Want to add Hat Rack

[Raptor05121]

So for reasons unbeknownst to me, my '63 D model does not have a hat rack. But it seems the -C models do? I was thinking maybe it was removed, but I cannot find any W&B or loading notations in any documents acknowledging its existence in my plane.

What would it take to install one, a 337? I would love to make the cabin that much more roomier, instead of looking back there and seeing a flat wall.

[kortopates]

First thing I would do is consult the IPC to see how the rear was configured from the factory in '63. If it did have a hat rack, now you know what parts you may need; especially plastic parts and you know you won't need any approval beyond A&P supervision and signoff to install. But if not you can look at the IPC for the C model too see what it would take to modify accordingly and again work with your A&P but he'll likely feel comfortable doing it as a minor mod especially if its done to Mooney's spec.

[Raptor05121]

Dumb question: what is IPC

[PTK]

1 hour ago, Raptor05121 said:

Dumb question: what is IPC

Illustrated Parts Catalogue 

[Bob_Belville]

4 hours ago, kortopates said:

First thing I would do is consult the IPC to see how the rear was configured from the factory in '63. If it did have a hat rack, now you know what parts you may need; especially plastic parts and you know you won't need any approval beyond A&P supervision and signoff to install. But if not you can look at the IPC for the C model too see what it would take to modify accordingly and again work with your A&P but he'll likely feel comfortable doing it as a minor mod especially if its done to Mooney's spec.

Paul, it looks like you need an Eastern Asia map to your signature!

[mooniac15u]

My 1963 M20D also did not have a hat rack. 

[Andy95W]

The hat rack was not available until 1963 on any model, they probably started with the the C until the parts ran out for the flat wall, then offered the D (just my guess).

Adding the hat rack using factory parts is definitely worth doing for the extra space, and a minor alteration so just a logbook entry that documents part numbers installed and manuals used.  Calling a junk yard (maybe like Wentworth) would save a bunch of money.

[gsxrpilot]

I think there's a C at AirSalvage of Dallas.

[Hank]

You'll love the hatrack. I actually keep spare hats there, along with extra headsets, tie down ropes, travel chocks, fuel stick & sample cup, first aid kit, blanket for my wife (she gets cold at 9000 msl), etc. just last week I added a pool noodle with my luggage, stuck one end in the hatrack, the other end was still in the back seat. I don't recall if it's limited to 10 lb or 20 lb, but it's a great place for putting all the little stuff you need in the plane. Some folks keep spare keys there . . . for their mechanic to use when at home (kind of useless if you lock yourself out traveling, the spare keys are still inside).

[gsxrpilot]

6 hours ago, Hank said:

You'll love the hatrack. I actually keep spare hats there, along with extra headsets, tie down ropes, travel chocks, fuel stick & sample cup, first aid kit, blanket for my wife (she gets cold at 9000 msl), etc. just last week I added a pool noodle with my luggage, stuck one end in the hatrack, the other end was still in the back seat. I don't recall if it's limited to 10 lb or 20 lb, but it's a great place for putting all the little stuff you need in the plane. Some folks keep spare keys there . . . for their mechanic to use when at home (kind of useless if you lock yourself out traveling, the spare keys are still inside).

It's only rated for 10 lbs, but I agree with Hank.

[StinkBug]

I lust for a hat rack. Apparently it was an option, and one my 68C did not get.

[Raptor05121]

I'll give LASAR a call in the morning. A logbook entry sounds happy to me.

[Hector]

My 67C came with it. It's where I keep the airplane cover and emergency tool bag.

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[Bennett]

A thought: My 261 conversion came with a hat shelf, as did all the 201, 231, 252 series. I had LASAR build a door, hinged at its lower edge, latch at the top, to enclose that area. Worked great, and kept the interior looking neat. I kept a couple of hats on the shelf, along with the CD player and extra 6 CD cartridges. As I recall, I had the door painted to match the rest of the interior plastic. I wish I had a photo. When I had the interior done on my J, I probably should have added a door at that time, but I forgot about that option.

[Marauder]

A thought: My 261 conversion came with a hat shelf, as did all the 201, 231, 252 series. I had LASAR build a door, hinged at its lower edge, latch at the top, to enclose that area. Worked great, and kept the interior looking neat. I kept a couple of hats on the shelf, along with the CD player and extra 6 CD cartridges. As I recall, I had the door painted to match the rest of the interior plastic. I wish I had a photo. When I had the interior done on my J, I probably should have added a door at that time, but I forgot about that option.

Now you got to post a picture!

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[StinkBug]

So has anyone actually added a hatrack to a plane that did not have one originally? Mine has a full aluminum bulkhead there under the plastic, and it appears that quite a bit of cutting would be involved in the install. If someone has done it I'd love to see how it was done.

[gsxrpilot]

4 minutes ago, StinkBug said:

So has anyone actually added a hatrack to a plane that did not have one originally? Mine has a full aluminum bulkhead there under the plastic, and it appears that quite a bit of cutting would be involved in the install. If someone has done it I'd love to see how it was done.

Cutting metal and fabrication... isn't that exactly how you make your living?

[Raptor05121]

15 minutes ago, StinkBug said:

So has anyone actually added a hatrack to a plane that did not have one originally? Mine has a full aluminum bulkhead there under the plastic, and it appears that quite a bit of cutting would be involved in the install. If someone has done it I'd love to see how it was done.

I'm pretty sure mine is just held on by screws. I believe my entire empennage is opened up right now.

[StinkBug]

4 hours ago, gsxrpilot said:

Cutting metal and fabrication... isn't that exactly how you make your living?

On this you are correct. I know I could do a bang up job of the install, but I question what my IA would think of it. If it were one of my other vehicles I would have had a plasma cutter, grinder, and a TIG welder all over it by now. 

Edited August 7, 2016 by StinkBug

[StinkBug]

4 hours ago, Raptor05121 said:

I'm pretty sure mine is just held on by screws. I believe my entire empennage is opened up right now.

When you say "mine" are you talking about the hat rack, the bulkhead, the whole empennage?

 

[Raptor05121]

the rear bulkhead where the hat rack is supposed to go. I havent seen my plane in 2 months so don't quote me

[mpg]

1 hour ago, Raptor05121 said:

the rear bulkhead where the hat rack is supposed to go. I havent seen my plane in 2 months so don't quote me

Seriously???

Since Before you went to Alaska for vacation?

[Raptor05121]

uhhhh..yeah

[Raptor05121]

Bump to  the top. Anyone ever remove a hat rack? I'm wondering if all I need it the plastic bits.

[Raptor05121]

Yeah it might come to that. I'm curious how the aluminum structure is mounted to the aircraft. I need to open my empennage up and see whats what