VAL COM 2000 failing

deyoung

deyoung

Line Up and Wait
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Tucson, AZ
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Chris
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Does anyone have any experience with the VAL COM 2000? I have one that has started being flaky, and I wonder if I just have bad luck with this particular unit or if they have been known to be unreliable.

A while ago I had one instance where it froze up, and I could not change frequencies or swap frequencies---controls just did nothing. Power cycling the unit fixed it.

Then yesterday it worked fine for the first part of the flight, then at one point just checked out---couldn't hear anything. Power cycling it did NOT fix it this time. Turning the squelch all the way off gave me a sort of strobing noise, with maybe a bit of actual transmission buried in it somewhere; it was hard to tell for sure. I'm wondering if maybe it doesn't like to get hot.

If I end up replacing it, what do people recommend for radios these days?
 
deyoung said:
A while ago I had one instance where it froze up, and I could not change frequencies or swap frequencies---controls just did nothing. Power cycling the unit fixed it.
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Sounds to me like bad capacitors or cracked solder joints.
Probably fixable, but the cost might not be worth it.

What kind of aircraft?
 
AV8R_87 said:
Sounds to me like bad capacitors or cracked solder joints.
Probably fixable, but the cost might not be worth it.

What kind of aircraft?
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Cherokee 235. My other radio is a KX-155 which is also getting flaky - might be time to replace them both, budget permitting.
 
deyoung said:
Cherokee 235. My other radio is a KX-155 which is also getting flaky - might be time to replace them both, budget permitting.
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What kind of GPS navigator do you have in the plane?
 
WDD said:
What kind of GPS navigator do you have in the plane?
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Nothing certified - tablet with Garmin Pilot and a GDL-39 receiver for ADSB and weather. There is also an old King KMD 150, but its database is long out of date and not worth the money to keep current (if I even can anymore). So I do have some panel space to replace it with something if I want to spend the money to do so.
 
deyoung said:
Nothing certified - tablet with Garmin Pilot and a GDL-39 receiver for ADSB and weather. There is also an old King KMD 150, but its database is long out of date and not worth the money to keep current (if I even can anymore). So I do have some panel space to replace it with something if I want to spend the money to do so.
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Sounds like the plane is VFR. Is that also true of the pilot?
 
I’d suggest in this case get the Garmin GNC 355. It will give you a com radio and a GOS nav. A bit cheaper than the GTN 650xi. Keep the best nav/com radio you currently have for your com 2.
 
asicer said:
Sounds like the plane is VFR. Is that also true of the pilot?
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Good question. My 2 cents. Even if you’re a VFR pilot the GPS navigator is well worth it. Not just for IFR use by any stretch.
 
WDD said:
My 2 cents. Even if you’re a VFR pilot the GPS navigator is well worth it. Not just for IFR use by any stretch.
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And mine: depending on the situation, the alternatives to a panel mount GPS navigator can be both better and more cost effective.
 
asicer said:
Sounds like the plane is VFR. Is that also true of the pilot?
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Yes.

I have considered getting my instrument rating, but I don't have much use for it around here (Arizona), since most of the IMC you'll find here is not anything you want to fly in regardless, but more important really is the fact that I don't fly quite enough to maintain it most of the time. Even if I can stay current, that's not the same as staying proficient, and actually not having the instrument rating can make some go/no-go decisions easier. We have toyed with the idea of moving up to the pacific northwest though, and if that happens I'll very likely need to get it.

The plane itself actually is IFR, almost -- I took out the panel-mounted clock to put in a fuel totalizer, but it has everything else needed. Though if I replace the KX-155 then I lose the ILS/VOR receiver so I'd need to replace with something that provides that.
 
I have a 2kr that I’ve had no issues with other than my voltage regulator frying it with 45 volts. Support has been awesome for that, it’s still in for repair but he indicated he would cover it under warranty even though I’m certain it wasn’t manufacture defect.
 
deyoung said:
Yes.

