IFD 5 Series & IFD 4 Series Touch Screen GPS/NAV/COM

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Static Wicks

Printed From: Avidyne
Category: Avidyne General
Forum Name: IFD 5 Series & IFD 4 Series Touch Screen GPS/NAV/COM
Forum Description: Topics on Avidyne's IFD 5 Series and IFD 4 Series Touch Screen GPS/NAV/COM
URL: http://forums.avidyne.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=811
Printed Date: 15 May 2024 at 4:55pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.01 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: Static Wicks

Posted By: M20Kid
Subject: Static Wicks
Date Posted: 13 Sep 2015 at 7:47pm

I am currently in the process of upgrading my Mooney 231 from the 'State-of-the-art' Silver Crown panel to a 540, 340, and 240 upgrade. My question concerns the need for static wicks. My airplane doesn't have any static wicks installed but I do have receptacles on the ailerons; I have no receptacles on the rudder or elevators. I have occasionally had issues with static buildup using my old radios, but the tech installing the new stuff said they were much more sensitive and that I should put a full set of static wicks on the airplane.

I'm wondering what others have experienced in the real world and just how important static wicks will be in getting the most out of these new radios. FYI - I am instrument rated and do fly in clouds when appropriate but I live in AZ and there just aren't many actual IFR days coming and going from home. When I do fly IFR, though, I don't want to have any issues.

Thanks in advance!
Rick

Replies:

Posted By: oskrypuch
Date Posted: 13 Sep 2015 at 8:58pm

Static wicks, when it matters, are not that important with speeds below 200 IAS.

That said, they look cool and are only $60 each. Go for it! I have a full set.

* Orest

Posted By: Royski
Date Posted: 14 Sep 2015 at 9:44am

FWIW, my Mooney 201 had no static wicks. I have done a modest amount of IMC flying since installing the 540 and have noticed no problems with static.

Posted By: M20Kid
Date Posted: 14 Sep 2015 at 10:26am

Thank you, Royski. That's what I need to know. I think I'll try it without any and see if it appears to cause any issues.