Autopilot Servos

[Viking]

I know at least a couple patrols have been built with autopilot, and I’m trying to weigh the pros/cons of adding autopilot to my build. I’m building my panel with a GRT efis, which will have everything ready for autopilot, so all I will have to do is add servos. With that in mind, where are people with autopilots putting their servos? Any pictures of existing installs or helpful hints would be greatly welcome.

[Utah-Jay]

Viking

It seems under the seats seems to be the go to for the side by side models.

I have mulling the auto pilot/no auto pilot decision at the past few days.

[Viking]

I have really been debating it, and honestly, it’s mostly the result of what happens when things snowball. I really wanted to have a simple day vfr only panel, and keep things extremely simple and light. To me that is the essence of what I am building a patrol for. But, I live under the mode C veil for ATL, so ADSB is pretty much a requirement. And once I’ve gone that far, the GRT EFIS really starts to make sense as far as value for money and all it’s features. Then I tell myself that it makes sense to go ahead and install the autopilot because I’ve already come this far, it isn’t much extra, and will probably be a selling feature for a lot of people should I ever decide to sell my prized patrol. So here I am. I don’t at all feel like it’s a necessity, but it makes sense in several different ways to just go ahead and install it.

[Light&Sweet]

Just read this now, Viking. I may be late on this advice, but I would revisit the FARs on where and on what mode c and thus ADSB-out is required. If the aircraft is certified with an engine driven electrical system, then the requirements are as you implied, though. This area of the regs is one of many where ‘common understanding’ is incorrect or incomplete.

[Viking]

Light&Sweet, thanks for the clarification. I know I can avoid a transponder and ADSB if I don’t have an electrical system, but I’m going to put an electrical system in the airplane. I did entertain the idea of doing without it, but at the end of the day, I think I will be happier with the plane in the long run with an electrical system.

[spinningwrench]

I put a full three axis autopilot in my Patrol build. Roll servo by pilot seat, pitch and yaw behind baggage compartment. I have lots of pictures, contact me.

[geraldmorrissey]

Scope creep.
Gerry
Patrol #30