I am a VFR pilot but thinking of getting an IFR ticket. I am very comfortable flying with reference to instruments (using my autopilot), and I expect my primary non-legal navigation to be redundant ADS-B map displays on foreflight or iflygps. My airplane already has ADS-B in and out, and a GRT Sport EX display.
As to my IFR needs, I primarily want to be able to punch through clouds at 800'+ AGL. I do not care for long IFR enroute flights, nor do I want to do hard IFR landings or takeoffs. I am not trying to become a professional pilot and/or to step up. I do need to be able to pass the IFR checkride. (And I do not want VOR equipment anywhere close to my airplane.)
Would a used Garmin GNC 155 XL do the job? They can be had for under $2,000 on ebay. (and what exactly is an FAA 8130-3 form, that is touted on some of the ads?) Does one of these even satisfy standalone IFR operation without VORs/GSs? For my needs, what would it loose vs. a GNC355 or used 430W? (Again, I really want only IFR above 800' AGL.)
Advice appreciated.
/iaw
As to my IFR needs, I primarily want to be able to punch through clouds at 800'+ AGL. I do not care for long IFR enroute flights, nor do I want to do hard IFR landings or takeoffs. I am not trying to become a professional pilot and/or to step up. I do need to be able to pass the IFR checkride. (And I do not want VOR equipment anywhere close to my airplane.)
Would a used Garmin GNC 155 XL do the job? They can be had for under $2,000 on ebay. (and what exactly is an FAA 8130-3 form, that is touted on some of the ads?) Does one of these even satisfy standalone IFR operation without VORs/GSs? For my needs, what would it loose vs. a GNC355 or used 430W? (Again, I really want only IFR above 800' AGL.)
Advice appreciated.
/iaw