New aircraft on Line!
Just in time for spring flying we are pleased to introduce our latest aircraft, N9522S.
This is a C172R that has various STC's to bring the aircraft up to the same standards, performance and capabilities as the C172S. This includes an 180HP fuel injected engine, KLN 94 GPS and even an autopilot!
As this aircraft is identical in performance and handling to the C172S, if you are already checked out in the S model there is no need for a flight check BUT... due to some differences which I will elaborate on, a handbook exam is required prior to renting the aircraft.
The primary differences between the S models are:
- An alternate air door - placarded in the aircraft as "Alt Air"
- An autopilot; KAP 140 single axis
- An ADF; KR 87
The "Alt Air" pull to activate knob is located on the lower part of the instrument panel. On activation, it opens up a by pass air duct to allow air into the combustion system in the event that the air filter on the nose cowl becomes blocked. The check list has this referenced and is part of the emergency procedure should you experience rough engine operation or an engine failure.
On the "S" model, the same bypass method is installed however it is automatic and will open when a certain pressure differential is reached.
The ADF is a digital unit and has a flight timer and trip timer function as well as a "flip flop" feature so you can pre select a station. The unit will automatically record elapsed flight time from power up to shut down and can also be set to count down from a dialed in time. One item to keep in mind with this unit is the push button knob on the face of the unit marked "ADF". When this button is in the "out" position the unit is in ANT mode as in antenna and the ADF needle will move a 90 degree relative position and stay there. IT WILL NOT MOVE. This function is to aid in station identification or use to listen to the radio...! When you are using the ADF for navigation, the "ADF" button MUST be in the "in" position and ADF will be displayed on the unit. The ADF needle will then track the station.
Now the autopilot.....a very nice system BUT...you do need to become familiar with the operation and as always, if in any doubt, disconnect it and fly the aircraft!
The primary items to be aware of with this autopilot are:
- It is SINGLE axis. This means that there is NO altitude function. Please do not write up a squawk claiming that the altitude hold does not work!
- The system will track all of the navigation functions to include heading, localizer, VOR and GPS tracking but again, IT WILL NOT HOLD AN ALTITUDE. You must set the power and trim to maintain desired pitch control.
- Regarding the tracking and intercept ability please keep in mind that any intercept or tracking that is greater then 45 degrees may result in either an overshoot or inability to capture. Plan the engagement of the autopilot accordingly.
Come to the airport to view the aircraft, go for a flight with one of our CFI's to get really comfortable and you can also review the full functionality of the autopilot on line here:
https://www.bendixking.com/Pilotguides
Look for KAP 140
When viewing this document, no need to go further then page 53 as the other sections deal with more advanced systems.
I trust this helps and looking forward to seeing you at the airport.
