Wet Wing Longevity

[Marc_B]

1 minute ago, MikeOH said:

Honestly, I think having the plane hangared is much more critical as I believe the temperature cycling and direct sun exposure to be far more damaging to the sealant, especially on the top of the wings.

agreed 100%.  same with bladders or fuel cells I'm sure as well!

[Pinecone]

18 hours ago, Marc_B said:

I suspect it's a solution looking for a problem.  Tons of Mooneys have been firmly planted on the ground compressing the shock discs that last 12-15 years.  Long bodies shock discs don't last as long due to heavier engine and higher empty weight on the discs.

None of the Mooneys need this.  But perhaps it eeks out a few years on shock discs for long bodies with full fuel tanks?

My hangar neighbor had their M20J covered in a series of Goodwill sheets tip to tail, wing to wing, and this kept their aircraft paint less covered in dust, less need to clean and scratch with dirt, and their original paint looked pretty factory fresh after 30 years.  Sometimes it seems that an ounce of prevention keeps the "pounds" of time at bay! But @Vance Harral I'm with you, I can't imagine leaving my Mooney up on jacks routinely.

I agree.

So, I have to change the shock discs a few years earlier.  Less of a hassle than jacking and lowering the plane every time.

[Marc_B]

48 years on original sealant and finally some leaks prompting maintenance.  Outstanding!  Hope you took the poll above so your Mooney could be counted @Doug G!