Eric, This is another excellent video you've put together. I almost feel as though I can watch your vid's and get everything I want out of the TruTrak, Dynon, Avidyne, et.al., without reading the manual. That's how to-the-point, yet thorough, your videos are. Awesome! [and of course I'll still read the pilot manuals ;-) ]
Thanks for the compliments! I’m glad you enjoy the videos and find them useful. Definitely read those manuals! And have fun with your new panel. Fly safe!
We are upgrading our panel and upgrading an old century AP with the true Tran. ( PA28 181 ) good video! Don’t know what I don’t know so I’ll keep coming back! Thanks!
After 8 yrs and over 1000hrs in my RV6 I had a 385 installed. Another 2 yrs went by before I made my RV IFR. Having done so now I'm using the AP for the more complex tasks and relearning it. Your video is very helpful. Reading the comments answered most of my questions. Looking forward to more of your videos. Subscribed.
I fly the world's fastest single-engine amphibian, a PT6-powered Seawind, N71RJ, with a nearly identical TruTrak - a Socerer. Things happen quickly. You video is a great refresher worth watching before each flight. You guide viewers through the three phases, departure, cruise and landing. Thanks to you and TruTrak, my flights are easier. I can now get the most out of my Socerer.
Fantastic job. I had one installed in my ‘59 Skyhawk a couple of years ago and absolutely love it. Bending/King had taken them over by the time I bought it. I’ll admit I’d forgotten a few of the features you mentioned. I’ll save this video to watch from time to time as a refresher course kinda thing before CC flights for comfort. Thanks so much. Again, great job
I just bought a Cardinal with this AP, and reading the manual was confusing, to say the least. Your scenario-based video was exactly what I was looking for. I have "translated" the video into step-by-step mini-checklists for each scenario, to help me learn (memorize) how to use it in the plane. Thank you so much!
I inherited one on an Arrow I recently bought and while looking to have some avionics tweaks done, I keep getting told to dump this junk and get a GFC500. But then that's from people who will make $25k-$30k on me switching it. I've finally got a hang of this Trutrak and it's great. Absolutely don't need any thing else! Great video.
Dude, I don’t fly, but the level of knowledge you have is insane. I didn’t understand 90% of what you said, but it was still a great video. Can’t wait to check out more.
Great video. I hope to get my PPL by the end of July/early August and then buy a 180. I like the Trutrak, espcially the CWS center button functionality. Another great video.
Great video. I am just getting back into flying after 25 years and can’t believe the new panels I’m trying to find a plane to bring up to date and your panel is awesome
What a great Cherokee 6 restoration model to follow! An exponential reduction of any guess work, for sure! Cannot thank you enough for taking the time to produce, shoot, edit and upload this General Aviation Private Pilot Family oriented series of videos! 🙏🇺🇲💪
@@josesbox9555 I see that! I hold a civilian commercial IFR SE & ME land so I'm gitty about planning a personal plane purchase one day. Difficult to decide multi use vs. like singular use of an airframe
I added a TT vision 385 to my RV7 about a year ago and have never been comfortable with and seeing it used. Your video is great on the operation in a real world setting and I learned a great deal. Keep it up!
Another great video. We recently purchased a 1976 C182 (also based at WHP) and it has two G5’s and a GFC500. I’m just starting to learn the system but listening to your technical description of your AP really makes it seem simple. Keep up the good work making these videos brother. They’re awesome.
Stop by and say hi anytime in the Delta row hangars at Whiteman. I hear the 182s are great - I have only flown 172s. The GFC500 is a great autopilot and has more capabilities and features than the Trutrak. It should serve you well!
Love you video and just found your channel. I have owned a single engine Commander with an ancient Century 1 autopilot and can't bring myself to spend close to $20K for an STec 30, am hopeful that Trutrak will soon include AC11 in their fleet. Also love what you did to your panel and aircraft overall, seems like perfect family "SUV". Look forward to watching your channel!
Great video and excellent communicator. I'm new to AP and doing some homework before getting in the air with a new panel. Your presentation is the best of all the avionics tutorials I've seen yet. Thanks and keep'em coming!
I have the same autopilot in my Velocity. It needs some servo sensitivity adjustments, as the roll mode hasn’t worked. Will make adjustments soon, being in the phone with BK tech guy. You made a Great video. You have a very nice six (I had one for four years👍🏻).
