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I recently bought a 1980 172k which is called a Skyhawk XP, or XPII (I hear the II meant it had a better radio package- which may not mean much in 2001.Mine is 195HP at 2600RPM, but can be upgraded to 210 at 2800RPM. Usually the 2800 is just used on take-off and reduced just after. Probably a great float plane. The 172K or XP was built from 1977 to 1981. I believe it was in 1979 or 1980 that the TBO went to 2000 with a better crankshaft. I also flew the Army T-41 in 1969. I believe it was a 172E. It was 210HP. I like the extra power and it does move along 120 plus knots 65% (Says Cruise 130)
I was looking for a 177, but was told parts would be easier to get for the 172XP.
About XP handling: I think it's handles more like a 182 since on let down the constant speed prop RPM, the MP and mixture has to constantly be adjusted or it'll sputter. It's like fine tuning. I hear this from other (fuel enjected) 172XP folks. Maybe after I get more time in it, I'll figure it out, but it's not like a let down in a 172 and going full mixture, reduce RPM.
If you look at the useful load on all these, the 172, the 172Xp and the 182, there's not that much difference -- especially when long range fuel tanks have been added to a 172XP or 182.
[This message has been edited by archarrell (edited 09-01-2001).]
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