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  • VOR Antenna and issues.

    I purchased the Advanced Flight systems full IFR panel system. It came with a Archer VOR Antenna designed for mounting in the wing tips. It is model 1 antenna which is is 11in tall. First issue it will not fit. Second is I opted for Carbon Fiber wing tips. I am trying to figure out the best option. Here is the options I see. What is the best way to deal with this?
    Thanks

    1. Upgrade to Hoerner Wing Tips in fiberglass.
    2. Change from Carbon Fiber to Fiberglass BH Wing tips and get the Archer VOR Antenna designed for 8in wing tips.
    3. Change to different VOR Antennas (RAMI AV-532, Etc. )
    Travis M
    Kentucky
    Bearhawk 5 Quickbuilt Kit Plane #5041
    Received December 2022
    Builders Log

  • #2
    I don't know what receiver you opted for, but I'll assume a Garmin GTN-650xi. First thing I'd do is question why you need VOR reception capability with them going away. If you gotta have that capability, then consider mounting a something like https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catal...clickkey=15410 to the inside belly of the plane as far back as you can fit it. There would be some shadowing probably because of the engine, cowl, etc. If that limitation is a problem, then consider mounting a "cat whiskers" vor antenna on the tail of the plane down by the tailwheel. The "whiskers" straddle the tail wheel and reduce the possibility of poking yourself in the eye.

    Of course, another option is to homebrew your own antenna with copper foil strips bonded to the belly of the plane. There are a lot of options and designs on how to do that
    Last edited by Mark Dickens; 12-12-2025, 06:20 AM.

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    • #3
      I have the Avidyne IFD440. I know VOR are being reduced but I do plan on going to Canada and further and would like the option of VOR.
      Travis M
      Kentucky
      Bearhawk 5 Quickbuilt Kit Plane #5041
      Received December 2022
      Builders Log

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      • #4
        You can also just build your own VOR/GS that fits the size you need, using common materials. You might need to tune it to get it just right, but gives you a lot more flexibility to get it to fit. For VOR, it's not nearly as critical since it's receive only. Look on VAF, there is a lot of discussion about rolling your own.

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        • FFTravism
          FFTravism commented
          Editing a comment
          Very interesting. I will check that out. Thanks

      • #5
        Travis install a std GS/LOC antenna in the tail under the stab. Seems to work fine.

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