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Garmin Autopilot Service Notification

g3xpert

Well Known Member
Advertiser
Greetings VAF!

Out of an abundance of caution, we would like to raise awareness of a potential safety issue for operators of G3X, G3X Touch, or G5 based autopilot systems with autotrim installed and enabled, in experimental aircraft.

Numerous system monitors are in place to recognize faults within the autopilot system. We have discovered a software issue in which one of these monitor circuits is not working to provide protection against a primary autopilot fault as intended. The nature of this issue leaves the aircraft more vulnerable to a potential un-commanded deviation from the intended flight path upon initial autopilot engagement.

We are not aware of this occurring in any Experimental aircraft to date and although unlikely, the possibility exists. One instance occurred in a certified aircraft installation, which brought the issue to our attention and resulted in a Service Advisory for GFC 500 installations in Certified aircraft.

A forthcoming software update will restore the system's ability to recognize this specific type of autopilot fault, and respond accordingly.

To ensure the safety of all owners/operators we are recommending software be updated on associated flight displays. A service bulletin and the accompanying software download will be available early next week.

The risk associated with this issue is outlined above. To completely mitigate this risk prior to software availability, there are two options:
  1. Discontinue autopilot use.

    OR

  2. Alternatively, if you feel comfortable modifying your system’s configuration, you can disable Trim Motor Control for each axis in configuration mode. This will disable auto-trim while the autopilot is engaged. At the same time, Speed Scheduled Trim control will be disabled. Manual electric trim will still operate but trim motor speed will not vary with airspeed. References for this setting can be found here:
• G3X Touch - Page 35-108 of the G3X/G3X Touch Installation Manual (190-01115-01) Revision AQ
• G5 – Page 8-45 of the G5 Electronic Flight Display Installation Manual for Non-Certified Aircraft (190-02072-01) Revision 10
• G3X- Page 34-64 of the G3X/G3X Touch Installation Manual (190-01115-01) Revision AQ

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Thanks,

Justin
 
Thanks for the heads up Justin. I think I will disable the auto trim tomorrow and look forward to the update.
 
After so many years of flawless operation I’m not to worried and will do normal SW update when it comes out.
Maybe the new SW will enable the GI275 integration?
 
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