What can be said about the Cessna 172? It's the reason the word "venerable" came into use. First manufactured in 1956, the descendant of the 170 model took the general aviation world by storm with its "Land-O-Matic" tricycle landing gear and made ground control of light aircraft easier and more manageable than ever. One of the world's most popular GA aircraft, it is still in production by Cessna, and trains more pilots than any other aircraft. Despite the fact that it won't win any STOL contests, it possesses all the great flight characteristics of the Cessna 100 series wing, and is easily one of the greatest values on the used market in terms of ownership, utility, and cost of operation. There are 3 main varieties of the 172, distinguished by powerplant:
Years
Models
Engine
1956-1967
Cessna 172A through 172H
Continental O-300 running at 145 HP
1968-1982
Cessna 172I through 172P
Lycoming O-320 running at 150-160 HP
1983-present
Cessna 172Q through 172S
Lycoming O0360 running at 180 HP
Of course the distinctions are many that go beyond just the powerplant, but in terms of utility in the mountains and load hauling, the engine will be a major deciding point.
Suggest other valuable backcountry-oriented mods for this aircraft. It is very helpful to have information about the STC number and the website of the STC holder, if possible.
5.13.2014 - Initial post and formatting of article
The Cessna 172 can make a good back country airplane, with the right set up. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLQ8e7-DGsI
Stoots Aviation C172H with IO-360M1B 180hp engine with Superior Cold air Sump Induction and Hartzell 80" Trail Blazer prop
Let me know what you think. Other great higher hp engines in the works
Does anyone know who has the best deal on the Sportsman's STOL kit and installation in Alaska? I have a Cessna 172N 180HP constant speed prop. Located in SEAK.
While this knowledge base is a compilation of information from various sources, some official in nature, it is not a recognized or acredited source of aviation training information, and thus should be considered entertainment. Please consult a FAA-certificated flight instructor or mechanic prior to putting any information found here into practice.
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