Little Flyers-problem and issues with high time 172

Problems and issues with a high time Cessna 172

Sent: Sunday, February 15, 2004 12:28 PM
Subject: High Time Cessna 172

Roger,
What are the issues in buying a high time 1973 Cessna 172; total hours 9100?
Thanks,
P.A.

Roger's reply,

The Cessna 172 is a good aircraft. However, high time aircraft tend to have issues. For the year you specify gear leg fatigue can occur, and the fatigue will cause the tires to wear very prematurely. The main gear support structure can crack or buckle. There is a high probability of firewall damage at the nose gear strut attach. Fuel tanks can be fatigued from the expansion and contraction of the fuel tank. Flap tracks can be excessively worn from very repetitive usage. The flap arms may be worn if the improved wear washers were not installed. Fatigue and cracking of flap skins may occur from the number of powered stalls performed. The horizontal stabilizer may be damaged from ground handling from pushing down on the tail. Finally, expect issues with baffles, exhaust, and the propeller. Roger

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