I've read that some early variations of the Cessna 182 had smaller horizontal stabilizers than follow-on C182's.
What specific airplanes had the smaller tails? (C182A, C182B, etc?)
How much smaller were those stabilizers, and how did it affect flight characteristics/performance?

Did other Cessna's also have smaller tail-feathers for some production years? (C172, C206, etc?)
Was this only in tricycle-gear Cessnas? Or did this also occur in some tail-wheel models? (C180, C185, etc?)
If yes, did it affect performance to varying degrees, based upon model or landing gear configuration?

Thanx, Dave.

The 1956 to 1961 Cessna 182 used a trimable horizontal stabilizer, like the 180 and 185. The 1962 and later 182s all had fixed horizontal stabilizers and a trim tab on the elevator. Not sure of the size differences. The 206 is the plane I always hear about with a smaller horizontal stab on the early models.

1961 D Model, last year with the trimmable horizontal and also the 185 fastback fuselage with extra windows. This model year sits lower than all the rest, so not great for prop clearance off airport but wonderful for ground handling.

We bought this ultra low time 182 for pennies on the dollar for what the same year 180 would have cost. It’s a fantastic aircraft.

I'd have to measure, but I dont think the old stabs are much smaller on the 182s, they are just different as stated about. But the early 206s have about 11" less span on the horizontal stab I believe.

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My Cessna Pilot Association 182 buyers guide references 1965 for a 10” increase in horizontal stab & elevator span, increasing length to 11ft. 8”.

1963 172 and later had longer span horizontal and of course more surface area, noticeable improvement in pitch authority. Some have installed these stabs on early 172-175 tailwheel conversions for improved 3 point landings (huge improvement) as most have forward CGs requiring ballast in tail. I'm sure these installations were with a field approval.

Thanx Guys’s!

Anyone know what year or variation of the C206 got the wider tail?

I think it was 68.
I had a 67 that still had a small tail at one time.

Like Trent said, early 206s and 205s had the short horizontal stab. Not a big deal. Either carry a little power or have some ballast or both. VGs go a long way in helping too.


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My experience in the 182's is that the early models are more responsive to the controls, in all axes. Getting that tall nosewheel up to land correctly with two big guys up front in my '56 has never been a problem.