Q&A
Please note, Aircraft Spruce's personnel are not certified aircraft mechanics and can only provide general support and ideas, which should not be relied upon or implemented in lieu of consulting an A&P or other qualified technician. Aircraft Spruce assumes no responsibility or liability for any issue or problem which may arise from any repair, modification or other work done from this knowledge base. Any product eligibility information provided here is based on general application guides and we recommend always referring to your specific aircraft parts manual, the parts manufacturer or consulting with a qualified mechanic.
Q: What is the difference between the USA and international version?
If you have a USA registered aircraft you will need a USA version (programmed for the USA). If you have an aircraft registered outside the USA you will need the international version in which we will need to know the country of registration so we can specifically program. You can fly any where in the world the key is programming to the country of aircraft registration.
Q: What is the difference between complete (new install) and retrofit kit?
If you have an ACK E-01 that you are replacing you can save some money and buy the retrofit kit as you already have parts installed that the E-04 will use. If you do not have an E-01 then you will need to buy the complete kit which will be a new installation.
Q: Does the ACK E-04 ELT transmit your GPS coordinates as well as 406?
By it self, no you will have to connect the E-04 to an external GPS to gain this feature. Refer to the manual for how to connect.
Q: How does an AP/AI test the unit at the annual condition inspection for proper function? Are there any special tools/equipment needed to test?
All of this is stated in the E-04 manual but a unit self test and checking lines for any corrosion is about all you need to do. No tools are needed and cost will only be the time to do the self test and check the lines.
Q: I'm interested in the ACK E-04 to replace a Narco 901 ELT, so I need the full installation kit. What else do I need in terms of panel indicators, etc. that are not in the package. Are there other required parts/special wire to connect to my Garmin panel GPS (530W)?
The E-04 is complete 11-06395 (For USA registered aircraft) for a new installation. For GPS connection you will need to refer to section 6 of the manual (on the Document Tab) which tells you what wire you will need based on your installation.
Q: On page 6, immediately above Figure 9, there is the statement ...to connect the ELT RS 232 data and power to the aircraft systems. Is the ELT to be connected to Aircraft Power? I thought their power was independent from the aircraft.
In most cases yes the ELT is independent of aircraft power unless the manual state so and in this case is require if you add GPS information to the ELT.
Q: Does this ELT meet the requirements for the 406 required for Bahamas travel? With a new installation kit, is it approved for installation in the PA28-180?
The Ack 406/121.5 MHz E-04 ELT will meet the future Bahamas 406 Mhz Requirement and is approved for installation in a PA28-180.
Q: What is the battery replacement item for the ACK 406 E-04 ELT?
The replacement battery for the ACK 406 E-04 is part# 11-10012.
Q: What is included for a new installation?
The ACK 406/121.5 MHZ E-04 ELT comes with the ELT, Antenna, Remote Switch, Alert Buzzer and wiring.
Q: Is a whip antenna available for the AKC-406/121?
Yes, the Whip antenna for the ACK 406/121.5 MHZ ELT is P/N 11-10465.
Q: Does the new install version of the ACK 406/121.5 E-04 ELT include a mounting tray?
The new install version of the ACK 406/121.5 E-04 ELT includes a mounting tray.
Q: Is this ELT approved for installation in a 1952 Cessna 170B?
All ELT's are TSO'd but do not have an STC for any specific aircraft. Per the manufacturer, a log book entry is all that is required for installation.
Q: Does the new install kit for the ACK 406/121.5 MHZ E-04 ELT include the cables to connect the remote control panel indicator and the audio alert?
This wire is not included. Instructions on wiring are documented in the instruction manual.
Q: Which Programming type is required for operating an N Registered aircraft in Europe. Is it the USA version or the International version? Can it be supplied with 8130 Form?
If you have a USA registered aircraft you will need a USA version (programmed for the USA). You can still purchase an 8130 form. Please indicate request at time of order.
Q: There is only a $10 savings to buy the Ack 406/121.5 Mhz E-04 ELT retro-kit. What comes with each kit?
