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RE autopilot
Dale AND OTHERS.
The autopilot is a device that is integral (married) to the aircraft. Pulling out the autopilot and sending it off does NOT necessarily fix anything. There are servos, computer, control head, switching, gyros all a part of the SYSTEM including aircraft rigging. Are you going to send all this stuff in as well?
This is quoted directly from the cessna 400 autopilot manual
Periodic preventative maintenance inspections reduce possibility of system failures....... Perform following every ANNUAL inspection or every 100 hrs of operation whichever comes first and also after REPLACMENT of any defective parts.
Comments: bet you did not send in any servos......
Navomatic 400 units
1) check connectors etc
2) inspect ALL interconnecting wires for abrasion etc.
3) inspect all vacuum connections (vertical hold)
4) inspect mounting hardware
5) inspect ELECTRICAL CLUTCHES and ACTUATORS for dirt or improper operation
6) Check TORQUE on mechanical slip clutches and actuators.
7) check computer amplifier STATIC AIR INLET connector.
RIGGING
a) inspect sprockets and chains for wear. Clean and lubricate as specified n in para 2-17
b) check mechanical connections between RIGGING HARDWARE andCABLES for security and signs of wear.
c) Check tension of aileron, elevator and actuator cables. It is essential that all acbles are kept tight for proper operation of the autopilot. See service manual for the particular aircraft involved. or control cable tension values.
d) check aileron and elevator control systems for binding and roughness of operation.
LUBRICATION
The acutators and drive chain should be lubricated with aeroshell no 7 grease at the annual inspection or after every 100 hors of operation whichever comes first. Before applying new lubricant to any surface, REMOVE OLD LUBRICANT with approved cleaning solvent. Note: You should clean and lubricate the servos (internally) on a periodic basis as well.
SUMMARY
Since the A&P must go the the autopilot service manual for this information the work NEVER GETS DONE!. When is the last time the above proceedures were ever carried out on your aircraft?
You cannot send your arm in to a doctor to see if you have colon cancer anymore than you can send the computer in to diagnose servo problems.
IF YOU WANT YOUR AUTOPILOT (any) TO OPERATE AT TOP PERFORMANCE then you need to adhere to the above AND take the aircraft to a suitable shop that can inspect, diagnose, and repair your aircraft and problem. REPEAT..TAKE THE AIRCRAFT TO A SUITABLE SHOP! Sending any parts in to be checked is no insurance that the autopilot is going to work. Read paragraph one.
Putting in a new autopilot will solve the problems for a few years until the lack of maintenance problem rears it's ugly head...
AGAIN.
The autopilot is an INTEGRAL PART OF THE AIRCRAFT AND SHOULD BE SERVICED AS SUCH... ask alaskan airlines regarding proceedures.
THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR PROPER MAINTENANCE ON ANY AIRCRAFT OR ANY SYSTEM ON THAT AIRCRAFT.
My 400B works great and I do TAKE it to a good shop bi-annually.
fyi
Bob
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