Ultimate Baggage Door...

[Ryan Smith]

While at SNF this year, I had a few moments to look around and snap some pictures. I saw N74036 from a distance, and other than the odd N-number, it seemed to be relatively normal. Until I got to the left side of the airplane. As you can see in the photo below, there is an interesting door (both in appearance and installation) on the port side of the airplane that appears to be perhaps a stretcher door? The way that the rear window has been filled, as well as the difference in the rear door jamb, I question whether this was a factory installation or not. The non-standard N-number would lead me to believe that perhaps this airplane was exported at some point and served as an air ambulance, though it would seem that the door would have been designed to open a lot quicker than having to remove so many fasteners to allow access. The owner is a 2013 TIC170A member, but I don't know if he's active on the forums here.

If anyone is familiar with this modification, I'd be interested in hearing about it. The airplane is very pretty, but of all of the 170s I've seen, this one is pretty different.

[jlwild]

I also saw the plane at Sun-n-Fun, but I missed the owner. Up close, the hinges are along the top edge and quick release screws located along bottom and sides. Best I could figure out is there is a shelf for hunting, fishing or light camping gear inside. Perhaps the owner of N74063 from Lansing, IA will respond on the forum with more pictures and info.

[KG]

I've seen something similar on C-180s. It was a Canadian STC called the Alcor door... maybe the same thing on a 170?

[Ryan Smith]

Something else of note- I glanced inside the window, and the stock rear bench seat with hat rack was installed. I didn't expect to see that based on the external appearance of the airplane.

[mit]

No float kit!

[blueldr]

I've seen a C-185 with a similar door that was installed to accomodate hauling stiffs for funeral homes.

[170C]

Though pretty rare, I have seen a couple (one here in our area) of C-180's with stretcher doors. They are at floor level, not up high as I think the C-170 appears to be.