You are looking for a Cessna 185 for sale, when you want to combine rugged versatility with reliable performance in your aircraft. cessna 185s are highly revered by flying enthusiasts and adventure pilots because they offer excellent STOL ability and flexibility over most operating environments. The guide aims to discuss the necessary considerations, key features, and tips while purchasing to find the perfect one among those cessnas for sale.
Overview of the cessna 185
The Cessna 185, known as the “Skywagon,” is a very high-wing, single-engine power, endurance, and even backcountry capability aircraft. Since its introduction in 1960, it became popular fast due to its reliability as an easy workhouse that the aircraft could take on tough lands and variable weather condotions; with a spacious cabin where six passengers can be fitted according to configuration, such as personal or commercial use.
Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specifications |
| First Introduced | 1960 |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 6 |
| Engine Type | Continental IO-520-D or F |
| Horsepower | 300 HP |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 3,350 lbs |
| Range | Approximately 700 miles |
| Cruise Speed | 145-155 mph |
| Landing Gear | Tricycle (Amphibious optional) |
Why buy cessna 185 for sale?
Buying a cessna 185 for sale gives access to an unusual combination of capabilities ideal for recreational flying, remote travel, and versatile operations. Here is why many pilots like to have this model:
- Outstanding Performance:
The 300-horsepower cessna 185 gives out the luxury of great power, allowing the aircraft to climb sharply and still clear short take-off and landing distances easily. It can perform in tough conditions over unpaved airstrips because of its impressive performance.
- Amphibious Design option:
The cessna 185 is amphibious, meaning it can take off or land on both land and water with optional amphibious, floats. This characteristic makes the aircraft a popular favorite in the bush-pilot type of operation and in general across operators in remote regions for which access to standardized airstrips is limited.
- Durability classic:
This cessna 185 was built with the rigors of the demanding environments often encountered It is truly an airframe classic, built to be rugged for a long life to serve as a good, durable investment.
- Ample Interiors:
With its spacious cabin, it holds the potential to easily restructuring the seating and cargo arrangements. This aircraft can take up to six passengers so can be used in private, business, and rescue operations.
Guide to finding the right cessna 185 for sale
When you are ready to buy, a few criteria will ensure you find the right cessna 185 for your needs and expectations.
1. Aircraft condition
The condition of any aircraft varies with use, age, and maintenance. Here’s what you should look for when searching for a cessna 185 for sale:
- Engine Hours: Generally speaking, lower engine hours translate to less wear. Make sure to look at the overall time on the engine as well as any recent overhauls.
- Airframe: Inspect the airframe for corrosion or damage, especially in older aircraft. If the aircraft has had a history of landing in a rough field, the airframe will require closer attention.
- Modifications and Upgrades: Some cessna 185s are equipped with higher avionics or different fuel tanks, or even fitted with amphibious floats. Those might add to functionality or make it more convenient to operate but increase the price at the same time.
2. Maintenance history
A thorough maintenance history is essential when evaluating a cessna 185. Look for:
- Periodic Inspections: The aircraft had the annual inspections that require under the FAA for assured safety and longevity.
- Detailed Logbooks: Detail engine, airframe and all major repairs and modification records.
- Avionics and Equipment Updates: Upgrades in avionic and equipment are current? Usually older models require an overhaul of the equipment for additional safety and efficiency.
| Maintenance Checklist | Considerations |
| Engine Hours | Lower hours are generally preferred |
| Airframe Condition | Look for signs of corrosion |
| Maintenance Logbooks | Complete records are essential |
| Avionics and Equipment Updates | Necessary for safety and modern functionality |
3. Performance requirements
When flying into tight backcountry strips or crossing long distances, there is a need to match the desired application with the appropriate features of a cessna 185 for sale.
- Payload Capacity: When multiple passengers or cargo are part of the plans, this feature is key.
- Landing Gear Options: Some versions of the cessna 185 are fitted with amphibious gear that enables landing on water. This is highly beneficial to pilots who intend to cover huge lakes or bodies of water.
