Looking for an M20F

[papajuice77]

Gents,

 

Brand new registration, but been a reader for a while. I've been in the market for a good M20F for about 4 months now and I'm still searching. I figured I would give the pro's here a shout. I've been told that the best airplanes for sale usually aren't advertised. With that in mind, I humbly submit my interest.

 

Ideally, I'm looking for a plane that is already equipped with a panel GPS, 430 preferred, but willing to accept a more basic type, so long as the unit is still supported. I would like a modernized panel if able, with a basic T setup as opposed to the smattering of gauges on the pre-69 models. Again, not a game-stopper, but definitely something I'd like to have. My intent is to use the Mooney as it was designed - for x-country hauling and light IFR. Safety, speed, range and efficiency is what I admire most, and what I'm going for... with that said, price is still important!

 

I'm located up in South Dakota, but I'm willing to work out travel if it's worthwhile. Anywho, thanks for the help! I'm sure I'll be bouncing ideas off of you gents quite often in the coming weeks...and hopefully over the next few years!

 

 

[Hank]

I have a hangar neighbor selling a 75 F with 530, engine monitor, speed brakes and a much nicer autopilot than I have. I'll try to get a spec sheet from him. He's changing from M20-F to F-33. Green and white traditional Vintage Mooney paint, recent, bright colors, gold stripes. I flew it several times last fall, had to relearn speed management in the descent and full flaps on final.

SD is a haul from here, but I was on vacation and sightseeing so I can't really comment on direct flight time. We are at the southern-most point in Ohio, on the Ohio River, where Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky all meet (bottom edge, north side, Cincinnati sectional).

Find George Perry's post on buying a Vintage Mooney, it's loaded with good information. Happy shopping!

[carusoam]

Welcome aboard PJ!

I think you'll find the J vs F topic interesting.

I know I do!

Best regards,

-a-

[gwcolwell]

N862HL, new engine overhaul by Aerotec, new Top Prop, GAMI's, new power flow exhaust, Garmin 430 WASS.  What's your monetary pain threshold?

[N201MKTurbo]

My old plane N6319Q is not listed for sale but the owner would probably sell it. It was a great plane. I owned it for 19 years.

[papajuice77]

Gents,

 

Thanks for the quick responses so far!

 

Hank - sounds like it would be worth taking a look. My wife and I are from SW PA and most of our family still lives near Pittsburgh, so Cinci area wouldn't be out of the question for a long trip. I would definitely be interested if you have some info.

 

carusoam - I've been comparing F's to J's alot. My impression is that I can get 90% of what a J will do with an F, but at a much lower price. I would also like to snag one with manual gear, although I don't really have a preference on electric vs. manual flaps.

 

gwcolwell - to be honest, I'd like to spend about $500 hahaha. But in reality I'd really like to keep it under $50k (after a bit of negotiating of course). I have seen some really beautiful airplanes out there, but I just can't justify $70K. I'll have to post a few of the birds I've looked at and see if anyone on here owns or has some experience with them.

 

Thanks again fellas!

[rbridges]

I think you should be able to find an F with 6 pack panel and 430 for 50K.  Nicer ones will probably be in the 60s.  Get what you can afford (201 windshield, avionics, autopilot etc) b/c that stuff will be much much much more expensive to install later.