Thanks for the great videos I am in the process redoing a 1972 Cherokee total makeover and have the same place for the avionics and just told Jesse to order the Trutrak because of your video. Also I have the same Dynon sky view and IFD 540. You’re other videos on the sky view and 540 are of great help.
Great video and excellent setup. One thing I was thinking about. Since the trim isn’t connected, you really have to keep an eye on that. If not you can disconnect and give your passengers that super fun surprise climb, or, in a worse case, going missed in IMC and transitioning into the missed you could have the incorrect trim setup close to the ground. I guess the speed limits would help with that, but it would be an exciting couple of seconds. Keep the videos coming!
That's definitely a good point. I usually disconnect the autopilot, feel the trim and then re-engage it if I make a major power or attitude change. I have grown used to the idiosyncrasy with it and haven't had any surprises with being very far out of trim yet.
We will be installing the Dynon HDX and Aerocruz 100 in our PA28-181. Do you know where we can get the yoke button assembly you have on your plane so we can add the CWS button? Thanks. Enjoying your videos.
If the selector line is under altitude value when you turn the knob it will adjust by 500 foot increments. If you push and turn the knob it will adjust by 100 foot increments. In this case I pushed and turned.
Haha. I'm sure you'll have some plonker report you to the FAA for allowing the plane fly itself with you in the back even though you explain it, though I hope not. Nice SFX work. :) I was just made redundant flying the A380, where I spent my last 9 years and 7,000hrs. I haven't flown anything other than TH-cam since March, and I've realized how I miss it immensely. If you love flying it's somewhat immaterial if you're in a 575 ton jet beast, or a 3500lbs SEL piston airplane. I used to work for a small Navajo operator out of Burbank, and we did all our maintenace at Whiteman. I love your channel for several reasons. One of them is my connection to your home field. I also love seeing you fly to all the fields I spent my youth flying to. I'm happy I found your channel. There is only one thing I dislike with small airplanes, and that's the unnecessarily small buttons and switches compared to airliners. I never understood that. It's not even a real estate problem half of the time, but a design choice. AEP is awesome. That will save many lives. I'm very impressed how many protection modes this somewhat basic autopilot have. Well done having it installed.
Andy, Thanks for your comments and sharing your story. I hope youre able to get back in the air sometime soon! Flying a Navajo out of Burbank sounds like it would have been fun- I enjoy landing there and mingling with the large commercial jets- makes a little GA pilot feel like one of the big boys. Haha. I agree about the autopilot- all the new tech getting more easily certified is coming loaded with great features and should make things safer. Thanks for watching the channel!
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Thanks for replying. Yes. I truly hope to get back in the air again soon. Sadly it probably won't be in the left seat of an A380 since they're scrapping them at a high rate. Easily the best airplane I've ever flown. I know exactly what you mean about mingling with the big jets. Even though it was in 1991 I still recall taxiing a Grumman Cougar on taxiway A for a 25L takeoff just ahead of a DC10, and it felt like I was one of the gang :) The Whiteman direct to final 15 BUR was awesome. I would not even retract the gear. I think I climbed to about 500 AAL & just adjusted pitch and heading a bit & I was on short final. You can correct me on that one. It was a few years ago... Must be one of the shortest airport transfers in the US. Once again, your channel is very enjoyable on several levels.
thanks for the video. Just found your channel and I also have a PA-32 that is about how yours started out but mine came with a new engine so I had that cost built in. I'm currently eyeing the Garmin GFC 500 so this was incredibly helpful as I think the cost to get the Garmin is going to be near 20k (Two G5's included) total and I didnt know of a good alternative to look into that was any cheaper. Definitely going to give this AP a close look.
Glad I could help. Just be aware of the legal restrictions of the Trutrak as far as coupled instrument procedures and 700' AGL disco altitude. The GFC500 is more useable in these respects.
Lee I’m in the same boat. 60 hrs in my ‘78 PA32-300. This video has given me much to think about. Love the GFC 500 but having a tough time justifying the cost since my Century AP still works.
garmin have wold biggest scammer thief lier, factory go out gauges 200-500$ but dealers sell gauges 2000-6000$ totally idiot scammer and thief, newer buy garmin gauges, old gauges working fine no need idiot glass panel waste money.
Well done on your Video. Shows the utility. Personally, I prefer the PortaPilot autopilot, which i’ve been flying with in myC172M. It is less than $3,000, simple to use and does not involve installation since it is a portable snap-in autopilot.
