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There’s No Price on Safety

A family faces decisions during a panel upgrade of a 1982 Piper PA-32R-301T Saratoga.

Panel upgrade of a 1982 Piper PA-32R-301T Saratoga. [Courtesy: Gardner Lowe Aviation Services]
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Key Takeaways:

  • Stephen Mercer upgraded his 1982 Piper Saratoga with dual Garmin G3X Touch avionics and a GI 275 standby indicator primarily for enhanced safety and redundancy, especially for family use and pilot training.
  • The avionics removed from Mercer's Saratoga were repurposed by Corey Sampson for an economical upgrade to his Cessna 172, showcasing a sustainable use of serviceable parts.
  • Mercer efficiently combined the extensive avionics upgrade with the aircraft's annual inspection, demonstrating how integrated maintenance planning can save time and resources.
  • The article emphasizes the value of trusted partnerships and consolidated services in aircraft maintenance to ensure safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
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The days are getting warmer, the sun is out later, and the birds are beginning to sing. Airplanes are starting to emerge from their long winter nap. Some owners use this time to catch up on maintenance, punch out those overdue squawk lists, or upgrade equipment. 

Last October, we met Stephen Mercer, who had recently acquired a 1982 Piper PA-32R-301T Saratoga, which he was upgrading with safety features. I am proud to report that our Saratoga came through with flying colors. You see, the fine folks at Gardner Lowe Aviation Services in Peachtree City, Georgia, took extra special care of this airplane and presented Mercer with the finished product in time to fly off to some Saint Patrick’s Day shenanigans. 

Richard Scarbrough

Richard is a US Navy Veteran, A&P Mechanic, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University alumni. His experience ranges from general and corporate aviation to helicopters, business jets, and commercial airliners. Former owner of a 145 repair station, he currently has an aerospace product management role and is a member of the T-C-Alliance. Follow him on X (Twitter) at @RScarCo.

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