M20R Ovation Publisher: Alabeo

Review Author: Bruno Esperanca Suggested Price: $32.95

History

The Mooney M20 is a family of piston-powered, propeller-driven, general aviation aircraft produced by the Mooney International Corporation. It was introduced in 1955, and since then almost twenty different variations have been produced, all of them featuring low wings and tricycle gear. In total, more than 11,000 aircraft of this family have been manufactured.

   

The Mooney M20 family gained attention due to its top speeds of roughly 170 miles per hour, housing a 150 hp (110 kW) Lycoming O-320 engine. Popularity of the Mooneys rose due to the good combination of speed and efficiency. Later in 1958, Mooney introduced the M20A, and the company finally made a profit. This model was, however, the last model to feature a wooden tail, as several incident were reported with broken tails, due to water damage and the resulting rot.

Finally, in 1994, Mooney introduced the M20R Ovation. This model houses a 6 cylinder, naturally aspirated Continental IO-550-G 280 hp (210 kW) powerhouse, with a maximum takeoff weight of 3368 lb (1528 kg). 266 units were manufactured, between 1994 and 2001.

   

Aircraft Specifications

General M20 Family Dimensions

• Length 26 ft 8 in (8.13 m)
• Wingspan 36 ft 6 in (11.125 m)
• Height 8 ft 4 in (2.5 m)
• Wingspan 36 ft 6 in (11.125 m)

Engine

• Model Continental IO-550-G
• No. Cylinders 6
• Displacement 552 cu. in.
• Power 280 hp (210 kW)
• Fuel injected
• Constant speed propeller

Weights

• Empty weight varies with equipment - empty weight on one aircraft was listed as 2267 lbs.
• Maximum take-off/landing weight 3368/3200 lbs (1528/1451 kg)
• Maximum baggage weight 120 lbs (54 kg) Baggage Area, 340 lbs (154 kg) cargo area with rear seats folded down

   

Fuel And Oil

• Fuel capacity 108 US gallons
• Avg. fuel burn at 75% power in standard conditions per hour 14.3-16 US gallons
• Oil capacity 8 US quarts

Performance

• VNE (never exceed speed) 196 KCAS
• VNO (max. cruising speed) 175 KCAS
• VSO (stall speed) 59 KIAS (landing configuration)
• VS1 (stall speed) 66.5 KIAS (clean configuration)
• Climb best rate 1240 fpm
• Wing loading 19.26 lbs/sq.ft.
• Power loading 12.03 lbs/hp
• Service ceiling 20,000 ft