Is this a smart idea?

[PTK]

Current Panel:

GTN 750, GMA 35, GTX 33, KX 165, KCS 55A Compass system with vaccum KFC 150 Autopilot.

 

Would it be smart or dumb to install an Aspen Pilot on the right side configured to play  backup role?  BU AI and utilize its Air Data Computer feed to the GTN  and its GPSS to the autopilot?  Down the road if and only if my King AI decides to go I upgrade the pilot to the pro and move it over to my side.  

Thie cost for GPSS is about 3K and the same for an ADC.  6K is the cost of an Aspen Pilot.

Any input?

[jetdriven]

To me is sounds like quadruple overkill.  However, a backup AI is nice, but you can get a nice used one for 800$.

[Awful_Charlie]

I wouldn't be over keen.  Remember some of the GPSS functions require the use of a button on the Aspen, and you are putting all that functionality in front of P2

[M016576]

seems excessive to me, but I'm not really an Aspen fan and I don't think GPSS is a necessary addition in a light piston.  It's your call, though, and if you like the asthetic of the Aspens and you've got the extra cash to burn on one-> then go for it!   JMHO  -Job

 

 

[John Pleisse]

I would get the the Pro EFD and only mess with it once (and hopefully for all). By the time you buy the pilot, later upgrade it and get interfaces for your AP-GPSS and turn your panel into a science fair project shuffling instruments twice, I personally think you'd be better served to just get the Pro and be done with it. You know it's where you will end up. Also, I just bought the 2000 system. They really need to be right in front of your face. Even so, I went back to the eye doctor and had my prescriptions changed.

[M016576]

Another option would be to wait and see what Garmin brings out to compliment your beautiful GTN750 in the way of a PFD, if you're bent on buying a glass display.  I have a feeling (and from the sounds of the whispers in AOPA PILOT magazine) that they will be coming up with something that's a bit more compact than the G500/G600, hopefully with a price to match, as the MFD side is now essentially extraneous due to the GTN750's capabilities....

[PTK]

Don't get me wrong!  I have never been a fan of Aspen myself.  This was just a thought that crossed my mind while looking for a  BU electric ai.  I would never want to go for Aspen as primary. This is why I said as BU and the Pilot Aspen. I personally love my existing King ai and HSI. They are flawless in operation and very classic in appearance.   If I did ever take them out, and it's a big IF,  it would be for a G500.  Never an Aspen!

I also agree we don't need GPSS at our speeds!

But I don't think it was a smart idea!! So forget it!!

[M016576]

Sorry PK!  I think I hijacked your thread and shifted to a whole different conversation!  I think we're also on the same page...

Have you looked at the Trilogy PFD backup?  it's an electric glass backup AI.  Not sure what they run for... but it looks like just the top portion of the Aspen units.  Might be something that would compliment your panel very nicely if you're looking for a straight backup to your AI.  I'm jealous over that GTN750... what a wonderful unit!

 

[PTK]

The trilogy is expensive. I think it's ~12 or 13K for the unit.  It is meant more for a bU to a glass panel.  Yeah, my thinking was to wait for Garmin. For sure they have to come out with a PFD only version.  Checkout my pics. They are not the best quality. I'd be sure to post better ones. It's sweet!!

[Piloto]

Would it be smart or dumb to install an Aspen Pilot on the right side configured to play  backup role?  BU AI and utilize its Air Data Computer feed to the GTN  and its GPSS to the autopilot?  Down the road if and only if my King AI decides to go I upgrade the pilot to the pro and move it over to my side.

I think you would have better rendundancy installing a second alternator.

José 

 

[PTK]

Is it possible to install second alternator on a J?  

[Piloto]

Is it possible to install second alternator on a J?  

I have seen this in two M20Js http://www.basicaircraft.com/

José

[PTK]

Hang a fan out the window??!!!  Come on Jose'  !!

[John Pleisse]

Talk to Dorn at Weber in Lancaster. They have done two J-mods where they eliminated the vacum pump and added a smaller back up alternator in it's place on the accessory case. This was for full glass upgrades, no peice meal stuff. The last dual alternator mod I saw was through the now defunct Mod Works.

[Piloto]

Hang a fan out the window??!!!  Come on Jose'  !!

Well if you are not happy with the above one you can go for one of these http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_air_turbine

José