bucko

Just replaced the #2 cylinder in my 1965 M20-E. Will follow the manufacturer's and my mechanic's break in guidelines, but was wondering how long it took for most of you who have done it already. Ranges vary greatly, it seems. Thanks.

Hi All; Sign up deadline for the Mooney Formation Flying Clinic (April 5th to 7th, 2019) is quickly approaching: Sunday, March 17th. Please don't wait until the last minute get registered, or worse, miss the date. Sign up Link: https://goo.gl/forms/EGzLzfzVVgb1azD42 Hotel Link: http://group.homewood-suites.com/MFFClinic Question? Contact me. Bucko (Sandman) Strehlow Cell: (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com

Hi All; Sign up deadline for the Mooney Formation Flying Clinic (April 5th to 7th, 2019) is quickly approaching: Sunday, March 17th. Please don't wait until the last minute get registered, or worse, miss the date. Sign up Link: https://goo.gl/forms/EGzLzfzVVgb1azD42 Hotel Link: http://group.homewood-suites.com/MFFClinic Question? Contact me. Bucko (Sandman) Strehlow Cell: (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com

Hotel Booking Information: Use this link to book your room for this year's KHYI Mooney Formation Flying Clinic this April: http://group.homewood-suites.com/MFFClinic King suite: $ 109/ night. Queen (2 beds) Suite: $ 112/ night. Let me know if you have any problems. Bucko Strehlow (210) 887-0144

The 6th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI (San Marcos, TX) on Friday, April 5th, to Sunday, April 7th. Weather Back up Date (if required): TBD FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Purpose: Train pilots to safely perform formation flying using classroom briefings and actual aircraft in actual conditions. The clinics provide a professional learning format, with pre and post flight briefings, along with skilled observer pilots helping to conduct the clinic and riding in the training aircraft. The Mooney Caravan organization is dedicated to facilitating a safe and enjoyable formation mass arrival flight into AirVenture Oshkosh each year, as well as developing opportunities (such as these clinics) throughout the year to get together and fly our fantastic airplanes. Our participants share a strong sense of camaraderie and the friendship’s born via our common interests in aviation and Mooney aircraft, spanning the continent and the entire year between Oshkosh Caravan flights. The enjoyment and enthusiasm which we all experience at AirVenture doesn’t wear off; we keep it going throughout the year! Why you should do it (Check all that may apply): 1. Because IT WILL BE A LOT OF FUN !!! 2. To learn new skills and make yourself a better pilot. 3. To be able to fly into Oshkosh in an organized group (with the Mooney Caravan), and with more safely than using the FISK arrival. (Note: this is totally optional. A lot of you may not even be going to KOSH this year, but this will hopefully plant the seed and you can join us in the future.) 4. We are tentatively planning to have a Check Pilot available, for qualified candidates to get their WING or LEAD cards. Sign Up Deadline: Sunday, March 17, 2019, which is several weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, and beyond, so we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 130.00. Sign up at: https://goo.gl/forms/EGzLzfzVVgb1azD42 Bring cash or check to the clinic when you get there. Hotel: TBD Transportation: You fly there and we will get you back and forth on the ground. Anyone getting a rental or having a personal car available would be appreciated and pressed into service. Schedule: Clinic starts at 0800 on Friday, April 5th, 2019. Meals: Lunches at the FBO will be provided as a part of the base Registration Fee. Dinners on Friday and Saturday will be catered events at the FBO and tickets will be available for purchase. One night will be BBQ and the other will be Mexican/ TexMex. Homework: Download and read the "Mooney Caravan Formation Guide" prior to attending the clinic. It can be downloaded from the mooneycaravan.com website from a link in the "Training" section, or the FFI Formation Guide, including the Mooney Supplement, both found on their website: www.ffi.aero. Newbies: Watch the Video of the ground training (filmed at an earlier San Marcos/ KHYI Clinic) also in the training section of the Caravan website. I know: there is a lot of information there. The important items will be reviewed at the Basic Formation Ground School on Friday morning, but you need to have read the Guide(s) so that the information presented at the briefing will be somewhat familiar to you. For non Mooney pilots, or anyone interested in working on their FAST card ratings, download and read the "Red Star Training Guide" from the website: www.flyredstar.org Note: If you have not read a Guide (Mooney, FFI, or Red Star) prior to coming to the clinic, you may not fly in the clinic. So, sign up by clicking: https://goo.gl/forms/rB8BqN2Y7inrjyA43 Also include your ratings (SEL, IFR, Comm'l, etc), approximate flying hours, Mooney (or other aircraft) Model, home base, and whether you'll be flying with the Caravan into KOSH this year or in the future. I have been going to go to Oshkosh for many years, but was always landing at satellite airfields because I did not enjoy the VFR/ FISK arrival. Having done multiple Formation Flying Clinics in OK, MO, Yuma, AZ, El Paso, TX, Kerrville, TX, San Marcos, TX, I have now flown with the Mooney Caravan and arrived in style and safety at KOSH for the past five (5) years. Warning: This type of flying is both fun and very addicting: I have flown over 100 formation hours every year for the past 3 years as part of multiple elements (2 ships, 3 ships, 4 ship, and more). Texas has a lot of people participating in this activity and many opportunities abound to fly together. Tailwinds and High Speed; Bucko M20-E

