1956-1962 Cessna 172 & 175 - Illustrated Parts Catalog for Service & Repair Excellence

Cessna Model 172 & 175 Parts Catalog - 1956-1962

This technical publication provides exhaustive part identification and assembly indexing for the Cessna 172 and 175 series aircraft produced between 1956 and 1962. It incorporates a specialized "Usable On" coding system to manage the high degree of part variability found across multiple production years and model transitions. Proper utilization of the Finish and Trim Plate codes, located on the left rear door post, is critical for ensuring the procurement of color-specific upholstery and exterior paint components.

Technical Applicability & Serial Ranges

Cessna Model 172 Series

• 1956: 28000 thru 29174
• 1957: 29175 thru 36215
• 1958: 36216 thru 36965
• 1959: 36966 thru 46754
• 1960: 46755 thru 47746

Cessna Model 172 & Skyhawk

• 1961: 17247747 thru 17248734
• 1962: 17248735 thru 17249544

Cessna Model 175 Series

• 1958: 55001 thru 55703
• 1959: 55704 thru 56238

Cessna Model 175 & Skylark

• 1960: 56239 thru 56777
• 1961: 17556778 thru 17557002
• 1962: 17557003 thru 17557119

Operational Support & Efficiency Proof Points

• Systematic Identification: Cross-referenced numerical and alphabetical indices facilitate rapid component location within complex system architectures.
• Maintenance Precision: Integration of Cessna Standard, AN, and NAS hardware numbers ensures that all attaching parts meet original factory aviation safety standards.
• Retrofit Clarity: Detailed accessory kit (AK) listings define the technical requirements for field-installed enhancements.
• Interchangeability Mapping: Serialized "when exhausted use" notations prevent the procurement of obsolete components while streamlining distributor inventory management.

Document Metadata

• Publication Number: P257-12
• Initial Release: February 15, 1963
• Latest Revision: January 22, 1995 (Temporary Revision No. 2)

Component Architecture & System Benchmarks

This catalog employs an indented nomenclature system to illustrate the physical relationship between major assemblies, sub-assemblies, and detail parts. For instance, the wing assembly (Level 1) contains the wing structure (Level 2), which is further decomposed into specific ribs, spars, and skins. This hierarchical mapping is essential for technical personnel to understand load-bearing structures and fastener requirements across different model years.

Visual Navigation Aids

• Exploded View Illustrations: High-fidelity technical drawings utilize keyed index numbers to provide positive identification for every replaceable item.
• Grouping Logic: Left and right-hand assemblies are illustrated together to highlight commonalities and differentiate unique mirrored components.
• System Schematics: Specialized sections cover everything from the flight control cable routing to the complex electrical bus and fuse holder locations.

Table of Contents

• Alphabetical Index: Comprehensive listing of all assemblies and sub-components.
• Introduction: Definitions of symbols, serial listings, and "Usable On" codes.
• Finish & Trim Data: Paint and upholstery combination charts by model year.
• Wing Group: Structure, leading edge, spars, flaps, and ailerons.
• Empennage Group: Fin, dorsal, stabilizer, elevator, and rudder installations.
• Fuselage Group: Front, center, and aft sections; windshield, doors, and upholstery.
• Alighting Gear: Nose gear, main gear, wheels, brakes, and speed fairings.
• Powerplant Group: Engine installation, cowls, baffles, exhaust, and fuel systems.
• Instruments & Systems: Control tees, autopilot (Tactair), oxygen, and vacuum systems.
• Electrical: Lighting, battery, and distribution hardware.
• Numerical Index: Master part number cross-reference list.

Operational Limits & Technical Specifications

• Fastener Standards: Extensive use of AN8, MS20365, and NAS228 technical fasteners across critical wing-to-fuselage attachment points.
• Electrical Protection: Defined fuse ratings including 2 Amp (Clock), 10 Amp, 15 Amp, and 20 Amp (Master) circuits.
• Fluid Interface: Specified fuel system gaskets and adapter assemblies (e.g., 0523532, AN90284) required for leak-free tank installation.
• Aerodynamic Seals: Specific callouts for bulk items such as S-202RB rubber channel moulding and asbestos rub strips for firewall integrity.

FAQ

Which specific aircraft models and production years are covered by this parts catalog? This technical publication applies to the Cessna Model 172 series from 1956 through 1960 (serial numbers 28000 thru 47746), the Model 172 Skyhawk for 1961 and 1962 (serial numbers 17247747 thru 17249544), the Model 175 series from 1958 and 1959 (serial numbers 55001 thru 56238), and the Model 175 Skylark from 1960 through 1962 (serial numbers 56239 thru 17557119).

How does the manual distinguish between original and redesigned components for the nose gear assembly? The documentation provides specific hardware variances for the nose gear installation based on the forging number of the fork assembly. For aircraft equipped with the original nose gear fork (Forging No. 1243004-497), specific attaching bolts such as the AN5-33A or AN5-51A are required, whereas the redesigned nose gear fork (Forging No. 0543043-498) necessitates different serial-specific parts to maintain structural integrity.

Does this catalog provide details on specialized systems like fuel venting or oxygen installations? Yes, the manual includes detailed system architectures for auxiliary installations, such as the 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch vent line assemblies for the fuel system. It specifically notes that when ordering vent lines for aircraft serials 28000 thru 28918, a specialized kit (SK 172-7) must also be included to meet the factory technical requirements.

What specific maintenance insight is provided for identifying the correct interior and exterior trim parts? Technicians must reference the Finish and Trim Plate located on the left rear door post, directly below the M.A.A. name plate. This plate contains a sequence of alphanumeric codes, such as 6-AD-3-GH, where each segment defines a specific factory benchmark for model year, exterior lacquer or vinyl paint color, and interior upholstery schemes like Parchment White or Shadow Blue.

What are the technical advantages of utilizing this digital parts catalog for aircraft repairs? The digital format allows for instantaneous navigation to critical illustrated parts breakdowns, such as Figure 13 for stabilizer installations or Figure 10 for flap systems. Users can rapidly identify precise part numbers like the MS20365-1032C nut or the 0523537-2 flap push-pull rod, and print specific high-resolution schematics directly for use in the hangar, ensuring parts accuracy without the risk of manual transcription errors.