Exploring the 1979 Cessna 172N: A Timeless Aircraft with Modern Enhancements

What can you say about the 172, it ubiquitous with time building and student pilots. It is also an excellent cross country machine. This Cessna 172N, a variant of the renowned Cessna 172 series is coming up for auction and could be yours, The 1979 Cessna 172N is a prime example of this lineage, offering a balance of performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness that has made it a favorite among pilots, flight schools, and aviation enthusiasts.

Historical Context and Evolution

Cessna Aircraft Company, founded in 1927 by Clyde Cessna, has been a pioneer in the aviation industry. The company gained a reputation for producing reliable and easy-to-fly aircraft, with the Cessna 172 being a standout model. The Cessna 172N, part of the “N” model series introduced in the late 1970s, brought several improvements over its predecessors, including a more powerful engine and aerodynamic refinements that enhanced its performance.

The Versatility of the Cessna 172N

The 1979 Cessna 172N is renowned for its versatility, capable of serving various roles from flight training to personal use. Its robust design and ease of handling make it an ideal choice for novice pilots, while its reliability and performance ensure it remains valuable for more experienced aviators. The aircraft’s high-wing configuration provides excellent visibility and stability, contributing to its popularity in flight schools and among private owners.

Focus on 100-Hour Inspections

One of the key aspects of the 1979 Cessna 172N’s appeal is its adherence to rigorous maintenance standards, particularly the 100-hour inspections. These inspections are crucial for ensuring the aircraft’s safety and performance, involving thorough checks of the engine, airframe, and avionics. The well-documented history of 100-hour inspections for N4854G, a specific 1979 Cessna 172N, underscores its reliability and well-maintained condition. These inspections not only enhance the aircraft’s safety but also contribute to its longevity and resale value.

Emphasis on LED Lighting

Another significant feature of the 1979 Cessna 172N is the incorporation of LED lighting. LED lights offer numerous advantages over traditional lighting, including improved visibility, lower power consumption, and longer lifespan. For N4854G, the addition of LED lighting enhances its operational efficiency and safety, particularly during night flights. This modern upgrade aligns with the aircraft’s reputation for blending classic design with contemporary advancements.

Detailed Specifications and Features

Airframe

The airframe of N4854G, a 1979 Cessna 172N, highlights the aircraft’s robust construction and durability. With a total time (TT) of 14,900 hours, this aircraft has demonstrated exceptional longevity. The airframe is meticulously maintained, reflecting its well-documented history of 100-hour inspections. This commitment to maintenance ensures the aircraft remains reliable and safe, making it an excellent choice for flight schools and private owners alike.

Propeller

N4854G is equipped with a McCauley propeller, model 1C160/DTM7557M1, which complements the aircraft’s overall performance. The propeller, overhauled on 7/17 and with a time since major overhaul (SMOH) of 2250 hours, is in excellent condition. This well-maintained propeller ensures smooth and efficient flight operations, contributing to the aircraft’s reliability and performance.

Engine

The heart of N4854G is its Lycoming O-320-H2AD engine, a four-cylinder, horizontally opposed, air-cooled engine known for its reliability. This engine, with a serial number RL-1980-76T, underwent a major overhaul on 5/17 and has accumulated 2240 hours since. With consistent compression readings of 75/80 across all cylinders as of 7/24, the engine is in excellent health, promising dependable performance for many more flight hours.

Avionics

N4854G boasts a comprehensive and modern avionics suite, ensuring accurate navigation, communication, and situational awareness. Key avionics include a Garmin GMA 340 audio panel, Garmin GNS 430, King RT-385 Nav Com, King KN62, and a Garmin ADSB 345 transponder with both in and out capabilities. These avionics provide pilots with essential information and enhance the aircraft’s operational capabilities, making it a well-equipped choice for various flying missions.

Exterior

The exterior of N4854G is finished in an elegant overall white with yellow stripes, giving it a classic and timeless appearance. The paint is in very good condition, a testament to the care and maintenance the aircraft has received over the years. This well-preserved exterior not only enhances the aircraft’s aesthetic appeal but also ensures its visibility and safety during flight operations.

Interior

Inside N4854G, you’ll find a well-maintained, vintage interior featuring tan leather seats, tan paneling, a white ceiling, and black carpet. The interior, while retaining its classic charm, is in good condition, free from major damage, holes, or tears. This combination of comfort and functionality provides a pleasant environment for both pilots and passengers, making each flight a comfortable experience.

Additional Features

N4854G comes with several additional features that enhance its utility and convenience. These include a pitot cover, control lock, and tow bar, ensuring the aircraft is well-protected and easy to handle on the ground. The aircraft’s logbooks also document repairs for damage history in 11/81 and 10/02, providing transparency and confidence to potential buyers. These features contribute to the aircraft’s overall value and appeal, making it a practical and reliable choice for any aviation enthusiast.

Auction Information

N4854G, the 1979 Cessna 172N, will be available for auction from 2024-08-31 to 2024-09-07. The starting bid for this well-documented and well-maintained aircraft is $50,000, with a buyer premium of 6%. A deposit of $2,000 is required to participate in the auction. This aircraft represents a valuable opportunity for flight schools, private owners, and aviation enthusiasts seeking a reliable and affordable addition to their fleet.

• Auction Dates: 2024-08-31 to 2024-09-07
• Starting Bid: $50,000
• Buyer Premium: 6%
• Deposit Required: $2,000

Conclusion

The 1979 Cessna 172N, particularly the well-maintained N4854G, embodies the qualities that have made the Cessna 172 series a cornerstone of general aviation. With its proven reliability, comprehensive 100-hour inspection history, and modern upgrades like LED lighting, this aircraft offers a compelling blend of value and performance. Whether for flight training, personal use, or as a time builder, N4854G stands out as an excellent choice for discerning buyers in the aviation market. The upcoming auction presents a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of aviation history that continues to deliver exceptional performance and reliability.