Buy the unit and have it installed as VFR. When you get the extra
bucks, add pieces until you have everything that you need. The other
alternative is to check and see whether or not you'll need an
annunciator and switching panel if you use a Garmin 430. If you don't
need these items it may be more cost effective to go with the 430.


On Fri, 25 Feb 2005 04:23:56 GMT, "nobody" wrote:

We're based at KIWS (West Houston).

In my ignorance I was hoping to get into an IFR GPS at the low end. It
appears that the low end is still above my top end. I'd love to have a 430,
480, 530, etc.. but just can't justify the cost in a Warrior. We're in the
middle of doing paint, interior and coming up quickly on annual. I can't
spend that much more money on the GPS now. Some of the P&I will come back
in the resale but the avionics won't.

A portable is looking pretty tempting right now.

Ed


"Helen Woods" wrote in message
...
Where are you based at? Maybe we can help you find a better priced shop. I
saved a couple thousand on my 530 by shopping around.

Also, check e-bay. The used boxes don't have a Garmin warrenty but there
are a good number of 430s floating around with people upgrading to either
530s or 480s.

And in answer to your question, an IFR GPS does cost an arm and a leg.
Expect to sell a few more body parts too to pay for the database
subscription that makes it legal.

Helen