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After finishing the written, I recently started training for the IR in my '68 C. This thread serves to address learning snags along the way, particularly those specific to my model. As an initial step, I adapted the "IFR by the Numbers" table in the MAPA Proficiency Course for the C model to my own format: I've found a good experienced instructor who has taught in the proficiency course before, so Mooney ignorance is not a barrier. However the old J-bar birds may present some distinct challenges, and I want to refine my model-specific knowledge and modify procedures based on the real world experience of people here. Two initial issues to address from my lesson yesterday: (1) Configuring for a precision approach descent as in the MAPA guide (2300, 18", gear/flaps up) leaves me WAY faster than the 120mph on the chart to stay on glideslope - more like 140mph. Then I had to chop power and level off to get to the 120mph gear speed, which still put me irretrievably above glideslope. What approach settings do others use, and how do they slow to gear speed around the FAF (assuming they need to keep speed up prior to that)? (2) Going missed with the J-bar has its own issue - I have to get the speed down to <90mph or the gear retract is going to be physically undoable. What procedures do folks use related to getting the gear up when going missed? So far I've left the gear down when going around vfr to keep things simple, so I don't have any hardwired habits to help me. Also any other tips and/or deviations from the above numbers that people find handy in the J-bar C model or similar birds?

I have read most (if not all) of the discussions on Mooneyspace about crosswind landings, and all have discussed pilot skill vs, aerodynamics. However, I also have been studying the mechanics of the Johnson bar, especially its single point of failure (i.e., the weld of the bar to the linkages). I was wondering if there is a correlation between the published / demonstrated low X-wind capabilities and the large side loads imposed on the J-bar during a perfect X-wind landing. (Side loads will be imposed, at least due to the cocked nose wheel on nose wheel touchdown). I know pilots can land in a 35 kt x-wind, however, it also makes me wonder if those same pilots are experiencing premature J-bar failures. Thanks!

On my 68F model with the J bar, I have the seatbelts with shoulder harnesses. The issue is that when I drop the gear, the J-bar catches the latch and undoes the seatbelt on both the pilot and passenger sides. I have found myself inadvertantly landing with my seatbelt undone in the first couple of flights. I have thought about getting longer webbing on the latch side, however, that would move the shoulder harness away from the center of my torso. Presently, I turn the buckle into my body after I fasten belt, but it is not the best solution. Ideas? Art