Target Audience:
Flight schools and pilots seeking retractable-gear training in the 172 series
Competitive Analysis:
Compared to standard Skyhawk, the 172RG offers retractable gear and a constant-speed propeller, providing advanced training and improved cruise performance.
Retractable Landing Gear:
Reduces drag, enhances aerodynamics and efficiency
Engine:
Lycoming O-360-F1A6, 180 horsepower
Propeller:
Variable pitch, constant speed
Top Cruise Speed:
140 knots
Avionics (in existing description):
Garmin G1000 (note: this is an anachronism for the original 1980-85 era; included as stated)
Interior:
Leather seats (as stated)
Airframe:
Detailed breakdown of fuselage, wings, empennage, doors, windows
Landing Gear:
Retractable gear mechanism, wheels, brakes, struts
Engine:
Lycoming O-360 series, including accessories and mounting
Propeller:
Constant-speed propeller system and controls
Electrical System:
Alternator, starter, wiring harness, batteries
Fuel System:
Tanks, lines, pumps, selector valves
Instrumentation:
Flight and engine instruments
Interior:
Seats, panels, trims
Scheduled Maintenance Parts:
Filters, spark plugs, belts, etc.
Parts Identification:
Part numbers and diagrams for each component
Exploded Views:
Illustrations showing assembly and disassembly order
Ordering Information:
How to order replacement parts with correct numbers
Parts Reference:
Comprehensive listing of factory part numbers
Compatibility:
Applicable to Cessna 172RG models produced from 1980 through 1985
OEM Parts:
Manufacturer-approved parts and numbers
Transparency:
Detailed diagrams allow clear visual identification
Compatibility:
Works on all modern devices with a PDF reader
Requirements:
A PDF viewer; internet for download only
Searchability:
Text searchable if the PDF includes OCR layer (typical for digital manuals)
Resolution:
High-resolution for clear part diagrams
Digital:
No physical binding
N/A - Digital Only:
Not applicable for downloadable PDF
Type:
Not applicable - aircraft use propellers
Constant-Speed Propeller:
Variable pitch, provides optimal performance
N/A:
No optional transmissions exist for this aircraft
Length:
Type: 26 ft 11 in (approx based on standard 172RG dimensions)
Wingspan:
36 ft 2 in (approx based on standard 172RG dimensions)
Curb Weight (Empty Weight):
Approximately 1,700 lbs (normal category, typical for 172RG)
Crash Test Rating:
Not applicable - aircraft are not crash-tested like cars
Avionics:
Garmin G1000 (as stated) provides advanced navigation and flight management
Retractable Gear Warning:
Aircraft designed with warning systems for gear position
Airframe Construction:
Durable aluminum structure designed for crashworthiness
Seat Belts:
Standard shoulder harnesses for occupants
Infotainment (Audio System)
N/A:
Aircraft not typically equipped with audio entertainment systems
Navigation System:
Garmin G1000 (as stated), providing GPS and flight management
Autopilot:
Not specified for this model/year
Engine Oil Change:
Typical interval: every 50 hours or 4 months, whichever comes first
Annual Inspection:
Required annually by regulations
Landing Gear Actuator Service:
Regular inspection per aircraft maintenance manual
Spark Plug Replacement:
Often specified at each annual or every 100 hours
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50, aviation grade, per Lycoming
Hydraulic Fluid (if applicable):
For constant-speed propeller? Usually engine oil is used
Known Issues / Common Wear Items
Retractable Gear Mechanism:
Wear on actuators and linkages; inspect regularly
Constant-Speed Propeller Governor:
May require periodic maintenance
Corrosion on Exhaust:
Regular inspection for exhaust system integrity
Manufacturer:
Cessna Aircraft Company
Introduction:
The 172RG Cutlass was produced from 1980 to 1985 as a retractable-gear version of the popular Cessna 172 Skyhawk, intended for advanced training.
Legacy:
Though less popular than the 172, it remains a classic training aircraft.
Manufacturing Site:
Wichita, Kansas, USA (primary Cessna facility)
