IFR GPS

[prkaye]

I'm thinking ahead about how much an IFR platform will cost me. A simple configuration would be:

1) Dynon D100 + Dynon D180 ($2400+$3200)

2) SL-30 (~$3100)

3) An IFR GPS unit... e.g. GNC-300XL ($6000!).

First question - are there more economical choices for an IFR GPS unit for homebuilt aircraft? That $6000 is a killer!

The SL-30 has a 2-place intercom, but I presume it does not have a stereo music input. Can the SL-30 comm radio be connected to a 3rd party intercom with music inputs?

Other suggestions?

[jcoloccia]

Originally Posted by prkaye

First question - are there more economical choices for an IFR GPS unit for homebuilt aircraft? That $6000 is a killer!

Sure! Shop around for a better price

http://www.tropicaero.com/10Expand.a...Code=300XL-081

[sglaeser]

Originally Posted by prkaye

I'm thinking ahead about how much an IFR platform will cost me. A simple configuration would be:

1) Dynon D100 + Dynon D180 ($2400+$3200)

2) SL-30 (~$3100)

3) An IFR GPS unit... e.g. GNC-300XL ($6000!).

First question - are there more economical choices for an IFR GPS unit for homebuilt aircraft? That $6000 is a killer!

The SL-30 has a 2-place intercom, but I presume it does not have a stereo music input. Can the SL-30 comm radio be connected to a 3rd party intercom with music inputs?

Other suggestions?

Try Stark Avionics, I have no personal experience with him but my dad got most of his avionics from John and was pretty satisfied. Prices seem to be pretty descent too. www.starkavionics.com

[lostpilot28]

Phil,
When you decide what route to go, post an update here...I'm only at the empenage stage but I'm planning on an IFR panel with the same Dynon setup as you (D100 & D180).

[the_other_dougreeves]

Originally Posted by prkaye

3) An IFR GPS unit... e.g. GNC-300XL ($6000!).

First question - are there more economical choices for an IFR GPS unit for homebuilt aircraft? That $6000 is a killer!
...
Other suggestions?

Order your GNC300XL from Van's. $2800 without wiring harness.

[prkaye]

I guess the $6000 was a way out of date price... according to vans site Garmin doesn't even make this unit anymore. Is the wiring harness required for installation? Is it something that can be purchased separately?

[G Swartley]

Phil
Why a D100 & D180? Why not a D100 & D120.

I'm thinking about a similar setup with a D100 & D120.

[the_other_dougreeves]

Originally Posted by prkaye

I guess the $6000 was a way out of date price... according to vans site Garmin doesn't even make this unit anymore. Is the wiring harness required for installation? Is it something that can be purchased separately?

Garmin still lists it on their website. I know that the GNC 300 was replaced by the GNC 300XL. It seems that this has been discussed in other threads.

[kentb]

Drop the SL30 (it is a good radio) and use the GNS 430 instead.

It has comm/nav/gps all in one. You should be able to find one for around $6000.00.

Kent

[RV7Guy]

Go with the GNS 430 from Stark. Price about $5800. I went with an SL40 for back up comm. $1300 or so. Garmin 106A CDI, and 330S transponder. Also used the 340 audio panel.

Definitely look at Stark Avionics or Steinair for great deals.