Maule MX-7-235 Aircraft Parts, Equipment, and Tooling List

The Maule MX-7-235 is unique because it combines serious power (235 hp) with rugged design elements optimized for backcountry and short-field operations. Its welded 4130 chromoly steel tube fuselage and tube-and-fabric construction offer durability with repairability. The MX-7-235 is often equipped with large fuel capacity, heavy landing gear, and flexible configurations such as floats, skis, or bush tires, giving it versatility beyond many similar four-seat utility aircraft. Its ability to use auto fuel (in some variants) further increases operational flexibility in remote locations.

The MX-7-235 inherits many of Maule’s structural safety traits: the strong steel tube fuselage forms a protective cage around occupants, and critical joints and components are powder-coated or corrosion-treated. Its landing gear is robust, often featuring oleo struts or optional spring-aluminum gear, and brake lines are routed inside the gear legs to minimize the risk of damage on rough strips. The aircraft’s slow-speed handling, multiple flap settings, and large control surfaces give a better margin in low-speed flight or during approach phases.

The MX-7-235 boasts strong performance for its class, with many sources reporting a cruising speed of around 139 knots (160 mph, or 257 km/h) in favorable conditions. Its rate of climb is often listed at 1,500 ft/min (7.6 m/s) in favorable conditions. Takeoff ground roll (light weight) may be 250 feet (76 meters) and 600 feet (183 meters) over a 50-foot obstacle in many published specs. Its stall speeds are modest (with flaps deployed) relative to its power, giving it better low-speed margins than many comparable four-seat utility aircraft.

Because of its power, ruggedness, and tailwheel (in many variants) or more advanced handling, the MX-7-235 is not ideal as a first aircraft for pure beginners. It demands good stick-and-rudder skills, especially on takeoff, landing, and in crosswinds. However, for pilots with some experience or transitioning from simpler aircraft, its forgiving low-speed behavior and strong structure can make it a rewarding platform to grow into.

Maintenance generally follows standard light-aircraft practices: annual inspections, 100-hour checks (if used commercially), and specific attention to steel fuselage joints, fabric covering, control linkages, and the landing gear. The Lycoming O-540 (or IO-540) engine used in the MX-7-235 family typically has a TBO of 2,000 hours (or as recommended by Lycoming) and requires regular oil changes, compression checks, and servicing of the cowl and intake systems. Because many MX-7-235s fly off-airport, additional inspection of landing gear, shock absorption, tires, and structural components is prudent.

The MX-7-235 is highly customizable, offering options such as different gear types (oleo strut, spring aluminum, floats, and skis), various fuel tank capacities, and avionics suites. Some variants may also allow optional fifth seating in the baggage area (with strict C.G. control). Builders and operators may choose interior finishes, doors, windows, and fuel system configurations to suit mission needs.

In fair weather, the MX-7-235 is reported to handle solidly with responsive controls. Many pilots note it remains stable in moderate turbulence and maintains control authority at lower speeds due to its robust wing design. In stronger weather or gusty crosswinds, its tailwheel or heavier configuration demands respect and skill. The aircraft is not equipped for operations in icing or heavy precipitation conditions without special equipment, so such conditions should be avoided or carefully managed.

One source lists the MX-7-235 with a maximum range of 478 nautical miles (886 km) under ideal conditions. Other sources suggest somewhat longer range figures depending on fuel load, engine configuration, and reserve allowances. The practical operational range will often be lower, depending on payload and mission reserves.

The MX-7-235 is designed to carry one pilot plus up to four passengers, accommodating a total of five seats (including the pilot) in various configurations. Some variants or modifications may include optional “kiddie seats” in the baggage area, though with strict weight and C.G. control.

The MX-7-235 (or its M-7-235 counterparts) is powered by a Lycoming O-540 (carbureted) or Lycoming IO-540 (fuel-injected) engine rated at 235 hp. The C-variant Orion models often use the IO-540 version.

According to many published specifications, the useful load (gross weight minus empty weight) is approximately 895 lbs (407 kg) for the M-7-235B variant. In C variants, the empty weight may be slightly higher, reducing the payload accordingly; for example, the 235C’s empty weight is often listed as higher, resulting in a somewhat lower usable payload.

Within the M-7/MX-7 family, there are variants such as the M-7-235B, M-7-235C (“Orion”), and MT-7-235 (tri-gear) versions. The B version uses either an oleo strut gear or standard gear, while the C (Orion) swaps in spring aluminum gear and often features an injected engine (IO-540) along with other refinements. The MT-7-235 is a nose-wheel / tricycle gear derivative of the same airframe and powerplant concept.

One often-cited cruise speed is 139 knots (160 mph, or 257 km/h) at 75 % power in the 235B variant. In some sources, the 235C variant’s cruise is slightly lower, though still in the 150 to 160 mph (241 to 257 km/h) range.

Yes, that is one of its strengths. Takeoff ground roll in many published specs is approximately 250 feet (76 meters) for a light load, and 600 to 900 feet (183 to 274 meters) over a 50-foot obstacle. Its robust gear, bush tires, and optional configurations make it well-suited to unimproved strips.

The cabin width is about 42” (107 cm), which is pretty typical for utility aircraft of this type. The MX-7/M-7 family often features full door access, multiple side windows, and optional observation windows, providing decent visibility and flexibility. Its fabric/tube construction means noise, vibration, and climate comfort are less refined than in enclosed metal GA designs, but for a backcountry utility plane, it is considered good in its class.

Because the MX-7-235 is a general-aviation aircraft, owners and builders can fit a wide range of avionics, from classic analog gauges to full glass panels with GPS, autopilot, engine monitors, and ADS-B, among others. The airframe’s firewall and instrument stack layout support modern retrofits. Many restored or modern examples are equipped with Garmin, Aspen, or other modern avionics suites.

While the defined useful load might be 895 lbs (407 kg) in one variant, the amount available for luggage depends on payload (occupants + fuel). With four seats occupied and full fuel, luggage allowance might be limited to a few hundred pounds or less. The aircraft’s cabin/cargo configuration, as well as its doors, allow for the flexible placement of gear or baggage in rear or side compartments; however, weight and balance must always be respected.