Good morning, I've watched your video probably a dozen times and it is very good trying to learn about our Aerocruz 100 ( formerly Trutrak ). The autopilot seems to do fine in NAV mode following the magenta line but when we start an approach going to the IAF and shooting the approach it's like it's lost for some reason. We can never get APPCH and/or CPLD to illuminate as I watched in your video. Might you have an idea on what we are doing wrong? We have a Garmin GNC 355. Thanks, Larry Atlanta
I think you have to be at glideslope intercept altitude in altitude hold mode for a little while for it to switch into that mode. I believe the manual describes the requirements. Download the experimental version of the manual...
In the hanger turn on your master/.instruments/ & autopilot. Does it lock up your controls ? Can you overcome the force of the servos? Please post your results--John R
Do I understand that every time you adjust the barometer on your EFIS altimeter, you also have to sync the altitude with the TruTrak AP manually? So that an update during flight from ATC from say, 29.98 to 30.12, would require syncing the AP with the change in altitude on your EFIS and that change doesn't automatically sync?
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey The TruTrak is nice, but that is a little sketchy for me. I think flying between Florida and the PNW the certified coupled approaches of the S Tec 55x is worth the extra $$. I love your content, BTW. Obviously the camera work is amazing, but it's nice to find someone who has great content and also understands how to properly use a music track! Stay safe, thanks for the reply, and keep the shiny side up!
thanks for the videos... you are really good at describing everything. Question..why did you fly all the way to FL to have the panel upgraded? I've heard that installation costs are less in FL but it is that much less to cover the costs and time to fly across the country? If you could compare the aerocruze to the trios how do they compare?
The price was very good and the shop was the most experienced in the HDX and TruTrak autopilot especially at the time when it was newer for certified planes. I also had a freelance job out there so it made sense to fly it out and get the work done there. Don’t know too much about the trio but I think it’s similar. I liked the TruTrak company better than the trio STC group when I researched it several years ago
I notice at 9:08 when you go through the steps to set up ALT SEL that you comment "push the KNOB twice". I can not find anywhere in the documentation that pushing the KNOB twice is required. Am I missing something???? Nice video BTW. A friend recently had this installed in his Cherokee 180 and we are both trying to work through the various modes. As we learn more about the operation of the system, I might ask another question.....especially about using the AP during approaches. Thanks
Awesome detailed video! Really well done on all your videos!! I’m reluctant to pull the trigger on Dynon panel for my Piper Warrior because of the stated legal limitations of the Aerocruz 100 and the fact that altitude has to be manually synced between the Dynon and Trutrak. Do these things bother you when flying? What are your thoughts on this?
New owner of a 2019 model Trutrak Vizion. When I sync altitude, I can only get within a multiple of tens of feet from actual. I don’t have single digits when using the knob and it’s driving me nuts. It only advances in tens of feet and I can’t find any info on the problem. I see tutorials where the exact altitude can be entered using single digits.
Hello, Great video. I’m currently looking at a Cherokee 300 but am having a hard time getting away from my job to take the time off and check it out. I’ve got about 100-150 hours of single engine fixed wing. I’m a commercial Helicopter with just about 5500 TT. I flew UH-60’s in the Army now I fly for CBP. I’m thinking about getting a plane because I’m planning on retiring in the next 7-8 years and that would be my retirement hobby. I’d love to hear more about your purchase adventure and would welcome any advice. Thanks in advance! Scott
At my airport, Dupage (KDPA), we'll select and activate the RNAV 20R approach in our G430W. From the IAF at FARMM, we set the AP to 3000ft. As we near the next waypoint DUKBE, the GS ARM comes on. After passing DUKPE, we reset the ALT HOLD to descent down to 2500. Upon reaching 2500, the GS ARM will not come back on and it appears the approach communication between the AP and the G430W is lost. The aircraft will track the localizer, but will not follow the glide path. We've tried to reactivate the approach but that doesn't work. Some say to maintain 3000, but that shouldn't be necessary. Any ideas?
thats an interesting one. The AP will only go in to GS ARM mode when a few conditions are met - you have to be in ALT HOLD mode a certain distance from the FAF and it has to have acquired the signal (and you be below the glide path I think). I'm wondering if once it displayed GS arm you did nothing, would it just fly the vertical guidance starting at 3000' a little farther out from the FAF? My guess is yes. If you try it email me the follow up at flyingmonkeysocal@gmail.com please.
