U0550236-8 – Univair FAA-PMA Spinner Dome for Cessna 172 Vintage
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Overview
The Univair U0550236-8 is an FAA-PMA approved, high-quality propeller spinner dome, expertly crafted as a direct replacement for the original Cessna part on vintage Cessna 172 models (1968-1976). Manufactured by Univair Aircraft Corporation, a trusted leader in supporting legacy general aviation aircraft, this spinner dome is precision-formed from high-strength Alclad aluminum. It is designed to restore the original aerodynamic profile and aesthetic of the aircraft's propeller hub, providing a reliable and airworthy solution for replacing cracked, dented, or corroded original spinners.
This spinner replaces the original Textron Cessna OEM 0550236-8 spinner and is the only option if you are flying a Cessna 172H or 1966 or 1967 model year aircraft. Textron offered a service kit (SK172-156A) which allowed the use of a Textron Cessna OEM propeller but the 1966 and 1967 aircraft were removed from that SK under the SNL03-9R1 (Service News Letter) leaving this option as the only option if you are flying those two year models of the 172.
Key Features
- Aerodynamic Efficiency: The smooth, conical shape of the spinner reduces parasitic drag by streamlining the airflow around the bulky propeller hub and into the engine cowling, which can contribute to improved engine cooling and slight gains in airspeed.
- High-Strength Aluminum Construction: Fabricated from 2024-T3 Alclad Aluminum, a high-strength, copper-alloyed aluminum sheet with a surface layer of high-purity aluminum. This provides the structural integrity to withstand aerodynamic loads and propeller vibration while offering excellent corrosion resistance.
- Precision Formed: Each spinner dome is formed on precision tooling to ensure a perfect, uniform shape and an exact match to the original Cessna design. This guarantees proper fitment with the front and rear spinner bulkheads.
- Direct PMA Replacement: A certified FAA-PMA direct replacement for Cessna P/N 0550236-8, guaranteeing perfect form, fit, and function, providing an airworthy and cost-effective alternative to sourcing scarce original parts.
- Made in the USA: Proudly manufactured in the USA by Univair, a company with a long-standing reputation for quality and dedication to keeping classic aircraft flying safely.
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: U0550236-8
- Manufacturer: Univair Aircraft Corporation
- Component Type: Propeller Spinner Dome
- Material: 2024-T3 Alclad Aluminum
- OEM Replacement for: Cessna P/N 0550236-8
- Required Components: Requires front and rear bulkheads (e.g., Univair P/N U0550236-6 and U0550236-5) and attaching screws for complete assembly.
- Certification: FAA-PMA
Aircraft Compatibility
The Univair U0550236-8 is specifically designed and certified for a distinct era of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk. It is imperative to verify applicability based on the aircraft model year and serial number.
- Primary Aircraft Models:
- Cessna 172 series (covering model years 1968 through 1976)
- 172G
- 172H
- 172I
- 172K
- 172L
- 172M
- 172N
- 172P
- 172Q
- F172G
- F172H
- F172K
- F172L
- F172M
- F172N
- F172P
Applications
The U0550236-8 is the ideal solution for critical propeller hub maintenance and restoration:
- Spinner Replacement: The primary component for replacing a spinner dome that has been damaged by ground strikes, hail, or has developed cracks from metal fatigue.
- Aircraft Restoration: An essential part for any cosmetic or structural restoration of a vintage Cessna 172, restoring its original appearance.
- Safety & Compliance: Replacing a cracked spinner is a mandatory airworthiness item, as a failure in flight could cause the departing spinner to strike the airframe, propeller, or windscreen with catastrophic results.
Why Choose U0550236-8?
Finding high-quality, airworthy parts for vintage aircraft can be a challenge. Univair specializes in this very niche, providing FAA-PMA approved parts that meet or exceed the quality of the originals. The U0550236-8 spinner dome allows owners of classic Cessna 172s to replace a critical component with a brand-new, perfectly formed, and fully certified part. This eliminates the risks associated with installing a used part with an unknown history or a non-certified component, ensuring the safety, value, and beauty of your aircraft.
Order Your Univair U0550236-8 Spinner Dome Now
Restore the original look and aerodynamic efficiency of your classic Cessna with a high-quality, FAA-PMA approved spinner dome from Univair. Visit Airparts.aero to order your U0550236-8 today.
The propeller spinner serves several crucial aerodynamic functions. By covering the propeller hub, it reduces form drag and turbulence, which can negatively impact propeller efficiency. More importantly, it is designed to smoothly direct cooling air into the engine cowling's inlets. A damaged, dented, or improperly fitting spinner can disrupt this airflow, leading to less effective engine cooling, particularly during high-power operations like takeoff and climb. The U0550236-8 is also a critical structural component that must be properly balanced with the rest of the propeller assembly. An imbalanced spinner can induce high-frequency vibrations that can damage the engine, instruments, and airframe over time.
Note: This is an airframe component that is part of the propeller assembly. Installation must be performed by a certified A&P mechanic. The entire spinner assembly (dome and bulkheads) should be inspected for fit and proper balance in accordance with the aircraft maintenance manual. Always use new attaching screws and hardware upon installation.