I have considered getting my instrument rating, but I don't have much use for it around here (Arizona), since most of the IMC you'll find here is not anything you want to fly in regardless, but more important really is the fact that I don't fly quite enough to maintain it most of the time. Even if I can stay current, that's not the same as staying proficient, and actually not having the instrument rating can make some go/no-go decisions easier. We have toyed with the idea of moving up to the pacific northwest though, and if that happens I'll very likely need to get it.

The plane itself actually is IFR, almost -- I took out the panel-mounted clock to put in a fuel totalizer, but it has everything else needed. Though if I replace the KX-155 then I lose the ILS/VOR receiver so I'd need to replace with something that provides that.
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I would say that the plane is close to legal but not practical. Maybe in the PNW (I have yet to check out what the VOR situation is like over there) but not other places such as where @WDD is based. Even if a repair on the VAL is an option, I'd give it some hard thought as to what you want to do about IFR, for both you and the plane.
 
asicer said:
I would say that the plane is close to legal but not practical. Maybe in the PNW (I have yet to check out what the VOR situation is like over there) but not other places such as where @WDD is based. Even if a repair on the VAL is an option, I'd give it some hard thought as to what you want to do about IFR, for both you and the plane.
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Makes sense. If I have a capable enough GPS, it is practical these days to rely on GPS-everything for IFR and ignore VOR and ILS options? I assume you can use GPS for RNAV approaches (as you can tell I haven't really studied this, beyond VOR tracking and ILS approaches).
 
deyoung said:
Makes sense. If I have a capable enough GPS, it is practical these days to rely on GPS-everything for IFR and ignore VOR and ILS options? I assume you can use GPS for RNAV approaches (as you can tell I haven't really studied this, beyond VOR tracking and ILS approaches).
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For us bug smashers, you can only use GPS for RNAV. There are a couple airports where all approaches are old school analog and no GPS. Last time I checked, KVNY was the most memorable one.

Also, there isn't really "capable enough". Outside of WAAS versus non-WAAS (which nobody even makes any more), it's either IFR or it isn't.
 
deyoung said:
Makes sense. If I have a capable enough GPS, it is practical these days to rely on GPS-everything for IFR and ignore VOR and ILS options? I assume you can use GPS for RNAV approaches (as you can tell I haven't really studied this, beyond VOR tracking and ILS approaches)
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My area - hard to find a working VOR and ILS to even keep up to speed on using them. I’d be hesitant to rely on VOR and ILS for navigation.
 
asicer said:
And mine: depending on the situation, the alternatives to a panel mount GPS navigator can be both better and more cost effective.
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Good thought there. I do like the independent tablet ram mounted to my left on the windshield for showing traffic, moving map, etc. But to add to that, I've also had the tablet fail at critical times. Rare and infrequent, but it happens. Thus, I'd suggest that it isn't either a tablet OR a panel mounted navigator, but both.

A navigator like a Garmin 355 GNC, etc. is also going to give you things a tablet won't in addition to being much more reliable.

Net net, M2C is get the panel mounted GPS navigator; it will make flying VFR more enjoyable. IF you ever decide to get your IFR rating, just add a clock back to the panel, buy the GPS navigator database update subscription, and you'll be good to go.
 
I had three VAL radios (two COM 2KR's and a NAV 2KR) in my Velocity and the nav radio had an issue. I emailed Val and got quick response. After a little back and forth, I sent the radio to them. They figured out the problem, fixed it, upgraded the software and shipped it back. No charge. The radios were about 5 years old at this point (don't recall what their warranty was at the time). I was very happy with their responsiveness and service.
 
Thanks for all the feedback. The 355 GNC does look like the way to go, but of course it's also the most expensive option. Hmm...
 
deyoung said:
Cherokee 235. My other radio is a KX-155 which is also getting flaky - might be time to replace them both, budget permitting.
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I went through that process with the Collins 351/251s. The are cheap to replace, but you have to do it often. If you do not have a terminal certified GPS, take a look at the IFD 440. Or a refurbed 430.
 
M2C FWIW

Skip the used GNS430 and save up for something made in the last decade. Paying to install something outdated and not supported - you can do so much more with your dollar.
 
