On 02 Jun 2004 01:52:19 GMT, (JimT96309) wrote:

I am currently interested in an older C-172 (Cont. 0-300 engine) that has an
STC for auto gas. My questions a

1. Can I continue to use AVgas instead of auto fuel?

Yes.

2. I often fly into/out of Big Bear City, Ca. (elev. 6500ft.) I've been able
to get out lightly loaded (me and one in the right seat) at a density altitude
of 8,100 with one of our clubs 172s with the 320H2AD engines at 160 hp. What
difference would I see with the 15 fewer horses up front?

172s with the 0-300 were also made with a different wing design. It
is not a "high lift wing" like you are used to. You will not get the
same take-off performance out of it.

3. Can you give me a rough idea of cost to add a 2nd Nav-comm with Glideslope
and then have the whole thing certified for IFR? I would probably try to find a
good quality used one from one of the local shops.

Figure 5 grand and you might be happy when you get the bill.

Thanks for any help you can give to a rookie getting ready to make a first
purchase.


Don't know if you're partial to 172s for any reason, but you may want
to open up the search to other aircraft. Piper and Grumman may offer
you something with suitable performance and a slightly less expensive
purchase price. Obviously this opens up a whole bunch of other
questions you need to answer for yourself, but if high altitude ops
are your primary concern I thought it worth mentioning.

Jim



Good Luck!!

z