I've run a search on the topic of Electronic Ignition replacement of one mag in MooneySpace, but no hits on pros/cons. Thinking of putting one in my 1965 M20-E; IO-360 fuel injected. Seeing 154 knots TAS running LOP at 8 gallons/hour at 7,000 to 10,000 feet now. Would I see much of an improvement? People who have done it, what say you? Bucko Strehlow

Sign up for the 5th Annual Mooney Formation Flying Clinic at KHYI (San Marcos, TX) in March. Registration deadline (and hotel registration deadline, if needed) is March 9th, 2018. Go to MooneyCaravan.com , click on the Training Section, and sign up using the google docs prompt. Also, there's homework (prep work) to be done before you get to the clinic: 1. Watch the Clinic Training Video (also on Caravan website). 2. Read a Formation Training Guide (Mooney Caravan, FAST, FFI, or Red Star). The Mooney Formation Guide is downloadable from the same website If you don't do the homework/ prep work, you won't be flying. Simple as that. Thanks, Bucko (Sandman) Strehlow Cell: (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com

Coming back from trip, noticed prop RPM was slowly increasing. With Prop control pulled all the way back, I ended up needing to pull about 0.5 to 1 inch of MP (power) to keep prop at 2,500. On ground with run up to 1,700, pulling the Prop control back full resulted in minimal RPM decrease. Usually, pulling the prop causes an immediate 200 RPM decrease and prop control must be advanced quickly to avoid too much of a drop.Have called mechanic, so investigation starting. Looking for thoughts.Need to get into logbook, but Prop has not been overhauled for a long time (not since engine overhaul). Mechanical linkage seems intact. All engine instruments seem normal. Oil pressure and temp were normal. Thanks,Bucko M20-E (1965)

Schedule for TX Mooney Formation Flying Clinic at KHYI (San Marcos, TX): KHYI (2018 SCHEDULE OF TRAINING .pdf

Attached please find a .pdf copy of Texas Mooney Formation Flying Clinic Schedule KHYI (2018 SCHEDULE OF TRAINING .pdf

The 5th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI (San Marcos, TX) on Friday, March 23rd, to Sunday, March 25th, 2018. Weather Back up Date (if required): April 6th to 8th, 2018. FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Sign Up Deadline: Friday, March 9, 2018, which is two (2) weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 110.00. Sign up at: https://goo.gl/forms/rB8BqN2Y7inrjyA43 Bring cash or check to the clinic when you get there. Hotel: Holiday Inn San Marcos at 105 Bintu Drive; San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 805-1000 Contact person: Darla Wallace Group Name: Redbird Skyport Single: $ 119/ night Double: $ 129/ night Reservations are due by March 9, 2018 (also the Clinic Sign Up date deadline) Bucko Strehlow M20-E

