All four have proven themselves as great types, with the Pacer and the Maule giving a sportier image.

Have flown the C-170, the others are on my to do list, but on retro appeal I am fond of the 108 in its -1 or -2 variant, ideally with a Lycoming -360.

Entry price the Pacer and 108 seem better value.

I think lots of us have considered these options, especially the 170/Stinson/Pacer since they are really the only choices for a certified budget tailwheel backcountry plane. Pacer and the Stinson both have a back seat that is easy to remove. If you get a O-320 in the Pacer that will be easy to support going forward. PA-22/20s can have the baggage door. After you remove the rear seat the rear door in a Pacer is like a big cargo door. To me, Stinsons look the best. Hard choice.

...also rather quaintly, the Stinson 108 is approved in the AFM for some limited aeros, specifically loops and barrel roll, in the utility category.

I can't speak to the 108 or Maule, but for me it's Pacer over 170 hands down. I sooooo wanted a 170 but the math didn't add up so I "settled" for a 150 HP Pacer. I won't look back. Best bang for the buck for sure.

Love my 108, although mine is a big tail. Great useful, just over 1100. Built like a tank.

This should be good...




I vote Maule - might as well have some value for your money

I wanted a Maule M7 or a Cessna 180.

Couldn't afford to feed either one let alone buy one.

My Pacer seemed to be the best value all the way around. Not a super performing in the backcountry, but it is reasonable for my piloting skills. A guy like Highroad can really make a Pacer perform.

gptc wrote:I wanted a Maule M7 or a Cessna 180.

Couldn't afford to feed either one let alone buy one.

My Pacer seemed to be the best value all the way around. Not a super performing in the backcountry, but it is reasonable for my piloting skills. A guy like Highroad can really make a Pacer perform.

I think you got a great deal on that Pacer, Sean. With the O-360 I bet its a great flying airplane. I remember seeing it come up for sale, if it was out there when I was looking I would have tried to buy it.

Gents,

I have a straight 108 with a lightly modded 0-360. It is a great performer and compares very well. Makes a awesome floatplane with a useful load of 754 on floats and 880 on wheels. Just added 8.5 mains which make it look just right. With one person it flys like a super cub. I am adding the auxiliary fuel tank so it will carry 53 gallons for long trips. Looking to add the baggage compartment as well in the future.

All great planes!