1962 Cessna 172C: A Very Clean Time Builder with Proven Reliability

The Cessna 172 Skyhawk has long been regarded as one of the most versatile, dependable, and pilot-friendly aircraft in general aviation. Since its debut in the mid-1950s, the 172 has served as a trainer, a personal aircraft, and a time-building workhorse for aspiring aviators. This 1962 Cessna 172C (N1673Y) stands out as an excellent example of a very clean time builder, offering low-time components, a freshly overhauled engine, modern avionics, and a fresh annual. With its balance of value and performance, this aircraft is ready for its next owner to log reliable hours in the air.

Cessna’s Legacy in General Aviation

Cessna Aircraft Company, founded in 1927 by Clyde Cessna, is one of the most iconic names in aviation. Known for its ability to produce practical, reliable, and well-performing airplanes, Cessna established a reputation early on with aircraft like the Cessna Airmaster and, later, the post-war Cessna 120 and 140.

In 1956, Cessna introduced the 172 Skyhawk, a tricycle-gear evolution of the 170 taildragger. This design innovation revolutionized training and personal aviation. The 172’s ease of handling, forgiving flight characteristics, and rugged airframe made it an immediate success, quickly becoming the world’s most-produced aircraft. Over 44,000 units have been built to date, and it remains in production.

The 1962 Cessna 172C represents an early generation of the Skyhawk line, offering pilots the classic simplicity of 1960s aviation combined with robust engineering. For decades, the 172C has been a favorite for flight training, cross-country flying, and, most importantly, building flight hours safely and efficiently.

The Role of the 172C as a Time Builder

For pilots seeking to advance their aviation careers, logging hours is a critical milestone. Whether working toward a commercial certificate, instrument rating, or airline minimums, a dependable time-building aircraft is essential.

The 1962 Cessna 172C (N1673Y) is ideally suited for this mission. Its freshly overhauled Continental O-300-D engine, updated avionics, and very clean airframe provide confidence in reliability, while its economical fuel burn and straightforward maintenance make it affordable to operate. With over 3,300 hours total time on the airframe but only 230 hours since engine overhaul, this 172C delivers the perfect balance of history and renewed capability.

This example is best described as a “very clean time builder”—an aircraft that allows its next owner to log hours efficiently without sacrificing safety or comfort.

Airframe

The airframe of N1673Y reflects both its durability and its careful upkeep over the decades. With 3,315 total hours, the airplane has seen consistent use without excessive wear, which is a testament to Cessna’s engineering. The aircraft carries a useful load of 822 pounds, making it practical for two pilots, fuel, and light baggage during long cross-country flights. Its 42-gallon fuel capacity supports a range of up to 790 miles at 10,000 feet, while its cruise performance of 130 mph at 70% power makes it efficient and reliable for both training and travel.

This 172C will be sold with a fresh annual, providing peace of mind to the next owner.

Engine

At the heart of this aircraft is a Continental O-300-D, delivering 145 horsepower. This engine has long been respected for its smooth operation and reliable performance in the Skyhawk series. The engine was recently overhauled in June 2020 by Custom Aviation Services, LLC, and features new cylinder assemblies.

With only 230 hours since major overhaul (SMOH), the engine offers plenty of service life ahead, making it ideal for pilots who plan to fly regularly and build time without the looming concern of an imminent overhaul.

Propeller

The aircraft is fitted with a McCauley 1C172/EM7653 two-blade, fixed-pitch metal propeller. The propeller underwent overhaul in July 2017 by San Antonio Propeller Service, Inc., and has only 220 hours SMOH. Like the engine, the prop is well within its service life, adding to the overall appeal of this aircraft as a dependable time builder.

Avionics

This 172C is equipped with a thoughtful blend of classic and modern avionics, making it both reliable and versatile:

• Dual Garmin G5s (attitude and heading) with GA 35 WAAS-GPS antenna
  
• Com 1 – BendixKing KX 155 with VOR head
  
• Com 2 – Val 760 (COM only)
  
• BendixKing KMA 20 Audio Panel
  
• Garmin GTX 320A Transponder
  
• Electronics International CHT Gauge
  
• uAvionix Tailbeacon ADS-B Out
  
• Standard flight instruments including airspeed indicator, altimeter, VSI, turn coordinator, tachometer, and heading indicator
  

While the aircraft is IFR capable, it is not currently IFR certified, but its dual G5 setup makes it a strong candidate for modern IFR operations with minimal additional upgrades.

This avionics package provides a practical mix for time building, instrument practice, and cross-country flying.

Exterior

The aircraft’s exterior features a white base with maroon stripes and registration markings, reflecting a clean, classic look. Despite being over 60 years old, the paint retains a tidy presentation, with only minor cosmetic flaws. There is a small leading-edge dent on the right-hand wing and some paint missing on the belly aft of the cabin, but these do not impact airworthiness. Overall, the exterior is well-kept and ready for its next chapter of service.

Interior

Inside, the 172C is fitted with a clean and nicely installed interior. The tan vinyl and red fabric seats are complemented by tan side panels, a tan headliner, and brown carpet, creating a comfortable, practical cabin environment. With seating for four occupants, the layout provides both training flexibility and personal utility.

The condition of the interior matches the aircraft’s description as a very clean example, enhancing its value as a time builder.

Additional Features

N1673Y comes equipped with features that improve safety, comfort, and practicality:

• Hydraulic toe brakes
  
• Two-place ventilator and heating system
  
• Electric ignition and fuel mixture control
  
• Fresh annual at sale
  
• Complete logbooks, with no gaps
  
• History of a ground damage incident in 1963, fully repaired with decades of service since
  
• No known corrosion
  

These additional features and records reinforce the aircraft’s integrity and appeal for any pilot seeking a straightforward, trustworthy machine.

Auction Details

This 1962 Cessna 172C (N1673Y) will be offered at auction with the following terms:

• Auction Dates: October 8–15, 2025
  
• Starting Bid: $39,000
  
• Buyer Premium: 6%
  
• Deposit Required: $3,000
  
• Auction Location: TX42
  

With its recent overhaul, dual Garmin G5s, and fresh annual, this 172C represents strong value at its starting bid. For pilots looking for a very clean time builder, the opportunity is both rare and practical.

Conclusion

The 1962 Cessna 172C (N1673Y) exemplifies what makes the Skyhawk the world’s most popular training and time-building aircraft. With a freshly overhauled engine, updated avionics, clean interior, and fresh annual, this aircraft is ready for its next owner to log hours with confidence.

As a very clean time builder, it offers reliability, efficiency, and value—all qualities that Cessna has stood for since its founding. For pilots looking to advance their training, gain experience, or simply enjoy the dependable flight characteristics of a classic Skyhawk, this auction represents an opportunity to own a proven performer.

Specifications and/or descriptions are provided as introductory information only and do not constitute representations or warranties. Verification of specifications remains the sole responsibility of the purchaser.