EDM Installation

[jax88]

Seems like the only minor things I can find that even remotely need to be tinkered with on my '75 F model all point me in the direction of installing an engine monitor.  For the sake of this discussion let's say I'm going to install an EDM model with fuel flow capability.  Doing so raises a few immediate questions.

How much downtime should I expect while the installation is taking place?

I have a Garmin 496 with XM weather, should I go ahead and remove the Strikefinder and use the panel space for the new EDM?

What about the old EGT guage, can it function alongside the EDM, or will it have to be removed for the EDM installation?

As always, thanks for your opinions and advice.

[carusoam]

Have you completely run out of available space for the EDM? 

I like the idea of putting the XM right up front where your strike finder probably is.

Althought it is no XM., I'm not sure I would toss out the strikefinder....(I used mine again this past weekend) 

 

[Immelman]

Does your airplane have a 'primary' EGT gauge that must be there (I am guessing it does not it you're a pre-J model). Assuming that's the case, you can definitely remove the old EGT. You will need to retain the old CHT "primary" gauge unless you opt for the EDM version that can replace that primary instrument.

On installation time, hard to say.. you doing it yourself? Or handing the keys to a shop? I installed mine with my mechanic's help (EDM 700, CHT, EGT, and fuel flow). It took a few days to do the job. My A&P had 8 hours labor he billed me for and I probably put in double that. I was also removing an old single probe EGT/CHT/OAT and had to relocate an ADF display to make room for the EDM 700.

[bradp]

Wouldn't toss the strikefinder (now information) for XM (5 min ago information that relies on the datalink).

[jax88]

I'll have a shop do the work for me, my experience with aircraft systems is nil.

The current panel layout is a standard 6 pack, offset slightly left of center with two additional full size round spots between the 6 pack and the radio stack.  Currently the autopilot on/off switches and the Strikefinder occupy these two additional spots.  The current EGT is the smaller round version and is located on the far right side of the panel, next to the fuses.

I admit, I did use the Strikefinder this past weekend while dodging some West Texas convection.

I suppose I could try and have the EDM put in place of the current (what I consider worthless) analog clock.

[N201MKTurbo]

The clock is required for IFR

[danb35]

Clock is required for IFR, as noted.  If the EGT is a 2.25" dia. instrument (which it sounds like), the EI UBG-16 fits in that size hole, and I'm pretty sure that at least some of the JPI models do as well.

[Cruiser]

Upgrade to the 3-1/8" display and put it inplace of the A/P switches. You should be able to find many other spots for those.

I engine monitor is my most watched instrument in the plane. The larger size is well worth it and matches the other insturments in your panel. Put it were it is easy to see.