Thorp Air Command - T18.net

Recently installed a Garmin G5 electronic flight display, my aircraft did not have a artificial horizon, directional gyro or a vacuum system. The G5 went in easy, two wires, connections to the pitot / static system and adding an additional GPS antenna. The G5 is more like a flight director, but also has a HSI page. To use this to it's full capacity the G5 needs to be coupled to a late Garmin Nav / Com so out went the King KX155 and in went a Garmin SL 30 also a easy install with again only three additional connections to the G5. Now have ILS capability (I don't know if I have it in me to fly IMC in the Thorp) but I am sure that it will be helpful on scuzzy days. I did not have enough room to install a second com, so the SL 30 has a feature to monitor the stand by frequency, so you can listen to ATIS while getting flight following.

Phil
118BC

Hey thats great. I put in a G5 5 months ago to replace vacuum driven AH & DG. The set up is very simple if stand alone, would have to think a bit harder if installing other avionics that talk to it! Saved quite a bit of weight and hopefully get a few HP back from engine not having to drive pump. What does a SL30 cost these days?
Cheers
Tony Schischka
T18C
ZK-VMS

I paid $2,800.00 for one of the latest ones made. But if you live where 8.33 spacing is required or will be soon, the Garmin GNC 255 is the better way to go. It has 10 or 16 watts of transmit power depending on the variant you choose. But is .300 taller in the radio rack. You can find them for $3,900.00 for the 10 watt model the 16 watt unit runs about $1,000.00 USD more.

Phil
118BC

I would be very interested in seeing a picture of anyone’s panel after a G5 installation, if you wouldn’t mind sharing? Thank you

No problem if I can figure out how to post it. It may be this weekend.

Phil
118BC

Posting these for Phil.

_________________
Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

Thanks Lee !!! I can overhaul a engine but can't upload photos Now I know why they offer me the senior coffee at Macdonald's without me asking

Phil
118BC

Right there with you Phil. This stuff Lee does is Black Magic!!
Cubes

Pic of panel and G5.

Tony
ZK-VMS

Tony,
it looks like you have a full panel, is you G5 coupled to your radio ?

Phil
118BC

No, G5 is stand alone. Have not got the magnetic compass module either. No IFR stuff for me.
Tony
ZK-VMS

I understand, but if I no choice I feel it is better to have it available. For IFR I fly a Twin Comanche with all of the bells and whistles.
Phil
118BC