The 5th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI (San Marcos, TX) on Friday, March 23rd, to Sunday, March 25th, 2018. Weather Back up Date (if required): April 6th to 8th, 2018. FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Sign Up Deadline: Friday, March 9, 2018, which is two (2) weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 110.00. Sign up at: https://goo.gl/forms/rB8BqN2Y7inrjyA43 Bring cash or check to the clinic when you get there. Hotel: Holiday Inn San Marcos at 105 Bintu Drive; San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 805-1000 Contact person: Darla Wallace Group Name: Redbird Skyport Single: $ 119/ night Double: $ 129/ night Reservations are due by March 9, 2018 (also the Clinic Sign Up date deadline) Bucko Strehlow M20-E

The 5th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI (San Marcos, TX) on Friday, March 23rd, to Sunday, March 25th, 2018. Weather Back up Date (if required): April 6th to 8th, 2018. FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Purpose: Train pilots to safely perform formation flying using classroom briefings and actual aircraft in actual conditions. The clinics provide a professional learning format, with pre and post flight briefings, along with skilled observer pilots helping to conduct the clinic and riding in the training aircraft. The Mooney Caravan organization is dedicated to facilitating a safe and enjoyable formation mass arrival flight into AirVenture Oshkosh each year, as well as developing opportunities (such as these clinics) throughout the year to get together and fly our fantastic airplanes. Our participants share a strong sense of camaraderie and the friendship’s born via our common interests in aviation and Mooney aircraft, spanning the continent and the entire year between Oshkosh Caravan flights. The enjoyment and enthusiasm which we all experience at AirVenture doesn’t wear off; we keep it going throughout the year! Why you should do it (Check all that may apply): 1. Because IT WILL BE A LOT OF FUN !!! 2. To learn new skills and make yourself a better pilot. 3. To be able to fly into Oshkosh in an organized group (with the Mooney Caravan), and with more safely than using the FISK arrival. (Note: this is totally optional. A lot of you may not even be going to KOSH this year, but this will hopefully plant the seed and you can join us in the future.) 4. Red Star is a signatory to FAST, where you can earn your Wingman and Lead Cards. We are tentatively planning to have a FAST Check Pilot available, for qualified candidates. Sign Up Deadline: Friday, March 9, 2018, which is two (2) weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 110.00. Sign up at: https://goo.gl/forms/rB8BqN2Y7inrjyA43 Bring cash or check to the clinic when you get there. Hotel: Holiday Inn San Marcos at 105 Bintu Drive; San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 805-1000 Contact person: Darla Wallace Group Name: Redbird Skyport Single: $ 119/ night Double: $ 129/ night Currently, reservations are due by February 26, 2018, but we are trying to extend that deadline to match the Sign Up Deadline (above). Transportation: You fly there and we will get you back and forth on the ground. Anyone getting a rental or having a personal car available would be appreciated and pressed into service. Schedule: Clinic starts at 0800 on Friday, March 23, 2018. Meals: Lunches at the FBO will be provided as a part of the base Registration Fee. Dinners on Friday and Saturday will be catered events at the FBO and tickets will be available for purchase. One night will be BBQ and the other will be Mexican/ TexMex. Homework: Download and read the "Mooney Caravan Formation Guide" prior to attending the clinic. It can be downloaded from the mooneycaravan.com website from a link in the "Training" section. Newbies: Watch the Video of the ground training (filmed at an earlier San Marcos/ KHYI Clinic) also in the training section of the website. I know: there is a lot of information there. The important items will be reviewed at the Basic Formation Ground School on Friday morning, but you need to have read the Guide so that the information presented at the briefing will be somewhat familiar to you. For non Mooney pilots, or anyone interested in working on their FAST card ratings, download and read the "Red Star Training Guide" from the website www.flyredstar.org Note: If you have not read a Guide (Mooney or Red Star) prior to coming to the clinic, you may not fly in the clinic. So, sign up by clicking: https://goo.gl/forms/rB8BqN2Y7inrjyA43 Also include your ratings (SEL, IFR, Comm'l, etc), approximate flying hours, Mooney (or other aircraft) Model, home base, and whether you'll be flying with the Caravan into KOSH this year or in the future. I have been going to go to Oshkosh for many years, but was always landing at satellite airfields because I did not enjoy the VFR/ FISK arrival. Having done multiple Formation Flying Clinics in Yuma, AZ, El Paso, TX, Kerrville, TX, and San Marcos, TX, I have now flown with the Mooney Caravan and arrived in style and safety at KOSH for the past four (4) years. Warning: This type of flying is both fun and very addicting: I have flown over 100 formation hours in both 2016 and 2017 as part of multiple elements (2 ships, 3 ships, and 4 ships). Texas has a lot of people participating in this activity and many opportunities abound to fly together. Tailwinds and High Speed; Bucko M20-E