The retrokit comes with the transmitter, lithium battery, external antenna, plug in audio alert and install manual. The new install kit comes with the transmitter, lithium battery, external antenna, remote control, audio alert, mounting tray, retaining straps, remote cable, coax cable and install manual.
Q: Is the remote switch & cable included in the Retrofit Kit?
No, the retrofit kit (11-06396) does not include the remote switch and cable. It only includes the ELT with battery, an external antenna, plug in audio alert, and install manual.
Q: Composite aircraft, can the antenna be mounted inside the fiberglass cabin? and still get signal to the satellite?
Yes, as long as no metal is surrounding the antenna it can be mounted inside the fuselage.
Q: Does the ACK 406/121.5 MHz E-04 ELT new install kit (part # 11-06395) come with a mounting tray?
Yes, the ACK 406/121.5 MHz E-04 ELT new install kit does include the mounting tray. Here are the list of contents in the kit:
- E-04 121.5/406 MHz ELT
- E-04.5 Remote with horizontal placard
- E-04.12.2 Remote vertical placard
- E-04.8 Whip antenna
- E-04.10.1.12 Electrostatic discharger
- E-04.10.4 Coax cable 60"
- E-04.7 Audio alert
- E-04.4 Mounting Tray
- E-04.4.1 Retaining strap front
- E-04.4.2 Retaining strap battery case
- E-04.10.6 Female 4 pin DIN plug
- E-04.10.5 15 foot remote cable
- E-04.10.3 Audio alert cable
- E-04.11.1 Switch cover
- E-04M Installation/Operation/Manual
Q: What comes with the ACK-04 ELT, part number 11-06395?
Yes, the ACK 406/121.5 MHz E-04 ELT new install kit does include the mounting tray. Here are the list of contents in the kit:
- E-04 121.5/406 MHz ELT
- E-04.5 Remote with horizontal placard
- E-04.12.2 Remote vertical placard
- E-04.8 Whip antenna
- E-04.10.1.12 Electrostatic discharger
- E-04.10.4 Coax cable 60"
- E-04.7 Audio alert
- E-04.4 Mounting Tray
- E-04.4.1 Retaining strap front
- E-04.4.2 Retaining strap battery case
- E-04.10.6 Female 4 pin DIN plug
- E-04.10.5 15 foot remote cable
- E-04.10.3 Audio alert cable
- E-04.11.1 Switch cover
- E-04M Installation/Operation/Manual
Q: Do your ELTs ACK 406 EO4 come tested and certified to be installed in an aircraft or do I have to send it to a radio shop before my AME can install it?
Yes, the E-04 comes tested and certified for installation.
Q: Does the ACK 406/121.5 MHz E-04 ELT come with the battery, or should that be ordered separately?
Yes, the battery is included.
Q: Can the ACK E-04 be installed in an airplane without electrical system?
The E-04 can absolutely be installed in an aircraft with no electrical system. It runs on stand alone power from it's own battery pack. The E-04 only requires 10-30 VDC ship power to properly operate if you hook up the GPS and that is an optional feature.
Q: What are the physical dimensions of the ACK E-04 ELT?
7.75" long x 2.85" width x 2.85" height. 1.6 pounds in weight with battery.
Q: Is the ACK 406/121.5 MHz E-04 ELT FAA TSO Approved?
Yes, this ELT is FAA TSO approved for use in certificated aircraft.
Q: Can I replace an old AK-451 with the E-04 using the old installation?
No, you would need to do a complete new install.
Q: I am in the process of an aircraft restoration which wont be complete for sometime, however, would like to purchase and install an ELT before the interior install. Can I do the registration and other information at a later date?
For U.S. aircraft, all registration can be done at anytime prior to installation. For international aircraft, the unit must be programmed at time of purchase.
Q: Im building a composite/fiberglass aircraft and I see from the other question that the antenna can be mounted inside the fuselage provided there are no other metal parts nearby. Does the antenna need a groundplane? And if so how large?