It looks like used 430s are still going for about half the price of a new 355 -- I'm not sure I'm committed to spending that much money on this right now, but if I do decide to I think I'll probably opt to spend the extra for the 355. Installation is probably similar and it should have more life as well as being more capable, I would think.
 
If you’re going to get something, get the 355. As long as you’re getting it, get it sooner vs later and use it/ enjoy it. It’s not going to get cheaper. And by getting it later you’re spending the same amount of money but getting less use out of it.
 
deyoung said:
It looks like used 430s are still going for about half the price of a new 355 -- I'm not sure I'm committed to spending that much money on this right now, but if I do decide to I think I'll probably opt to spend the extra for the 355. Installation is probably similar and it should have more life as well as being more capable, I would think.
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If you go the 430 route and it breaks some time in the future then you can slide in an IFD440. The decision-tree gets more complex.
 
Just for grins I looked for sellers of the VAL Com 2000 and found a couple of places that had them WAY marked down. Of course this is from the internet so I don't know if the radios are actually available but at the markdown price it would be worth considering swapping one in. example 1 example 2
 
I'm still on the fence, but I think I'm leaning toward spending the money for the 355. I mentioned it to my wife, and her reaction was "well the only point in having the plane, for me, is to be able to go places, so if it helps with that..."

Also my KX-155 is now definitely dead, so I need a new COM anyway. The weather hasn't been conducive to a test flight for the last couple of days so I don't know if my A&P was able to fix the 2000 or not - he tested it in the hanger and it was fine, but it's been fine on startup before - didn't die until 30 minutes in last time. I slightly suspect heat, but could have been a loose connection - he cleaned and re-seated all the connections to the audio panel, so we'll see. If it's not fixed I may still pick up a used 2000 for a spare (I definitely want two radios).
 
deyoung said:
I think I'm leaning toward spending the money for the 355. I mentioned it to my wife, and her reaction was "well the only point in having the plane, for me, is to be able to go places, so if it helps with that..."
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If that's her giving you free reign then you should jump on a digital autopilot to go with that. :)
 
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Ok, so, watching through an intro/tutorial for the 355... actually a ton of useful features there that I would like to have. :)

But - ADSB and weather data: from what I can tell initially it looks like it does not include an integrated ADSB receiver for traffic and weather data, you have to pair it with something else to get that functionality - am I right, or do I misunderstand?

Thanks!
 
deyoung said:
Ok, so, watching through an intro/tutorial for the 355... actually a ton of useful features there that I would like to have. :)

But - ADSB and weather data: from what I can tell initially it looks like it does not include an integrated ADSB receiver for traffic and weather data, you have to pair it with something else to get that functionality - am I right, or do I misunderstand?

Thanks!
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I'm assuming you have the mandatory ADSB Out taken care of somehow.

ADSB In is not required for IFR flight, but it is great in that it gives you traffic and weather. ADSB In is usually supplied by your transponder or separate ADSB In module, such as a Stratus 3. IMHO ADSB In is actually better on your tablet running your ForeFlight, I Fly, Garmin Pilot, etc. Larger screen, and you let your panel mounted navigator screen focus on your route, course, etc. AND you'll need your tablet to bring up Approach Plates anyway if you ever get going on your IR training.

ADSB In can be supplied by a Stratus 3, GDL 50, etc. Battery powered, not panel mounted / no labor in installing; just turn it on, connect to your tablet, and it works.
 
ADDENDUM: For about 9 months I was flying with a GNC 355, a mechanical CDI, and a PAR 200B audio panel that had a built in COM I used for COM2. I used a Stratus 3 to feed a tablet I had mounted to the left of my windshield. That combination worked great.
 
WDD said:
I'm assuming you have the mandatory ADSB Out taken care of somehow.

ADSB In is not required for IFR flight, but it is great in that it gives you traffic and weather. ADSB In is usually supplied by your transponder or separate ADSB In module, such as a Stratus 3. IMHO ADSB In is actually better on your tablet running your ForeFlight, I Fly, Garmin Pilot, etc. Larger screen, and you let your panel mounted navigator screen focus on your route, course, etc. AND you'll need your tablet to bring up Approach Plates anyway if you ever get going on your IR training.

