Reverse thrust option offered for some Cessna singles

The STC approves the 83-inch, two- or three-blade prop installation “on all Cessna 180/182/185/(T)206/(T)207/(T)210 aircraft with any version” of Teledyne Continental Motors -470, -520 or -550 engines, the company said.

The reverse system “allows for significantly enhanced maneuvering of seaplanes never before possible and effective braking for ski planes.” It greatly reduces landing distances, using a two-stage hydraulic governor and dual piston propeller hub to give piston-engine aircraft “a full function reversing option similar to turbo propeller aircraft,” Flight Resource said.

The reversing option adds about $10,000 to the price of the prop kit.

“The MT composite props are perfect for seaplane use,” said Larry Schlasinger, a Flight Resource technical specialist. A nickel leading edge eliminates blade erosion, and wrapping with several layers of carbon fiber cloth makes the prop “stronger than metal, yet up to 30 pounds lighter. Additionally, the natural composite core absorbs engine vibration making it feel like you are powered by a turbine.”

Safety features include a static system pitot switch that deactivates the system above a chosen indicated airspeed to prevent accidental activation in flight; inability to activate the system above 1,300 rpm; a “reverse active” warning light; and system activation requiring the master reverse power switch to be turned on and a momentary reverse switch to be selected to enable the reverse function.

The system is shown in operation on an Aviat Husky in this video.