As is the case for many things on the RV-3, there are no drawings or kits to help with the installation of an autopilot and the associated servos. Since we are planning to have the airplane IFR capable, and it sure is going to be ?single pilot? IFR, we consider an A/P to be essential. That meant coming up with a pitch servo installation. Fortunately, it really isn?t very difficult ? as long as you have built an RV-8 first! When I cut the angles to mount the elevator bell crank a few months ago, I anticipated the installation, and built them to match the measurements on the -8. This worked out very well, as I had plenty of room to mount the servo, and the pushrod length was also perfect. So if you are going to mount a pitch servo in a -3, just download the -8 drawing from Tru Trak (or get that kit), and have no worries ? it all fits!
Rough assembled with temporary hardware:
You need to assemble it in the right order ? there is a mounting bolt for the port-side angle hidden underneath the servo ? it needs to be attached first, then the servo, then the starboard angle (again, temporary hardware):
Paul
Rough assembled with temporary hardware:
You need to assemble it in the right order ? there is a mounting bolt for the port-side angle hidden underneath the servo ? it needs to be attached first, then the servo, then the starboard angle (again, temporary hardware):
Paul