Dimensionally, are the two struts interchangeable? Odd question, I know, but I figured if anyone would know, it would be this group.

I realize the cost of paperwork and hassle, but I've always been curious if the struts could be changed out? I'm sure the 180 struts are heavier duty than the C170 units, but I like the flush rivets and the retracting tie down ring. Stronger is an added bonus.

I've no idea whether it's the same extruded section used on both aircraft, I suspect not.

If the strut is too long or slightly too wide, there is no mechanical reason why is can't be cut shorter or squashed a little at the ends. The Bearhawk uses a Cessna 182 strut which is shortened and squashed (carefully).

All that end fitting stuff (e.g. tie down rings) is assembled separately, the basic strut section itself is just an extrusion.

Unless you've got a strut-less 170 project, and a spare set of 180 struts laying around, there's lots of other things on the 170 that I'd modify before worrying about the struts.

BTW those folding tiedowns on the 180 are great....until the return spring breaks. They're not that hard to change out but I found out the hard way that there's at least wo if not more different springs. As luck would have it, I ended up with the wrong ones. I decided to just stick with taping them in the up position with some white electrical tape.

Battson wrote:The Bearhawk uses a Cessna 182 strut which is shortened and squashed (carefully).

I dearly wish it had been left the same length to reduce the angle to the fuselage, making the door situation an easier one.