Any differences between 1950's PA-18-150 and 1980's PA-18-150 other than metal flaps&ailerons?

[slowjunk]

Any differences between 1950's PA-18-150 and 1980's PA-18-150 other than metal flaps&ailerons?

Hi, I am looking to buy a PA-18-150 SuperCub and have found one I like from the early 1980's. I am curious if there are any differences between the later model Supercubs other than the metal covered flaps and ailerons. Did Piper make any notable improvements e.g. strengthen the frame, wings, etc.?

 

[cubdriver2]

Just a couple hundred pounds

Glenn

 

[slowjunk]

Just a couple hundred pounds

Glenn

Does that mean they went to heavier tubing or added frame bracing or different interior? I had heard they switched to TIG welding at some point in the 1970's but I don't see how that would be linked to heavier weight other than because they changed the frame tubing.

 

[DENNY]

Early cubs had 13 rib wingsvs 16 for older cubs. But most cubs have been modified so you have to look at each one. A 1950 cub may have a new airframe/wings/motor.
You have to look at each one don't go by date.
DENNY

 

[PerryB]

FWIW I think the 16 rib became standard in 1955 when they went to the O320 and 1750 GW. If I remember my Cub trivia correctly the 13 has a lower Vfe (80 vs. 85) and Vne. Unsure of the old Vne number.

 

[wronghand]

Old Vne is 140??? ish. Also the vintage cube had lots of mild steeln(1018 or 1020) tubing and brackets whereas the new cubs were built mostly with chromoly (4130) throughout. That along with more/heavier electronics (the 2 and a half pound Whelen strobe controller) and metal control surfaces contributed to the weight gain.

 

[slowjunk]

So it seems the Supercubs from the early 1980s differ from the earlier ones by having:
-TIG welded 4130 tubing
-Metal covered ailerons and flaps
-Strobes
-Cleveland brakes
-Some early '80s Supercubs had a metal belly
-Some came with more instrumentation from the factory (artificial horizon, turn coordinator, clock, heading indicator)

 

[skywagon8a]

Metal bellys were an optional extra. Probably standard with the agricultural option?