1959 Mooney M20A questions

[airbusflyboy]

Found a Mooney M20A that appears to be in very nice condition however the paperwork is sketchy not sure if logbooks are available, looks like the Tachometer has been changed out but not sure if the engine and prop is at TBO , they are claiming under 2000 hours TTAF. Wood wing, metal tail ............... Can the wood wing be replaced for a Metal Wing ? Obvious issues if a wood wing but what else do I need to know, give me your opinions GOOD or BAD !!!

[Shadrach]

5 minutes ago, airbusflyboy said:

Found a Mooney M20A that appears to be in very nice condition however the paperwork is sketchy not sure if logbooks are available, looks like the Tachometer has been changed out but not sure if the engine and prop is at TBO , they are claiming under 2000 hours TTAF. Wood wing, metal tail ............... Can the wood wing be replaced for a Metal Wing ? Obvious issues if a wood wing but what else do I need to know, give me your opinions GOOD or BAD !!!

Wood wing is not necessarily an issue. You need to find a mechanic that can inspect it thoroughly to verify its condition.  Understand that you we are talking about a 65-year-old airframe that is best inspected and serviced by someone that knows and understands the type. Those individuals are getting harder and harder to come by. I would imagine the Don Maxwell has more expertise in this area than just about anyone in the country.

[Greg Ellis]

Less than 2000 hours TTAF for a 1959?  That is less than 30 hours per year.  So you may be looking at an airplane that has sat for many years.  If I really wanted an A model and found a nice one I would definitely keep the wood wing.  It is fabric covered with no rivets and very slick.  A friend's A model with the same engine as my C model could outrun me all day long so I would not change it out or you might as well buy a C Model that is a little newer and in good shape.  It would be less money than changing out the wing on an A model, even if it could be done.

A few years ago, I heard that Don Maxwell was no longer going to touch wood wings.  Not sure about that.  But there is a guy in Houston that has worked on many A models, and Mites and even rebuilt a number of Mites including the Naked Mite that is on display at the Lone Star Flight Museum.

[airbusflyboy]

Appreciate the good feedback on this ............. Will let y'all know what happens ............. Thanks, Mark