On Sat, 29 May 2004 07:57:47 -0700, wrote:

I have a Narco AT50A transponder that is not working right. Since I
don't fly IFR, I'm thinking I'll just get it repaired and not upgrade
to an expensive unit with a more modern design (such as Garmin GTX
327). It seems that if the repair is cheaper than buying a used
yellow-tagged newer model, I'm coming out ahead. But I'm wondering
about the 30- or 40-year-old cavity tube oscillator. If faulty, would
it be repaired, would it be replaced with a working used one, or would
it be replaced with a new one? Should I be considering other options?


Two easy options.

1. Narco used to run a no-questions asked deal on repair/overhaul of
AT50s. I think it was ~$500.

2. Narco now makes the AT155, which is pin compatible with the AT50,
and is solid state.

http://www.narco-avionics.com/

Unless you're going to move to a GTX330 / GNS430 combo so you can get
TIS, I'd go with one of the above options (especially VFR).

-Nathan