TruTrak Autopilot issue

[Southern Pete]

If not using a GPS input I would try real hard to arrange one - it is only 1 wire.
If not available read the instructions on how to align the internal sensor, it may never work that well depending on the interference from other systems in the aircraft, and may be worse of some headings than others.

[TruTrakAndrew]

again, the responses here are perfect.

on the GPS front, agreed that you really should have one (even a handheld is just fine).

[MacCool]

Originally Posted by TruTrakAndrew

again, the responses here are perfect.

on the GPS front, agreed that you really should have one (even a handheld is just fine).

My AFS TruTrak Digiflight works very, very well…precise and reliable…but I have to turn the AP master on after start-up and best not move the airplane until the AP tells me it’s got satellites.

Question for Andrew…the perennial question is whether or not modern avionics can be on when the plane is started or when the main Master is turned off. I my AP is on the avionics Master, but also has its own power switch. What’s the verdict on the TruTrak Digiflight II? Should it be off at start-up and shutdown, or does is it surge and voltage-drop protected enough to matter?

[TruTrakAndrew]

lol, I think there are lots of opinions on this one...but...

I will say that modern avionics (TruTrak products included) have robust power supplies and shouldn't have any issues with potential spikes during engine start.

I also still have a master switch and basically all of my stuff is off at startup anyway. The voltage is going to drop enough that most everything will reset, so I just leave it off until after the fan is turning.

As far as the autopilot goes, you are fine either way.

Also, to be noted...most of the time when I answer a question here it is because the amazing ROY THOMA has let me know there is a question. If any of you meet up with him, buy him a drink. He's just simply the best!

[MacCool]

Thank you. Having kind of a “legacy” autopilot that, for me, works great and does everything I want it to…I appreciate your presence here and ready willingness to share. I’d buy both you AND Roy a beer anytime.

[Pilotjim77]

Originally Posted by rw2

1: I don't know what that means.
2: Wilco
3: No GPS. Heading only on this one.
4: Wilco
5: Thanks!

I have a similar TT unit to yours, and if no gps is connected, it only flies by the bank angle you dial in, from zero to 30 degrees left or right.

[rw2]

Got back in the air over the weekend after an extended time walking. Flew from San Diego to Chicago. Lots of time to re-test the autopilot. Without the manual all I could really do is make sure that the thing was completely booted up before moving the plane. Despite doing this, it was still wandering quite a bit, so I don't think that's the solution.

However, in 10 or so hours of flying, I did have some legs where it worked just fine. Including the longest leg of almost three hours where it flew nicely almost the entire time.

Very strange.