What I have wound up with is a very dependable airplane (and somewhat expensive, initially). I now can go flying with a lot more peace of mind, knowing that I have done all that I can to keep an honest airplane, and when I load up my kids for a short flight to their grandparents I know that the safety statistics are on my side.
What is a bit ironic is that I bought this 170 as sort of my pre-180/185, that is I wanted to hone my taildragger skills in a cheaper airplane before buying a more expensive 180/185. Now, I am not sure that I would want one. I don't think I could operate one for anywhere near as cheaply as the 170, besides, most of my flying just doesn't require the extra power or payload.
Now that I feel like I have a dependable airplane I really would like to plan that Alaska trip. I am thinking maybe next summer. I would also like to try to organize a group or at the very least meet some of the Alaska members. Stay tuned.
![Smile :)](./images/smilies/icon_smile.gif)