This is why my cowl flaps are hard to operate...

[Ross Taylor]

I sort of expected I'd find this, after reading some other threads...and I found we've got firewall rubbing (clearly, based on the indentations!) on ours.  And that excess push/pull wire tore through the SCAT tubing, too.  I am waiting for the annual, so these will get added to the squawk list.  Pics for clarification and suggestions.

 

[carusoam]

Great detailed pics, Ross!

The flap control mechanism on my M20C had slid up and down the engine mount...

There is only a clamp or two... holding it on with friction.

Yours doesn’t show any signs of the sliding that I am describing... but, you may look to see if it is no longer clamped in the right place...

PP thoughts only, not a mechanic...

Best regards,

-a-

[jamesm]

That looks backwards to me.

What year and model?

James '67C

 

 

[RLCarter]

To me it looks like it was hitting at one time, looking at the pic I don't see anything shiny which is and indication its still rubbing. Have you opened / closed the flaps to see if it still rubs? You can slide the cowl flap arm assembly up the engine mount, mine had slid down one one side which allowed the rod end to hit the firewall. 

 

[Shadrach]

Common issue with the vintage birds.  I bet most of the fleet have groves like that in the firewall...mine certainly does.  They will stay in place once properly tightened.  My cowl flaps operate smoothly now. When I first started flying the plane it was a two handed operation. Easily rectified.

[Ross Taylor]

It's a '66 E and these have been stiff since I bought the plane, about a year ago.  Being a new-to-me aircraft, without any prior time in a different Mooney, I didn't know what "normal" should feel like.  This should be an easy fix and I look forward to the smooth operation to come!  Thanks all - I agree that it looks like an easy fix, involving moving those clamp locations up.

On a good note, my A&P just called and he is pulling my E out of the hangar now.  Annual is starting!