over the ATL area, that thing is humming when it comes over!!!!

[@1425race]

Jimmy, you have to have it. It's a beautiful airplane and fast!!!

[@apollorobb]

Cool Plane my only concern is it came from up north and its been 15 years since its last recorded flight out of Michigan . But it looks solid other than paint and interior .

[@BURNETTWEALTHGROUP]

That’s a definite must buy airplane. It looks soooo sweet

[@davidobyrne9549]

T/O run will be longer with the 'short' props because the blades will be set by the governor at a coarser angle to prevent engine overspeed with everything 'pushed forward' on the roll. As you know, a governor (CSU) will limit max RPM to the maximum permitted by the engine manufacturer during T/O (usually around 2700). This is achieved by coarsening the blade angle as the plane accelerates down the runway, short blades require a coarser pitch - exactly the same as 'propping up' your Evinrude outboard motor. However, a coarse blade angle is equivalent to setting off in high gear in your car, acceleration is slower to achieve a certain speed - VR in the case of an airplane.

[@maryolee8303]

I cannot say I have seen all of your videos, but of the ones I have seen this plane looks to be in fantastic shape especially compared to the planes I have seen you resurrect so far.

[@Richard-ib3kp]

I’ve owned 3 of these and loved to fly them. I have a few thousand hours in the AEST. They are a pilot’s airplane. Don’t get it slow. If it’s a 1979; it’s probably a 601p w s1A5 motors. That’s the light case engine. You’d prefer the U2A motors. I’m not sure when they started building the 602p, but these are rare. Less than 30 made I believe. If it’s a 602p it probably has the heavy case motors. This is a huge plus. Heavy and slower but more reliable. Windshield has a time limit. Something like 5480 hours. I’m guessing and too lazy to look it up but I’m close. That’s a 20k fix minimum. . These are maintenance 🐽 pigs. If you can afford constant repairs and spending 125 gallons of fuel every time you take a 2 hr ride this is the bird for you. Shove the throttles in and you are burning 90 gph. 1400 fpm climb to the mid teens is where these like to live. Probably count on 225kts at a reasonable power setting. The one you’re looking at is not certified for known ice. Doesn’t have a boot on the wing root. Make sure it has the aux fuel tank and aux hydraulic pump. That’s a must on these. Six puck brakes, electric ac and 5.5 psi pressurization is nice also. If you’re traveling any real distance the lack of that extra 40 some gallons will be a player if you just have standard 167 gallons of fuel. I’d be scared of one that had been sitting any time at all. These need to fly regularly. The best of ones will have a ton of crap wrong after a long winters nap. IMHO I’d buy a 600a. That’s probably the best bang and no pressurization /turbo woes. Still respectable speed. Best of luck.

[@iainwilson4744]

Beautiful looking and mid wing. Buy it!

[@elizabethcoleman5729]

Complete overhaul and a great Paint job and this speed demon is ready for action.

[@edfrawley4356]

As an armchair pilot ( I will never medically qualify for a license) I do enjoy your callouts "Can I get a clear prop?" And " airspeed alive" How many more do you do that get edited out? It would be nice to hear everything that goes on in the cockpit as you prep for takeoff. I keep hoping that you add a Shrike Commander to your wish list. We need an airshow replacement for Bob Hoover.

[@TheTheGuinness]

Get it! This plane looks most cleanest almost seen in your videos. Small paint work only. And very fast plane 😁

[@terrallputnam7979]

Jimmy, I like the Apache. It looks so much cooler than our old stock Apache. I think Aerostars. They super cool 😎

[@kevinlytle6215]

Buy it what a great show plane fixed up. Also time to and from locations to meet folks and get parts etc as well as a great go fast cruiser for family fun. But as I can't afford gas for my car here at $7.00 a gallon it is easy for me to say buy it. Very cool aircraft!

[@maxr1401]

Cirrus Vision SF50, any chance you can find one and do a walkthrough/around and flight? I know there are a few down your way. Yeah, probably a little high $ for your normal toys but I think you'd really enjoy it.

[@jacksavage5176]

I have been following you for some time ... Really enjoy all the hard work you do ... BUY IT !!!

[@robertgarland9342]

I'm not a pilot or have ever flown a plane. I'm just a big aviation fan and the Aerostar has always been one of my favourite small twin aircraft. The other is the Piper PA31 Navajo/Chieftain. I've heard a lot of good things about the Aerostar and think it will be a great plane to own. If it was me I would be buying it just for the sake of owning one but that's just me. I think you will be happy with it once you get use to flying it.