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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 takeoff performance from short strips, the author opted for a cost-effective "seaplane prop" (McCauley 1A175/DM 80/42) instead of expensive engine upgrades or unavailable bolt-on options.
  • The new propeller dramatically increased takeoff and climb capabilities, providing a performance gain equivalent to an additional 10-15 horsepower or shedding 220 pounds, significantly boosting confidence in clearing departure-end obstacles.
  • While greatly enhancing short-field performance, the primary trade-off is a notable reduction in cruise speed (from roughly 110-115 mph to 95-100 mph), which the author found acceptable for their flying style.
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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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