1955 Piper Tri-Pacer
Single Engine Piston
Aircraft Details
Seller reportedAvionics & Equipment
VFRreliable panel Basic VFR configuration Ideal platform for future upgrades or keep-it-simple flying
Description
If you've been searching for a Tri-Pacer This beautifully flying 1953 Piper PA-22 has been upgraded where it matters most. Equipped with a 150 HP Lycoming O-320, it delivers the performance these airplanes always deserved-strong climb, better cruise, and the confidence to operate comfortably in real-world conditions. Paired with metalized wings, this aircraft eliminates one of the biggest concerns in legacy fabric airplanes, giving you durability, peace of mind, and long-term value. With 3168 total time and a healthy 773 SMOH, this airplane is actively flying and ready to go. It starts easy, runs smooth, and flies exactly how a good short-wing Piper should-honest, stable, and fun. Whether you're looking for a dependable weekend flyer, a backcountry-capable machine, or a time-builder with personality, this aircraft checks the boxes. The panel is straightforward and functional, keeping things simple and reliable, while the interior and exterior present as clean and serviceable-an excellent balance between usability and value without paying for unnecessary cosmetics. Tri-Pacers like this-with both the 150 HP upgrade AND metal wings-are increasingly hard to find. This is a rare opportunity to own a significantly improved version of a classic aircraft without stepping into the price range of newer platforms. Turn-key, flying, and ready for its next owner. Avionics / Equipment Clean, simple, reliable panel Basic VFR configuration Ideal platform for future upgrades or keep-it-simple flying Airframe: 1953 Piper PA-22 Tri-Pacer Total Time: 3168 TT Metalized Wings (major upgrade - durability & reduced maintenance) Actively flying / in annual Straight, honest airframe Clean, classic short-wing Piper handling All logs 4-place configuration Engines: Lycoming O-320 (150 HP conversion) 773 SMOH Strong running engine with excellent performance for this airframe Easy starts, smooth operation Significant performance upgrade over stock 135 HP models
Engine
Lycoming O-320 (150 HP conversion) 773 SMOH Strong running engine with excellent performance for this airframe Easy starts, smooth operation Significant performance upgrade over stock 135 HP models
Interior
Clean and serviceable
Exterior
Presents well, classic appearance Fabric fuselage in good usable condition Overall: Honest airplane-not over-restored, not worn out
Description and equipment details provided by the seller. AeroGurus does not verify seller-provided information.
Price Comparison Listed on multiple marketplaces
| Source | Price | Location | Listed | Days on Market | Status | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Jon Kuehler
trade-a-plane.com
|
$35,000
|
Amarillo, TX | Apr 02, 2026 | 106 days | Active | |
|
Jon Kuehler
aircraftdealer.com
|
$45,000
|
Greenville, SC | Apr 01, 2026 | 107 days | Active | |
|
Listing Source
globalplanesearch.com
|
$45,000
|
TX | Apr 02, 2026 | 106 days | Active |
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Piper Tri-Pacer loan calculator
AeroGurus Data & Analysis
Independent data from FAA, NTSB, and market analysis
About This Piper Tri-Pacer
This 1955 Piper Tri-Pacer (N3492A) is a 4-seat single engine piston with 3,168 hours on the airframe. There are currently 14 Tri-Pacer aircraft listed for sale with asking prices ranging from $8,106 to $89,500. This aircraft is priced below the market average at $35,000.
The Tri-Pacer cruises at 115 kts (213 km/h) with a range of 500 nm (926 km) — ideal for short hops and local flights. Service ceiling of 16,000 ft allows operation above most weather.
Operating costs: Fuel burn is 8.5 GPH (32 L/h), which at current 100LL avgas prices (~$6.20/gal) means approximately $53/hr in fuel alone.
NTSB records show 0 incidents for this airframe — a clean safety record.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
Piper Tri-Pacer — Model Specs
Model specificationStandard specs for this model. Actual aircraft may differ.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
AeroGurus estimatePIPER Tri-Pacer
AeroGurus estimates based on industry averages for the PIPER Tri-Pacer. Actual costs vary by location, usage, maintenance history, and configuration. Not a financial quote.
Ownership & Registration
FAA registration data pending for N3492A.
Location & Ownership
Title Status
No FAA title records
Available for US-registered aircraft only
Source: FAA Aircraft Registry, FAA Civil Aviation Registry (DocIndex). Title data may be delayed. Always verify with an aviation attorney before purchase.
Safety Record
NTSB safety data coming soon.
We'll check N3492A against the NTSB accident database.
Price History
Price vs Typical Asking Range
This asking price is below the typical asking range for this model, roughly $37,080–$58,906.
Based on current asking prices for comparable listings — asking prices only, not an appraisal or sale price.