Mike -
I committed to an all-glass dual Blue Mountain panel in 2006. Blue Mountain
Avionics is now in a similar situation to OPT - minimal support and repair
available and no new development. There has been some progress with the
availability of a new source for database updates, but that's about it.

My panel and wiring are complete and the plane is coming out of the paint
shop (in primer) this week in preparation for the first engine start. I
couldn't see the benefit of ripping out all the wiring and avionics for a
working system. I have decided to fly my airplane as is with the
understanding that I will eventually have to replace the BMA products once
they fail or become too troublesome. I wired the panel once, I can do it
again (or pay someone) when the time comes.

Your decision really depends on the health of the manufacturer. I see that
OPT was purchased by Aerosonic in 2007. You'll have to do your own research
to determine you're comfortable with them going forward. Since your panel
isn't wired yet I recommend removing the screens and selling them on the
used market. If it's anything like the BMA market, there will be a demand
for spares and replacements for failed units.

On the plus side, you get to choose from the latest and greatest of what's
out there - just make sure you pick a company with longevity!

Adam Molny
Legacy #151

-----Original Message-----

Hello everyone.

I'm looking for some advice/ideas regarding my panel situation for a 4PT.
Perhaps it would be wise to bite the bullet and swap it out for a Garmin or
other system.