The 5th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI (San Marcos, TX) on Friday, March 23rd, to Sunday, March 25th, 2018. Weather Back up Date (if required): April 6th to 8th, 2018. FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Purpose: Train pilots to safely perform formation flying using classroom briefings and actual aircraft in actual conditions. The clinics provide a professional learning format, with pre and post flight briefings, along with skilled observer pilots helping to conduct the clinic and riding in the training aircraft. The Mooney Caravan organization is dedicated to facilitating a safe and enjoyable formation mass arrival flight into AirVenture Oshkosh each year, as well as developing opportunities (such as these clinics) throughout the year to get together and fly our fantastic airplanes. Our participants share a strong sense of camaraderie and the friendship’s born via our common interests in aviation and Mooney aircraft, spanning the continent and the entire year between Oshkosh Caravan flights. The enjoyment and enthusiasm which we all experience at AirVenture doesn’t wear off; we keep it going throughout the year! Why you should do it (Check all that may apply): 1. Because IT WILL BE A LOT OF FUN !!! 2. To learn new skills and make yourself a better pilot. 3. To be able to fly into Oshkosh in an organized group (with the Mooney Caravan), and with more safely than using the FISK arrival. (Note: this is totally optional. A lot of you may not even be going to KOSH this year, but this will hopefully plant the seed and you can join us in the future.) 4. Red Star is a signatory to FAST, where you can earn your Wingman and Lead Cards. We are tentatively planning to have a FAST Check Pilot available, for qualified candidates. Sign Up Deadline: Friday, March 9, 2018, which is two (2) weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 110.00. Sign up at: https://goo.gl/forms/rB8BqN2Y7inrjyA43 Bring cash or check to the clinic when you get there. Hotel: Holiday Inn San Marcos at 105 Bintu Drive; San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 805-1000 Contact person: Darla Wallace Group Name: Redbird Skyport Single: $ 119/ night Double: $ 129/ night Currently, reservations are due by February 26, 2018, but we are trying to extend that deadline to match the Sign Up Deadline (above). Transportation: You fly there and we will get you back and forth on the ground. Anyone getting a rental or having a personal car available would be appreciated and pressed into service. Schedule: Clinic starts at 0800 on Friday, March 23, 2018. Meals: Lunches at the FBO will be provided as a part of the base Registration Fee. Dinners on Friday and Saturday will be catered events at the FBO and tickets will be available for purchase. One night will be BBQ and the other will be Mexican/ TexMex. Homework: Download and read the "Mooney Caravan Formation Guide" prior to attending the clinic. It can be downloaded from the mooneycaravan.com website from a link in the "Training" section. Newbies: Watch the Video of the ground training (filmed at an earlier San Marcos/ KHYI Clinic) also in the training section of the website. I know: there is a lot of information there. The important items will be reviewed at the Basic Formation Ground School on Friday morning, but you need to have read the Guide so that the information presented at the briefing will be somewhat familiar to you. For non Mooney pilots, or anyone interested in working on their FAST card ratings, download and read the "Red Star Training Guide" from the website www.flyredstar.org Note: If you have not read a Guide (Mooney or Red Star) prior to coming to the clinic, you may not fly in the clinic. So, sign up by clicking: https://goo.gl/forms/rB8BqN2Y7inrjyA43 Also include your ratings (SEL, IFR, Comm'l, etc), approximate flying hours, Mooney (or other aircraft) Model, home base, and whether you'll be flying with the Caravan into KOSH this year or in the future. I have been going to go to Oshkosh for many years, but was always landing at satellite airfields because I did not enjoy the VFR/ FISK arrival. Having done multiple Formation Flying Clinics in Yuma, AZ, El Paso, TX, Kerrville, TX, and San Marcos, TX, I have now flown with the Mooney Caravan and arrived in style and safety at KOSH for the past four (4) years. Warning: This type of flying is both fun and very addicting: I have flown over 100 formation hours in both 2016 and 2017 as part of multiple elements (2 ships, 3 ships, and 4 ships). Texas has a lot of people participating in this activity and many opportunities abound to fly together. Tailwinds and High Speed; Bucko M20-E

