Non-TSO'd Radio/Avionics

[8359]

I've done a bit of research into this, from what I can tell using non-TSO'd equipment in certified aircraft is okay, as long as it's not a Transponder/ADSB, IFR related instruments or flight recorders. This means a standard comm radio would be okay. I've also seem people put in glass panels placarded with "Not Primary Flight Instrument." With something like a C120, it's hard to specify it has to be TSO'd if it never had it to begin with.

My current radio uses a bit of juice, and I was hoping to change it out with something like the GTR200 that uses less power and had a built in intercom.

The question I have here, when I replace the radio, can it be done with a simple logbook entry, or would it require a field approval? My thought is a logbook entry signed off by an A&P would be plenty.

[5115]

Hi Tamer,
This is a link I found a long time ago regarding TSO'd radios.
http://edburkhead.com/Ercoupe/radio_tso_requirement.htm

I'm not sure in the US if just a book entry is enough. But it will surely take also a W+B amendment.

[8261]

I replaced a KX-170B (non-TSO) with a Garmin GTR 200. A&P/IA did a logbook entry.

By the way, awesome radio.

Good luck,
Chris

[2066]

FWIW, in looking back at my 140's "radio history", there's been a 337 for each new replacement. It had a Narco Escort 110 when I bought it (...would transmit almost as far as a good garage door opener on its limited freqs, incidentally ). The next upgrade was to a non-TSO'd Terra 960 & included completion of a #337 + new W & B. Good radio...on my golf cart & working OK today. In '02 we replaced the Terra with a non TSOd Icom A-200 -- the IA installed that, again with #337 completed + W & B updated. I do recall that the IA asked his FSDO contact about installing the non-TSOd vs. the exact same that was TSOd and available. He was asked for his opinion on the difference 'twixt the TSOd unit and the non & he replied "about $100 bucks"...the FAA rep laughed & said to just install it, complete/submit the 337 and get on with life. Again, FWIW, as this was "way back" in '02. Mac

[8359]

Thanks for the feedback guys, and for that link Martin.

I have an A&P I've been working with who is pretty friendly. I'll run this idea by him and see what he says. I think it should be okay.

Glad to hear you love your GTR Chris.