ZuluZulu

https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/bendixking-at-osh-autopilots-for-mooneys/

Require? No. The POH recommends takeoff flaps, which corresponds to 15º. But it will take off without flaps and a certain former factory test pilot recommends it if the runway is long enough. See: https://web.archive.org/web/20051102020648/http://www.mooneypilots.com:80/M20J Evaluation/M20J_evaluation_report.html#expand "Setting flaps for takeoff is your decision and option. The book recommends 15 degrees (the takeoff setting), but if the runway is longer than 3000 feet, consider not using flaps for takeoff. The takeoff distance might be a few hundred feet longer without flaps, but I think you'll find the airplane has much better liftoff and initial climb characteristics without flaps. My personal technique is not to use them if the runway length isn't critical." (P.S. Why can't we create blockquotes anymore?)

I have the YD and was having issues with NAV mode disconnecting, sometimes frequently, and always unpredictably. The only way to tell was to closely monitor the G5 or the GMC 507 for the GPS/indicator light to go out. With Garmin's help, the shop traced it to a bad data port on the GTN 750. No similar disconnections since. My new issue is that the HDG indication on the G5 sometimes turns yellow, unsure of the cause but it seems to happen most often close to the ground, which kicks off the AP if in HDG mode.

My plane came with an EDM-730 (w/ fuel flow) already installed. As long as you always tell it when you add fuel, double-check its math when you fill up, and continue visually checking your tanks before flight, it’s a very good solution for not that much money.

What led you choose that prop over other options?

Please definitely keep the IO-390 updates coming. I've only got 400 hours on my A3B6D but I'm already thinking about replacing it with a 390 once the time comes. What prop do you have?

I have dual G5s but unless you're going to be using non-Garmin, third-party equipment, I think the G3X Touch is the way to go. You know you can trust me because I don't have one!

My plane came pre-owned with Bose mini-panels installed in the back, in between the seats. I'm not even using them. There's a 1A circuit breaker for each one.

A valuation tool would never give you a black and white answer, no matter how good it is. It’s a rough approximation of dozens of individuals making dozens of individual decisions. If you really want to know what Mooneys are selling for, call Jimmy Garrison and ask him. Assuming he even has time to get on the phone these days…

They seemed extremely busy six months ago. I could never get them to call me back or reply to emails. Maybe it’s better now.

Sounds like you're looking only at mid-80s J's and earlier. A decent, flying MSE will fetch more than that. This one is asking 180 and is the same year as mine, but it doesn't have dual G5s, a GTN 750, GFC 500, GNC 255A, GMA 35c, JPI EDM-830, LED nav and landing lights, Monroy tanks, or 500 hours SMOH like mine does, nor has it been as regularly flown. So if anyone out there wants to make me a crazy-stupid offer....

The airport authority at my airport just conducted inspections for fire hazards and to verify aviation uses of each and every hangar in our complex. Airport staff was accompanied by local firefighters. I was happy to see them taking this seriously!

I bought mine from @OSUAV8TER!

Next up: getting rid of those old power-hungry strobes for LED!

https://visitedstatesmap.com

Personally I haven't had any servo issues thus far (knock on wood). Installation completed last October. Coming up on 120 hours in service since.

I bought a new set of lenses but haven’t installed them yet because I had some success with an automotive headlight restoration kit. It’s not perfect but it held up and looked good for about 6 months. Needs another treatment now which I’m hoping to get around to doing this weekend. Wish I’d tried this first but at least I have a set in the hangar if I crack one!

I'm not a mechanic, but it sounded like there was already enough known to skip any more attempted engine runs and proceed straight to some pretty significant remedial steps. BWDIK

Any concern that all these test runs and troubleshooting attempts on an engine clearly not running correctly may be causing additional damage?

It's your money but personally I would work on addressing the engine situation and getting the plane airworthy again before I even dreamed of stuffing more avionics into it. It's been yours for two days. You don't even know everything that's wrong with it yet. Good luck!

Have you seen the Mooney Flyer's CFI list? As @Jerry 5TJ says, insurance will likely require you to obtain a certain amount of dual. Mine certainly did. Regardless of what insurance wants, you should want an experienced Mooney instructor for your transition training anyway. I'd also caution you against trying to kill too many birds with the fewest number of stones ("thereby achieving two objectives at the same time"). Take your time and don't rush. https://themooneyflyer.com/cfi.html

What’s the story (if any) behind that photo? Who took it, is this the same incident, and do you have the full size?

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but New Mooney says we are officially not pilots. Own it!

What did you true out at with your IO-360?

I really don't have an axe to grind with Cirruses like some do. I just took exception to the idea that a Cirrus is the only way you can survive if you decide to scalp a Metroliner. Mooney airframe is pretty strong too. And Cirrus isn't the only plane with a chute.