Wed, Dec 02, 2009
ANN has been quite happy with our first year of ownership of a
Technologically Advanced Aircraft -- our Cirrus SR22 G3 Turbo.
While we have not only enjoyed the aircraft in its original
configuration, the recent addition of Avidyne's Release 9 really
turned our bird into quite the super-ship... while one other much
vaunted upgrade has made our flights into a very smooth venture.
Our bird is equipped with S-Tec's much vaunted Model 55X
autopilot... our third S-Tec equipped airplane.
While the 55X is a SERIOUS top of the line working-flyer's
autopilot, the requirements of the standard Cirrus installation
have allowed S-Tec to offer an augmentation package that tackles
the normally smooth ops of the 55X into something even more precise
than before.
S-Tec's Roll Servo mod for the 55X for the Cirrus series does a
lot for what is already an outstanding package and fine tunes the
precise nature of that system with perceptibly improved lateral
performance, the deletion of some autopilot restrictions and longer
life for the Cirrus' roll trim cartridge assembly. The standard
Cirrus 55X installation in the utilizes an aileron trim cartridge
assembly in the wing to execute autopilot instructions, where the
roll trim cartridge assembly moves the aileron by compressing the
spring inside the assembly. This spring cartridge can occasionally
create a “mushy” autopilot roll axis sensation. With
the roll servo mod, an independent servo now does the job via a
direct connection with the aileron cable.
The result? Faster, more obedient and more precise response to
S-Tec 55X inputs. The difference is QUITE noticeable... more
aggressive adherence to crosswind corrections, practically ZERO
lateral oscillatory behavior while operating in turbulent
conditions, and smoother approach captures... even on some of those
sharp intercepts that are all the rage in some of the new
generation of convoluted WAAS approaches, as well as better
response in rough conditions.
Our flight experience with this addition has been pretty
impressive and has truly impressed us with the value of this very
cost-effective upgrade. Mind you; we've been really happy with the
55X from Day One and really didn't think it needed much of
anything... until we flew this upgrade for ourselves. HIGHLY
Recommended.
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