Franklin 165

How to keep the Cessna 170 flying and airworthy.

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TFA170
Posts: 132
Joined: Tue Jan 26, 2016 3:18 am

Franklin 165

Post by TFA170 »

I was looking up some info about something else and stumbled upon a post claiming the Franklin 165 was listed in the TCDS, so I checked the TCDS and it is indeed listed as an optional engine for the 170!

A quick wikipedia search shows about a 40lb difference in listed dry weights, but I have no idea if those are comparable weights or not...I'd have thought it would be heavier still.

Does anyone here have a 170 with a Franklin in it?
hilltop170
Posts: 3481
Joined: Sat May 06, 2006 6:05 pm

Re: Franklin 165

Post by hilltop170 »

There are still a few out there but I don't think anyone will ever convert any other engine over to a Franklin. The expense and varied problems with the Franklin would not be worth it.
Richard Pulley
2014-2016 TIC170A Past President
1951 170A, N1715D, s/n 20158, O-300D
Owned from 1973 to 1984.
Bought again in 2006 after 22 years.
It's not for sale!
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beaverbill
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Joined: Sat Feb 03, 2007 7:58 am

Re: Franklin 165

Post by beaverbill »

I recently flew a 1952 B model with the 165 Franklin engine. Interestingly enough, that particular airplane was converted to the Franklin when it was only about 6 months old. Apparently the owner specifically wanted that engine "upgrade". And, 65 years later it is still motoring along.
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ghostflyer
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Re: Franklin 165

Post by ghostflyer »

Many years ago we had a bell 47 with a franklin engine in it and it was really reliable .a little under powered but left lycoming behind in reliabity. However obtaining parts was spasmodic and the aircraft was refitted with a Lycoming engine .About 5 years ago I saw a Cessna 170b with a 220hp franklin fitted . I was told it went like a rocket ship. Again they had issues with parts and where they were going to be built .this aircraft was painted a bright yellow so I am sure other members would have seen it also .
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