Recent content by tee

Agree, WASS GPS units are very accurate. I’m amazed at the lateral accuracy of the PortaPilot (AP) it typically brings my C172M to within 60 feet of the center line at the DA, be it ILS/LOC or RNAV. It relies on a WASS GTN 650. Can’t think of any other autopilot that is this accurate.

I use GTN 650 which provides bot precision and none precision. I have it connected to my PortaPilot autopilot. Very easy to manage since all is transparent, and fewer steps required. You don’t need to have a source switch nor GPSS as to do with the old autopilot.

Lots of autopilots out there. Just make sure to avoid analog ones. Expect most of the money to go into installation. Also expect weeks if not months to install. Total cost $15k to $50k. Don’t overlook the no install patented technology from PortaPilot.com, provided they have a compatible unit...

Also true about the PortaPilot. Where the pitch and roll axes are independent. But then, I think most of us consider the roll axis a primary entity. I don’t know of any single axis autopilot being Altitude hold. It is my humble opinion that 90% of the value in a two axes autopilot is the roll axis.

There is no such thing as “totally disconnect” in relations to installed autopilot. There are servos hidden under the floor boards. Hence the imposition of controls resistance. The only autopilot I can think of that “totally disconnect” Is the portable PortaPilot. But it is only available for Cessnas.

Lots of us spend tones of $$$, just because we are not aware of products costing 1/10th, or assume the less expansive solution is inferior. I have a GTN 650 which is a great companion. It drives my PortaPilot autopilot seamlessly, total install cost is $15k (GTN) plus $2k (2 axis autopilot)...

I flew with the PortaPilot in C150L, 150M and C152. Found out it is also compatible in a C150J since it (or just this particular one) has the plastic Yoke Collar. So if your C150 has that type collar - it should work. It is possible to replace a Yoke Collar. Four screws with nuts. But to...

It does have climb and descent. I rarely use it so I don’t how well it works. It does use cabin pressure for altitude. I don’t have to adjust the altitude while holding. The only adjustment I make is to the Kolsman part of the altimeter on long flights. I believe they already have a Yoke Collar...

Where ?

With this autopilot, you get to the desired altitude, level and stabilize, making sure there is little residual climb rate, than hit Alt Hold key. Some other autopilots, activating Alt hold with significant vertical speed will lock the climb rate, not altitude.

What do you mean by turning on? Power or Alt Hold ? when powered up on the ground (noThere is no power switch) it registers the attitude, which remains the reference. The premise is that on the ground the attitude is similar to that at S&L attitude.

The PortaPilot has 3 built in axes gyros and accelerometers. It also has an altimeter used for altitude, and to correct other factors. It does figure speed using various other sensors an algorithm. It doesn’t require a GPS navigator, but with one connected it is a lot more accurate and capable...

My C172 is at KPAE (Everett). Be glad to meet you there.

Great observation regarding: “altitude hold at about 4650 ft. It then climbed up to 5000, and gradually came back down to 4500, taking a total of about 4 minutes”. The cause is that the Alt Hold was engaged while in a 500fpm climb. This is a pilot error. You should engage it when in straight &...

True, I do have interest in the success of this small privately held US company. I derive no financial benefits. I volunteer. Keep in mind that I have flown with the PortaPilot the longest and very familiar with it. I used it on various model aircraft. Flew with several FAA flight test teams...