Cessna 140: Definition, Specifications, Cockpit, Difference

Cessna 140 is a single-engine light aircraft designed for general aviation purposes. Cessna 140 features a cockpit configured for pilot and passenger seating with flight equipment. The aircraft integrates specifications including weight, wing design, and engine type to provide optimal performance. Cessna 140 incorporates a propeller system and manual controls for efficient flight operations. Understand Cessna 140's model differences, aviation function, and technical attributes.

The Cessna 140 has a length of 21 feet 6 inches (6.55 meters) and a wingspan of 33 feet 4 inches (10.16 meters). A Continental C-85 engine powers the aircraft, delivering 85 horsepower. The maximum speed reaches 125 mph (201 km/h), while the cruise speed averages 105 mph (169 km/h). The aircraft operates with a conventional tailwheel landing gear configuration, maintaining stability during takeoff and landing. Early models feature fabric-covered wings, while later versions incorporate all-metal wings for increased durability.

The cockpit of the Cessna 140 includes an enclosed cabin with side-by-side seating. Dual controls allow both the pilot and co-pilot to manage the aircraft. The main control panel groups important flight instruments, including the altimeter, airspeed indicator, and attitude indicator. Systems gauges are positioned below the main panel, while fuel gauges locate in the wing roots. A red segment on the fuel gauge indicates low fuel levels. The control yoke placement ensures intuitive handling, and trim controls include a large, rubber-rimmed wheel for elevator adjustments.

The Cessna 140 differs from the Cessna 150 through its simpler design and traditional taildragger configuration. The Cessna 150 features a tricycle landing gear setup and a more robust aerodynamic framework. The Cessna 140 equips with an 85 hp Continental C-85 engine, while the Cessna 150 offers increased engine power and advanced avionics. Structural modifications in the Cessna 150 replace fabric with light-gauge aluminum, enhancing durability and performance.

Replacing the panel in a Cessna 140 involves grounding the aircraft and turning off the ignition. Pre-removal preparations include disconnecting the battery to prevent electrical hazards. Wiring diagram schematics identify electrical connections, and labeling ensures proper reassembly. Replacement panel assembly matches original dimensions to ensure compatibility with existing components. Certified aircraft technicians perform the work, adhering to FAA airworthiness directives. Post-installation system functionality tests confirm correct operation, and airworthiness standards verify final checks.

What is the Cessna 140?

The Cessna 140 is a single-engine light aircraft designed by the Cessna Aircraft Company, featuring a conventional tailwheel landing gear configuration and known for its affordability, making it ideal for training and personal flying. The Cessna 140 accommodates two seats, configured for one pilot and one passenger, making it a compact yet functional two-seater cabin airplane. Produced by the Cessna Aircraft Company from 1946 to 1951, the aircraft features a fixed conventional tailwheel landing gear setup, augmenting its durability and reliability. With a length of 21 ft 6 in (6.55 m) and a wingspan of 33 ft 4 in (10.16 m), the Cessna 140 provides stability and excellent visibility during flight. Powered by a Continental C-85 engine producing 85 horsepower (63 kW), the aircraft achieves a maximum speed of 125 mph (201 km/h) and a cruise speed of 105 mph (169 km/h). The Cessna 140’s affordability and performance make it a popular choice for both training and personal flying.

The Cessna 140 aircraft features a two-seat cabin configuration with a compact design, making it suitable for both pilot training and personal flying. The tailwheel aircraft landing gear, known as conventional landing gear, distinguishes the Cessna 140 from tricycle gear models like the Cessna 150. This configuration provides increased stability on the ground and during takeoff and landing. The aircraft belongs to the light aircraft category, offering simplicity and affordability while maintaining reliable performance in the general aviation segment.

The Continental C-85 engine powers the Cessna 140 aircraft, delivering 85 horsepower (63 kW) through its piston-driven propulsion system. Some Cessna 140A models utilize a Continental C-90 engine with identical horsepower output. The Cessna 140 achieves a maximum speed of 125 mph (201 km/h) and cruises at 105 mph (169 km/h). These performance metrics highlight the aircraft’s efficiency and capability for short to medium-distance flights. The Cessna 140 piston engine ensures smooth operation and consistent reliability during flight.

The high-wing design enhances the aircraft’s aerodynamic properties while providing pilots with unobstructed views during flight. Early models feature fabric-covered wings, which reduce weight and enhance roll characteristics, while later versions incorporate all-metal wings for added strength and durability. The Cessna 140 wing design reflects the manufacturer’s commitment to versatility and functionality.

