While there are numerous used boxes out there at low prices, you have to
consider that the installation is a big part of the total cost. Another
consideration is that the newer systems have more intuitive operating logic.
The newer systems (430/530/480) all incorporate com and VLOC/GS. The older
units required more wiring and usually a switch/annunciator box which drives
up the cost. The new integrated avionics are also lighter. I removed 11lb
by installing a 530/300XL instead of a 300XL/155 with all its switching
boxes and VLOC converter strung together with miles of wire. .

I did the avionics installation myself on my Helio. A picture of the Helio
panel is on Jay Honecks site
http://alexisparkinn.com/photogaller...295H_Panel.jpg. Before
starting, you need to be sure that someone will sign off the installation
when you are done! It took a while because I was always waiting for more of
some wire or connector but it worked perfectly from the beginning. The
tools are often availible on ebay.

Mike
MU-2


"tom pettit peak org" tompetatdot wrote in message
...
I'm currently flying VFR in a vfr equipped plane. What would be the
lowest cost GPS based instrument system I could install and be legal for
IFR flying?

I looked through the last six months of this newsgroup, but didn't see a
FAQ or the answer to the above, so I hope it won't be something that was
just hashed out.

thanks,
tom pettit