Installing a Garmin 430W in a PA28

[jayemm]

As a group we're looking to buy a new Garmin GNS 430W and have it installed in our Warrior.

Can anyone recommend companies or organisations that will buy and install it?

Thanks

[IO540]

I'd recommend Airtime in Bournemouth for avionics work.

[jez d]

Tatenhill Aviation (Tatenhill), Lees Avoinics (Booker), to name but two.

Do be careful however that whoever does the installation is Garmin approved, otherwise the warranty is void.

Regards, jez

[IO540]

Do be careful however that whoever does the installation is Garmin approved, otherwise the warranty is void.

In theory, a non Garmin dealer cannot buy this product in the UK, but in practice he can, from a well known outlet which sells loads of them and Garmin are happy with it. Are all those installations without a warranty? IMHO this restrictive practice is a bit vague around the edges.

[jayemm]

Thanks gents. Any other suggestions are welcome.

Is there any evidence that installing this kit would increase the overall value of the PA28?

[jollyrog]

Try also Brian Cook of Bournemouth Avionics (based at Goodwood).

He installed a Garmin GTX328 and a GMA340 in our Warrior last December and was the best quote of the thirteen I sought. His work was fine and he delivered on time. No complaints at all.

PM me for contact details if you're interested.

I sought quotes from all of the companies so far mentioned and they were all good enough to respond with proper, written quotes.

[IO540]

Is there any evidence that installing this kit would increase the overall value of the PA28?

You never increase the value of a plane by spending money on avionics (or anything else actually) to a greater extent than the money spent.

This is partly because used avionics are almost worthless (because, once used, there are likely paperwork issues) but also because smarter buyers know that a plane is likely to contain a few worms, and that a lot of maintenance/repair work is shoddy, so they prefer to knock down the seller by the rectification cost of all the unknown/dodgy bits, and get them done themselves at an establishment of their choice and under their supervision.

[smarthawke]

Lees Avionics at Wycombe Air Park have just fitted the British Airways Flying Club PA28-236 Dakota with a Garmin G600 and the 430 was upgraded to WAAS at the same time (needed to drive the G600).

Looks brilliant, not had a chance to fly it yet though. First customer installation in Europe IIRC. Just go for it - it's only money and good avionics should put some value on the aircraft and make it more saleable if the need be.