This manual provides detailed factory-recommended procedures for maintaining the Cessna 172N aircraft, covering ground handling, servicing, and parts replacement for models from 1977 to 1986.
1.1 Overview of the Cessna 172N Aircraft
The Cessna 172N is a four-seat, single-engine aircraft with a fixed landing gear, powered by a Lycoming O-320-H2AD engine producing 160 HP. Known for its reliability and performance, it is widely used for flight training and personal flying, offering a balance of economy and versatility.
1.2 Purpose and Scope of the Parts Manual
This manual serves as a comprehensive reference for identifying and procuring genuine Cessna 172N parts. It details components, compatibility, and ordering procedures, ensuring correct part selection for maintenance and repairs, thus maintaining aircraft airworthiness and performance as per factory standards.
Engine Specifications and Maintenance
The Cessna 172N is powered by a Lycoming O-320-H2AD engine, producing 160 HP at 2700 RPM. This 4-cylinder, air-cooled, carbureted engine features a direct drive system and dual magneto ignition with 8 spark plugs.
2.1 Lycoming O-320-H2AD Engine Overview
The Lycoming O-320-H2AD is a 4-cylinder, normally aspirated, carbureted engine with 320 cubic inches of displacement. It generates 160 horsepower at 2700 RPM, utilizing a direct drive system. The engine features dual magnetos and 8 spark plugs, with a proven track record for reliability in the Cessna 172N.
2.2 Engine Maintenance Procedures
Regular inspections, lubrication of moving parts, and compression checks are essential. Spark plugs should be replaced every 100 hours of operation. Adherence to Lycoming’s recommended maintenance schedule ensures optimal performance and longevity. Compliance with Airworthiness Directives (ADs) is mandatory to maintain safety and regulatory standards for the O-320-H2AD engine.
2.3 Common Engine Parts and Replacement Intervals
Spark plugs, oil filters, and air filters are critical components requiring regular replacement. Spark plugs should be replaced every 100 hours, while oil and air filters are changed during routine servicing. The Lycoming O-320-H2AD engine’s parts, such as magnetos and propeller governors, must be serviced per manufacturer guidelines to ensure reliability and longevity.
Fuel System Components
The Cessna 172N features a fuel system with two vented fuel tanks, a selector valve, fuel strainer, manual primer, and carburetor, ensuring reliable fuel delivery to the engine.
3.1 Fuel Tanks and Selector Valve
The Cessna 172N has two vented fuel tanks located in each wing, with a selector valve allowing fuel switching between tanks. This system ensures balanced fuel distribution, preventing wing weight imbalance and maintaining aircraft stability during flight, crucial for safe operation and pilot control.
3.2 Fuel Strainer and Carburetor
The Cessna 172N features a fuel strainer to filter fuel before it reaches the carburetor, ensuring clean fuel delivery. The carburetor mixes air and fuel for the engine, with the manual primer aiding in starting the Lycoming O-320-H2AD engine. Proper maintenance of these components is critical for reliable engine performance and flight safety.
3.3 Manual Primer and Fuel System Safety
The manual primer ensures proper fuel flow during engine start by delivering fuel directly to the carburetor. Safety features include vented fuel tanks and a four-position selector valve, preventing fuel starvation and ensuring system integrity. Regular inspection and adherence to maintenance protocols are vital for sustained fuel system reliability and flight safety.
Service and Maintenance Procedures
Routine servicing includes ground handling, pre-flight checks, and inspection schedules to ensure aircraft airworthiness. Troubleshooting common issues and adhering to maintenance protocols are essential for safe operations.
4.1 Ground Handling and Pre-Flight Checks
Ground handling involves securing the aircraft with ties and chocks. Pre-flight checks include inspecting fuel tanks, control locks, and tire condition. Ensure all systems are functioning properly before flight, following detailed checklists to guarantee safety and compliance with maintenance standards.
4.2 Routine Servicing and Inspection Schedules
Routine servicing includes oil changes, tire pressure checks, and spark plug inspections. Follow factory-recommended intervals for detailed inspections of fuel systems, propeller, and control surfaces. Refer to the parts manual for specific schedules and procedures to ensure compliance with safety and airworthiness standards.
4.3 Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues include engine performance problems, fuel system leaks, and electrical malfunctions. Refer to the parts manual for diagnostic procedures. Inspect spark plugs, carburetor, and fuel strainer regularly. Addressing these issues promptly ensures optimal performance and safety. Always follow factory-approved troubleshooting guidelines for effective resolution.
Parts Catalog and Interchangeability
The parts catalog organizes components for easy identification, using figures and tables. It covers interchangeability across serial numbers, ensuring compatibility and compliance with airworthiness standards.
5.1 Organization of the Parts Catalog
The parts catalog is structured by aircraft systems, with detailed diagrams and part numbers. Bold serials highlight non-interchangeable parts, and tables list compatibility across models, ensuring accurate identification and ordering of genuine Cessna components for the 172N.
5.2 Non-Interchangeable Parts and Compatibility
Non-interchangeable parts are identified by bold serials in diagrams and tables. Compatibility charts ensure proper fitting across models. Using genuine Cessna parts is crucial for maintaining airworthiness, as specified in the manual, to avoid installation issues and ensure compliance with safety standards.
5.3 Ordering Genuine Cessna Parts
Ordering genuine Cessna parts ensures compatibility and safety. Use the Parts Catalog to identify needed components. Contact authorized Cessna Dealers, referencing your aircraft’s serial number. This ensures parts are approved and meet airworthiness standards, maintaining your aircraft’s performance and reliability.
