AOA Indicators Redux

[Skywarrior]

Interesting article at AOPA.

 

Includes a link to a video demonstration.

 

http://blog.aopa.org/leadingedge/?WT.mc_sect=sap&WT.mc_id=130726epilot&p=3971

[Joe Zuffoletto]

I think Icon really nailed it with their implementation. I'd love to have that in my aircraft.

[mikesalman]

I wonder how much it would cost to have a AOA indicator installed in my 1968 M20F? Has anyone had one installed or priced one for a similar aircraft?

[omega708]

  On 7/26/2013 at 8:55 PM, Joe Zuffoletto said:

I think Icon really nailed it with their implementation. I'd love to have that in my aircraft.

 

Agreed, I really like the presentation that they've provided.  It's virtually impossible to misread.  It does take up a bit more room than the vertical versions that I've seen, but I'd find a way to squeeze it into my panel if it was available.

[DaV8or]

  On 7/27/2013 at 5:08 AM, mikesalman said:

I wonder how much it would cost to have a AOA indicator installed in my 1968 M20F? Has anyone had one installed or priced one for a similar aircraft?

 

I believe the Alpha Systems one is about $1200. The install costs are dependent on your local labor costs. Basically, you have to pick an access panel on the wing and then fabricate a replacement mounting plate that is provided. then you have to decide where you want the indicator installed in your panel. Some want it next to the ASI, or elsewhere in the panel and others like it up on the glare shield. Then you need to run two hoses from the probe to the transducer that needs to be mounted somewhere under the panel I guess. Always a challenge in the Mooney. Finally, the transducer needs to hooked up to the electrical buss, a wire sent to your audio panel and a wire to the indicator. Alternately, you could get their purely mechanical version and skip all the wiring. The Alpha people claim 6-8 hours is typical. It's considered a minor alteration, so just a logbook entry by an A&P.

 

After it's installed and working, you have to calibrate it. This seems to be a two man job, but I don't think the second guy has to be an A&P, or flight instructor or anything. It could be anybody. You go out and fly the plane, basically do some minimum controlable airspeed speed flying and while you fly the plane, the other guy has to push two buttons.