Garmin G3X
 

I am building a RV-8 and really like the Garmin G3X. My question is if I want to be able to fly IFR and have a autopilot while keeping the number of insturments and avionics to a minimum. What is the least that I need to have in the panel. It looks like the G3X does almost everything. Can I get away with a 430W, G3X,:rolleyes: Trutrak autopilot and transponder?:)

That's pretty similar to what I have in the RV I'm slowly building. In terms of the G3X, I'd suggest thinking about dual displays so you can use your MFD to show a big map or approach plates. (Disclaimer: I eat lunch at the Garmin cafeteria)

Regardless of whose EFIS you choose, I might suggest you also think about whether you want standby instruments. I went with a 2.25" airspeed indicator, altimeter, and TruTrak ADI, the latter simply because it's the cheapest way to display (pseudo) attitude information in a small format.

good luck,
mcb

P.S. I see you're writing from my old hometown! Enjoy a big greasy bag of cozies for me. ;)

Yep...if you're at OSH, stop by - we have one installed in an RV8 panel to look at. We've done a few of them just like you are referring and it works out really well and really clean.

Cheers,
Stein

That will certainly work but you may want to consider another attitude source in case the G3X goes TU. Another Garmin G3X (and either a standby alternator or a backup battery source for the G3X), or someone else's attitude indicator at a minimum. At one time I had a panel similar to what you are describing using Dynon equipment, and while it was legal, I did not consider it safe for IFR. I now have two redundant attitude indicators (each with battery backup), plus a G696 (with internal battery) which I can use with its GPS derived 6 pack to keep the blue side up. My TT AP will also keep the blue side up without any other equipment being functional. What you wind up installing all depends on your comfort level, and what type of IFR you intend to fly. If you will be flying low IFR, 2 attitude indicators (with at least one with a secondary power source) is a must IMO. If you only want to climb or descend through a cloud deck every now and then then it would be your choice based on your comfort level if you need 2 attitude indicators. As most things are, it all depends!

The new Gemini series would be a nice choice to cover your backup and AP needs. If you can wait for em that is...

We're working on it!

What is the difference in functionality between the Tru Trak GX autopilot and the Digi Flight II autopilot?

Will the Digi Flight II work with a G3X?

The GX pilot offers complete, seemless integration with the G3X system on a level that can't be attained using the Digiflight II VSGV. The VSGV will work as well, you just won't get the same ease of use. AP functionally, they are identical which is why they are priced the same. :)

To add to what Lucas said...

A DigiFlight II works with the G3X just like it does with most anything else.

Using a GX Pilot with the G3X system opens up all of the integrated features described in Chaper 9 of the G3X pilot's guide. From the pilot's point of view, the operating logic is very much like the certified systems you might see in a new store-bought airplane. Maybe one of the folks who already have one installed will be able to chime in here...

cheers,
mcb

Question for Lucas....

Are there any features the GX Pilot has that the AFS branded TT DF II VSVG does not? My AFS EFIS system is highly integrated with the TT/AFS AP, and wondered what features, if any, the GX Pilot offers over the AFS system. I read the G3X manual and both systems look to be very similar. Once I enter an approach in the G430W and arm the AFS EFIS, I don't need to touch anything other than the throttle and the airplane will fly an ILS or a GPS VNAV approach like it is on rails. Thanks