Losbright1

The seating position was not at all what I was expecting. I have heard "it sits like a corvette"..etc. but, I did not find the position to be all that different from an Arrow..I didn't really mess with the seating position much so I am sure I could have gotten it more "locked in" to my liking. I think it had vertical articulation, but I didn't mess with it. Ricardo is probably an inch or so taller than I and he had room above his head, so I am sure it is workable. That is the part I should have adjusted, because it was a bit tight through head and shoulder area...again, that was my fault for not playing with the adjustment more. The panel is kinda tall, but I didn't find that to be a problem once you level out at cruise and it did not seem an issue during landing flare either. The sloped windscreen and tall panel does make for a smaller view than a Cessna for sure, but again I didn't see where that was really an issue. I have heard where they are "hard to slow down" and you need to be on speeds for a decent landing, etc. Did not notice that either, although I was not the one landing it so maybe he just made it look easy. Lol. The speed brakes do make it slow and descend quite well if you find yourself in need of that.

Was finally able to hook up with member Ricky_231 and get a tag along in his M20S Eagle last week. What a great plane and a good day for flying. He showed me around the plane and answered any questions I had. We went for a flight and the "S" did in fact climb like an eagle. I am used to little Cessnas, so the climb at 1800+ fpm that never seemed to drop was amazing. We cruised out over the coast for a bit and talked about planes. What could be better than that? Thanks so much for your time Ricardo. It was an enjoyable flight.

What would be the top things you look at to assess the condition of a 1970 M20C Ranger? Are there any known issues that would be a deal-breaker if you found them? I am not at all knowledgeable on Mooneys, so anything from simple to complex that you'd want to put your eyes/hands on before considering one for purchase..?

That would be great. Thanks.

I am a fairly low-time pilot (+300TT) and just got my complex endorsement awhile back. I would really like to get in a Mooney to see how it 'feels'. I am a larger guy, 6'-0" tall and about 210# and I have heard people say it is not a comfortable plane, but I have seen many larger people that own them. I would like to get a ride in one if anyone is willing. I am located in the Charleston SC area and currently fly out of KMKS in Berkeley County. I am quite close to CHS, JZI, LRO, DYB, RBW also. All within 45 minute drive. If anyone out there is just flying around and does not mind some extra weight, I would love to tag along and hear about your plane. I am usually free Friday afternoon and weekends, but I can make most times work with notice. Let me know if you are interested..I don't mind listening to you talk about your plane for hours. I know most cannot resist that.

So, I moved to Charleston and never did get a look-see into a Mooney. Lol. I am flying with a club out of Berkeley County, KMKS if anyone is in the area and wouldn't mind showing me around their airplane. I live close to downtown Charleston so I am convenient to the other local airports also. Thanks in advance.

It was pretty bad overall..the kid that was "going to be a pilot" asked for 'heading 170 North' when she was playing on her sim. I am like "a heading is a heading, there is no north added to it..plus, 170 is south"..and it was amazing how fast the KA went from too fast, to a near stall, etc. There was one part where ATC was telling him he was low, like 3000 or something, then it flashed to Flightaware where it showed him at like 11000+. I am sure all of our wives were rolling their eyes at our comments during the movie..

I guess I am more worried about the seating position than actually fitting in the plane. I know I can likely get in and out without much issue..was just worried that the "corvette style" seating position would be hard on me for longer flights..but, seems like there are plenty of larger guys flying them without issue...so, it'll be about the same comfort level as any other plane..stiff back or legs at the same flight time. Lol.

Thanks Bob865- I will certainly take you up on that when she's out of the shop. I am currently doing my IFR training at GMU, so I am there a good bit. add: I just checked your repair / update thread. That is going to be a great panel you are putting together!!

Well, that's the thing..I don't know yet. Don't have enough time under my belt, and certainly not enough different planes to know. I have only flown C172 and a Piper Cherokee.

Any of you vintage Mooney owners in the Greenville SC area? I wouldn't mind getting a look inside one to see if it should be on my list of planes to consider. I have read some info that it is tight inside, and seats sit lower and can cause some back pain for larger occupants. I am 6'0, 215#, and already have a stiff back. I love the look and efficiency of the Mooney, and would like to get into a partnership in the future..just want to make sure it is not something I should cross off the list. Thanks to anyone that'd be willing to give me a tour.