What type of faceplate / bezel assembly does the KT-76A have and what is this important?
The KT-76A has a plastic bezel assembly which contains the selector switches for ATC code input. This faceplate is held onto the radio assembly by 4 screws. When the faceplate ages, is mishandled or secured too tightly, this plastic bezel can crack. If left cracked and with continued usage, this faceplate can eventually become separated from the transponder thus increasing the possibility of erroneous transponder performance. Overhauled units from Southeast Aerospace always include either a new faceplate assembly or one without cracks of any type to ensure optimal performance of the transponder.