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Hi..It took about a month just a month to get back with you, but I did send an email with more information. I've been talking with Bruce Grammon at Mid Continent and he really doesn't know what the problem might be. A bit of history: I purchased the AP in January 2021 and it worked fine. But, the display started becoming a bit blurry, so in Aug, 2022 (within the warranty period) I sent it to Mid-Continent. They didn't have parts to repair it, so instead they sent me a brand new controller head. This is when we noticed this problem with GS ARM. All the presets were checked to be exactly as they should be for the C172. So, here is what I've found and luckily, I did find a work-around: Once I am in ALT HOLD and GS is ARM-ed, as long as I don't re-ALT HOLD with a new altitude, the AP will work fine. It will eventually GS CPLD and fly the approach very nicely. However, if before GS CPLD, if I press the ALT button and descend to a new altitude, the AP will ALT HOLD, but NOT re-GS ARM nor will not GS CPLD to the glide path. It will fly the airplane laterally just fine, but not the horizontal component. Just a couple days ago, I discovered if I arrive at the new altitude and go into ALT HOLD, pressing the MODE twice (once to go into HDG, then again to go back to GPSS), it will re-GS ARM! I tried this 5 or 6 times and it worked consistently. Actually, I found out that pressing ALT HOLD, then the SET button twice without even changing altitudes, pressing the MODE button twice will get back the GS-ARM. The AP will then continue on and GS CPLD and fly the glide path. With the original AP controller, I didn't have to press the MODE button twice. I could fly down to the new altitude and the AP would go int ALT-HOLD, then automatically GS-ARM. The current controller has an issue, but Mid Continent, has no idea what is happening. I even spoke with a tech support guy who actually wrote some of the operating system and he too, is clueless. Bruce Grammon at Mid Continent is well aware of this situation, and now he feels my controller is working fine and the AP is not supposed to automatically go into GS ARM. He says he is "pretty sure", he has seen some obscure document stating that pressing MODE twice will re-GS ARM. He said he would send it to me if he could find it. My thinking is that the controller is faulty and I will ask for a new one. Other than this issue, the AP works fine. It could even be something I am doing incorrectly, but I don't know what it might be. I would think you and others have been in situations where you can change altitudes during an approach. Maybe you could give this scenario a try, and even do a video. You are the only one I know with this autopilot, so I'd be curious if you experience the same thing as I. If your AP automatically re-GS ARMs after changing altitudes, then it would indicate I have a bad controller. Thanks for whatever help you can offer. Incidentally, here is a link to a video taken when we were flying a pressing the MODE button twice after pressing ALT HOLD. 1drv.ms/v/s!AoWAHVexc964m1Fji6hUrrF7UWpK?e=XDEa6h .allan C172N N8466E
Thanks for this video. I am putting the Avidyne and Dynon HDx in my Cardinal and was curious about the truTrak AP. Not a bad gizmo but I think I’ll wait for Dynon’s AP to get certified. The other Cardinal I fly has an S-Tec coupled to an Aspen 1000, which I really love too. Unfortunately, Dynon does not play well with other’s AP systems.
I wish the Dynon AP were certified for my PA32. I like the TT but the Dynon AP integrated into the system would be amazing. I have a switch that allows the Dynon to control the HDX but it will not command roll steering on the flight plan. So no turn anticipation or procedure turns, holds, etc. But the HDX will command heading, altitude, and VS with its bugs.
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey So as pandemic has impacted, the FAA dragged its feet on the Dynon A36 AP cert, hence, all else will fall behind schedule. Given that the Cardinal is much later in the pipeline, we must get the Aero Cruz 100 to fill the 3-4 year gap. I think the PA32 is earlier for Dynon. Too bad the Baro knob won't work, I'd think a software patch could do that. Regardless, this video now has better meaning as I wait for the parts to arrive (half from Spruce and the servos from Chief).
Excellent video. I bought a TruTrak vision a couple years ago and never have figured out all the details that you showed in your video. TruTrak should’ve done a video like this along time ago. They used to do what they called a tip Tuesday but they quit doing that sometime ago. I subscribe to your channel and will really enjoy watching you fly. N34490
you're a controller on Joshua Approach? That's awesome. All the controllers that handle the SoCal area have been so great over my short 5 year flying career around here. Always appreciate it.
I am at Joshua! It’s a fun facility. Flew a lot before my time at Joshua too, about 10 years ago. We’d have you for a visit if we ever open for tours again!
