On Tue, 06 Jun 2006 15:50:48 GMT, john smith wrote:

In article ,
Thomas Borchert wrote:

You need to put it through test mode first, preferably on
the ground. After testing, leave that switch in ON (with the ready
light on), otherwise you'll have to do the test again.

I always wondered about the logic of that, given that the POH
specifically states, "AUTOPILOT OFF FOR TAKEOFF".

Not sure about the POH as I don't see that in the POH for the autopilot.
Maybe it's in the AFMS for the autopilot?

In any event, the A/P Master switch can be left on, even with the A/P
switch off, as is the case when I take off.

Also, if the A/P Master is turned off in flight, then it needs to be placed
in the 'Test' position in flight and allowed to run through its self-test
until the 'Ready' light comes on, before it can again be used in flight.
This is also mentioned in the POH for the a/p.


Ron (EPM) (N5843Q, Mooney M20E) (CP, ASEL, ASES, IA)