The aircraft’s affordability and ease of handling make it a popular choice for flight training and recreational flying. The Cessna 140 cabin accommodates one pilot and one passenger, prioritizing practicality and efficient use of space. Pilots appreciate the straightforward controls and excellent visibility provided by the aircraft’s design.

What are the specifications of the Cessna 140?

The specifications of the Cessna 140 are given in the table below.

The Cessna 140 exhibits compact overall dimensions, featuring a length of 21 feet 6 inches (6.55 meters), a wingspan of 33 feet 4 inches (10.16 meters), and a height of 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters). These measurements emphasize its efficient design customized for light aviation purposes. Such performance makes the Cessna 140 suitable for short-field operations. Climb performance and service ceiling further demonstrate the Cessna 140’s capabilities. This engine performance supports the aircraft’s effective range and practical applications in flight training and personal flying. The combination of engine power, cruise speed, and fuel efficiency ensures the Cessna 140 remains a dependable choice for pilots operating within general aviation environments.

What engine is used in the Cessna 140?

The engine used in the Cessna 140 is the Continental C-85-12 or C-85-12F, manufactured by Continental Motors. The Continental C-85-12 and C-85-12F engines are horizontally opposed, air-cooled, four-cylinder piston engines. The Continental C-85 engine produces 85 horsepower (63 kW) at 2,575 rpm, enabling the aircraft to achieve a maximum speed of 125 mph (201 km/h) and a cruise speed of 105 mph (169 km/h). The engine features a bore of 4.0625 inches (103 mm) and a stroke of 3.625 inches (92 mm). The compression ratio of the Continental C-85 engine is 6.3:1 with a displacement of 188 cubic inches (3.1 liters). The dry weight of the Continental C-85 engine is 180 pounds (81 kg). The power output ensures efficient performance for general aviation use while maintaining a balance between speed and fuel consumption.

What is the cruise speed of a Cessna 140?

The cruise speed of a Cessna 140 is 105 mph (169 km/h or 91 kt). Factors like weight, altitude, and weather conditions cause variations in speeds between 95 (152.88 km/h) and 120 (193.12 km/h) mph for light aircraft like the Cessna 140.

The Cessna 140 achieves a typical cruise speed of 90 knots (166.68 kilometers per hour) at 75% power within the altitude range of 2,000 (609.6 meters) to 6,000 (1,828.8 meters) feet AGL. Pilots regard this altitude range optimal for both efficiency and comfort during flight operations. Altitude and power settings directly influence the aircraft's performance, with lower altitudes and reduced power settings resulting in decreased speeds. Higher power settings increase cruise speed up to 110 mph (177 km/h), while lower power settings reduce it to 100 mph (161 km/h) under optimal conditions.

Observed speeds vary from the manufacturer specifications. Pilots report a cruise speed of 88 knots under conditions similar to those yielding 90 knots. Variations in weight, altitude, and weather conditions cause cruise speeds to fluctuate between 95 mph (152.88 km/h) and 120 mph (193.12 km/h). Practical operations maintain speeds within this range, assuring stable and efficient performance. The Cessna 140 cruise speed aligns closely with its design for low-altitude and short-distance missions.

What is the range of a Cessna 140?

The range of a Cessna 140 aircraft is 450 statute miles (724 kilometers) or 390 nautical miles (722 kilometers) under optimal conditions. Factors like fuel capacity and weight affect the range of the Cessna 140 aircraft.

The Cessna 140 achieves a range of 450 statute miles (720 kilometers) under optimal cruising conditions. Ideal conditions include minimal headwinds, efficient fuel consumption, and reduced power settings. These factors contribute to maximizing the aircraft's potential range. Flying at a speed of 100 knots indicated airspeed (kias) ensures best efficiency, yielding a range of 390 nautical miles (722 kilometers). Extended range operations with a 25-gallon fuel tank and 55% power utilization extend the Cessna 140's range to 500 statute miles (800 kilometers).

In practical scenarios, the typical operational range of the Cessna 140 is 360 nautical miles. This range reflects variations caused by pilot techniques, weather conditions, and payload weight. Altitude, temperature, and wind direction influence the aircraft's performance. The standard fuel capacity of 21 gallons (79.5 liters) limits the range to around 390 nautical miles (722.3 kilometers) under normal conditions.

The 90-hp Continental engine in the Cessna 140A enhances the aircraft's cruising range to 724 kilometers (447 statute miles). Engine efficiency directly impacts overall performance, enabling the aircraft to achieve longer distances. The Cessna 120, equipped with an 85-hp engine, exhibits lower range capabilities due to its smaller powerplant. Configuration options and operational adjustments determine the range differences between the Cessna 120 and Cessna 140.