What are people typically paying for a basic annual (Mechanic time)? I have a 1965 "E" Model, and am trying to get a handle on it. I've had one shop tell me 24 hours of mechanic time for a regular annual, one said 20 to 24 hours, and the 3rd tell me 40 hours. Obviously, if they find something, then that raises the time and cost. I get that. But how much time really needed for just a good annual inspection, swing the gear, check torques and tolerances, lubricate everything that needs attention, and change oil and filters. I've had 3 different shops in the past 3 years. All did OK to good work, but big cost differences. Shop A: Good and usually fast, but changed 3 years ago because they were not fast that time. Actually had annual take 3 weeks longer than it should have taken because they messed up muffler rework order. So plane sat around for that time when everything else was done. Very frustrating. (Price: $) Shop B: Long turn around time, and several things needed to be redone. (Oil leak on the way home.) (Price $$) Shop C: Most $$$, but most work. Time not quick, but work relatively good. Still had several things that needed to be redone, but they handled it. (Most expensive, by far.) To be clear: I am willing to pay whatever I need to for a good job, but I'm tired of having more problems after an annual than I did before I took it in. Read "Mechanics Manifesto" and agree with much that author says. Thanks, Bucko

What are people typically paying for a basic annual (Mechanic time)? I have a 1965 "E" Model, and am trying to get a handle on it. I've had one shop tell me 24 hours of mechanic time for a regular annual, one said 20 to 24 hours, and the 3rd tell me 40 hours. Obviously, if they find something, then that raises the time and cost. I get that. But how much time really needed for just a good annual inspection, swing the gear, check torques and tolerances, lubricate everything that needs attention, and change oil and filters. I've had 3 different shops in the past 3 years. All did OK to good work, but big cost differences. Shop A: Good and usually fast, but changed 3 years ago because they were not fast that time. Actually had annual take 3 weeks longer than it should have taken because they messed up muffler rework order. So plane sat around for that time when everything else was done. Very frustrating. (Price: $) Shop B: Long turn around time, and several things needed to be redone. (Oil leak on the way home.) (Price $$) Shop C: Most $$$, but most work. Time not quick, but work relatively good. Still had several things that needed to be redone, but they handled it. (Most expensive, by far.) To be clear: I am willing to pay whatever I need to for a good job, but I'm tired of having more problems after an annual than I did before I took it in. Read "Mechanics Manifesto" and agree with much that author says. Thanks, Bucko

More Information: Hotel: Holiday Inn- A block of up to 10 Rooms is being held under name of Texas Formation Clinic. Room rate is $ 129/ night. They have a Bar and Restaurant. Breakfast coupon provided. 105 Bintu Drive San Marcos, TX (512) 805-1000 Remember: Registration Deadline is Friday, March 17th, 2017 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 Cell: (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com

