tim417

Just a quick update. I was able to find a loaner thanks to a generous Mooney FB group member and I am looking at replacing NAV/COM1 with a used SL30 for not too much more than what a used yellow tagged KX155 would be. Just gotta pay for labor, which is not cheap or easy to come by these days. In the meantime, I decided to maybe get the original thing fixed as a spare to COM2 depending on the cost. I contacted Bevan at @LANCECASPER’s and @Jake@BevanAviation’s suggestions and they offered to look at it. Super patient, helpful, and responsive on the phone. Thanks guys!

Man, I wish I was in the market for an airplane back in 2018…

I need these yokes in my life.

@Jake@BevanAviation Thank you! I’ll give them a call.

@LANCECASPER My shop has it and is sending it out for bench testing and an estimate. If I don’t like what they say I will l give them a call. Tim

Well, my KX155 gave up the ghost quickly and suddenly. Avionics shop says it needs to go out for full bench test but likely internal amplifier is fried. Depending on the repair estimate, I am considering my options. It seems like folly to pay today’s asking prices for a used 14V KX155 w/ Glideslope only to risk having it go bad just like this one. I am eyeballing the Garmin GNC 255 but between the cost of the unit and installation I am north of $7k. Lastly, while my radio is out and I am contemplating how to spend my retirement savings, is there anyone who knows of a shop or individual who might be willing to rent me a spare KX155 (14V) so I can fly this thing with more than one radio? Thanks in advance, Tim

Thank you! Maybe we can schedule a phone call and see if we can come up with a game plan and see if I can get the plane up to you later this year. Being a new owner, I don’t know how long installs like these take once in the shop, and I’m guessing you guys are pretty backed up and Garmin has a backorder. Timing might actually work out though. Tim

I have been thinking hard on this and based on the responses and the research I’ve been able to do, I think the dual GI-275s are the way to go. I like the simple layout of the GFC500 and it seems like aside from the kidney I will need to sell, it will serve my needs as an AP for safety, convenience in cruise, and light IFR. But first things first, I need my IFR ticket and also I want the GI275s installed. While I like the simplicity and lower cost of G5s, I have two 155As and want to keep using them for now, and the G5s apparently wont play nice. I also have an existing GTN625 already in the panel and I’d like to integrate it into the system I am based out of KCNO. Would love to come chat with you guys but logistically, not sure how I would make it back and forth to ferry the airplane (and myself) to leave it there and pick it up, especially with my crazy work schedule.

I like the GFC500 featureset but the if TruTrak ever gets its STC that seems like a good option as well. That wil be sometime down the line.

Hmm good to know. GI275 might be a good option then. Any PIREPS on the Aspen by anyone here? Either the Pro Max or E5?

After only a couple weeks and 20ish hours in my new to me M20C, I am looking at future panel improvements since shops seem so swamped. Currently, the panel has a six pack setup with a Sandel 3308 as the HSI/CDI, a secondary CDI, and an electronic backup attitude with slip/skid indicator where a traditional turn coordinator would be. There is also a GTN625 GPS/Waas (no com) and two KX155s in the panel. Originally, I considered dual G5s or GI275s and an eventual GFC500 upgrade later down the line but then I discovered they wont talk to my KX155s. So now I am considering an Aspen E5 (with possible later software upgrade to the ProMax). I think I’ll need to install a traditional turn coordinator and I might like to keep the vacuum AI as a backup. Maybe an eventual addition of the BK Aerocruze if it ever gets an STC or some form of STEC. Just want for safety, light IFR and convenience in cruise It looks like I might have to have a panel cut to accommodate the E5 Thoughts on this? also, are there any quality local shops that will actually spend some time talking to you and giving you good service and support? I know everyone is busy…. Tim

I concur with all above. I wish this had ALL the avionics I want but that would have been quite difficult to find in this market. I was happy that this had two decent KX155 radios, a GTN 625 and JPI EDM 900. It has a hard mount with power and external antennae for my Stratus 3, and an airgizmos ipad mini panel mount which is pretty cool.I want to put in a couple G5s or GI275s (havent decided which is best for my mission yet and need to get solid pricing) and eventually an autopilot. First order of business is to change the airgizmos panel mount insert from the ipad mini 1-3 to the 4-5. You’d think the external screws would provide access but nope. Have to get behind the panel to reach the lock nuts. Nothing is ever easy. Tim

This forum has been and and continues to be such a great resource. I’ve put almost 10 hours on her in a week and look forward to getting to know everything inside and out. Already looking at panel upgrades. I suspect it will never end. Tim

Thank you all for your sage advice on this thread as well as on the rest of the board. I am now the proud owner of a very nicely maintained 63 C model. Engine is a bit high time but the motor runs extremely smooth and the prebuy went great. Paint looks like it was done yesterday despite being 18 years old. Interior is in very good shape. Has a JPI 900 and GTN 625 with two KX155 Nav/Coms. Market is crazy right now so I am pretty happy with the purchase. Probably could have paid 40% less 3 years ago but that’s how it goes. Can’t wait to meet some of you guys at some future event.

And yes, I got the buyer’s guide and am on Jimmy Garrison’s list!

Thank you all for your replies. I am taking all of them to heart and I am definitely keeping in mind any engine can go at any time. This plane has been flying for 120 hours in the last year and similar hours each year before that. Double checking logs to be sure but it definitely looks in line with market prices.

Thank you! That is the plan. I will have to rely on the contracted prebuy mechanic from Savvy Prebuy as the plane is located across the country. Waiting on logs to arrive. Apparently a previous potential buyer backed out as their bank did not like the engine being beyond overhaul time, but not sure how that part works. Tim

So I'm noticing that with my budget of 60-90k for a vintage C or E model, there is always some kind of concern with the aircraft. Either the avionics are super old, no IFR capability, damage history, high airframe time (10k hours plus), or engine/prop time beyond manufacturer recommended tboh. Anyhoo, I am looking at a 1966 E model with a bottom overhaul 1750 hours ago and a top overhaul 1100 hours ago. At $60k asking price, even if I needed to overhaul the thing, it seems like it is in line with current market prices. but with current supply chain issues, I don't want to buy a plane that will just be down for 6 months.

To the original poster, I am in the market for a C model so let me know if you decide to sell!

At this point I’d love just a ride in one and would be happy to split costs or whatever works.

I’m a private pilot with about 200 hours on the C172 and looking to get instrument rated in 2021. One of my goals in the next couple years is to purchase a plane and after much research, I think the Mooney would fit my mission quite well. I’d like to get some instruction on a Mooney and get spooled up to the point where I am competent and confident in the aircraft. Can anyone recommend a good school with a Mooney in the Orange County, CA area? Thanks in advance!