1 of 3 ways - 1) use the CWS button push and hold and manually steer to the desired heading, let go, then reprogram alt hold 2) use TRK mode and dial in the Track on the head unit. Once you arrive at track you can adjust a couple degrees so you are flying the desired heading (but if you dont its never been an issue w/ATC) 3) I have a source select swicth and when I flip to the Dynon HDX the HDX bugs will control ALT., HEADING, and VS.
I have another video on my channel that explains the functionality of the autopilot when it is switched to be controlled by the HDX. I think it is the first or second video on my channel and only a minute or so long- check it out!
Not specifically but I have a lot of instrument flying videos as part of a series on the Flying Monkey Patreon. They just added a couple free options so check it out at www.patreon.com/socalflyingmonkey
How did you do that edit in the cockpit without you in it? I am starting to play around with after effects and I'd love to know how you did that or point me to a video @socalflyingmonkey
i did it with a planar track and planar transform of an empty plate of the seat in Davinci Resolve Fusion. I have some fun tutorials on my Patreon for filiming and post producing flying videos.
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Didn't think I'd ever hear back; thank you for responding. I will check out your stuff on Patreon! I am finishing my last couple weeks in college and decided to do a complete 180 in my career and want to be a producer so I am mastering all my skills to make myself more well rounded! Thank you!
If it can't be legally used for instrument approaches, that's a deal killer for me. But I must admit, I've never used my Century IIIB for practice instrument approaches, or IPCs... In fact, in my first solid IFR flight many, many years ago, I forgot I even had an autopilot, I was so nervous not to screw up. It's stuck with me ever since, I guess....
Is it available for certified aircraft? I'm thinking you probably have an experimental? Always jealous of the lower cost and larger selection of avionics for experimental aircraft!
no it does not. The Dynon HDX has a flight director that works with their own autopilot but that AP is not yet certified for my airplane model the PA32. Hopefully, soon (ish)....
Great video, thanks! We bought an Arrow with a Trutrak, Aspen EFD 1000 Pro and a Garmin 430w and the Trutrak seems to work great when coupled to the 430w for GPSS. One question I have is - what is the best procedure when in GPSS mode when given vectors from ATC? It is a bit of a pain to couple the Trutrak to the Aspen (there is a manual switch), bug the heading then put the Trutrak in Aspen mode. With your setup, when in GPSS mode, do you just switch to TRK mode and use the knob to get on to the course provided by ATC? Or use the CWS? We haven't played with the system much, but since I saw your video I figured I would ask here. Thanks!
When given vectors I typically just push the mode button to go into track mode and dial in the desired track. I also then confirm the altitude is set to the desired altitude. Has worked for me so far. FOr some reason I dont ever hold the control wheel steering button but maybe I should start trying to do it? I think that would work pretty well too!
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Thanks! That's sort of what I planned to do and then just keep an eye on the heading on the Aspen HSI to make sure I'm on the right heading (since ATC uses heading taking wind into consideration and TRK is ground track). Played with it a bit yesterday in the air and the Trutrak held altitude and heading great! Followed the Garmin 430w GPSS commands like it was on rails. Great system. Thanks!
Eric, This is another excellent video you've put together. I almost feel as though I can watch your vid's and get everything I want out of the TruTrak, Dynon, Avidyne, et.al., without reading the manual. That's how to-the-point, yet thorough, your videos are. Awesome! [and of course I'll still read the pilot manuals ;-) ]
Thanks for the compliments! I’m glad you enjoy the videos and find them useful. Definitely read those manuals! And have fun with your new panel. Fly safe!
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Im getting one installed in my piper cherokee this week and I cant wait. This video is very helpful, thank you!
I've been flying different generations of the Trutrak auto pilot for 12 years and still learned something new.
We are upgrading our panel and upgrading an old century AP with the true Tran. ( PA28 181 ) good video! Don’t know what I don’t know so I’ll keep coming back! Thanks!
Hope it’s useful for you. :)
After 8 yrs and over 1000hrs in my RV6 I had a 385 installed. Another 2 yrs went by before I made my RV IFR. Having done so now I'm using the AP for the more complex tasks and relearning it. Your video is very helpful. Reading the comments answered most of my questions.
Looking forward to more of your videos. Subscribed.
Glad the video is helpful for you and thanks for the sub! Hope you enjoy the future videos. :)
I love the way you set up your panel. Talk about bang for your buck. Go well.