More Information: Hotel: Holiday Inn- A block of up to 10 Rooms is being held under name of Texas Formation Clinic. Room rate is $ 129/ night. They have a Bar and Restaurant. Breakfast coupon provided. 105 Bintu Drive San Marcos, TX (512) 805-1000 Remember: Registration Deadline is Friday, March 17th, 2017 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 Cell: (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com

Here is the schedule for the upcoming Mooney Formation Flying Clinic at KHYI running from March 31 to April 2, 2017. Contact me if you have any questions. Bucko Strehlow M20-E (210) 887-0144 KHYI (2017) SCHEDULE OF TRAINING copy.pages

Here is the schedule for the upcoming Mooney Formation Flying Clinic at KHYI running from March 31 to April 2, 2017. Contact me if you have any questions. Bucko Strehlow M20-E (210) 887-0144 KHYI (2017) SCHEDULE OF TRAINING copy.pages

The 4th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI on March 31 to April 2, 2017. FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Purpose: Train pilots to safely perform formation flying using classroom briefings and actual aircraft in actual conditions. The clinics provide a professional learning format, with pre and post flight briefings, along with skilled observer pilots helping to conduct the clinic and riding in the training aircraft. The Mooney Caravan organization is dedicated to facilitating a safe and enjoyable formation mass arrival flight into AirVenture Oshkosh each year, as well as developing opportunities (such as these clinics) throughout the year to get together and fly our fantastic airplanes. Our participants share a strong sense of camaraderie and the friendship’s born via our common interests in aviation and Mooney aircraft, spanning the continent and the entire year between Oshkosh Caravan flights. The enjoyment and enthusiasm which we all experience at AirVenture doesn’t wear off; we keep it going throughout the year! Why you should do it (Check all that may apply): 1. Because IT WILL BE A LOT OF FUN !!! 2. To learn new skills and make yourself a better pilot. 3. To be able to fly into Oshkosh in an organized group (with the Mooney Caravan), and with more safely than using the FISK arrival. (Note: this is totally optional. A lot of you may not even be going to KOSH this year, but this will hopefully plant the seed and you can join us in the future.) 4. See #1 above- IT IS A LOT OF FUN DOING THIS TYPE OF FLYING. Sign Up Deadline: Friday, March 17, 2017, which is two (2) weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 100. This is due at Sign Up. This covers dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. It will also be used to buy beer and sodas for the dinners. Hotel: Still deciding. (Negotiations on room rates are presently ongoing.) You will pay for your own hotel room, and are free to either stay with the group or to make your own arrangements. A list of participants will be provided about a week before each clinic so that you may make arrangements to share rooms, if you wish. Transportation: You fly there and we will get you back and forth on the ground. Anyone getting a rental or having a personal car available would be appreciated and pressed into service. Homework: Download and read the "Mooney Caravan Formation Guide" prior to attending the clinic. It can be downloaded from the mooneycaravan.com website from a link in the "Training" section. Newbies: Watch the Video of the ground training (filmed at an earlier San Marcos/ KHYI Clinic) also in the training section of the website. I know: there is a lot of information there. The important items will be reviewed at the Basic Formation Ground School on Friday morning, but you need to have read the Guide so that the information presented at the briefing will be somewhat familiar to you. Note: If you have not read the Guide prior to coming to the clinic, you may not fly in the clinic. So, sign up if you are coming by sending your $ 100 to me at the above contact address, along with your email and phone information. Also include your ratings (SEL, IFR, Comm'l, etc), approximate flying hours, Mooney Model, home base, and whether you'll be flying with the Caravan into KOSH this year or in the future. If you are like me, I originally was going to go to Oshkosh years ago but was planning on landing at a satellite airfield because I did not enjoy the VFR/ FISK arrival. Having done multiple Formation Flying Clinics in Yuma, AZ, El Paso, TX, Kerrville, TX, and San Marcos, TX, I have now flown with the Mooney Caravan and arrived in style and safety for the past three (3) years. Warning: This type of flying is very addicting: I have flown over 100 formation hours in 2016 alone, and almost 30 hours so far this year (2017) as part of multiple formation elements (2 ships, 3 ships, and 4 ships). Texas has a lot of people interested in this and a lot of opportunities abound to fly together. Tailwinds and High Speed; Bucko M20-E

