The Cessna 195, also known as the “Businessliner,” is one of the most iconic vintage aircraft in general aviation. Known for its round engine, tailwheel configuration, and art deco design, the 195 holds significant historical and collector value. But keeping it airworthy and reliable depends on sourcing the right parts, many of which are no longer in mainstream production.

Whether you're a seasoned pilot, an aircraft restorer, or a maintenance technician, understanding what to look for when buying Cessna 195 airplane parts is essential. 

From verifying certifications to evaluating component conditions, this blog covers the critical considerations you need to make to maintain safety, preserve authenticity, and extend the lifespan of your vintage aircraft.

Why Quality Matters When Maintaining A Cessna 195

The Cessna 195 is a rare aircraft, with production having ended in the early 1950s. Because of this, many original parts are difficult to come by, and replacement options must meet stringent standards for compatibility and airworthiness.

Using substandard or incorrectly matched parts can result in reduced performance, compromised safety, or even grounding the aircraft. The FAA and Transport Canada both require that any part used on a certified aircraft must be approved, traceable, and properly installed. Therefore, each purchasing decision impacts not just cost and convenience but also safety and compliance.

According to Transport Canada Standard 625 Appendix B, regular inspection and replacement of parts prone to wear, including mounts and exhaust systems, is essential for airworthiness.

Prioritize Airworthiness And Certification

When evaluating Cessna 195 parts, your top priority should always be airworthiness. That means confirming the part is:

• Certified (either OEM, PMA-approved, or overhauled to approved specs)
  
• Traceable with proper documentation or logbook entries
  
• Compatible with your aircraft’s serial number and model configuration
  

Avoid parts from unknown or unverified sources, especially when it comes to structural components like engine mounts, landing gear, and firewall components. Even a small deviation from the original part specs can lead to catastrophic failure in flight.

Key Components To Inspect Carefully

Not all parts have the same impact on flight safety, but some deserve extra scrutiny due to their function, stress exposure, or availability.

Engine Mounts And Supporting Hardware

Engine mounts endure tremendous vibration, heat, and load stress. Before purchasing replacements:

• Check for corrosion, cracked welds, or fatigue at stress points
  
• Confirm materials match the original design specifications (usually 4130 chromoly steel)
  
• Ensure the part has been tested by certified aviation welding professionals
  

Exhaust Systems

The Cessna 195’s radial engine produces intense heat and pressure. An old or poorly fabricated exhaust can lead to:

• Engine performance issues
  
• Cabin carbon monoxide leaks
  
• Structural overheating
  

When sourcing a new or overhauled exhaust system, ensure it’s corrosion-resistant, matches the specific engine configuration, and has tight, professionally welded joints. Avoid systems not pressure-tested or built without proper heat shielding.

Firewall Kits And Components

The firewall protects the aircraft cabin from engine heat and fire risk. Any firewall kit or associated part must:

• Use high-temperature-rated materials
  
• Be cut and drilled to the original template specs
  
• Be free from heat warping or vibration-induced stress cracks
  

If you see discolouration, warping, or irregular mounting holes, skip the part and look for a higher-quality alternative.

Landing Gear And Tail-Strike Protection

The Cessna 195’s tailwheel design means its landing gear takes a beating, especially during crosswind landings. Check the gear struts, tail skid, and related hardware for:

• Bending or cracking
  
• Past repairs or welding
  
• Compatibility with tailstrike protection systems
  

Old gear can fail under load if not properly reinforced or maintained.

Original Vs. Reproduction Vs. Overhauled Parts

Not all Cessna 195 airplane parts come directly from OEM sources. Here’s how the three main types compare:

Always ask for paperwork showing when and how an overhauled part was refurbished. Don’t assume it’s compliant unless proven.

Questions To Ask Before Buying Cessna 195 Parts

Before placing an order, ask the supplier:

• Is this part PMA-approved, OEM, or overhauled?
  
• Does it come with traceability documents or logbook entries?
  
• Has it been NDT-tested or inspected recently?
  
• Is it compatible with my aircraft’s year/model?
  

Reliable suppliers will gladly provide these details. If they hesitate or cannot answer clearly, walk away.

Common Pitfalls To Avoid

Many Cessna 195 owners, especially first-time buyers, fall into traps like:

• Buying parts from general auction sites or uncertified resellers
  
• Choosing the cheapest option without verifying fit or airworthiness
  
• Assuming parts from other Cessna models are interchangeable
  
• Forgetting to inspect delivered parts for shipping damage or hidden corrosion
  

Being proactive and thorough in your evaluation process can prevent costly returns or worse, mechanical failure during flight.

Pro Tips For Long-Term Maintenance

Maintaining a Cessna 195 is both a technical task and a labour of love. Here’s how to make the process smoother:

• Keep a parts logbook for tracking what’s been replaced and when
  
• Use suppliers who specialize in vintage aircraft, not general aviation stores
  
• Inspect every shipment immediately for quality and conformity
  
• Invest in preventive maintenance rather than waiting for failure
  

These small habits help preserve the aircraft’s value and ensure safe operation well into the future.

About Us

Acorn Welding is North America’s largest and most trusted facility for the manufacturing and repair of aircraft exhaust systems, engine mounts, and associated components. With decades of specialized experience, Acorn Welding serves both legacy and modern aircraft platforms, including Cessna, Piper, and Beechcraft models. 

Our team of certified technicians is committed to delivering high-quality, compliant parts that meet the rigorous standards of both the FAA and Transport Canada. 

From custom-fabricated exhaust systems to re-certified engine mounts and carburetor air boxes, we support aircraft owners, maintenance facilities, and restorers with expert solutions built for performance and safety. To speak with a specialist or request a quote for your Cessna 195 airplane parts, please contact us through our website.