Our HSI has shown a heading flag since reinstallation and now the Sigmatek AI is calling it quits. So our planned future avionics upgrade is upon us.

Currently installed
Sigmatek AI, NSD-360 HSI, S-Tec 50 autopilot, Garmin430W, KX155 Navcom, GTX327 transponder, NAT AA80-60 intercom and KMA 24 audio panel. Insight G1 6 channel engine monitor, MP gauge, Cessna fuel and oil guages, a carb heat sensor not hooked up and a poorly working tachometer make up the EIS.

So the current thought is to go to a pair of G5s. But where to stop? GI275 for EIS? Or Insight or JPI?

And Garmin has an upgrade offer to change out the 430W for a 650 Txi for $7200. But with at least a 6 month lead time.

And last, what Pacific Northwest shop do you recommend?

I just put my second g-5 in my beaver on floats, I bought the first one 3 seasons ago, my vacuum started to go so I opted to put the second g-5 and get rid of the vacuum.

I cannot speak to your other decisions but I am very happy with the g5

I’m in a similar conundrum and decided it’s worth a little more $$ to go with the G3x touch instead.

Have you considered Dynon Skyview? Auto pilot for 182P in the works. I’m holding out until it’s certification is complete.

No easy answers in avionics it seems.
Went with a second G5 in the 172 this past year to ditch the vac pump, makes for a really slick setup. To do again today, I'd likely lean towards the GI275.
Sounds like you're on the edge for going full swap. Trouble is, even after you take the leap it doesn't get easier. We're looking at full glass for the R182 and you'd think it'd be easy choice of either Garmin/Dynon. Dynon has been working on the 182 AP stc for years it seems, *should* be close. But there's the question of which IFR GPS, and if we're going this far we want seamless flight planning and fully coupled approaches.
Add the choice of which shop, especially when we're willing to travel WA/OR/ID/MT/WY for the right shop it doesn't get any easier.
Sorry I'm not much help outside of thumbs up for modern equipment and ditching the vacuum system.

I was hoping to delay this till winter but the failing AI is forcing my hand. Duncan Aviation says they have an opening which could coincide with equipment arrival, 4 weeks.
So right now we are leaning heavily towards G5s and a GI-275 EIS with provisions to swap the 430W to a 650 when they become available. Current word is that the 650 txi is out at least 6 months.

I'd suggest getting a quote on a G3X. If you are going that far already the price jump wouldn't be that much I doubt.

A1Skinner wrote:I'd suggest getting a quote on a G3X. If you are going that far already the price jump wouldn't be that much I doubt.

I’ve heard G3X is 6 months out for availability, anyone know if that’s true? Might be the same for other Garmin bling…

Halestorm wrote:

A1Skinner wrote:I'd suggest getting a quote on a G3X. If you are going that far already the price jump wouldn't be that much I doubt.

I’ve heard G3X is 6 months out for availability, anyone know if that’s true? Might be the same for other Garmin bling…

Ya I've been told that. Been told that about 275s and simple GTR225 comms as well.

G5s appear to be in stock, GI275s limited but findable. GEA24s can also be found but limited. Some of the sensors appear limited.

650s are out at least 6 months.
GNC355s as well. I will likely wire for a 355 but not dump the 430w until they become available.

There are claims that some places are getting 40% markups on some avionics. Ouch

DreadPirateWill wrote:No easy answers in avionics it seems.
Went with a second G5 in the 172 this past year to ditch the vac pump, makes for a really slick setup. To do again today, I'd likely lean towards the GI275.
Sounds like you're on the edge for going full swap. Trouble is, even after you take the leap it doesn't get easier. We're looking at full glass for the R182 and you'd think it'd be easy choice of either Garmin/Dynon. Dynon has been working on the 182 AP stc for years it seems, *should* be close. But there's the question of which IFR GPS, and if we're going this far we want seamless flight planning and fully coupled approaches.
Add the choice of which shop, especially when we're willing to travel WA/OR/ID/MT/WY for the right shop it doesn't get any easier.
Sorry I'm not much help outside of thumbs up for modern equipment and ditching the vacuum system.

They just approved the Bonanza 36 AP recently (as in days ago). 182 gotta be close.

I went with dual G-5's from the start to get rid of vacuum system as well as be set up for GFC-500. I could not be happier.

I use my G-5's to fly the plane. HSI/ADI.. What I grew up on before they went digital. I use my GTN-750xi for all the "other stuff", Weather, NAV, Charts, Fuel Planning etc. I like the separation.

I fly with a bud who has 275's. Absolutely great product. I just can't see the data even with cheaters. Yes i'm old but at least something to consider.

MW

Update
Getting quotes is a challenge and the range is eye opening. Over a hundred hours to do a pair of G5s in the Seattle area is the highest so far.
The good news is that others are half that.
I think we are going with a pair of GI-275s. I got decent quotes from Spencer Avionics in Puyallup and Baker Avionics in Grants Pass. Any PIREPS on either of them?

Spencer’s did my GFC500 autopilot as well as my buddies (both 182P models). I thought they did a great job and will definitely return when I need avionics upgrades. They were also the most reasonably priced.

I’m based at Thun and have had work done by Spencer’s. I have a GFC 500 and they replaced a bad autopilot servo for me under warranty. They also installed a GAD 13 for me, as well as routine pitot static check and Garmin software updates. Very happy with their work and nice folks to work with. Highly recommend.
Cheers,
Doug