Piper Altimatic II

[Todd Skalsky]

Hi,

A gentelman has taken a piper altimatic II out of a PA 30 that is working perfectly. I am wondering if I can put it in my PA24-250. If so what paper work will have to be done. I have been told by my mechanic that I will have to obtain the STC that went with the autopilot for the aircraft. Where can I get this?

Thanks,

Todd Skalsky

[Jay]

You would need to get that STC from Century Flight Systems. When you talk to them about the STC, ask them about supportability. In the past at least, it's been poor to non-existent for the Century II. You might also consider a new AP. The cost of installation is a significant part of the total cost of an autopilot, and I'd hate to see someone spend the money to install a used unit and then have it fail and be unable to repair it.

Jay

[Jay]

Actually, hang on a minute. The Piper Altimatic II (re-branded Century II) was original equipment installed by Piper. You'd want to get a ruling from an IA, but since the factory installed those in 250s you may be able to install it with just a log book entry. It's worth asking the question of a couple of different IAs.

Jay

[Todd Skalsky]

I have done some research and Piper started installing it in 1962 PA24-250's the best I can tell. I think you are correct in that it can be installed without a stc. I have read that I will need a drawing number from Piper. Do you know anything about this?

Thanks,

Todd

[Jay]

Sorry, can't help you there. We've gone well beyond my technical expertise!

Jay

[David Pyle]

Todd,

Are you sure you have the correct autopilot model designation? Altimatic describes an autopilot with attitude/altitude capability. The Century (or Edo Aire) Piper autopilots without that capability are designated AutoControl I, II, or III. I believe that III is a Century II which was a standard factory installation in the early '60s.

You might call Century support 940 325 2517 to straighten this out. Don't take my word. My experience in moving an autopilot from an airplane, even one of the same type and model year, may not be feasible. I paid $1000 for a used autopilot that was useless.

[Randy Johnson]

I have that same equipment in my 62 Comanche 250.