Stabilator

[Gus]

[Kristin Winter]

[Gus]

[Jody Brausch]

[Gus]

[Jody Brausch]

Hey Gus,

Ever find anything else out about the stabilator? Was it a servo? I wanted to circle back to see if your problem has been resolved.

[Gus]

Hi Jody, I've got it at the mechanics now and should know soon. I have however been testing it out myself and I'm pretty sure you were right. When I don't have the A/P on it doesn't stick. I'll let you know in a week or so.

[Hansmeister]

If you have the Altimatic II autopilot, check the movement of the pitch servo under the pilot's feet. With the autopilot off, the movement of the slider portion was very sticky. After cleaning and lubing, everything worked smooth again.

[Gus]

I have an Stec 55, and it would be great if it turns out to be as simple as lubing.

[Jody Brausch]

That's interesting Gus. I have an S-Tec autopilot too. I'll be interested to see if our hunch is correct.

[Gus]

I just wanted to let those interested in this issue know what has transpired to date.
My mechanic never had a chance to check out the servo because I needed the plane back. I've flown 7PC for about 50 hrs. since then and have'nt had a problem with it . However I have been more conscious of how I've been using the A/P, specifically, disengaging it before begining my decents, and using the it only when at altitude and flying long legs. That being said, I'm not comfortable with that fix so obviously when 7PC is down for the annual we'll take the time to remove and inspect it. When I know, I'll post the results.

[Gus]

I had some time on my hands and decided to open up the rear access panel and take a look around for myself. When I looked down towards the servo drum, I noticed that the thin cable coming from the drum, was attached under the stabilator cable, thereby causing friction against the drum. I loosend the clamp turned it upright, attached a bungee cord for tension, and tightend it. Problem solved.