JoeM

I'm replacing KA-134 and SPA400 intercom with PS Engineering. My question is "Which model"? Obviously, the best choice is the 450b since I want BT. But I want to install myself and I read that self install voids the warranty, which argues in favor of installing a used G340 then upgrading. What am I missing?

I had my Interav Prestolite "airboat" alternator OH'd at a marine electric specialist. It tested fine on their bench, twice. Installed a used Plane Power R1224 which Hartzell confirmed worked normally. The system would NOT charge, and Hartzell couldn't tell me why. Said "it should work". Others have told me Plane Power regulators don't always work with Interav alternators. I ended up giving my OH'd alternator to Spruce as a core for a new Plane Power STC kit. Worked like a charm. And I also replaced ALL the wiring to field and buss.

Thanks Doc. Fortunately, I have the SMM.

I used to fly into VGT often and had a lot of work done there. Mind sharing the shop you are using?

It turned out they were old (replaced) wires for the Shower of Sparks. Further research into the lack of charge (no amps and voltage on bus same before and after start and at 1500 rpm) discovered no power at Field wire. Interav over voltage relay appears to have failed (has power from bus going in but isn't connecting field wires) so ordered a plane power regulator to replace Interav OVR and regulator. When new regulator is installed, we will see if the alternator is good.

did you ever sell your alternator?

Working behind the panel of 65E, I ended up with two wires from the main harness disconnected. Neither is hot. Not sure where they go. Could it be master switch or ignition switch or somewhere else? Ammeter is moving slightly but not showing normal amps. Voltage is not increasing with engine running. Searched for wiring diagrams for master switch and ignition switch without success. Any help appreciated.

Greg; This is the year for a basic Dynon 10" on the pilot side, connected to IFD 440 for IFR. Will not include engine gauges, radio, transponder, or AP prewiring. Will need a new panel cut for left side only. Will leave vacuum system in place for Brittain AP and step. Can you recommend software to design the new panel?

I have spent about 1 1/2 years since I bought my E (with the same system you have) working on it. Your turn with PC on is probably due to a leak on the left aileron of the PC wing leveler. As Doc says, make sure your rigging is good first, then if the PC causes a turn, try trimming with the valve on top of the clock on the pilot's yoke. If that doesn't pull it equally right and left, it's time to check vaccuum to the left and right sides. You can find red and green lines behind the trim on the left side of the baggage area. If they don't leak, they will hold 5 psi of vaccuum for a minute or two. The system is elegant, simple, and inexpensive. There is more to learn, but that should get you started. Kevin Westbrook, a long time employee of Brittain, is also available to troubleshoot and repair components of these systems. He has a new number - five 3 niner dos niner dos zero quattro seven quattro. PM if you have questions.

paul loewen may have it. https://www.loewensmooneysalvage.com/ He will also be able to help you figure out what caused it to break.

My standby vac is from the intake manifold and it causes idle to increase about 150-200 rpm when pulled.

I was having trouble making full power on takeoff and, after inspecting the finger screen (clean), found the gascolator wasn't draining. When I took it apart, the screen was mostly clear, but the drain hole was plugged. Cleaning the drain and the screen fixed the takeoff power problem. +1 for sumping the tanks first, then draining the gascolater. It is the lowest point in the system and should collect water and debris even if the tanks sump clear. It is worth checking to be sure there are no gas leaks before startup.

I'm cleaning the fuel servo inlet screen on my IO 360. Can't find the torque to reinstall. Anyone know it? Thanks

Bill Goetschel 507-581-9761 rebuilds and sells them.

Some people have more time than money, and enjoy the challenge of keeping old stuff working. After resealing the boots and changing hoses, my Brittain with Alt hold and Pitch control now works fine for flying VFR

I bought the electric trim motor from them but they couldn't find the sprocket. I'm not sure where the ring fits, but I will take one of those as well. Please let me know what the cost is for the sprocket and ring so I can send you the money.

I bought electric trim parts from them last year. Good people who bought the company and all its inventory but don't support this STC any more. I would be interested in user made parts for this system as mine is currently inop.

For your mission, I would swap the 430 for a 430W. After you sell the 430 (FB or Ebay) and install the WAAS antennae with new coax, you won't have spent much and will be WAAS capable, which is very helpful in the IFR system. It should play well with the G5s and GFC 500. If you can't do it all at once, that is a simple step 2. But I would do it soon, as I wonder how long the 430 non-WAAS units will command what they do now on the aftermarket.

At least this indicates the FAA in Seattle has actually approved an autopilot. That in itself is remarkable. There may be hope yet for us Mooney owners.

I have been on a tie down near the OC Coast since buying my first Mooney in 1998. We don't have hail, frost or high temps, but we have salty dew most nights. I use corrosion X and a cabin cover. Hangars cost over $1K per month here if you can find one. Recently moved to Corona which, although it is a 40 minute drive, offers tie downs for $30/month and hangars for $450 so I am on a waitlist for a hangar. In the meantime I keep tools in my car and do maintenance outside. You gotta do what keeps you flying.

Have used old style cannulas for 18 years, I'm almost ready to get a new demand version to reduce flow and increase range. The most important two things you can do are to buy a pulse oximeter ($30 on A) and take the Air Force hyperbaric chamber ride to find out what hypoxia does to you. Everyone has different symptoms. I use 02 above 5000 feet at night, 10,000 feet during the day. It keeps me alert and improves night vision. I find passengers don't need it until much higher, although I always offer it.

Dan; I have bought several sets off Ebay MS and FB. Even the ones stated "not leaking" usually leak. Don't pay too much without a return guarantee. When you get them, you should test with a Harbor Freight brake bleeder to see if the boots will hold 5 psi for a minute or so. As Hank said, you can repair reasonably large tears with 3M electrical tape (not the cheap Chinese stuff) and Permatex. If you still need some that don't leak or are repairable, I have several I can go through to see what's usable. I finally got mine working.

You should check Western Skyways. I have bought two overhauled engines from them and had good results. After sale service was good too. And you reduce downtime by flying the old one till the new one arrives.

I like Aero performance specialties in Chino. Steve has been great to work with. Keeps time available for small jobs in between his large installs. Works on Mooney‘s frequently. Quoted me about two months out for major panel work. Perhaps not the cheapest, but definitely competent and reasonable prices. https://aero-performance.com/ i’ve also used Leading Edge Avionics at SNA. Haven’t spoken to them recently but they have an excellent reputation.

For those not yet willing to give up on a cheaper alternative to Big G (i.e. if you like your Avidyne navigator), here is an update. I spoke to a 15 year employee of Spruce today and ordered my Aerocruze 100. There were two orders ahead of mine nationwide. Spruce won't charge, nor even authorize the credit card used to place the order until they receive the product from BK. The product is returnable for 30 days after purchase without re-stocking fee. So by placing the order, you're getting a place in line if the AP ever becomes available, with no cost or obligation. To me it made sense.