DartMan

Should have asked sooner but what should I be prepared to pucker up and accept on insurance costs with zero time in type and zero complex time? How many hours in type are needed before the insurance rates start to go down? thx

If anyone is aware of good C or E specimens for sale or getting ready to be for sale please let me know. Thx!

Are there any buyers guides out there that are relevant to the C & E so I know what to look for with common issues, ADs, etc?

I only targeted the E for its short field numbers...and I like its engine. I have a very similar engine in my RV4 and LOP operation is just fantastic. just looking on trade a plane though, I could spend quite a bit less on the C but without knowing the full details of each plane it is hard to compare.

Any idea what a fair price range would be for a well equipped M20E?

Not sure. I am looking at a listing where the plane was converted to electric gear 20 years ago or so...

Random thought...I assume that the simple Johnson bar is the preferred gear method as opposed to a modified Duke electric setup. Less to fail and quicker to retract for short field work??

Thx!

Any chance you have a t/o, landing chart for the E model? thx

Haha. Maybe the E type with its short field numbers would fit the bill then.

Luckily I’m only 5’6” and so is my wife...I expect the front seats to be quite forward.

I know these short body Mooneys are small in the back but will a 6-10 year old typically fit back there without having to sit at a strange angle? Are they smaller than a piper pacer / tri-pacer in the rear seat area? thx

With Mooney closing and opening and closing is there any practical risk to parts supplies on the vintage Mooneys?

In asking around I spoke to a guy who owned and operated an F type out of the field in question for 11-years without incident and without having to land out in other airports except upon IFR arrival conditions so it seems it can be done with the right pilot and decision making skills.

This has been a fantastic thread folks! Thank you. It seems like the E type is doable but with more weight and wind limitations than a 182 which would translate into fewer flying days or having to fly to a different airport to load and gas up...which would probably cost more time that what I gain in speed for all but a max-range trip. 155kts and 10-gph sure is tempting though! Especially as compared to 135kts @ 13gph. Plus Mooneys look good. i have some thinking to do.