I’m comparing the early SR22 to the A36. Both fit my mission for load, speed, and distance. I have experience in the Bonanza and just a few minutes in the Cirrus, but no ownership knowledge of the Cirrus.

I’m wondering if there are any things I should look at for in the Cirrus. Yes, I know about the bodywork that needs to be done on the early models when replacing the CAPS. I’d get something that’s had the original Avidyne system updated or replaced.

Any other suggestions or issues? Just trying to get a start before I have to join COPA.

Rob

It’s not a Beechcraft

the older electrical systems and avionics are what need attention on G1/G2 Cirrus.

The original Avidyne avionics (PFD/MFD/engine monitoring) are not well supported. Many are being converted to Garmin Txi systems. The STEC 55x autopilot can also have issues due to age. The controller is the main problem, the servos are generally fine.

There are some differences in the electrical system depending on which Master Control Unit is installed. The least desirable is the MCU100, which can be replaced by the MCU120. It does better handling the loads of two alternators than the MCU100.

The 2000-2002 models came with a six pack and possibly an ARNAV or Avidyne MFD, with or without engine monitoring. If without, you can install an EI MVP50 or a JPI EDM930.
Installing an Aspen EFD1000 PFD is a good upgrade to get rid of the old Sandel HSI or stock STEC DG. 2003 and up had the Avidyne PFD and MFD, and they are long in the tooth now.

Otherwise, the plane itself is not much different from a new $950K SR22. Performance is similar, and the airframe itself is low maintenance, especially compared to a Beech product.

The other maintenance item to be aware of is the CAPS overhaul required every 10 years.

The better comparison is a later model 550 F33A. If the 22 will do it, you don’t need the big doors.

If you’re seriously considering a Cirrus spend the $95 (or whatever it is now) to join COPA. There you will find detailed info on the G1 and likely determine a G2 or later is the way to go, most likely. Good advice above, if you need what a 36 offers, the SR is no substitute.

My stumbling point on the Cirrus was always useful load. I couldn't figure out how to get my family, bags, and enough fuel in it for a 4 hour flight with reserves. That and the buy-in price shifted my focus in other directions.

Every time my wife sees a Cirrus on a ramp she comments on how cool they look. Mostly the newer ones with the really nice paint colors.

One of the biggest negatives of the G1 vs every other model is the cost to repack the chute. In addition to what all others pay, the G1 does not have an access door on the side of the plane for replacing the chute. Instead, they have to peel off the skin that the chute would go through if deployed. After replacing the chute they have to replace the skin and paint it. Adds about $1500 to $2000 to the cost.

Doesn't that process also include a modification to upgrade to the current repack design? I thought that I remembered reading that you only had to bite that bullet once.

Go on to Steele Aviations site and download the history of Cirrus models. As someone who has owned two of them, you're best bet is G2 Serial # 1663 and on. Better electrical system will save you $'s over the long term.

The chute repack is what it is. The benefit, you get the chute and regardless of what people say it is a great safety device.



https://www.steelaviation.com/free-media-downloads/

My first SR22 had oxygen, TN, TKS and A/C. Useful load was just under 1,000 lbs (982 I think). My current SR22 doesn't have Oxygen (I use a portable oxygen concentrator if necessary), TKS/FIKI or turbo. It does have A/C and it has a useful load of around 1260 lbs. 200 lbs needs to be fuel (Zero Fuel Weight 3400lbs).

Most of the used SR22s have TKS/FIKI, Oxygen turbo and A/C and useful load suffers.

Doesn't that process also include a modification to upgrade to the current repack design? I thought that I remembered reading that you only had to bite that bullet once.

I'd go G3 or later. You'll make back the additional acquisition cost in reduced maintenance.

I would encourage you to join COPA. If you are going to buy one, might as well spend the $95 to have a great resource at hand. That's what I did as.

Part of the deals on G1's are due to what has been mentioned: electrical and chute repack cost. There are also a number of other items that are in short or no supply leading to a number of AOG aircraft that have in some cases sat for months. The deals may because, of owners wanting to move on and make it someone else's problem.

$95 and a few hours of reading will be well worth the cost. It has been for me.