Safety Compliance and Airworthiness Directives
Adhering to Airworthiness Directives (ADs) is crucial for maintaining the Cessna 172N’s safety and compliance. Regular inspections and timely implementation of ADs ensure the aircraft remains airworthy and operational.
6.1 Importance of Adhering to ADs
Adhering to Airworthiness Directives (ADs) ensures the Cessna 172N meets safety standards, preventing potential failures. Compliance is legally required and crucial for maintaining aircraft airworthiness, protecting passengers, and preventing costly repairs by addressing safety issues promptly.
6.2 Inspection Requirements for Airworthiness
Regular inspections are essential to ensure the Cessna 172N remains airworthy. These include routine checks of critical systems, structural components, and compliance with Airworthiness Directives. Detailed inspection schedules and procedures are outlined in the maintenance manual to guarantee safety and performance, preventing potential issues before they arise.
6.3 Record-Keeping for Maintenance Compliance
Proper record-keeping is crucial for maintenance compliance, ensuring all servicing and inspections, including pre-flight and routine checks, are documented. Logs of replaced parts, airworthiness directive compliance, and inspection schedules are essential. Accurate records maintain safety, performance, and legal compliance, enhancing operational efficiency and resale value.
Performance Specifications
The Cessna 172N achieves a maximum cruise speed of 125 knots at sea level, 122 knots at 8,000 feet, with a Vne of 160 KIAS.
7.1 Cruise Speed and Power Settings
The Cessna 172N’s Lycoming O-320-H2AD engine delivers 160 HP at 2700 RPM, enabling a maximum cruise speed of 125 knots at sea level and 122 knots at 8,000 feet. The propeller governor maintains constant engine speed, optimizing performance across varying conditions.
7.2 Climb and Descent Performance
The Cessna 172N achieves a maximum climb speed of 78 KIAS and a rate of climb of 770 feet per minute at sea level. Optimal descent is maintained at 80-100 KIAS. Performance varies with altitude, weight, and atmospheric conditions, ensuring efficient ascents and controlled descents for safe operations.
7.3 Maximum and Recommended Operating Limits
The Cessna 172N has a maximum speed of 160 KIAS and a never-exceed speed of 160 KIAS. Recommended operating limits include a maximum power setting of 75% at 8,000 feet. These limits ensure optimal performance and longevity of the aircraft, adhering to factory specifications for safe and efficient operation.
Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) Highlights
The POH includes essential performance data, operating limits, and emergency procedures. It provides detailed flight characteristics, speed and power settings, and is a critical resource for safe flight operations.
8.1 Key Sections of the POH
The POH includes sections on limitations, normal procedures, performance data, and emergency procedures. It details aircraft specifications, operating limits, and pre-flight checks, ensuring pilots understand safe and efficient flight operations for the Cessna 172N.
8.2 Normal and Emergency Operating Procedures
The POH outlines detailed normal procedures for pre-flight, startup, takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, and landing. It also covers emergency protocols, including engine failure, system malfunctions, and abnormal situations, ensuring pilots are prepared for all scenarios in the Cessna 172N.
8.3 Performance Charts and Limitations
The POH includes detailed performance charts for the Cessna 172N, such as maximum speed (125 knots), cruise speed (122 knots), and climb rates. It also outlines power settings, fuel consumption rates, and altitude performance limits. These charts help pilots optimize flight efficiency while adhering to safe operating parameters.
Maintenance Tips and Best Practices
Regular inspections, timely parts replacement, and adherence to factory recommendations ensure optimal aircraft performance and longevity. Use genuine Cessna parts for reliability and safety compliance.
9.1 Cost-Effective Maintenance Strategies
Implementing regular inspections and replacing parts proactively reduces long-term costs. Utilize genuine Cessna 172N parts for reliability and safety; Prioritize routine servicing over costly repairs. Schedule maintenance during low-usage periods to minimize downtime. Refer to the parts manual for intervals and procedures to ensure efficiency and budget adherence.
9.2 Common Wear and Tear Parts
Spark plugs, fuel system components, and engine seals are prone to wear. Regularly inspect tires, brakes, and propeller components. Replace parts like spark plugs and air filters at recommended intervals. Addressing wear early prevents costly repairs and ensures optimal performance and safety.
9.3 Enhancing Aircraft Longevity
Regular inspections, adherence to maintenance schedules, and timely replacements ensure longevity. Use genuine Cessna parts for reliability. Proper storage and protection from environmental factors also extend lifespan. Follow POH guidelines and service bulletins for optimal care and performance.
The Cessna 172N Parts Manual is essential for owners, offering detailed maintenance and parts guidance. Additional resources, including Cessna service letters and POH, ensure comprehensive support for longevity and safety.
10.1 Summary of Key Points
The Cessna 172N Parts Manual provides essential guidance for maintenance, covering engine specs, fuel system components, and safety protocols. It emphasizes adherence to airworthiness directives and proper record-keeping. Key points include engine specifications, fuel system details, and maintenance schedules, ensuring the aircraft’s longevity and safe operation.
10.2 Additional Resources for Cessna 172N Owners
Owners can access Cessna 172N service manuals, parts catalogs, and pilot operating handbooks online. Additional resources include factory-approved service equipment, genuine parts suppliers, and online forums for maintenance tips and troubleshooting. These tools enhance understanding and ensure compliance with safety and airworthiness standards for optimal aircraft performance and longevity.