Looking to buy one of these two so my daughter can get her private, I have read they both are a great value! Wonder which might be the most forgiving for her? Also, which one would allow me to do some BC stuff as well? I own at 79 TU206 but not a trainer. Thoughts from the group?

Well, I got my private in an M-4. After about 30 some hours in a 152 over 3 years (having returned to student flying after 40 years), I was fortunate enough to acquire an M-4-210C project. After many months of effort, it (and I) were back in the air. The Maule did take a bit more time to learn to land, but owning vs. renting made a big mental difference, at least for me.

I suspect (having never flown one) that the Stinson 108(?) might be a little more forgiving. It just looks more docile. But the M-4 has always been positively responsive for me. Although demanding attention, it has always responded to any control input corrections and continues to successfully return to a stable condition from any awkward or near-disastrous position I have stumbled into. It seems as long as you watch where you are going, the little Maule seems quite contend to take you there, with no problems or hesitations.

If the M-4 has a 210 or 220 powerplant, you should be good for BC stuff. With an O-300 maybe not so much, but I have no experience with that configuration

I see photos of Stinsons in the back country, but suspect they have the larger engine options. Maybe some Stinson people could shed some light on this. However, a wise man once said...there is nothing like more horse power...especially at higher density altitudes.

Both are good planes, go fly them and see which one fits you/her better. Both the Maule and the Stinson come in many configurations, so it's hard to go into details. If you do find a Stinson, make sure it has brakes on both sides, many don't and it'll be hard finding an instructor.

Not to bash the Maule, but your question included the term "most forgiving for her". The Maule is short coupled and is a little more "busy" on the ground than the Stinson, which is one of the gentlest tailwheel airplanes around, assuming it hasn't been tweaked in an incident.....

Either one is certainly valid to use as a trainer, but the Stinson is certainly more "forgiving" in my opinion.

And, they are both good airplanes.

MTV

I like the big doors on the Maule. I like the seat position of the 180, I like the rounded rear windows of the 108-?

I would take any of them if you were buying.

Good day

Doors on the Maule are great.
Just like a Pacer, You will be a pilot that knows how to use the rudder if you learn in the Maule!
Being the most forgiving is not always the best!!
If you want the most forgiving get a 172.
My $.02
Merry Christmas
GT

My airplane advice is always the same. Be flexible with respect to model and buy the best airplane you can afford. If I was seeking an economical airplane for my kid to learn in it I'd look for a Champ. Slow, simple, small. To be honest my PA-12 was intended to serve as a trainer had my kid decided to fly. Maybe someday.

M6RV6 wrote:Doors on the Maule are great.
Just like a Pacer, You will be a pilot that knows how to use the rudder if you learn in the Maule!
Being the most forgiving is not always the best!!
If you want the most forgiving get a 172.
My $.02
Merry Christmas
GT

Goerge -You back from AK ?North of Spokane ? Give me a call or email -Airframe awaits --