One of Sarasota Avionics’ strongest attributes is our experience with autopilots. This stems from a robust knowledge base and a team with decades of hands-on knowledge.

The most common discussion we have with customers is when to replace an older, legacy autopilot and install a new, digitally-based system. This conversation usually starts with a customer saying their autopilot works most of the time. Let’s be straightforward, this is a huge red flag: do you want to be in IMC with an autopilot that may or may not be reliable? If your answer is anything but a resounding NO, please continue to read!

There is a tipping point in which a customer throws good money after bad in troubleshooting their legacy autopilot. Parts availability combined with the time-consuming amount of labor required to find the fault and then fix it often result in expensive repair bills and disappointing amounts of downtime. Many of these autopilots are in excess of thirty years of age, and when you parse this into our modern scenario, it just doesn't add up. Oftentimes, the repair bills can amount to a third of the expense of going new.

Considerations

There are circumstances in which one may be better suited to your airframe and with your other avionics. Here are some basic criteria when considering a new autopilot:

• Is the autopilot STC’d for your aircraft make and model?

  A supplemental type certificate (STC) is a type certificate (TC) issued when an applicant has received FAA approval to modify an aeronautical product from its original design. In our due diligence, it’s essential for us to have this to legally perform the install.



• What other avionics do you have, or are you considering?

  Since the Garmin GFC500/600 require a Garmin G5, GI-275’s, or the G3X/ TXi PFD system, we install some combination of these with the new autopilot.



• What features are a priority for you with a new autopilot?

  Again, this will depend on which product and what other avionics in which the airplane is equipped.



• Cost and downtime.

  A new autopilot is expensive, but it is also an investment. Autopilots are a safety-enhancing device, and in addition, add value to your airplane for future resale.

Downtime

One of the most frustrating parts is waiting for your airplane to be completed, and many owners are unaware of the scope of work required by an autopilot replacement.

We begin by removing the interior and opening the sections of the wing and fuselage to access the existing autopilot and flight control surfaces. When we’re replacing an old system, hardware, components and wiring will be removed and replaced. Then we will install the new servos and hardware and run the new wiring. The new system is then interfaced with the other avionics. Then, there is testing, a critical step to ensure the autopilot will track and fly properly. A test flight is needed to check the parameters of the performance, and, if necessary, adjustments will be made. Lastly, we would like to fly the airplane with you at delivery to answer any questions you may have with the new equipment. On average, for a single engine piston aircraft, it takes six weeks for the autopilot itself. Other equipment will add time to the project, but your avionics consultant or avionics manager will be able to provide you with an estimated timeline based on the scope of work.

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