IFR Certified 120/140 - Panel

[8349]

Hi all,

Posted on the FB page as well. Hoping to see some photos of 120/140 panels for IFR certified birds. I would like to eventually get one that is capable for some IFR flight - not looking to do any hard IFR but want to be able to pop up through a local overcast to take advantage of an otherwise nice day to fly, etc.

Also, is there any STC, etc. out there to get pitot heat? Seems like the biggest potential risk (although controllable by understanding the forecast, etc.).

Thanks!

[a64pilot]

I’d just install a heated pitot, I don’t even think it should require a 337,but ask the local inspector if they want one or not.
I think I’d worry more about the vacuum system, years ago I intended to make mine IFR capable and installed all electric gyros, but never got around to installing the nav radio.
While not on an an IFR flight plan I’m comfortable climbing through an over cast. the 140 is actually a pretty good IFR platform in my opinion.

[edidin]

Is it determined that pitot heat is required regardless of temp? Similar interest in eventual IFR light capabilities for 120 I fly.

[8362]

91.205 (d) doesn’t require a heated pitot tube. Not that it wouldn’t be a good idea if you have the electrics to support it (or you live in a very warm climate).

[6643]

I would think you'd have to be crazy to fly in hard IFR without a heated pitot tube. Since pitot heat is generally always on, you have no idea how critical it might be.

[edidin]

Not sure what constitutes hard IFR. Was thinking of being able to climb or descend through a layer via an approach, mainly in the summer. Any conditions which absolutely require a heated pitot imply icing is at least a possibility, which rules out any flight in a C120 in the clouds.

[8342]

Not sure what constitutes hard IFR. Was thinking of being able to climb or descend through a layer via an approach, mainly in the summer. Any conditions which absolutely require a heated pitot imply icing is at least a possibility, which rules out any flight in a C120 in the clouds.

I fly IFR in my Cherokee without pitot heat, only to go up or down through a cloud layer. I always keep an eye on the OAT and have never had an issue.

Personally I would not bother with the pitot heat on a 140 or 120. Jumping through the hoops for a field approval is a pain. And I do think that a field approval would be required for a 140 or 120.

Rick

[8362]

The POH for the 182 I fly has pitot heat on in IFR below 40F.
Haven’t turned it on this year.