O2 System T182T
I own an '05 T182T with an O2 tank that has reached its 15 yr life span. My mechs want $6800 to replace tank and overhaul regulator which I think is outrageous. Other than transitioning to a portable system do I have any other options? Can I purchase a replacement tank and install it without a 337 approval? I do not use the system much but I like the flexibility it offers. Any help would be welcome. Thanks
Comments
Hi Keith,
Contact Aerox and ask their advice. https://www.aerox.com/
Scott Sherer
Wright Brothers Master Pilot, FAA Commercial Pilot
Aviation Director, Cessna Owners Organization Forum Moderator and Cessna Owners Author.
Need help? Let me know!
Sticker shock is not unusual. The tank is the most expensive portion of the bill. I do not have the invoice handy for mine but it was closer to $8000.
I have a 2001, T182T. Personally, for multiple reasons, I would replace the tank.
I went to Aerox and Textron for a new O2 tank this past fall. Textron wanted $4k and I got the tank through Aerox for $1500. Four month lead time AND they did not require payment in advance. They were easy to deal with. I did not replace the regulator. No requirement and it works fine. Install was $250.
Steve Speer
2008 T182T
Good work, Steve. Aerox is a good company.
Scott Sherer
Wright Brothers Master Pilot, FAA Commercial Pilot
Aviation Director, Cessna Owners Organization Forum Moderator and Cessna Owners Author.
Need help? Let me know!
Thanks for the comments. I reached out to several companies including Aerox and got very different prices for a new tank and regulator overhaul, yet all were significantly less than what I was originally quoted. My concern is the 15 yr tank life which is legal only from the date of manufacture. All the CO's Ive contacted had tanks 1-2 years old already in stock which reduces that lifespan accordingly, shouldn't the price reflect that? To my knowledge portable systems do not have lifespan limitations or require specialized installation so i am seriously considering such. Why does the FAA make permanent O2 systems so un-user friendly? Aircraft ownership is already wildly expensive.
Actually the new tank I rec’d in Nov had either a Sept or Oct date of Manufacture (at this hour I can’t put my hands on the paperwork BUT I had taken a picture of it). So it was October. Hope this helps.
Steve