- Fuel Range: cessna 185 ranges around 700 miles. It can very comfortably carry regional flights. There are other variants, though, that offer more fuel for a larger range.
Where to search for a cessna 185 for sale
You can easily locate cessna 185 on sale using a multitude of websites and other sources. The ones mentioned below are pretty reliable and efficient to consider:
1. Online Aviation Marketplaces: Sources like Controller.com and Trade-A-Plane feature long, richly detailed lists that one can narrow by year.
2. Aviation Auction: Occasionally, eBay will have a cessna 185 up for auction. However, you need to be extremely cautious with auctions because the conditions of aircraft can vary immensely.
3. Certified Aircraft Dealers: Many certified aircraft dealers have a cessna 185 model they sell. Of course, the benefit with them is the pre-owned certified status of the aircraft.
4. Pilot Forums and Communities: Websites such as AVweb and Backcountry Pilots allow one to buy, sell, and trade aircraft and also to discuss them. Classified ads and community recommendations are valuable.
Cessna 185 for Sale: Cost and value breakdown
Pricing for a cessna 185 varies greatly based on condition, modifications, and year of manufacture. Here’s an estimated price range to help you budget:
| Condition | Price Range |
| Older, well-maintained | $130,000 – $180,000 |
| Mid-condition | $180,000 – $240,000 |
| Recently refurbished | $240,000 – $300,000+ |
| Amphibious (float modification) | Additional $30,000 – $50,000 |
These price points can fluctuate based on demand and availability, so it’s worth monitoring listings over time to find the best value.
Aircraft pre-purchase Inspection
It is a prudent approach when you are out shopping for any cessna 185 on the market. This will serve as a closer look at evaluating how functional, safe and sound, and well-maintained the aircraft is to your inspection.
1. Engine and Propeller review: Inspect for oil leakage or abnormal wear and tear showing a breakdown of the engines. These are costly components if anything goes wrong with an engine.
2. Avionics Review: The avionics system must be up-to-date enough. An old system might need an upgrade to get it up to code and safe.
3. Landing Gear and Float Inspection: For models with amphibious gear models, inspect both the wheels and floats for tear or damage. Amphibious gear replacement is very costly.
Common Modifications and upgrades for the cessna 185
Many owners choose to modify their cessna185to enhance performance, comfort, and safety. Here are some popular upgrades that can improve the flying experience:
1. Avionics Upgrades: An up-to-date avionic system greatly enhances navigation and, consequently, safety and communication. These encompass: GPS systems, autopilot, and ADS-B compliance.
2. Extended Fuel Tanks: A big tank is good if one is flying over long distances or isolated areas such that one may not always be able to stop anywhere to refuel.
3. Enhanced Interiors: For those areas where comfort is going to be the order of the day for passengers who do not mind the long-hour flight, seats damping of sound, and enhanced interior trim make the Cessna 185 much more comfortable aircraft.
4. Float or Amphibious Gear: Adding floats or amphibious landing gear will give you the option of landing on water, but also opens up the capability of landing on varied terrain.
Conclusion | Is the Cessna 185 your ideal aircraft?
The best cessna 185 should have power, reliability, and the capability to land off-airport-a real winner for any pilot. Using this guide, you now have all the information you need to look at your options with confidence and choose the right cessna 185 for you. From versatile landing gear to a robust build, the cessna 185 remains one of those aircraft cherished by those who value exploration and adventure in the skies.
FAQs
1. Is a cessna 185 suitable for inexperienced pilots, or is it better for more seasoned pilots?
The cessna 185 is a versatile aircraft, but it is rather potent and demanding for the less-experienced pilot. It is generally used by pilots with experience who have flown tailwheel airplanes.
2. How much does a cessna 185 cost to maintain per year?
Annual maintenance for a cessna 185 ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 depending on usage, condition, and modifications.
3. Can floats be installed on any model of cessna 185 or only certain models?
While several cessna 185s can be used with floats, it would be good to note that the majority would need some adaptations or certification for amphibious landing gear.