ADSB In can be supplied by a Stratus 3, GDL 50, etc. Battery powered, not panel mounted / no labor in installing; just turn it on, connect to your tablet, and it works.
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Thanks - I do have ADSB-out through a Stratus transponder.

I don't need ADSB-in, but I definitely want it; right now I have it through a GDL-39 receiver paired (bluetooth) with Garmin Pilot on a tablet. That's fine, I can continue to work with that, and I recognize that the 355 screen is small. Battery issues are covered; both the GDL-39 and the tablet have panel power, though the -39 is powered through the cigarette lighter (*twitch*). It's not the end of the world if it drops out though.

I think I'm 90% ready to pull the trigger on this one -- as you said above, they aren't going to get any cheaper.
 
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Call a few shops in your area to get some quotes on timing (time to start as well as time needed to work on plane) as well as costs. Maybe folks in your area can recommend some good shops.

Hate to ask, but..... how is your audio panel doing?
 
WDD said:
Call a few shops in your area to get some quotes on timing (time to start as well as time needed to work on plane) as well as costs. Maybe folks in your area can recommend some good shops.

Hate to ask, but..... how is your audio panel doing?
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No problems noticed, but not terribly modern. I don't remember the make/model, but it's this one which I'm sure almost everyone has seen:

1.jpg
 
So……. Give it a thought to get the PAR 200 B audio panel as well. Modern audio panel, and you’ll get your COM2. And nice things like blue tooth, etc,

Not a mandatory, but would be good to have.

How long will you have this plane?
 
WDD said:
So……. Give it a thought to get the PAR 200 B audio panel as well. Modern audio panel, and you’ll get your COM2. And nice things like blue tooth, etc,

Not a mandatory, but would be good to have.

How long will you have this plane?
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No plan, but honestly - probably through the end of my flying, barring any unexpected problems. I don't fly for hire and have no aspirations to do so. Purely recreational.
 
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deyoung said:
I'm not sure I should push my luck... :-)
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"Fortune favors the brave" :goofy:
deyoung said:
I don't remember the make/model, but it's this one which I'm sure almost everyone has seen:
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KMA24.

BTW, you aren't the only one with KX155 issues lately:
A

Post in thread 'King kx155 display issues'

The ICOM A220 with MB-53 adapter uses the same 30pin edge card connector as the KX155 but the pinouts are different. But re-pinning the connector could be cheaper than re-wiring the panel. You'll also have to decide whether you actually like the ICOM A220 rather than merely shopping on price.

WDD said:
How long will you have this plane?
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How long have you had this plane?
 
asicer said:
"Fortune favors the brave" :goofy:

KMA24.

BTW, you aren't the only one with KX155 issues lately:
A

Post in thread 'King kx155 display issues'

The ICOM A220 with MB-53 adapter uses the same 30pin edge card connector as the KX155 but the pinouts are different. But re-pinning the connector could be cheaper than re-wiring the panel. You'll also have to decide whether you actually like the ICOM A220 rather than merely shopping on price.


How long have you had this plane?
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Ironically, the display is fine on mine, it just has audio issues. (I have two that fit that description actually.)

I bought the plane in 2014, I think? 2015 maybe.
 
deyoung said:
Ironically, the display is fine on mine, it just has audio issues. (I have two that fit that description actually.)
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Maybe you can work a deal with @RonP
deyoung said:
I bought the plane in 2014, I think? 2015 maybe.
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The reason I ask is that equipping/upgrading the radios early in your ownership and/or flying career takes on a different decision process than later.
 
Makes sense - thanks. In this case, I think (tell me if I'm wrong) the 355 is an upgrade that will probably mostly pay for itself in resale value if I do sell the airplane, because it makes it IFR-capable in a modern-ish way, beyond the legal basics of being able to do in ILS and track a VOR. But -- it has a lot of features that I think I will appreciate myself too.
 
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