Systems Description for CESSNA 172H
CESSNA 172H · Systems Description
Overview
This document provides a comprehensive systems description for the Cessna 172H, a single-engine, four-seat aircraft. It includes detailed specifications such as weight limits, engine performance, and airspeed limitations. The information is crucial for pilots and aviation enthusiasts to understand the operational capabilities and limitations of the aircraft. The document outlines the aircraft's electrical system, fuel capacity, and structural limits, as well as specific performance metrics that are essential for safe operation. This guide serves as a valuable reference for both training and operational purposes.
- Max Takeoff Weight: 2300 lbs
- Engine: Continental O-300-D, 145 hp @ 2700 RPM
- Fuel Capacity: 39 gallons (usable 36 gallons)
- Vne (Never Exceed Speed): 174 mph
- Maneuvering Speed (Va): 122 mph
Document
Source
Originally published by fivexfiveflight.com. Sprinkle hosts a reference copy with an added summary, specifications and searchable full text.
Document details
- Type
- Systems Description
- Year
- 1967
- Pages
- 2
- File size
- 162 KB
- Publisher
- fivexfiveflight.com
Common. Rarer than 0% of the aircraft models we track.
Most owners only have the POH. Here's the essential set for the CESSNA 172H.
- Pilot's Operating Handbook / AFM
- Checklist
- Maintenance ManualNot on file
- Parts Catalog (IPC)
- Systems & Wiring
- Service BulletinsNot on file
- Type Certificate (TCDS)
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In this document
Weight and Balance
The Cessna 172H has a maximum takeoff weight of 2300 lbs and an empty weight of 1447 lbs, resulting in a useful load of 853 lbs. The aircraft features a fuel capacity of 39 gallons, with 36 gallons usable, distributed across two gravity-fed tanks in each wing.
Engine Specifications
The aircraft is powered by a Continental O-300-D engine, rated at 145 horsepower at 2700 RPM. It is a 6-cylinder, horizontally opposed, air-cooled, normally aspirated engine with a direct drive. The engine operates efficiently at 75% power at altitudes of 2500 feet and 5000 feet, maintaining 2500 RPM.
Airspeed Limitations
The Cessna 172H has various airspeed limitations: the maximum speed is 174 mph, with a caution range between 140 and 174 mph. The normal operating range is from 59 to 140 mph, while the flap operating range is from 52 to 100 mph. Key V-speeds include a stall speed (clean) of 59 mph and a stall speed (dirty) of 52 mph.
G-Load Limits
In the normal category, the Cessna 172H can withstand +3.8g with flaps up and +3.5g with flaps down. In the utility category, the limits are +4.4g with flaps up and +3.5g with flaps down. The aircraft is not approved for aerobatic maneuvers except for specific maneuvers under the utility category.
Tire Pressures
The recommended tire pressures for the Cessna 172H are 26 psi for the nose tire and 24 psi for the main tires, ensuring optimal performance and safety during ground operations.
Safety notes
- No aerobatic maneuvers except for Chandelles, Lazy Eights, Steep Turns, Spins, and Stalls in Utility Category.
Full document text
N2645L – 1967 Cessna 172H Max Takeoff Weight 2300 lbs Electrical system 14 volt DC Empty Weight 1447 lbs 12 volt battery Useful Load 853 lbs Anti-Ice Carb Heat Fuel Capacity 39 gallons Pitot Heat Useable Fuel 36 gallons (1.5 each tank) Defrost 2 tanks, 1 each wing, gravity fed Tires Nose 26 psi 80/87/100 LL minimum grade Main 24 psi Oil Capacity 8 qts Mag Check No max drop Diff of 75 rpm Engine Continental O-300-D Rated at 145hp @ 2700 RPM 75% power @ 2500’ and 5000’ = 2500rpm C – continental, 6 cylinder H – horizontally opposed A – air cooled N – normally aspirated D – direct drive Normal Category 2300lbs Flaps up +3.8g * -1.52 Flaps dn +3.5g Utility Category 2000lbs Flaps up +4.4g * -1.76 Flaps dn +3.5g No aerobatic maneuvers EXCEPT: Chandelles, Lazy Eights, Steep Turns, Spins, Stalls (Must be in Utility Category) Airspeed Limitations Maximum 174 mph (red line) Caution range 140 – 174 mph (yellow arc) Normal range 59 - 140 mph (green arc) Flap range 52 – 100 mph (white arc) Maneuvering speed 122 mph V-Speeds Vs – stall clean - 59 mph Vso – stall dirty - 52 mph Vr – rotate - 60 mph Vg – glide - 80 mph Vx - angle - 66 mph Vy - rate - 80 mph Vfe – flap ext - 100 mph Va – maneuver - 122 mph Vno – normal ops - 140 mph Vne – never exceed - 174 mph
What's in the CESSNA 172H TCDS
A Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS) is the FAA's record of what an aircraft type was approved as. It is the source of truth for weights, seating, fuel and the rules the design was certified against. Expand any line to see what it means.
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