I fly the world's fastest single-engine amphibian, a PT6-powered Seawind, N71RJ, with a nearly identical TruTrak - a Socerer. Things happen quickly. You video is a great refresher worth watching before each flight. You guide viewers through the three phases, departure, cruise and landing. Thanks to you and TruTrak, my flights are easier. I can now get the most out of my Socerer.
Glad it was helpful. Your plane sounds super cool!
Fantastic job. I had one installed in my ‘59 Skyhawk a couple of years ago and absolutely love it. Bending/King had taken them over by the time I bought it. I’ll admit I’d forgotten a few of the features you mentioned. I’ll save this video to watch from time to time as a refresher course kinda thing before CC flights for comfort. Thanks so much. Again, great job
Thanks. Glad it was helpful!!
I just bought a Cardinal with this AP, and reading the manual was confusing, to say the least. Your scenario-based video was exactly what I was looking for. I have "translated" the video into step-by-step mini-checklists for each scenario, to help me learn (memorize) how to use it in the plane. Thank you so much!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks Eric. I've been asked to teach in an airplane with a TruTrak. This was a perfect supplement to my review of the manuals.
I inherited one on an Arrow I recently bought and while looking to have some avionics tweaks done, I keep getting told to dump this junk and get a GFC500. But then that's from people who will make $25k-$30k on me switching it. I've finally got a hang of this Trutrak and it's great. Absolutely don't need any thing else! Great video.
Excellent video, thanks for the demo of the trutrack/king 100 Autopilot. You answered all my questions about it.
Glad it was helpful!
This channel deserves so much more popularity
Just installed a Vision 385 in my RV-6. Your video is an excellent introduction to the functions of the autopilot. Thank you!
Dude, I don’t fly, but the level of knowledge you have is insane. I didn’t understand 90% of what you said, but it was still a great video. Can’t wait to check out more.
Being smart enough to know you're too stupid to comment will be the next level for you to achieve.
im pretty sure the aerocruze can even follow your cdi on the hdx (idk abt ils approaches tho (rnav/lpv works i think))
It can but not in GPSS mode but it seems to hunt for the course
This was a perfect brief before diving into the manual, thanks!!
Great video. I just had the Vizion 100 installed in my Cessna 182Q and am going up to KLNS tomorrow to pick it up. Great orientation for me.
Glad it helped!!! Enjoy it!!
Great video. I hope to get my PPL by the end of July/early August and then buy a 180. I like the Trutrak, espcially the CWS center button functionality. Another great video.
It’s a good autopilot as long as you understand it’s limitations (mostly regulatory)
Great video. I am just getting back into flying after 25 years and can’t believe the new panels
I’m trying to find a plane to bring up to date and your panel is awesome
Oh yeah the new stuff is really incredible. Good luck in your plane search!
Perfect editing adds extra interest in the video
Loved it
Awesome video. Pretty thorough tutorial. Love your videos.
Thanks so much!
What a great Cherokee 6 restoration model to follow! An exponential reduction of any guess work, for sure!
Cannot thank you enough for taking the time to produce, shoot, edit and upload this General Aviation Private Pilot Family oriented series of videos!
🙏🇺🇲💪
Thanks! I appreciate that!
This an amazing channel. I'm a military pilot and I'm thinking about a cherokee in the future! I love piper!
Matthew Miller Cherokee six is great but the 235 is a bit of a sleeper and a real value airplane.
@@josesbox9555 I see that! I hold a civilian commercial IFR SE & ME land so I'm gitty about planning a personal plane purchase one day. Difficult to decide multi use vs. like singular use of an airframe
You make really good videos brother! I absolutely love your avionics set up. Now you have me wanting to buy a 6. Keep the videos coming.
Thanks for the encouragement!
Excellent! Looking at buying an aircraft with a trutrac. Great info. Thx
Glad it was helpful!
Having just got one of these installed in my plane your video was huge help in learning to operation of it. I love this unit. Thank you!
Great to hear!
I added a TT vision 385 to my RV7 about a year ago and have never been comfortable with and seeing it used. Your video is great on the operation in a real world setting and I learned a great deal. Keep it up!
I hope it was helpful for you and you get your Trutrak worked out. I think when the settings are dialed in nicely it seems to work great.
Best video I have seen on the real world scenarios using the TT/Aerocruze! I fly regularly and could not be happier with this product!!
Thanks! I think it is a really solid option and have been enjoying it.
