I'm looking for a 180 and wanted to get everyone's input on what is the best model 180? I plan on using it back country on tundra tires and eventually floats/skis. we have a cabin off the grid and I would like to be able to haul the family in and out.

The “Best 180” is the one you can find, for a price you can afford, that’s actually in good condition. There’s a lot of junk out there, rode hard and put away wet.......but there are some jewels as well.

You’ll hear about early vs late models, but both have significant benefits. I’m partial to H models, at least partially because I owned one. But to me the G and H models have the best combination of features.

Good luck, and be patient.

MTV

The right C180 will somewhat depend on your mission and if you prefer flying a lighter or heavier airplane. I have 1958 A model and love it. It flies much lighter on the controls and in my opinion is more enjoyable than a later model C180/185. If you plan on taking large loads long distances you should steer in the direction of a later model 180 or consider a 185. I have an O520 engine and the combination of the light airframe and sportsman STOL kit make it a great cross country airplane and as well as short field performer. I am limited to 55 gallons of fuel usable and my full fuel payload is around 600 lbs. This is usually good for me, another person, my dog, and some camping gear. I don't have children so it works out perfect for me. I flew a lot of different models of C180/185s before making my purchase. I would do the same if you can. The other factor is budget. There are a lot of old workhorses on the market that may seem like good values but they will cost more in the long run. The older models are a little cheaper but have the disadvantage of useful load working against them. You can make modifications such as adding wing X extensions but it changes the way the airplane flies and makes using a standard T hangar very difficult. A great place to look for 180/185s for sale is on the skywagons.org site - in the forums.


Josh

I agree with both of the above comments. I’ve owned a ‘54 180 which was great, and now a 185. My favourite 180 is an H model. Yes they are a little heavier than the older models, but for good reason. There are a number of airframe reinforcement parts on the float kit equipped models that is worth the weight penalty regardless of the mission, that we’re not available on earlier models. As stated above, the older ones do fly a little nicer but both are good. Regardless which one you choose, you’ll love it.

All very good suggestions.

I owned a 58 180 for 10 years and loved it. Sold it some 25 years ago and after retirement wanted a 180 again. Spent a bout a year flying all over the country looking. Was approached by a local with a 73 185 with a low time FREM engine. Did not need the carrying capability but it has a lot of extras and the price was more than fair so I bought it.
During the Spring-Fall seasons I fly from Cape Cod to Greenville Me. about 240nm several times a month for fly fishing.
What I found is that my FF is just about the same as a 180 at 7500, running 23/2400 because I can run LOP. My TAS is 160mph at 13.2 gph.
Yes, there are other factors such as I am not at gross weight but I have the load capacity and range of a 185 and FF of a 180 if I choose.
Just a thought as it seems 185's are priced not much different to 180's these days.

I like an H, but like everyone I’m biased. The early ones don’t have enough useful load for me and the later ones aren’t as fun to fly. I’d be between the D and H models.

The years with Dzus fasteners on the engine cowl. I’m sure they’re out there but I’ve never seen one of the old ones that wasn’t a patched up kinda mess you’ll spend an hour putting back on with an assortment of screws.

I think you should get a 180J or K and leave the other ones for me.

asa wrote:I think you should get a 180J or K and leave the other ones for me.

You had a great 180A Asa...

My favorite is the 180B, simply because that's what I own.