Upgrade suggestions (engine and wing) for a '75 Cessna 182

[skydivemd]

I own 3 straight tail 182's and recently purchased (got a steal on) a super low time 1975 182P. Its sat since 1996, so we are doing a full "re-build" and my goal is to build it up into a bad ass super light weight jump plane. I'm not necessarily looking for the fastest climb to 10,000 feet, but the fastest turn around (wheels up to wheels down)
I've thinking about other mod's, not only prop/engine, but anything else that will help make this plane the fastest around. I've seen TX skyways has a pending STC to install a IO-550N which would make for 310 continues HP, but they are only going to offer it for the S and T models. Think a field approval is possible for the P model? If I can't do the 550N, what do you guys think about the TX skyways IO-520D ?
I'd like to focus on the airframe to. I'm a little torn over the ART wing extensions. Seem's like a high price to pay for not a huge climb improvement. I think I am sold on the Sportsman STOL, but wondering if the ART wing X is really worth the $5k + install?

Lance

[robw56]

Don't forget that with the Wing-X you also get a gross weight increase. With your 182 I believe it would add 400lbs to your usefull load. I'm not sure if you would need that or not with the loads you haul but it's something to think about.

[skydivemd]

Don't forget that with the Wing-X you also get a gross weight increase. With your 182 I believe it would add 400lbs to your usefull load

Incorrect. The late model 182 (including the P) don't get the gross weight increase due to landing gear limitations

[robw56]

Oh, ok I didn't realize that.

[SixTwoLeemer]

Skydiving 182's are the most prolific customers of the ART Wing-X STOL mod, followed by seaplane and bush drivers. That mod coupled with the Sportsman STOL cuff is said to be the ideal combo for performance. 5k + install is a pittance compared to thirsty big bore engine and prop mods, which are the only way your going to get huge climb numbers relative to stock.

You could call Todd Peterson who does Wing / STOL mods and engine mods to later P model 182's...he's probably done more than any one operator.