If the antenna is being mounted on a non conductive portion of the airframe, a supplementary ground plane must be installed. The supplemental ground plane must have a minimum diameter of 24", however 48" will provide maximum power at 121.5 MHz and is recommended. The ground plane must be centered around the base of the antenna. This may be fabricated out of copper, or aluminum tape. Full details of the ground plane requirements are available on Pages 3-4 of the installation manual under the "Documents" tab.
Q: I have an AK 451 ELT installed on the plane.
The ACK 406/121.5 MHz ELT is compatible with this? The ACK 406/121.5 MHz ELT use the same wiring that the AK 451has already installed?
In order to keep the wiring please refer to part # 11-14707. Other than that, it will be a complete new install
Q: I know this unit can be connected to an external gps, what happens if the gps or wiring is distroyed in a crash? Does the elt remember the last gps position and transmit that? Or, has the gps position been lost?
When connected to an external GPS, it is to increase the accuracy of your location. The ELT will continue to output the 406 MHz signal. Which has an accuracy of 1-3 NM.
Q: Can the ACK 406/121.5 E-04 ELT be installed in cabin behind pilots seat and therefor eliminate the need for remote mounted switches, etc.?
Regardless of the mounting location, the remote switch is required in the panel.
Q: Does the E-04 kit come with a battery?
Yes. This E-04 kit will come with the ELT battery.
Q: Is the ACK ELT retrofit kit dangerous goods?
Yes, both versions are considered hazardous for air shipping.
Q: Can an ipad with GPS be connected to the ACK E-04 to give the gps location and if yes would you be able to supply a connection cable?
No, an iPad cannot be used as an approved GPS source for this ACK ELT.
Q: There are several contradictory replies in the FAQ about whether the new installation kit comes with a battery or not. Please confirm if I order the complete (new) install kit that I will NOT need to order anything else, including the batteries to run the ELT. Thanks.
If you order the new install version, it will include the battery.
Q: Could a wireless GPS signal from a uAvionics Echo ADSB system provide GPS data to this ELT?
This GPS connection is not possible as the ACK does not have wireless capabilities.
Q: Is it required to use the supplied antenna? Can you tie into an existing com antenna?
This unit is an ELT and cannot be tied into a com antenna.
Q: Can a Garmin GNC 300XL output the required GPS data to the ACK E-04?
Per the installation manual, the ELT will interface and recognize Garmin Panel mount GPS units.
Q: Will this take a GPS signal from my Avidyne IFD-440 or Appareo Transponder GPS?
Part # 11-06395 will receive a GPS signal from Bendix/King, Garmin, Avidyne IFD-540.
Q: I am replacing a AK-450, will the antenna, coax and wiring to the remote work? or do I have to replace it?
Please see the Documents section for the PDF titled, Retrofitting the AmeriKing 406 or 121.5 MHz ELTs with the model E-04 ELT.l. This will detail the process for converting to the ACK A-04 ELT.
Q: Im still confused about the battery on the ACK 406 E-04. I have a 121.5 MHz ACK ELT with a battery case that takes 8 Duracell D cell batteries. Can I use that with this unit?
No, this has its own battery that is premade and certified by the manufacturer part number: 11-10012
Q: Can I use this ACK E-04 on my piper seneca PA 34-200?
Yes, this unit can be legally installed in certified aircraft. It still requires A&P install shop sign off.
Q: Can the ARTEX 110-775 portable antenna be used with this unit?
No. This unit has its own antenna that was certified with the complete kit (part # 11-10465).
Q: If the antenna is mounted internally on a composite experimental aircraft, can it be mounted on an L-bracket or is a ground plane still required?
Please review the installation manual for proper installation of the antenna.
Q: Can I install this ACK 406/121.5 E-04 without installing the panel switch? Just leaving it on stby?
No, all items must be installed to be considered a legal install.
Q: Will the e-04 unit connect to my garmin 250xl for gps positioning?
Yes, you can connect it via RS232.
Q: Do you need to supply a GPS or is there one on board the 406 ELT? Im confused on this area
Supplying GPS is not required, but it is highly recommended as it will improve the 406 mHz signal. Therefore you will need to supply GPS signal.
