Trig TT31

[Txbyker]

I am doing some avionics upgrades and am thinking about replacing my KT76A with a new mode S. The Garmin GTX330 would require some panel change but I understand the Trig TT31 is a direct fit for the KT76A. I know there are some folks here using the Trig. Can you provide feedback on the TT31 versus the Garmin GTX?

Thanks

[podair]

I ve had a Trig TT31 in my M20F for five years. It has worked absolutely flawlessly. I had a KT76, so it was a 2 minute slide out , slide in job. Here in Europe you also need to apply for a minor modification ($300 fee plus $300 paperwork from the shop) permit whenever you change anything minor, unless the manufacturer has already applied for it on your behalf. To its credit, Trig pre-applied for dozens of aircraft type to the EASA , saving owners the fees, already suffering for having to upgrade to mode S (mandatory for IFR in Europe). Also happy to support the few European manufacturers that still exist.

Installing a Garmin would have meant installation fees ($1000) plus the minor mod, so the choice was an easy one. It also has an ADS-B output I think, although here we can't use it yet (we get all the mandatory requirements without the side benefits, such as Mode S but no TIS, IFR GPS pretty much mandatory but you are required to keep ADF and DME).

Having used both, I think the digit buttons on the Garmin are a good idea, but the squawk selection on the Trig with the knob is very easy too.

I think Aviation Consumer had a review recently.

If you have a KT76 I think it is a no brainer to use the Trig, unless you absolutely want to pay for some install work and have an all Garmin panel.

[OR75]

chiming in although not directly answering your question. Mode S should not require re-wiring: the TT31 and KT-73 are mode S slide in. The (soon to be out ???) Avidyne AXP340 is also a slide in replacement to the KT-76A. For some reason ...at Garmin, they like to rewire even when not necessary (refer GNS to GTN ... )

ADS-B out will require a wire from a WAAS GPS.

The GTX looks like a fine unit. I have not heard any bad things about the Trig.

So the question may be: how much will it cost to rewire ?

ps: does KDWH's 17L still have a lot of gravel ?

[Txbyker]

Thanks. I like that the Trig is a slide in replacement. I was told that the trays have to be modified for the Garmin and that the center stack is riveted to the side stack where my KT76 is today. I have also read that the Trig will not show traffic on the Garmin GNS as of yet therefore it may be a showstopper.

OR75, Yep, 17L still has loose asphalt rocks sometimes. I avoid it if possible.

[STCAERO]

As the owner of an avionics shop in Spain, I´ve sold and installed about 25 TT31´s and to this date and never had a problem.They are both rugged and reliable and, as has previously been said, 5 minutes work, if that to install and program initially. However they won´t fit in a standard KT76 tray (and the connect is also different) - for a "plug & play" replacement you must have a KT76A or KT76C initially.

STCAERO