1958 C182 has been in family for over 50 yrs. Two years ago it got a new engine (P-ponked) and new 3 blade prop plus extended baggage. Owner died and my buddy now is the proud owner. Buddy has a very late model Cirrus SR22 and would like to come as close as he can with same panel as Cirrus-may not be enough room. Want list also includes new (probably leather) interior, Sportsman cuff, VGs, AirGlas fork, double puck brakes, big wheels and tires (8:00 nose and 8:50 mains Maybe some other stuff I haven't thought of yet. As you can tell, money isn't the prime issue. Oddly enough, wants to stay with existing paint.

Due to previous issues, 182 is located someplace (I don't recall the town) in GA and I'm trying to help him get the work done before bringing it home to CO. Currently radios are basically INOP and would rather get work done without a ferry permit as I'll probably be PIC for that cross country trip. I'm retired and busy with my own fun trips and don't want/need the hassle.

I've heard Mena, AR has most if not all the shops to do this work as we're hoping for some semblance of one stop shopping; or nearly so. Looking for pireps with personal knowledge of these Mena shops or others somewhere in south or midwest: hoping not to have to go too far with radio issue.

Appreciate any opinions of actual users of potential shops.
Jack

OBTW: buddy will be selling his Husky when 182 is ready for the backcountry; first time in 30 yrs he won't be flying a TW.

I can confirm that Del at Mountain Airframe in Mena is the guy to see for airframe work. I don't know anything about the avionics shop on the field but Del will give you his honest opinion about them. He can also ramrod the project and work with the other shops on the field to get it all done.

Del has worked on my plane before and I would not hesitate to take it back to him again for a project like you describe.

Keith