Emergency Locator Transmitter Install

Since I had the vertical stab off it was a good time to install the ELT because access is easy. Fortunately, my ELT had just been delivered from Vans. Installation is straightforward with preexisting screw holes for the ELT tray in the aft deck. The Audio Alert box is basically a horn that sounds if your ELT has been activated to prevent false alarms. Its mounted underneath the vertical stab with zip ties. This will work, but there's a battery in the Audio Alert that must be periodically serviced. Cutting and reinstalling new zip ties when serviced looked awkward at best. Fortunately, fellow RV-14 building buddy Craig came up with what I think is a better way on his. He graciously asked if I'd like to test it out on mine since he had made extra parts. After seeing his install, I was sold. Craig's modification consists of a simple, light bracket that's held in place next to the ELT with nut plates. The Audio Alarm attaches to the bracket with 4-40 screws. At his suggestions I also modified the ELT mounting tray to utilize nut plates instead of nuts. Access is very easy for the 6 required nut plates through the 2 large access holes in the aft deck. A squeezer and 3" yoke easily fits. Since the aft deck material is thick, NAS1097 rivets were utilized with small countersinks. No dimpling needed. The Audio Alert box is now securely mounted next to the ELT tray where servicing will be much easier. The DIN connector coming off the ELT will connect to a DIN jack installed on one end of the Audio bracket. The aircraft harness wires will tie into the jack and be neatly routed under the bracket. A grommet installed in the other end of the bracket securely routes the wires underneath and prevents chafing. The ELT tray and Audio mounting bracket are both quickly removable for full access to the 2 large lightening holes in aft deck. And no worries about dropping nuts and washers into the dark bowels of the aft fuselage. Total weight added is negligible, approximately 1 ounce. Total install time was 3-4 hours. The convenience added is priceless. Now on to cleaning up the ELT wiring. Craig can easily create this Audio Alert bracket if there's a demand. I'd think this would work on many RV models, not just -14s. Contact him at Craigaviation@me.com if you're interested.