Aircraft

Jon Kuehler
Contact information pending.
Aircraft Summary
  • If you've been searching for a Tri-Pacer

  • This beautifully flying 1953 Piper PA-22 has been upgraded where it matters most. Equipped with a 150 HP Lycoming O-320, it delivers the performance these airplanes always deserved-strong climb, better cruise, and the confidence to operate comfortably in real-world conditions. Paired with metalized wings, this aircraft eliminates one of the biggest concerns in legacy fabric airplanes, giving you durability, peace of mind, and long-term value.

  • With 3168 total time and a healthy 773 SMOH, this airplane is actively flying and ready to go. It starts easy, runs smooth, and flies exactly how a good short-wing Piper should-honest, stable, and fun. Whether you're looking for a dependable weekend flyer, a backcountry-capable machine, or a time-builder with personality, this aircraft checks the boxes.

  • The panel is straightforward and functional, keeping things simple and reliable, while the interior and exterior present as clean and serviceable-an excellent balance between usability and value without paying for unnecessary cosmetics.

  • Tri-Pacers like this-with both the 150 HP upgrade AND metal wings-are increasingly hard to find. This is a rare opportunity to own a significantly improved version of a classic aircraft without stepping into the price range of newer platforms.

  • Turn-key, flying, and ready for its next owner.
  • Avionics / Equipment
  • Clean, simple, reliable panel
  • Basic VFR configuration
  • Ideal platform for future upgrades or keep-it-simple flying


    Airframe:
  • 1953 Piper PA-22 Tri-Pacer
  • Total Time: 3168 TT
  • Metalized Wings (major upgrade - durability & reduced maintenance)
  • Actively flying / in annual
  • Straight, honest airframe
  • Clean, classic short-wing Piper handling
  • All logs
  • 4-place configuration


    Engines:
  • Lycoming O-320 (150 HP conversion)
  • 773 SMOH
  • Strong running engine with excellent performance for this airframe
  • Easy starts, smooth operation
  • Significant performance upgrade over stock 135 HP models
Interior
  • Clean and serviceable
Exterior
  • Presents well, classic appearance
  • Fabric fuselage in good usable condition
    • Remarks
    • Overall: Honest airplane-not over-restored, not worn out
    • 150 HP performance + metal wings = highly desirable combination
    • Lower ownership risk vs fabric-wing aircraft
    • Great useful load and short-field capability
    • Excellent time-builder or weekend flyer
    • Simple systems = low operating cost
    • Rare upgraded Tri-Pacer configuration