Experiences with the Garmin GNS 430 and

[Accent]

Anyone have any level of experience with these tools, I’ve downloaded the trainers from Garmin and played around with them, I’ve also tried to correspond with a few folks who own them but have yet to receive a response.

I saw both at Sun-N-Fun, talked to a rep there and was sold.

I’m looking to upgrade my old KLN-90B and I would love to go all the way with the full Garmin stack.

Anyone have a line on some of the more reputable avionics and installation facilities preferably in the southeast, but for the right price I’d consider nearly anywhere in the USA.

Also is a new STC needed?

I thought I remembered somewhere about reading such, that a new STC was needed for the Garmin… maybe I was dreaming but just thought I’d ask.

 

[Accent]

That title should read GNS 430 and 530

 

[Booker]

The school where I teach has airplanes with either the KLN-89B or dual 430s, so I have experience with both King and Garmin lines. I'd be happy to answer any operational questions you may have. Just reply here or PM me. As for the STC requirement or where to get them installed, I can't help; I just fly the things.

 

[Medeco]

Garmin 430

Hey,

I was able t use the 430 extensively while wrking as a flight instructor. This allowed me lots of time to play with all the functions it offers.

I culd be wrong, but the company we had install them in CE172's was Gardner Avionics located in Griffin Georgia 6A2, very popular in Georgia, charged about 10K installed. Well worth the money!

Medeco

 

[jetdriven]

the GNS-430 is only warranteed through garmin if installed through oneof their approved dealers. The going rate on a -430 install is about 9200-9900. The GNS 530 is 15 grand. Usually the customer goes with the GMA340 audio panel and the GTX320 Xponder. expect to pay 32-35 grand for a "full stack" with a 430-530.

At the time of install the STC (included with the unit) and the FAA form 337 will be filed. You will get a copy to include with the aircraft paperwork. IFR installation and certification may cost a few bucks more. The airplane has to actually be flown in VFR conditions on 3 instrument approaches. Then there is a supplement that has to be carried in the aircraft and is signed by a FAA rep stating it is IFR certified and gives details on the functions of that specific installation. Make sure you get that paperwork.

 

[100LL... Again!]

Having flown with both these units, I PERSONALLY wouldn't take out a perfectly good KLN90B and replace it with the 430.

However, I'm a cheapskate.

In my mind the difference is like that between DOS 7.0 and Windows 3.1 (Yes, 3.1).

The King has an slightly arcane user interface with a few tricks in it, but once they are mastered, it doesn't matter. The Garmin is very intuitive.

The KLN90B can do pretty much anything you would want.
The 430 has a much more attractive map, but very little additional functionality. The 530 might be another story with the data link and all.

If you need to spend some cash or just want to, the Garmin is nice. Check out their new audio panel too. You can split the coms.


Bottom line in terms pilots will relate to:

They're both good in bed. With the Garmin, you can leave the lights on.