Pratt Jeremy - Cessna 172 - A pilot's Guide (print) (Copie)

Cessna 172 - A pilot's Guide

Jeremy Pratt

Aviation Supplies and Academics (1995)

The Cessna 172, in its many variants and spin-offs must be the leading contender for the title of the world’s most popular light plane.

The production statistics alone are staggering; an overall production (depending on which models and types you choose to include) of around 42,000 and a peak production rate of about one aircraft every 30 minutes, in a production run lasting from 1955 through to 1985. The 172 makes a natural progression forthose trained in Cessna 150s or 152s, and has a well earned réputation for being safe and forgiving, with few airframe or engine problems.

This book covers the 172s built from 1977 through to 1985 (models 172N and 172P). These models are powered by the Lycoming 0-320 engine of 160 HP, replacing the 150 HP version, which itself had replaced the six cylinder Continental engines in the 1960s. The 172 is popularly referred to as the “Skyhawk” and the “Skyhawk II” which was sold with an increas- ed standard package including an avionics fit. As with other Cessna models a significant number were manufactured by Reims Aviation in France. These models are identical to American built examples, but carry the “F” prefix to their model number.

The 172N is powered by the 0-320-H2AD engine which proved to be an expensive proposition, contrary to previous 172 powerplants. It was subject to various ADs (Airworthiness Directives), oil additives and spécial operating procedures as a resuit of problems in the valve train. The controversial situation with the H2AD engine continued until 1981 when a new model of engine—the D2J—was introduced, which appears to hâve been altogether better. Also in this year the maximum flap extension was reduced from 40° to 30° and the gross weight was increased by 100 Ibs. In addition, the landing and taxi lights were moved from the lower cowling to the leading edge of the port wing. This final version of the Skyhawk is designated the 172P.

Production of the 172 ended in 1985, another victim of the problems affecting the General Aviation industry in the early 1980s. It is doubtful that any other aircraft will surpass the 172 for production and popular- ity, and it is certain to hâve the same longevity as its 150 and 152 stable mates.

132 pages in English