On 3 Dec 2006 05:39:29 -0800, "Jay Honeck"
wrote:

These are not subtle differences. If you're looking for a true 4-place
plane, a post '73 Cherokee 235 is hard to beat. A pre-'73 Cherokee 235
is not suitable for hauling back-seat passengers, IMHO, and should be
avoided if you're really going to be hauling four adults.


The above statement (as well as most of your post) while well
intended, is untrue.

Yes there are differences between the models, but not as you describe.

Without going into alot of detail here are the basics:

PA-28-235A - stock fixed pitch, 84 gal of fuel, and NO BAGGAGE
compartment. Years built (64 / 65)

PA-28-235B - stock constant speed, has baggage compartment, 84 gal of
fuel, will haul anything you put in it with ease. No third rear
window.

PA-28-235C - stock constant speed, has baggage compartment, 84 gal of
fuel, will haul anything you put in it with ease. Has third rear
window because the fuselage was "stretched" for this model.

The Pathfinder was only built for 1 or 2 model years and I believe it
fits into the 235C category although it could have been the first
model to have the taper wing. Fuel capacity was not decreased until
the 235 became a 236 called the Dakota.

If you don't mind the wings on the bottom, the 235 is a great 4 place
plus bags plane.

HTH.
z