The 4th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI on March 31 to April 2, 2017. FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Purpose: Train pilots to safely perform formation flying using classroom briefings and actual aircraft in actual conditions. The clinics provide a professional learning format, with pre and post flight briefings, along with skilled observer pilots helping to conduct the clinic and riding in the training aircraft. The Mooney Caravan organization is dedicated to facilitating a safe and enjoyable formation mass arrival flight into AirVenture Oshkosh each year, as well as developing opportunities (such as these clinics) throughout the year to get together and fly our fantastic airplanes. Our participants share a strong sense of camaraderie and the friendship’s born via our common interests in aviation and Mooney aircraft, spanning the continent and the entire year between Oshkosh Caravan flights. The enjoyment and enthusiasm which we all experience at AirVenture doesn’t wear off; we keep it going throughout the year! Why you should do it (Check all that may apply): 1. Because IT WILL BE A LOT OF FUN !!! 2. To learn new skills and make yourself a better pilot. 3. To be able to fly into Oshkosh in an organized group (with the Mooney Caravan), and with more safely than using the FISK arrival. (Note: this is totally optional. A lot of you may not even be going to KOSH this year, but this will hopefully plant the seed and you can join us in the future.) 4. See #1 above- IT IS A LOT OF FUN DOING THIS TYPE OF FLYING. Sign Up Deadline: Friday, March 17, 2017, which is two (2) weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 100. This is due at Sign Up. This covers dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. It will also be used to buy beer and sodas for the dinners. Hotel: Still deciding. (Negotiations on room rates are presently ongoing.) You will pay for your own hotel room, and are free to either stay with the group or to make your own arrangements. A list of participants will be provided about a week before each clinic so that you may make arrangements to share rooms, if you wish. Transportation: You fly there and we will get you back and forth on the ground. Anyone getting a rental or having a personal car available would be appreciated and pressed into service. Homework: Download and read the "Mooney Caravan Formation Guide" prior to attending the clinic. It can be downloaded from the mooneycaravan.com website from a link in the "Training" section. Newbies: Watch the Video of the ground training (filmed at an earlier San Marcos/ KHYI Clinic) also in the training section of the website. I know: there is a lot of information there. The important items will be reviewed at the Basic Formation Ground School on Friday morning, but you need to have read the Guide so that the information presented at the briefing will be somewhat familiar to you. Note: If you have not read the Guide prior to coming to the clinic, you may not fly in the clinic. So, sign up if you are coming by sending your $ 100 to me at the above contact address, along with your email and phone information. Also include your ratings (SEL, IFR, Comm'l, etc), approximate flying hours, Mooney Model, home base, and whether you'll be flying with the Caravan into KOSH this year or in the future. If you are like me, I originally was going to go to Oshkosh years ago but was planning on landing at a satellite airfield because I did not enjoy the VFR/ FISK arrival. Having done multiple Formation Flying Clinics in Yuma, AZ, El Paso, TX, Kerrville, TX, and San Marcos, TX, I have now flown with the Mooney Caravan and arrived in style and safety for the past three (3) years. Warning: This type of flying is very addicting: I have flown over 100 formation hours in 2016 alone, and almost 30 hours so far this year (2017) as part of multiple formation elements (2 ships, 3 ships, and 4 ships). Texas has a lot of people interested in this and a lot of opportunities abound to fly together. Tailwinds and High Speed; Bucko M20-E

