Having just read Stan's reply, I can say with 100% certainty that his position that individual aircraft being more different than the model numbers would dictate to be 100% the truth.

There is a gentleman in Texas who has a 1950/51 Cessna 170A. It has a late-model 172 wing and 170B tail feathers (substantially different elevator shape and balance), an Avion instrument panel and Stoots 180HP Lycoming conversion. Looking at it on the ramp without having seen the serial number, one would guess it was a 1952-1954 170, until you see that it has a very low serial number. If memory serves, it was a wrecked airplane that was pieced together with junkyard finds and held together with 337s.

These airplanes have been around for 60+ years. When they get bent or sit for a while and exchange hands, they seldom retain their original form during repair or when an enthusiastic owner breathes new life into them.

They're still stellar airplanes, in my not so humble opinion on the matter.

Hello again,




Great points you both make.

I am looking at one that is an original model. It has the double strut wing, but the wing has been metalized. Do any of you have any info about this. It appears to be a nice job. I am not sure if it weighs more or less than the original wing. I have heard that it may weigh less. It is a polished fuselage with the wing having been painted. I have not seen this bird in person yet. Only pictures.

A metalized wing is heavier. Find out what the empty weight is for the plane you are interested in. Go to the 170 site and find some threads on empty weight for some data. You want a light one. A polished fuse is a good start.

Robert

Don,
Just to let you know there is a C170 not sure A or B at KSAC that is owned by 2 SWA pilots based out of KOAK. They have had it for about 10 years so they should know there way around it by now.