Well after about 4 months we are done... My M20C had its heart transplant and I am now running an IO-360-A1B instead of a carburated O-360... which translates into a 20Hp more horsepower. The engine swap was more complicated than expected. Mainly because I had to procure many of the parts that were needed.
I had to get a new electrical fuel pump, a new exhaust...
But lets start:
After getting the engine and reading the STC I realized that I needed a new cowling and engine mount, in addition to a new electrical fuel pump and throttle, mixture and prop cable. Not a problem. Ebay, McFarlane and Aircraft spruce got me everything. The work started and first hurdle: the side panel I had from my M20C did not fit with the new cowling... my AP worked around it and fixed it and made them fit.
Then little issues came up that became huge problems, such as the cables don´t fit exacly as expected and we need to find a way to make them fit... Did I tell you that my AP is great?
Next hurdle: Baffles... where can I get a new (used) set of baffles... The old dog house did not work... So I had to go out there and find used baffles. I was lucky and found a full set in ARGENTINA.... I was able to get them and had them shipped.
Then, the STC states that you have to move the battery box to the back of the plane. Easier said than done. After looking at the cables my AP said that it would be better to change all the cables... So I ended up purchasing an insane amount of cables, connectors etc. But now I have a brand new electrical system (plus new alternator and regulator...).
The only thing that is still not 100% is the RAM air door. The STC states that you can use the carb heat cable, but I am not convinced. So I decided to order from McFarlene the RAM air cable.
I installed a set of GAMI injectors, new ignition coils too.
In parallel I also changed my autopilot to a Garmin 507 and swapped my ASPENs for a G5 and ad G3X touch.
Finally after learning how to start a flooded fuel injection engine, I flew the airplane this weekend. It is great!
Did it make sense? in hindsite: No. The costs I incurred were absurd. It would have made much more sense to sell my M20C and buy a M20E. But then... you get attached to your machine... so would I do it again? after flying the plane... most likely: yes...
Oscar