CCAS

Thanks Shawn - I've got another visit to the avionics shop this week so I'll see what they think. I feel pretty comfortable with the locking mechanism of the Carling switch but will look into it a bit more. As for the ELT switch, I hadn't heard any guidance like you mentioned. I've never had any issues reaching over to the CB panel before (even when strapped in tight during turbulence) but maybe my flexibiity in the future could be an issue. John

I thought you might appreciate the design since it's basically yours! The switches are Carling Contura V series except for the dimmer switches which are Carling LD series. I opted for the generic actuators (the actuator isn't labeled...the label goes on the panel) and I'll just buy a few extra actuators to keep in the airplane as spares. The Smart Glide switch will be a locking version of the Contura V.

Latest panel version attached. I"ve got one more round of feedback before we lock down the design. There are a couple minor things I've noticed (at least one typo on the CB panel labels, Gear Safety Bypass button needs to slide further right, etc) but I'd appreciate anyone's input if they see something glaringly odd. FYI. I went back and forth on placement of the GMC507 in the stack and after chair-flying the options I ended up with it at the bottom which worked best for me. Thanks! John 1 N716J Update General 2.pdf

Thanks Nick - I think we have a winner with that photo!

Recently discovered that I don't have the required Operations Limits placard installed in my 1989 M20J (found the attached version on a related MS thread that matches the POH verbage). The POH says it's supposed to be placed on the Left Side Panel in front of the pilot station but I guess over the years it somehow disappeared. Looking for recommendations or photos on where others have placed theirs? Also curious what size (approximately) yours are since I may be making the placard versus buying the part from Lasar or an MSC. Thanks John

@dkkim73 and @NickG were also looking for the wing fuel gauges/dials last month. You all might want to check with @JustusSJ -- he's parting out an Ovation in Europe (I think) and said he still has the wing fuel gauges; not sure of the exact part number he has but they might work. John

I recently pulled my tachometer and tach generator out of my 1989 M20J (28v); PM me if you're still searching for parts.

Mistakenly ordered for panel project. New in package. RAM part number: RAM-110U-246 (RAM® Double Ball Mount with 100x100mm VESA Plate - C Size Medium) $50 plus shipping.

Stopped by the avionics shop today. It's coming along. Most of the old wiring has been removed. New wire harness is just about complete. Autopilot servos are being installed. Tail LED strobe light is in (and rudder has been balanced by the factory and re-installed); remaining LEDs to be installed shortly. Panel design taking longer than expected. Latest architecture block diagram based on how I understand the harness design (left the GMU and audio panel off to save space):

As part of a panel upgrade I recently removed all of my OEM switches from my 1989 M20J (28v). Send me a PM and I may have what you need. John

@ArtVandelay Do you recall where you found your mini rocker switches or have a part number. I’m trying to see if one could work installed on the top of my yoke’s right horn.

Thanks very much everyone! The first portion of the program is the power plant curriculum so I’ll roll my sleeves up for those areas. Several Continentals in the hangar but hoping to find a Lycoming somewhere in the mix.

Short answer is yes. Longer answer: My program is a certificate program and the school is using an approved Part 147 syllabus. At the end of the program a 'certificate' isn't really the goal. The basis of the program is simply to document the FAA-required courses/experiences and set you up to pass the licensing exams....as long as you attend the syllabus courses and make passing grades, you'll be eligible to take the written and practical FAA exams. Passing the exams though is all on how well you've studied and retained the knowledge expected by the FAA and DME.

Last month I began the journey to become an A&P with the hope it'll make me a more well-rounded pilot, aircraft owner and future maintainer. I'm in an 18-month program offered by a local community college with some seasoned staff. I know every topic is important but I want to dig deeper in some areas of aircraft maintenance that might benefit from a little more attention as it relates to the Mooney fleet...we've got at least one instructor who has Mooney experience. Are there any specific systems or topics that Mooney owners and mechanics would recommend I spend a few extra minutes/hours doing a deeper dive throughout the course? Thanks for any recommendations. John

That checks with others I've spoken to about Flightstream updates being a bit slow. After chatting with @donkaye I opted to forego the 510 and apply that budget to adding LHS instead. Thanks for the recommendation about using the GTN650Xi as the primary data card recipient...I'll plan for that.