Originally Posted by
button push ignored
The flaps 40 was eliminated for the 1981 P model.
There were two reasons for this.
1st reason. Was the climb gradient on a balked landing (go-around) with flaps 40.
Apparently people got into trouble on the go around by using incorrect procedures.
2nd reason. Was STC 5A2196CE that increased gross take off weight if the flaps were limited to 30.
Again based on an immediate return to landing with a go around.
My opinion is flaps 40 are an asset, especially for short field landings.
You just have to get used to using them, and know when to land flaps 30, and how to go around with flaps 40.
A bit of history.
The Cessna 170A had non slotted - fowler type flaps that went to 50 degrees.
The 170B had regular type flaps 40.
The Cessna L-19 Bird Dog has flaps 60.
Yes I'm sure the 172N (and the others I flew) had 40* Flaps.
The LSA I fly now could benefit from 40* flaps on landing, not sure how it would go doing a go-round though, which may be why they have limited the full flap setting.