What does the Cessna 140 cockpit look like?

The Cessna 140 cockpit looks like an enclosed cabin with side-by-side seating, dual controls, and a main instrument panel featuring flight instruments grouped for easy viewing. Dual controls enhance operational flexibility, allowing both the pilot and co-pilot to manage the aircraft efficiently. The main instrument panel groups principal flight instruments, including the altimeter, airspeed indicator, and attitude indicator, for optimal visibility. Systems gauges are positioned below the main panel, providing access to engine and electrical performance data, while the switch panel organization follows a "piano keyboard" style for efficient access to electrical systems. Fuel gauges located in the wing roots feature a red segment to indicate low fuel levels, providing clear monitoring during flights. The control yoke is strategically placed in front of the pilot, enabling intuitive aircraft handling.

The cockpit layout arrangement prioritizes pilot seating comfort and adjustability, although the vintage design limits extensive adjustments. The side-by-side seating arrangement enhances communication and operational flexibility, with dual controls allowing both the pilot and co-pilot to manage the aircraft. The radio stack layout features a compact design to minimize clutter and optimize space usage.

The control yoke positioning ensures intuitive handling, with its design allowing precise input from either the pilot or co-pilot. Trim controls positioning includes a large, rubber-rimmed wheel for elevator trim adjustments, marked with a white pointer to indicate the current setting. Trim controls accessibility is reached by placing the wheel within easy reach of the pilot. The engine instrumentation integration provides fundamental readouts: RPM, oil pressure, and temperature, positioned below the main panel for clear visibility. Fuel gauge indicators in the wing roots feature a red segment to signal low fuel levels, facilitating monitoring during flights.

The circuit breakers layout is organized at the bottom of the control panel, offering a centralized and accessible location for managing electrical circuits. Circuit breakers design emphasizes safety and ease of maintenance, with all components neatly arranged for quick identification and operation. The cockpit layout ergonomics focus on creating a functional layout, guaranteeing that all controls, gauges, and switches are within optimal reach for the pilot.

What is the difference between a Cessna 140 and a Cessna 150?

The difference between a Cessna 140 and a Cessna 150 is explained in the table below.

Structural modifications like "metalizing" the wings became common upgrades, replacing fabric with light-gauge aluminum for better durability. Aircraft model evolution design highlights the transition from the Cessna 140’s simpler design to the more robust and aerodynamic framework of the Cessna 150. Performance enhancements and speed improvements are evident when comparing the two models. The Cessna 140 is equipped with an 85 hp Continental C-85 engine, while optional upgrades include a 90 hp Continental C-90 or a 108 hp Lycoming O-235 engine. Cockpit configuration differences and instrumentation layout distinguish the two aircraft. Landing gear design impacts ground handling . Structural modifications, frame alterations and wing redesign in the Cessna 150 further contribute to its superior handling characteristics compared to the Cessna 140.

The difference between a Cessna 140 and a Cessna 150 is that the Cessna 140 represents a traditional design with basic instrumentation, while the Cessna 150 offers a modernized cockpit with increased engine power and advanced avionics.

What is the process for replacing the panel on a Cessna 140?

The process for replacing the panel on a Cessna 140 is outlined below.

• Cessna 140 pre-removal preparations: Grounding the aircraft, turning off the ignition, and disconnecting the battery to guarantee safety and prevent electrical hazards during panel replacement.
• Cessna 140 wiring diagram schematics: Identification and labeling of all electrical connections using maintenance manual procedures to avoid errors during reassembly.
• Cessna 140 replacement panel assembly specifications: Assuring the new panel matches original dimensions and material for compatibility with existing components like gauges and switches.
• Cessna 140 FAA airworthiness directives compliance: Verifying adherence to applicable regulations throughout the replacement process to maintain the aircraft’s airworthiness.
• Cessna 140 certified aircraft technician certification: Involving a certified technician to perform or supervise the work, as per safety standards and proper functionality of the new panel.
• Cessna 140 electrical system testing equipment diagnostics: Conducting connection testing and troubleshooting to address potential issues before and after installation.
• Cessna 140 instrument panel assembly layout: Reassembling components according to maintenance manual checklists to assure proper fitment and accessibility.
• Cessna 140 post-installation system functionality tests: Performing final checks to confirm all components operate correctly and meet airworthiness standards.
• Cessna 140 service bulletin updates: Consulting revisions and updates to address model year or configuration differences that may affect the replacement process.
• Cessna 140 panel replacement tools: Using specialized tools for precise removal and installation to prevent damage to surrounding components.

