installing a transponder in a vintage aircraft
I have a 1942 Taylorcraft L2 that has no electrical system. I would like to install a transponder so that I can keep it at a class C airport. Having a panel or permanently mounted radio would also be nice.
The type certificate specifies three specific batteries, none of which seem to be made today. A wind generator is also specified in the type certificate. I have that model of wind generator but not the mounting equipment for it.
Before I contact the FSDO I thought that I would ask these questions here:
1. Can I install a battery other than the one specified in the type certificate? (I am thinking of an Odessy PC 680 or similar) If so, do I file a 337?
2. Assuming that the transponder will be TSO'd can I install it with a 337? I will probably go with a microair or similar small transponder with a low current draw.
Is there anything else that I should know? I want to identify all the "gotcha's" before I start this project.
Thanks
Transponder installation in vintage aircraft.
Hi,
I installed a Terra Transponder (TRT-250) in my 1941 Interstate S-1A Cadet which has no electrical system. The Terra installation Manual said that any power supply from 4 to 24 volts was useable, so my power supply is a 12 volt battery. I am an A&P and I.A. and did it on a 337 Form and received a Field Approval from my local FSDO.
I accomplished this installation in the early 1990's. I could send a copy of my 337 if you want.
Wayne
Vintage A/C Transponder installs
Quote:
Originally Posted by
N12tj
I have a 1942 Taylorcraft L2 that has no electrical system. I would like to install a transponder so that I can keep it at a class C airport. Having a panel or permanently mounted radio would also be nice.
The type certificate specifies three specific batteries, none of which seem to be made today. A wind generator is also specified in the type certificate. I have that model of wind generator but not the mounting equipment for it.
Before I contact the FSDO I thought that I would ask these questions here:
1. Can I install a battery other than the one specified in the type certificate? (I am thinking of an Odessy PC 680 or similar) If so, do I file a 337?
2. Assuming that the transponder will be TSO'd can I install it with a 337? I will probably go with a microair or similar small transponder with a low current draw.
Is there anything else that I should know? I want to identify all the "gotcha's" before I start this project.
Thanks
I am trying to get together a design very similar to what you have described except that I plan on going with the Odyssey SJ16 battery which is a near ident equal to the PC680 but has an FAA granted PMA for its usage in aircraft. Mine is to be for an Aeronca Chief but I am going to go around the wind turbine in the belief that for the very small current draw of the new minaturized transponders, the dry mat batteries will provide sufficient power for much longer than the nominal flight durations of this kind of aircraft (IMHO) This approach has been utilized in high performance gliders successfully. It is my understanding that you(we) will require the assistance of an IA to qualify the installation. This is a maybe. I intend to use one anyway. There will be a requirement for a 337. Check out FAA Advisory Circular 43.9-1F which essentially walks you through the necessary steps to prepare the 337. It is available online. This approach means, of course, that I will have to recharge the dry mat batt at some interval. I hope to be able to do this with a trickle charger such as I currently use on my garden tractors and ATV, all of which are 12V systems. Please let me know if you make any significant discoveries as you go along particularly in the areas of acceptable SOC systems and recharge of dry mats. You may do so by posting here or, if you wish, make direct contact with me at tmail51a@gmail.com. Good Luck with your project.
EDGEFLY