Used Auto Pilot Questions

[Ernie Martin]

I'm not an expert so hopefully others will add to or correct my views.

First, the cessna/ARC units work fine. After 20-30 years the capacitors will leak and function will degrade or cease, but fix them and they'll work fine.

Second, installing the system in your '65 may not be easy, in part because there are at least 3 major units. The major units are the control panel under the quadrant, the electronics box on the roof (behind the headliner), and a unit in one of the booms. There are possibly many more related items throughout the aircraft.

Finally, it may be hard to find an IA who will sign off on the installation, given that it would take quite a bit of research to know with certainty that all the items that Cessna added for the autopilot were installed.

I'm not trying to discourage you. The systems work fine. I'm just alerting you that it may be a MUCH bigger job than you think and that it may be hard to certify.

Ernie