I can see my Tail number on your screen also heard my voice on the radio 8:47 second ,Priceless....Great videos
Very good for me to learn because I have installed one TRUTRAK with gnx375. Thank you. Very clear course.
Glad it helped
Man this is great content, clear and easy to understand
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment with feedback. It's great for me to know that I'm covering things in a clear, understandable way.
Another great video. We recently purchased a 1976 C182 (also based at WHP) and it has two G5’s and a GFC500. I’m just starting to learn the system but listening to your technical description of your AP really makes it seem simple. Keep up the good work making these videos brother. They’re awesome.
Stop by and say hi anytime in the Delta row hangars at Whiteman. I hear the 182s are great - I have only flown 172s. The GFC500 is a great autopilot and has more capabilities and features than the Trutrak. It should serve you well!
Hey Eric, this was beyond helpful. I am getting checked out tomorrow in a cherokee with a trutrak and this was a great overview. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Bro I wanna be your guest on the plane , you're are awesome.
Thanks!
Love you video and just found your channel. I have owned a single engine Commander with an ancient Century 1 autopilot and can't bring myself to spend close to $20K for an STec 30, am hopeful that Trutrak will soon include AC11 in their fleet. Also love what you did to your panel and aircraft overall, seems like perfect family "SUV". Look forward to watching your channel!
Eric...I love the way you describe the use of the A/P... Better than the manual!
Thank you! Glad it was helpful for you.
Great video and excellent communicator. I'm new to AP and doing some homework before getting in the air with a new panel. Your presentation is the best of all the avionics tutorials I've seen yet. Thanks and keep'em coming!
Wow thanks so much. I appreciate that. I hope to make more useful videos. :)
Great review - love watching these videos
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for a well organized and complete review!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for the video. I found it clear and helpful, with manageable information density.
I have the same autopilot in my Velocity. It needs some servo sensitivity adjustments, as the roll mode hasn’t worked. Will make adjustments soon, being in the phone with BK tech guy. You made a Great video. You have a very nice six (I had one for four years👍🏻).
hope you can work out the kinks!
Thanks for the great videos I am in the process redoing a 1972 Cherokee total makeover and have the same place for the avionics and just told Jesse to order the Trutrak because of your video. Also I have the same Dynon sky view and IFD 540. You’re other videos on the sky view and 540 are of great help.
so glad you found the videos hepful!
Added HDX and Aerocruze 100 flatpack to my airplane. Saint Aviation did a great install. Good combination for the price.
glad you like it!
Just got an RV 6A with a Trutrack. Can't wait to learn how to use it.
It's a great little autopilot and works well.
Excellent video content..I've got TT, Avidyne and Aspen (installed at the same place) and I still learned a couple of tricks from you...thx!
Glad it was helpful!
Great video and excellent setup. One thing I was thinking about. Since the trim isn’t connected, you really have to keep an eye on that. If not you can disconnect and give your passengers that super fun surprise climb, or, in a worse case, going missed in IMC and transitioning into the missed you could have the incorrect trim setup close to the ground. I guess the speed limits would help with that, but it would be an exciting couple of seconds. Keep the videos coming!
That's definitely a good point. I usually disconnect the autopilot, feel the trim and then re-engage it if I make a major power or attitude change. I have grown used to the idiosyncrasy with it and haven't had any surprises with being very far out of trim yet.
We will be installing the Dynon HDX and Aerocruz 100 in our PA28-181. Do you know where we can get the yoke button assembly you have on your plane so we can add the CWS button?
Thanks. Enjoying your videos.
Question, At 22:50 did you push and hold and twist the knob to adjust the altitude? or just push then twist?
If the selector line is under altitude value when you turn the knob it will adjust by 500 foot increments. If you push and turn the knob it will adjust by 100 foot increments. In this case I pushed and turned.
Haha. I'm sure you'll have some plonker report you to the FAA for allowing the plane fly itself with you in the back even though you explain it, though I hope not. Nice SFX work. :) I was just made redundant flying the A380, where I spent my last 9 years and 7,000hrs. I haven't flown anything other than TH-cam since March, and I've realized how I miss it immensely. If you love flying it's somewhat immaterial if you're in a 575 ton jet beast, or a 3500lbs SEL piston airplane. I used to work for a small Navajo operator out of Burbank, and we did all our maintenace at Whiteman. I love your channel for several reasons. One of them is my connection to your home field. I also love seeing you fly to all the fields I spent my youth flying to. I'm happy I found your channel. There is only one thing I dislike with small airplanes, and that's the unnecessarily small buttons and switches compared to airliners. I never understood that. It's not even a real estate problem half of the time, but a design choice. AEP is awesome. That will save many lives. I'm very impressed how many protection modes this somewhat basic autopilot have. Well done having it installed.
