1971 Piper Cherokee 140/160

Detailed Description

PENDING! Backups Accepted

IFR w/ AP for less than $70,000!

If you're looking for a low-cost way to build time, stay IFR current, or just go fly cross-country without burning a hole in your fuel budget, this Cherokee deserves a hard look. It's been upgraded, well equipped, and priced to fly - not to sit in a hangar looking pretty.

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This isn't a stock 140-horse Cherokee. It's been converted under the RAM 160HP STC, giving it noticeably better climb performance, more useful load margin, and the flexibility that comes with an extra 20 horsepower over the factory 140. Compressions as of 7/2026 annual: #1 72/80, #2 77/80, #3 75/80, #4 77/80. Paired with a Powerflow tuned exhaust system, this airplane picks up additional horsepower and a cleaner-sounding exhaust note - a proven combo among Cherokee owners for improving takeoff and climb performance without touching the airframe.

Real IFR Equipment, Not Just a Checkbox

This Cherokee is genuinely equipped to fly actual instrument approaches, not just technically "IFR legal":

Garmin GNS430 - WAAS/IFR GPS navigator for approaches, airways, and moving-map situational awareness

Garmin GNC300XL - dedicated nav/comm with integrated GPS

S-TEC System 55 Autopilot - a genuine workload reducer for IFR cross-countries, approaches, and long VFR legs alike

PS Engineering PMA6000M Audio Panel

Garmin Gl-106A

Garmin Transponder w/ ADS-B Out

Additional panel instrumentation and equipment - see photos for full panel layout and installed avionics

This is the kind of panel that makes sense for an instrument student building approaches, a renter/owner logging actual IMC time, or a VFR pilot who wants real backup capability for cross-country trips.

Airframe & Cosmetics

​Paint: solid 8/10 - clean, straight lines, good color retention, presents very well on the ramp

Spar AD recently complied with

Configuration Note

The 4th seat was recently removed to open up cargo/baggage capacity - great for hauling gear, tools, or camping equipment on cross-country trips. The seat is available and will be reinstalled prior to delivery for the next owner, so you get the flexibility of a 4-place airplane with the cargo-hauling convenience it's currently set up for.

Extras Included

New, custom-fit canopy cover included with sale

Manual tow bar

Why This Airplane Makes Sense

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A 160HP Cherokee with an IFR-capable panel and an autopilot is a genuinely useful, affordable way to build cross-country and instrument time. Direct operating costs stay low, parts and maintenance knowledge are everywhere, and the extra horsepower from the RAM STC takes the edge off density-altitude and short-field performance that stock 140s are known for.

Whether you're finishing an instrument rating, need a reliable IFR-capable trainer for a flying club, or just want an economical way to go places on the weekend, this airplane is built for exactly that mission.

Located at KCRG - Craig Airport, Jacksonville, FL.

Serious inquiries welcome - see photos for panel detail, exterior condition, and installed equipment.

Remarks

Great airplane, ready to fly for the next owner.