1980 Mooney M20J “Missile”

The M20J, first introduced in July 1976 as the 1977 Model 201, included a variety of airframe enhancements engineered by Roy LoPresti that increased the top speed by 16 mph over the M20F model.  The M20J, branded the 201, since it achieved 201 mph on only a 200 hp engine, was a significant milestone in Mooney’s history.  Mooney continued improving the features and creature comforts in the “J” model until production ceased at the end of the 1998 production year.

Since Mooney pilots love to go fast, Rocket Engineering obtained the STCs to upgrade the M20J airframe with the 300 HP Continental IO-550-A.  This included a modified 231 cowl,  a 75-inch Hartzell full-feathering three-bladed Scimitar prop, dual batteries relocated to the tail cone, streamlined wingtips,  and a supplemental gross weight increase from 2,740 pounds to 3,200 pounds.  While the typical M20J and M20R have an engine-out glide rate of about 2 miles/1,000 of altitude, the full-feathering prop on the Missile increases that to about 3 miles/1,000 of altitude.  All in all, the conversion produces performance much like an Ovation but with a greater glide range and at a fraction of the cost.

This ’80 “J”, was upgraded with the “Missile” conversion in 1995.  Recently, the airplane experienced a gear-up landing.  Air-Mods and Repair, Inc., a certified Mooney Repair Center, completed the repairs which included a remanufactured engine from Continental (which was the first reman on that engine), three new Hartzell blades and a reconditioned hub from East Coast Propellers, and belly repairs (minimal) back to original.  Aside from the repairs, the airplane also received a $3,000 paint refresh by KD Aviation Reese Aircraft, and a current annual.  It looks and flies great and is ready to for its next cross-country flight!