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AOA, Pitot -- Who?

StuBob

Well Known Member
After an hour searching the archives, I've found answers to many interesting questions (most of which I hadn't yet thought to ask). But this remains:

If I'm planning to install a heated pitot with AOA, do I have to use a pitot sold by the same company I'll use for EFIS?

For instance, can I use a Dynon heated pitot/AOA with a G3X?

Thanks in advance.
 
I believe the only interface between the heated pitot and the EFIS is one wire to display its status (heat on or off). If the signaling from that wire is the same, it won't matter.
 
You will want to use pitot/AOA mount offered by the specific EFIS manufacturer you are using. Probably not a good idea to cross breed the units, although it may work fine. I just don't know for sure but it doesn't seem like a good idea... Much of it depends on how the heating controller (if equipped works). Advanced Flight Systems and Dynon can both use the same pitot system.

You will also need a 'mast', which can be bought from several manufacturers. They are a generic AN5812 shape and work with multiple manufacturers. Couple of examples:

http://www.safeair1.com/averytools/pitotmast.php

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/inpages/gretzbrackets.php

http://www.flyboyaccessories.com/product-p/21-201-203.htm
 
Stuart,

I think you could look at the dynon AND the g3x install documents and find any potential differences. Then, pull the wire and the two air lines in the wing. Other than the actual mast mount for the pitot/AOA I think you should be able to wait until you decide/buy the EFIS?

That might save you a bit if the AOA/pitot is part of a complete package?

Jim
 
So, if I have this right, I can run two lengths of plastic tubing (1/8"?) and one wire (size?), install a mast (SafeAir, Gretz, generic) and be good for a long time to come. Is that right?
 
Yes, two plastic tubes. I'd advise to buy the Safeair1 kit (minus the static ports), which has all the parts you need. Get the Cleveland static ports which replicate the van's pop-rivet port aerodynamically, but enables a better connection for the quick connect fittings. Finally, regarding wire size, from section 5.5.2 of the G3X installation manual, the size may be seen below. I strongly suggest you read section 5 of the G3X install manual before you go too much further.:
NOTES FOR 14V INSTALLATION
1. AIRCRAFT POWER WIRING TO PROBE SHOULD BE MINIMUM 14 AWG UP TO 12 FT, 12
AWG FROM 13 TO 20 FT, AND 10 AWG FROM 21 TO 30 FT. (AC 43.13-1B)

There is also another thread that may be of interest to you on this issue.
http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=134673
Cheers.
Tom.
 
Thanks, Tom.

According to their site, SafeAir has gone out of business. They had a reselling agreement with Avery, who have also retired. Google returns only old links.

Is it still possible to buy a SafeAir1?
 
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So, if I have this right, I can run two lengths of plastic tubing (1/8"?) and one wire (size?), install a mast (SafeAir, Gretz, generic) and be good for a long time to come. Is that right?

A typical installation uses 14 gauge wire for power and ground. The control wire does not need to be 14 gauge but doesn't hurt.

You can get mast material online and weld your own for quite a bit less than purchasing the mast and mount plate already assembled (links below for assembled). A friend provided some stock for me and another did the welding. I mounted it on the outboard left wing inspection panel.

https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/inpages/10-02276.php?recfer=13039
https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/inpages/gretzbrackets.php?clickkey=7405
 
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