Autopilot servos

[Kirk S]

I am going to be installing autopilot servos any suggestions ? TIA, Kirk S

[Brett]

No, but I am really interested in what others think and have done about it as well. I would like to fit some in the future if possible but would like to get the plane flying first.

[marsolgp]

For ease on installation, go with the same servos as your EFIS manufacturer.... I have MGL Xtreme so I went with MGL servos and AHRS/ Compass. CAN buss is so simple......

[WaiexN143NM]

Hi guys,
I would go with servos that are the same as your EFIS, makes the install very easy. We have the Dynon 7" sky view , and pitch and roll servos. Dave Webber who has a jab 3300 TD and works for dynon developed the install kits with all the hardware, makes it simple. He was at the rio Linda fly in , thanks for the dynon hat!! The autopilot does a great job, in turbulence flies the plane more stable than hand flying it.

WaiexN143NM
Michael RADTKE

[DCASonex]

Have GRT servos running off their Sport SX. Have drawings on how I installed mine, but my layout is single center stick and may not be applicable to yours. E-mail me if interested.

While the thought of putting dual axis autopilot into and Sonex probably makes John Monnett's blood boil, it turns an airplane that needs full attention to flying into a decent cross country machine, while giving more time to watch scenery and for traffic. Used it near full time on recent trip from Buffalo NY area to ASA Spring Fling in Asheboro, NC. Not wiped out by end of trip despite bumpy ride with a lot of thermals. For local flying, often use it to hold altitude only while sight seeing.

Never cease to be amazed at what compact modern electronics provides. With ADS-B in, to that Sport SX, also have radar weather, traffic alerts, conditions at various airport beyond range of AWOS, etc. Way more capabilities in that one unit than had in a panel full of stuff in old Grumman Cheetah.

David A. Sonex TD, GRT Sport SX, with dual axis autopilot.

[Doron]

Michael,
I fly Sonex TD 3300 with the same configuration as you do (Dynon 7" sky view, and pitch and roll servos) and struggling with the autopilot calibration, can you please let me know your autopilot setup

Doron

[fastj22]

Has anyone used the autopilot feature in the MGL xTreme EFIS? I noticed it was available with my last firmware update.

[WaiexN143NM]

Hi doron,
With the dynon, I assume u already ran the detect and everything is wired up correctly. Second u ran a configure which loads the latest software updates into the servos. Now on to calibrate. I originally bought 2 SV-32 servos and generic mounting trays from dynon before they developed the factory install kits for the sonex/ waiex. They will fit TD or Tri-gear , dual or center stick. The SV-32 for roll won't work, too much throw on the arm each way when calibrating and won't accept it. U will have to use the SV-42 EL (extra long arm) for the roll servo. Use the outermost hole in the arm. Also the seat pan will flex with weight in it , so use caution it will rub on the roll pushrod/arm. Dynon warns of this. My solution was a alum angle 1/8 x1x1 underneath seat pan rt side along edge. This keeps seat pan flex to a min. A slight relief for the aileron pushrod will be needed. Any more question pls ask. Also tech support at dynon is top notch. You will usually talk to Steve or Mike. I'm sure I've made them laugh or their blood boil. Don't be afraid to call. Good luck!!

Waiex N143NM
Michael Radtke

[Doron]

Michael
Thanks for your very detailed description, you done very impressive job installing the servos.
how did you do the in-flight Roll / Pitch calibration? can you tell me your setup parameters?
Thanks
Doron

[Daviator]

You can download the Sonex autopilot servo installation guide from Dyon here:

http://www.dynonavionics.com/docs/suppo ... ation.html

This is a great reference to get you started on your installation.