I have a KR85 ADF, still keep it as I need it for the occassional NDB approach, and don't have $10,000 to install a 430 or $5550 to install some older KLN89B or something like that.
The ADF indicator does not seem to point to station. It will wobble a little but never get fixed on a station. I have good audio, its a great AM radio, and am getting the morse code on the NDBs I tune. I've made sure the NDBs I have tried were actually in service, and checked the unit against at least a dozen stations from no farther out than 10 miles, many from within 3 miles.
I Took it to an avionics shop several times, they found some loose connectors, repaired those, then found a break in the loop connector to the antennae on the bottom of the plane, we replaced that at some expense, they bench tested the indicator, it seems to work OK. Unfortunately its now time however to go to a new shop, they aren't interested in debugging it further, every time I see them they say install an approach GPS. Well, I would love too, but it ain't gonna happen this year or next year.
I am wondering if the connectors are good, the indicator is good, the antennae are OK, does that mean the panel box is shot? The shop said something about if the knobs feel a little loose something or another inside won't work right. I am thinking about maybe picking up another panel on Ebay and plugging it in and seeing if it makes a difference.
Unfortunately, installing a panel mount approach certified GPS is the best answer these days. With the economy going down the tubes lately, you might try calling up some of the smaller avionics shops around the country to see if one is hungry enough to offer you a better deal on installing a used/refurb older panel mount GPS such as a Garmin 155XL or perhaps one of the UPSAT Apollo GX-series.
There's a couple of smaller avionics shops in Texas that might still be willing to work on, and might be able to repair your old ADF unit if you sent it to them. Try calling:
Central Texas Avionics in Georgetown, TX (KGTU) 512-868-8484
Stark Aviation in Olney, TX (KONY) 940-564-2938
(not associated with Stark Avionics in Georgia, different Starks)
Tomlinson Avionics of Texas in Gainesville, TX (KGLE) 940-612-2044
I second the above. ADF is rapidly becoming a thing of the past, and ADF approaches are systematically going out of service. I wouldn't put any more money into an ADF system.
I also maintain an ADF in my plane, and though I can't fault the above posts and recommendations I think it would be less costly to try to find a replacement receiver (another KR85) and slide it in. Because of the same reasons listed above, you can pick these up cheap. Just make sure what you are getting does in fact work, or get a guarantee.
I did this exact thing for my KR86 and has worked great since. It sounds like you have proven the antenna/cables and indicator.
If your type of flying doesn't demand a new Garmin you can buy a lot of avgas for the cost of a new GPS, or you used to be able too !
my 2 cents,
mike
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 11/16/2007 08:51PM by vox51.
In other parts of the world, Europe for Example it is still requirered to have a ADF to get IFR quallified.
I have a KR87 installed in a Cherrokee that works more than perfect.
If the installation is propper done You shall be able to have a steady indication at least the stated coverage of the NDB. My expirience with KR87 is at least 50% margin.
If you are looking for a second hand GPS KLN89B is an option although not intuitive in setting up. Trimble Approch 2000/2100 models are very intuitive to work with and not very expensive on the second hand market.
Installed a kr85 adf I got on EBAY to replace existing non function one. this one works but indicator senses in reverse --- tail of needle points to the station. any one have any ideas for this craziness?
Having the same problems with my Narco 141 TSO ADF. Thought maybe it was the sense antenna, as I found a broken wire there and soldered it, and now the stations come in good, but the homing needle won't home in on the station. If you find your problem, let me know. Thanks .....dale
Bruce,
Not sure on this one but check to see if there is a selection of top or bottom mounting for the sense or sense/loop antenna. Should be in the installation instructions if there is.
Bill...
