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Boosting Thrust Without Breaking the Bank

If an engine upgrade is out of the question, a seaplane prop can be a cost-effective way to achieve more power on takeoff and climb.

Photographer Jim Stevenson evaluates the new prop, comparing the performance to his 180-horsepower Cessna 170B. [Credit: Jason McDowell]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Seeking to improve his aircraft's takeoff performance on short strips, the author chose a "seaplane prop" (McCauley 1A175/DM 80/42) as a cost-effective alternative to expensive engine upgrades.
  • The propeller significantly enhanced takeoff and climb capabilities, notably reducing takeoff distance and nearly doubling the climb rate.
  • This performance boost comes with a trade-off of reduced cruise speed (from 110-115 mph to 95-100 mph) and a minor reduction in ground clearance, which the author found acceptable for the improved confidence and safety on shorter fields.
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When it comes to aircraft modifications, the return on investment runs the gamut. Some items like shoulder harnesses, ADS-B, and good sun visors are no-brainers that provide huge returns. Other items like customized interiors and elaborate paint jobs perhaps fall toward the other end of the spectrum for me. 

Since I purchased my airplane in 2021, I’ve been carefully choosing upgrades to address its most glaring shortcomings. Throughout this process, I freely acknowledge the indisputable fact that the weakest point of the entire system is the shortcoming found in the left seat. Indeed, for me to suggest that anything else is more in need of improvement is akin to Steven Seagal suggesting that the casts of The Shawshank Redemption or Citizen Kane should take some acting classes.

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.

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