Seaplanes West Inc. Float Kits

We build certified float kits for 30 years of 182 airframes

1956 thru 1986

We've tested and certified all 3 major brands of floats on the Cessna 182 airframe. We have put it thru the tests, and exceeded all requirements for certification, and done with an original 0-470 engine and original 82" 2 blade prop. This way you can add any other STC that is compatible, including 520 and 550 engines, carb'd or fuel injected. And any prop thats compatible with the engine and airframe.

The Original ...

"Gentleman's Float Plane"

The Cessna 182 float conversion kit.  All our floats kits are STC’d by the FAA, Transport Canada, and EASA.

Seaplanes West offers a complete package to convert a Cessna 182 to float configuration.  With this conversion we are able to seasonally add and remove floats quite easily, usually within ½ day.  Each float conversion includes a new engine mount.  This engine mount adds extra strength to the firewall area by spreading energy loads throughout the hard points on the firewall.  This is very effective while on floats because we totally remove the nose gear system and re-attach the floats to the lower outer corners of the firewall.  When we designed this system, it was apparent that the original engine mount would be replaced.  Since we needed a new mount for bracing requirements, it was suggested that we address some of the vibration issues associated with all the Continental 6 cylinder engines.  Especially since there are quite a few STC’d larger horsepower engines available, plus larger and heavier propellers STC’d for these 182 airframes.  It appeared that no-one had addressed the engine mount isolators issue in these installations.  Simply because of these heavier assemblies themselves the original small rubber isolators couldn’t hold up for any length of time before collapsing, plus the technology used was designed in the 1950s.  Seaplanes West added very large isolators to all 4 positions.  This was all incorporated into the new engine mount.  This mount remains installed for floats or wheels.  There are other design features that are covered further in our airframe data.

All float conversions require bracing through the windshield opening.  This is provided through stainless cross-wires which are ¼” round wires that attach to the upper wing root and criss-cross just over the glare shield and bolt thru to the back of the upper engine mount bolt. 

Alternatively, a V-brace is available for some models, which is rigid.  This also provides required bracing while on wheels.  This eliminates cabin squeaking and rocking that is heard while taxiing on airports.

Water rudder steering works directly off the rudder pedals.  A ventral fin is provided that adds directional stability.

There are a few internal stiffening doublers in behind the firewall plus one external all formed and included.

Provided are lift-rings for hoisting, re-fueling handles and re-fueling fuselage side steps.

All hardware, bolts/screws and even the firewall rivets are included in the kit.

We manufacture and sell the float conversion kits for installation at any facility that can handle an annual. Our engineered drawings and instruction manual is totally complete. We offer phone support for all phases of the install.

These models have the wider cabin and are very attractive for this reason, especially while maneuvering on floats.  They provide more internal room and more comfort for the passengers.  1965 and newer Cessnas changed to a 10” wider horizontal stabilizer and this provides added stability and performance.  This float kit converts all 1962 thru 1971 which have “flat gear” wheel attaching, or 1972 thru 1986 “tubular gear”. 

Price:  8,900. CDN ready for shipping. This includes everything you need, parts, hardware, drawings, STC, etc.

Our 182 airframe float conversion kit accepts all these following float model options:

Approved floats for E thru R models:

Aerocet 3500 straight floats
Aerocet 3500L straight floats
Aerocet 3400 Amphibious floats

EDO 2870 floats
EDO 2960 floats

Wipline 3000 straight floats
Wipline 3000 amphibious floats

Aerocet and Wipline floats are usually only available new. All new attaching is designed and provided for your specific model.  See Floats Section for further info and contacts.

EDO floats, Please note: When you purchase a set of floats the attaching gear is usually provided - for 180 or 185. We are able to re-machine some of the old struts and hardware for the 182, or we can provide new all the attaching struts and hardware.

Flat Gear models: Basic kit 3,600. *Or buy only what you need.

Tubular Gear models: Basic kit 3,970. *Or buy only what you need.

*Some used struts and deck blocks are required out of your used material.  Be sure to call for correct information about this.

Narrow body ... 1956 thru 1961D models:

1961 Cessna 182C on EDO 2960 floats

This STC incorporates a complete fuselage conversion package.  These narrow bodies are the same fuselage as a 180 or Cessna 185 body.  These models are significantly lighter than later 182 models and are very attractive to many for this reason as a floatplane.
EDO 2870 or EDO 2960 straight floats are approved for installation.  These floats are aluminum and are only available used - we do not provide these floats.  When you purchase a set of floats the attaching gear is usually provided - for 180 or 185. We are able to re-machine some of the old struts and hardware for the 182, or we can provide new all the attaching struts and hardware for these 56 – 61 models. 

Complete Airframe Float Kit Price: 8,900. CDN ready for shipping.

An economical variation of same Float Kit:   7,200.00

EDO floats: Basic 182 attaching gear $3,600. *Or buy only what you need.

*Some used struts and deck blocks are required out of your used material.  Call for correct information about this.

See EDO FLOATS section for further specifics

(Prices are subject to change without notice)