On Mon, 04 Jul 2005 21:08:10 +0200, Greg Farris
wrote:

You can do some basic tests before
takeoff, to make sure it's doing more or less what it's supposed to.

According to the flight supplement, you're required to do the basic
tests before takeoff if you're going to use it during the flight

Personally I try and use the airline philosophy: use all the
automation you have for as much of the time as you can. The FITS
training I got with the new 172 encouraged this as well. They even do
some demos on how to fly partial-panel with the AP in roll mode and
shoot a non-precision approach. So, all my cross countries are
autopilot (dual axis w/ preselect) on at 800' AGL and back off
entering the pattern (VMC) or at the FAF (IMC or VMC straight-in). I
hand fly some local flights every couple of weeks for proficiency
(keep myself able to hand fly to the instrument rating standards,
practice some maneuvers and approaches, etc).