There is definitely a lot to learn with a TAA when transitioning from a six-pack that I learned on (still have a soft spot for NDB approaches as it is the first approach I ever learned). That being said, I concur with what others have said (missed the training part) about learning the basics, hand flying, etc. I’m sure you know this and your instructor will demand it. Having said that…
Once you learn your systems/switchology cold, a TAA provides so much SA and capability it is absolutely amazing. Another poster, I believe, said that the 430 is a PIA to load an approach (apologies if I misread that). I’ve got to think that is from lack of familiarity…?? Push PROC – select approach – select IAF/vectors – either load or activate – done… very quickly done.
I’ve been waiting for the capability to cross-fill a 430 flight plan on the SV map – will be very nice. Right now, I load the 430 flight plan and sometimes also load the SV. If I also load the SV, I do it on the ground if short, in the air if longer. Loading the SV flight plan is super quick once you get used to the button pushing. A lot of the time, I will only use the map for SA (no route) when using the 430 for an IFR flight. It’s quick enough, if needed, to put in a quick direct to point if desired for SA.
The way the altitude bug works with the advanced AP is nice. Some guys don’t like the fact that it doesn’t automatically initiate the climb or descent, but for IFR flying the advanced setup is how it should be. When I am at my last altitude before the approach commences (FAF/procedure turn altitude) I can set the MDA into the altitude bug, and once crossing the FAF using the VS mode, initiate the final approach descent. Obviously now that SV AP can fly the GS, this is N/A for an ILS. As far as setting the MDA bug, this can be set whenever, but I usually do it when I brief the approach to myself, which I do while still in the enroute phase while things are calm
I definitely use the geo-referenced plates!! Usually when in the terminal environment – about 20-30NM out – there is nothing the SV map is really adding – especially when, as is usually the case, I’m on vectors. Also, you can usually see your position on the plate by this time. Initially it was a pain to go back and forth between the map/plate, but I didn’t know about holding the map button for 2 secs to swap between map/plate views – great feature!
I love IFR flying, but it requires a really good sense of organization and routine. Once you get your personal routine down, you’ll realize every approach is pretty much the same – just different freqs/altitudes. Good luck and have fun with your training!