The 4th Annual Mooney Caravan Formation Flying Clinic is back at KHYI on March 31 to April 2, 2017. FBO: Redbird Skyport at KHYI: (512) 878-6670 Contact: Bucko Strehlow 8 Corby Lane San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 887-0144 bucko.strehlow@gmail.com Purpose: Train pilots to safely perform formation flying using classroom briefings and actual aircraft in actual conditions. The clinics provide a professional learning format, with pre and post flight briefings, along with skilled observer pilots helping to conduct the clinic and riding in the training aircraft. The Mooney Caravan organization is dedicated to facilitating a safe and enjoyable formation mass arrival flight into AirVenture Oshkosh each year, as well as developing opportunities (such as these clinics) throughout the year to get together and fly our fantastic airplanes. Our participants share a strong sense of camaraderie and the friendship’s born via our common interests in aviation and Mooney aircraft, spanning the continent and the entire year between Oshkosh Caravan flights. The enjoyment and enthusiasm which we all experience at AirVenture doesn’t wear off; we keep it going throughout the year! Why you should do it (Check all that may apply): 1. Because IT WILL BE A LOT OF FUN !!! 2. To learn new skills and make yourself a better pilot. 3. To be able to fly into Oshkosh in an organized group (with the Mooney Caravan), and with more safely than using the FISK arrival. (Note: this is totally optional. A lot of you may not even be going to KOSH this year, but this will hopefully plant the seed and you can join us in the future.) 4. See #1 above- IT IS A LOT OF FUN DOING THIS TYPE OF FLYING. Sign Up Deadline: Friday, March 17, 2017, which is two (2) weeks before the actual clinic. This is to allow us to get enough Observer/ Safety Pilots for the course. These pilots may be coming from California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and we need time to organize how many are required. Also, please note that attendance may be limited, so it is best to SIGN UP EARLY. Also, if Safety pilots are limited, some preference may be given to pilots planning to fly in this year's Caravan. Cost: $ 100. This is due at Sign Up. This covers dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. It will also be used to buy beer and sodas for the dinners. Hotel: Still deciding. (Negotiations on room rates are presently ongoing.) You will pay for your own hotel room, and are free to either stay with the group or to make your own arrangements. A list of participants will be provided about a week before each clinic so that you may make arrangements to share rooms, if you wish. Transportation: You fly there and we will get you back and forth on the ground. Anyone getting a rental or having a personal car available would be appreciated and pressed into service. Homework: Download and read the "Mooney Caravan Formation Guide" prior to attending the clinic. It can be downloaded from the mooneycaravan.com website from a link in the "Training" section. Newbies: Watch the Video of the ground training (filmed at an earlier San Marcos/ KHYI Clinic) also in the training section of the website. I know: there is a lot of information there. The important items will be reviewed at the Basic Formation Ground School on Friday morning, but you need to have read the Guide so that the information presented at the briefing will be somewhat familiar to you. Note: If you have not read the Guide prior to coming to the clinic, you may not fly in the clinic. So, sign up if you are coming by sending your $ 100 to me at the above contact address, along with your email and phone information. Also include your ratings (SEL, IFR, Comm'l, etc), approximate flying hours, Mooney Model, home base, and whether you'll be flying with the Caravan into KOSH this year or in the future. If you are like me, I originally was going to go to Oshkosh years ago but was planning on landing at a satellite airfield because I did not enjoy the VFR/ FISK arrival. Having done multiple Formation Flying Clinics in Yuma, AZ, El Paso, TX, Kerrville, TX, and San Marcos, TX, I have now flown with the Mooney Caravan and arrived in style and safety for the past three (3) years. Warning: This type of flying is very addicting: I have flown over 100 formation hours in 2016 alone, and almost 30 hours so far this year (2017) as part of multiple formation elements (2 ships, 3 ships, and 4 ships). Texas has a lot of people interested in this and a lot of opportunities abound to fly together. Tailwinds and High Speed; Bucko M20-E

Chocks made one for me that looks like the picture Drumstick has above. Email me for his contact info.

Can your friends make another? How much? I'd be interested in buying one.