The sequential procedure for replacing the panel on a Cessna 140 begins with pre-removal preparations. These diagrams guide the technician in systematically disconnecting wires to prevent errors during reassembly. Core tools for the task include screwdrivers, wire strippers, and multimeters, all of which are outlined in the Cessna 140 maintenance manual instructions. Additional materials including fasteners, adhesives, and insulation for wiring protection are prepared to secure the new panel and maintain electrical integrity. Adherence to FAA airworthiness directives regulations prevents electrical faults or shorts during reassembly and testing. Troubleshooting addresses loose connections, malfunctioning instruments, or improper fitment. Final inspection ensures compliance with airworthiness standards, verifying that all parts are securely fastened and accessible. Replacement panel assembly compatibility ensures seamless integration with the aircraft’s electrical and avionic systems, maintaining safety and performance.

The process for replacing the panel on a Cessna 140 involves meticulous attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and compliance with FAA regulations. The pre-removal checklist ensures the aircraft is grounded and the ignition turned off. Wiring diagram schematics identify all electrical connections to prevent faults or shorts during installation. Replacement panel assembly specifications match the original panel's dimensions and material, providing compatibility with existing components. FAA airworthiness directives compliance verifies adherence to all applicable regulations for the Cessna 140 model. A certified aircraft technician certification performs the work to maintain safety standards and proper functionality of the new panel.

Where can I find a Cessna 140 for sale?

You can find a Cessna 140 for sale on online aircraft marketplaces like Trade-A-Plane or Controller.com, where listings are updated daily. Controller.com features Cessna 140 listings starting at $37,500, providing comprehensive market data for buyers. Barnstormers lists a 1946 Cessna 140 priced at $37,800, equipped with a Continental C85 engine and modern upgrades like LED lights and ADS-B out. Aircraft for Sale includes a 1946 model for $37,500, detailing airframe and engine hours for transparency. These platforms allow users to filter by model, year, and price to ensure precise search results. Aviation auction platforms like eBay occasionally list Cessna 140 aircraft, offering competitive bidding opportunities.

Aircraft dealerships inventory includes a range of models, featuring older aircraft like the Cessna 140. Dealerships are located in regions with high aviation activity, including Florida, California, and Texas. Reputation plays a key role in selecting a dealership, as buyers prioritize businesses with proven track records, transparent practices, and positive customer reviews. Aircraft dealerships provide detailed maintenance records and assure the aircraft meets industry standards before listing.

Aviation auction platforms occasionally feature Cessna 140 aircraft, offering competitive environments for purchasing. Buyers participate in aviation auction platforms bidding after conducting thorough inspections or hiring professionals to evaluate the aircraft. Auctions require strategic planning to secure the aircraft at favorable prices while guaranteeing all conditions and specifications align with buyer expectations.

Aircraft classified advertisements detail Cessna 140 specifications, condition, and pricing, providing clear contact details for direct communication with sellers. Classified ads appear on websites like Barnstormers and in local aviation newsletters, providing accessibility for potential buyers. Cessna owners associations networking connects enthusiasts and facilitates private sales through referrals and shared resources. Members of Cessna owners associations provide firsthand insights into aircraft condition and market value for buyer confidence. The Cessna 140 was a popular model from the 1940s, known for its taildragger configuration and affordability, making it a sought-after choice among pilots.

What is the price of a Cessna 140?

The price of a Cessna 140 depends on its condition, age, and specific features offered. A basic flyable Cessna 140 starts at $15,000. The low-end price for standard models begins at $37,500. Well-maintained Cessna 140A models reach up to $35,000. Low-time airframe classics are priced around $27,000. The general price range spans from $25,000 to $55,000 depending on features and condition.

The pricing tiers for a Cessna 140 reflect its condition and features. A bare-bones flyable model starts at $15,000, offering a cost-effective entry point for vintage aircraft enthusiasts. The low-end price for standard models begins at $37,500, providing a balance of functionality and affordability. A notable example includes a beautifully maintained Cessna 140 with a Continental 85 hp engine, priced at $37,800 after a recent reduction from $38,800. Well-maintained Cessna 140A models reach up to $35,000, showcasing the value of proper upkeep. Low-time airframe classics are priced around $27,000, appealing to buyers seeking robust performance.

International markets present higher-end pricing examples for the Cessna 140. A 1946 model in Germany lists for €45,000, equivalent to $49,000 USD, while another similar model is priced at €55,000, or roughly $61,000 USD. Currency conversion is evident in a listing at CAD $52,000, which translates to $37,800 USD. These figures highlight how location and market dynamics influence the overall price range of the aircraft.