Electronic cowl flap modification for M20K

[Vero231]

If this has been addressed elsewhere, I apologize in advance.  I have an 1980 M20K and the cowl flaps won’t stay closed in cruise flight despite 2 different A&P’s working their magic without durable success.  I know later models have electronic cowl flaps and wondered if others have experienced this same malady and/or converted to the electronic version for their 231?  Thank you in advance.

[LANCECASPER]

6 minutes ago, Vero231 said:

If this has been addressed elsewhere, I apologize in advance.  I have an 1980 M20K and the cowl flaps won’t stay closed in cruise flight despite 2 different A&P’s working their magic without durable success.  I know later models have electronic cowl flaps and wondered if others have experienced this same malady and/or converted to the electronic version for their 231?  Thank you in advance.

For sure it's possible since at least one of the -MB conversions for the 231 (261 and/or 262) had them. The infinite settings are nice on the electric cowl flaps, but they aren't without their own problems. The cowl flap motors seem to have about a 10-15 year life.  

[N201MKTurbo]

I think you have the same cowl flap arrangement I have. Ever since I rebuilt my engine my cowl flaps wouldn't stay opened or closed. It was very frustrating. I think it was because I cleaned them up so well and replaced all the hardware. A couple of weeks ago, I replaced the clevis pins at the joints with screws, washers and lock nuts. This allowed me to tighten up the joints so they don't have any lateral slop and add a bit of friction. They work well now and stay opened and closed.