Q: Can we just buy it with the Serial # Programming? without 24bit info?
Yes, you are able to order it without the 24 bit address, however you must make sure what your local aviation authority requires for the aircraft.
Q: Can the remote cable run alongside of a GPS cable without any side effects?
There is no objection in the installation manual. The manual is available for review in the document section.
Q: Will this unit interface with my Garmins area 660, GPS map 196, 396, 496, or my Garmin GTX-335 transponder?
Yes, it will interface with the Aera 660. The installation manual explains what must be done.
Q: Will the E-04 connect to a Garmin GDL-82 for transmitting GPS Coordinates?
No, the ACK E04 cannot be used as a GPS source for the GDL 82.
Q: The installation manual indicates that the GPS input baud rate is selectable and defaults to 9600 but it does not describe how to select a different baud rate. Can a baud rate of 57600 be selected? If so, how?
The installation manual talks about a jumper that must be adjusted in order to change the baud rate.
Q: Could I use the AVMAP Ultra - EFIS GPS with the ACK ELT?
This ELT can accept GPS from portable GPS units. However, it must be verified that both the baud rates on the ELT and the GPS match.
Q: If I mount the antenna inside of a composite plane fuselage can I mount it so that the base of the antenna is pointing upward? I’m having a hard time fitting it in with all of the control cables. Thanks
The antenna must be installed as the installation manual specifies. Straying from that may result in negative results
Q: Will this work for a Mexico?
Yes, but you would need to order the international version.
Q: How long before I have to replace the battery in the ACK 406 E-04 ELT?
This uses a 5 year battery.
Q: I am having my mechanic install this ELT. He is requiring a Letter of Compliance or a form 8130 . Does the ELT come with any of this?
The ACK ELTS are FAA TSO approved. 8130 forms can be furnished with the units. Please request certification paperwork in the Shopping Cart during check out.
Q: Is there an ELT that replaces Ameri-King AK-451 and keeps the same physical interfaces in the aircraft?
Per ACK: you cannot reuse the existing remote unfortunately but you may use the existing remote cable that is ran from the front of the plane to the back.
Q: What extra batteries are required for purchase and why was this not mentioned when I ordered the unit (ACK-04)?
Per our Website: "Note: The installation manual for this item requires the installation of 2 very specific batteries for operation - Duracell part number PX28L or Eveready part number A55 (or equivalent) for installation into the switch assembly and Duracell part number CR2 or equivalent for installation into the audio alert indicator."
Q: Does ACK E-04 work with GNC 250XL?
Per ACK: Yes, this will work with the E-04. ACK uses an RS232 plug from the GPS source.
Q: You answered a question about will this work for Mexico, yes but order international version. Is this for Mexico registered aircraft? USA certified aircraft that fly in Mexico at times order the USA version correct?
That would only be the case for aircraft registered in Mexico. For a USA certified aircraft, purchase the USA version of the ELT.
Q: Can the ACK 406/121.5 Mhz E-04 ELT FAA TSO be installed on turboprop aircraft?
The whip antenna is approved to work with aircraft up to 260 knots. Any faster they will need the blade or rod antenna.
Q: Does the complete ACK E-04 kit include the battery?
Yes the battery is included.
Q: Im in the USA but am flying to Canada. Will the US version work for Canada or should I order the Canadian version?
Yes the USA version will work in both the US and Canada. You would only need the Canadian version if your aircraft is registered in Canada.
Q: How does the ACK 406/121.5 MHz E-04 ELT determine the position and accuracy when external GPS is not connected?
Per ACK: "without GPS it still sends a signal to the nearest orbiting satellite that will pinpoint your location better then the 121.5 frequency. Now if you have GPS hooked up it will pinpoint your exact coordinates upon the ELT activation."
Q: Does the International Programming work for Argentina?
Yes, this can be programmed for Argentina.
Q: If purchasing an international version for an internationally registered a/c .. can it be reprogrammed to USA if the aircraft is later registered in the USA?
Yes, the ELT can be reprogrammed back to USA from International.