The 1975 Piper 235 Pathfinder: The Ultimate Cross Country Dream Machine
When cross country is the mission a Pathfinder is the best tool for the adventure, few aircraft embody the perfect balance of performance, value, and versatility quite like the 1975 Piper 235 Pathfinder. This remarkable aircraft, with its robust design and impressive capabilities, stands as a testament to Piper Aircraft’s dedication to delivering top-notch aviation experiences. This blog post delves into the rich history of the Piper 235 Pathfinder, its various uses, and why it is celebrated as an excellent example of a cross-country dream machine. We will also provide detailed information about its airframe, prop, engine, avionics, exterior, and interior, along with auction details for enthusiasts and potential buyers.
A Brief History of Piper Aircraft and the Piper 235 Pathfinder
Piper Aircraft, founded in 1927 by William T. Piper, has a storied legacy of producing reliable, high-quality aircraft for general aviation. The company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has cemented its reputation as a leader in the aviation industry. The Piper 235 Pathfinder, introduced in the 1970s, is a shining example of Piper’s dedication to creating versatile and capable aircraft.
The Piper PA-28-235, commonly known as the Piper 235 Pathfinder, was designed as a high-performance variant of the popular Piper Cherokee series. It featured a more powerful engine and increased fuel capacity, making it an ideal choice for long-distance flights. Over the years, the Piper 235 Pathfinder has become a favorite among pilots for its reliability, performance, and comfort.
Uses of the Piper 235 Pathfinder
The Piper 235 Pathfinder is renowned for its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of aviation activities:
- Flight Training: Its stable flight characteristics and robust design make it an excellent choice for pilot training programs.
- Personal Travel: With its comfortable seating and impressive range, it is perfect for personal cross-country trips.
- Light Commercial Operations: The aircraft’s payload capacity and efficiency make it viable for light commercial use, including aerial photography and small cargo transport.
The Cross Country Dream Machine
The Piper 235 Pathfinder is often hailed as a “Cross Country Dream Machine” for several compelling reasons:
- Speed and Range: With a cruise speed of 145 mph at 75% power and a range of up to 915 miles in best economy mode, it offers exceptional performance for long-distance flights.
- Comfort: The aircraft’s seating arrangement and interior design ensure a pleasant and relaxed flying experience.
- Payload Capacity: With a useful load of 1,435 lbs, it can accommodate passengers and baggage with ease.
- Fuel Efficiency: The efficient Lycoming O-540-B4B5 engine ensures economical operation without compromising performance.
Detailed Aircraft Information
Airframe
The 1975 Piper PA-28-235 Pathfinder (Registration: ZS-JHV, S/N: 28-7510025) boasts a total time of 2685.06 hours. The aircraft underwent its last annual inspection on July 20, 2023. With a fuel capacity of 84 gallons, it can achieve a range of 915 miles at best economy and 805 miles at best power, both at 75% power. The stall speed is 73 mph without flaps and 65 mph with full flaps, providing safety and stability during various phases of flight.
Engine
The Piper 235 Pathfinder is powered by a Lycoming O-540-B4B5 engine (S/N: L-16897-40), which has accumulated a total time of 705.76 hours. The engine was overhauled on September 17, 2001, by Aero Engineering and Powerplant Ltd., ensuring it remains in optimal condition for reliable performance.
Prop
The aircraft features a Hartzell HC-C2YK-1BF propeller (S/N: CH14015), with blade model number F 8468A-4 and blade serial numbers F21180 and F21186. The propeller has a total time of 395 hours, contributing to the aircraft’s smooth and efficient operation.
Avionics
The Piper 235 Pathfinder boasts a robust suite of avionics that enhance navigation, communication, and safety. It includes the Garmin GMA 340 audio panel, Garmin GNS 430 GPS/Nav/Comm, and Garmin SL-40 Comm radio for reliable communication and navigation. A Garmin Aera 660 portable GPS provides additional navigation support. Although the Bendix King KT-76A transponder is inoperative, the Piper AutoControl IIIB autopilot aids in handling. The JPI FS-450 Fuel Flow Gauge, manifold pressure and RPM gauges, carbon monoxide detector, and gyro suction gauge ensure comprehensive monitoring. Essential flight instruments include the Bendix King KR85 TSO, airspeed indicator, attitude indicator, altimeter, turn coordinator, heading indicator, and vertical speed indicator. The avionics suite also features oil temperature and pressure gauges and an AirGizmos iPad mount for modern flight planning tools, making this aircraft well-equipped for diverse flight conditions.
Exterior
The aircraft’s exterior is a testament to Piper’s attention to detail and aesthetic appeal. It features a white and blue color scheme with red and gold accents, including the registration number in gold. The wings are solid white with blue tips, and the wheel pants are adorned with a single blue, red, and gold stripe. The propeller is light gray with white-tipped blades, adding a touch of elegance to its functional design.
Interior
Inside, the Piper 235 Pathfinder offers a comfortable and stylish environment. The seats are in complementary shades of cream and tan, each embroidered with the Piper logo on the headrests. Despite some wear on a cracking door panel, the overall condition of the panels and lining remains good. The black instrument panel is clean and well-maintained, providing pilots with a clear and organized workspace.
Upcoming Auction Information
For aviation enthusiasts and potential buyers, the 1975 Piper PA-28-235 Pathfinder (ZS-JHV) will be available at auction from August 21, 2024, to August 28, 2024. The starting bid is set at $45,000, with a buyer premium of 6%. A deposit of $3,000 is required to participate in the auction. The aircraft is currently located in Pietermaritzburg, FAPM.
Conclusion
The 1975 Piper 235 Pathfinder stands as an exceptional example of a cross-country dream machine, offering unparalleled performance, comfort, and versatility. Whether for flight training, personal travel, or light commercial operations, this aircraft delivers on all fronts. With its rich history, robust design, and comprehensive avionics suite, the Piper 235 Pathfinder is a true testament to Piper Aircraft’s legacy of excellence. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this remarkable aircraft at the upcoming auction, and experience the ultimate in aviation versatility and performance.