Andy, Thanks for your comments and sharing your story. I hope youre able to get back in the air sometime soon! Flying a Navajo out of Burbank sounds like it would have been fun- I enjoy landing there and mingling with the large commercial jets- makes a little GA pilot feel like one of the big boys. Haha. I agree about the autopilot- all the new tech getting more easily certified is coming loaded with great features and should make things safer. Thanks for watching the channel!
and yeah I am keeping on to the source files and VFX project of that shot in case anyone accuses me of actually sitting in the back with the AP on!
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Thanks for replying. Yes. I truly hope to get back in the air again soon. Sadly it probably won't be in the left seat of an A380 since they're scrapping them at a high rate. Easily the best airplane I've ever flown. I know exactly what you mean about mingling with the big jets. Even though it was in 1991 I still recall taxiing a Grumman Cougar on taxiway A for a 25L takeoff just ahead of a DC10, and it felt like I was one of the gang :) The Whiteman direct to final 15 BUR was awesome. I would not even retract the gear. I think I climbed to about 500 AAL & just adjusted pitch and heading a bit & I was on short final. You can correct me on that one. It was a few years ago... Must be one of the shortest airport transfers in the US. Once again, your channel is very enjoyable on several levels.
thanks for the video. Just found your channel and I also have a PA-32 that is about how yours started out but mine came with a new engine so I had that cost built in. I'm currently eyeing the Garmin GFC 500 so this was incredibly helpful as I think the cost to get the Garmin is going to be near 20k (Two G5's included) total and I didnt know of a good alternative to look into that was any cheaper. Definitely going to give this AP a close look.
Glad I could help. Just be aware of the legal restrictions of the Trutrak as far as coupled instrument procedures and 700' AGL disco altitude. The GFC500 is more useable in these respects.
Lee I’m in the same boat. 60 hrs in my ‘78 PA32-300. This video has given me much to think about. Love the GFC 500 but having a tough time justifying the cost since my Century AP still works.
garmin have wold biggest scammer thief lier, factory go out gauges 200-500$ but dealers sell gauges 2000-6000$ totally idiot scammer and thief, newer buy garmin gauges, old gauges working fine no need idiot glass panel waste money.
Your videos are awesome. You're providing me with a plethora of ideas on how to design and equip my own future airplane. Great job!
So glad the videos could be useful for you. It is nice to know they can make a difference for someone and their aviation journey!
Well done on your Video. Shows the utility. Personally, I prefer the PortaPilot autopilot, which i’ve been flying with in myC172M. It is less than $3,000, simple to use and does not involve installation since it is a portable snap-in autopilot.
Great review of functions step by step.
Glad it was helpful!
I bought one at Sun N Fun because of you for my Lance. Great review
Dynon next
awesome. glad to be helpful. Please tell the brands when you buy - it helps out all the content creators make more fun stuff! Thank you!
Super interesting. Thanks for the video, appreciate the effort!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for the info on the installation Eric!
Literally feel like I know Trutrak as if I know own it ahaha Great Video!
that's awesome. I hope to be super thorough and cover all the details...but always in flight while actually using the gear. :)
Thanks for the video! Keep making them :)
Thanks for the encouragement!
Very good video, excellent explanation, I'm not a pilot a just a aviation enthusiasts.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good morning,
I've watched your video probably a dozen times and it is very good trying to learn about our Aerocruz 100 ( formerly Trutrak ).
The autopilot seems to do fine in NAV mode following the magenta line but when we start an approach going to the IAF and shooting the approach it's like it's lost for some reason. We can never get APPCH and/or CPLD to illuminate as I watched in your video. Might you have an idea on what we are doing wrong? We have a Garmin GNC 355.
Thanks,
Larry
Atlanta
I think you have to be at glideslope intercept altitude in altitude hold mode for a little while for it to switch into that mode. I believe the manual describes the requirements. Download the experimental version of the manual...
Many thanks!!@@SoCalFlyingMonkey
Is there any option to connect a keypad of some variety to your autopilot? Just wondering!
In the hanger turn on your master/.instruments/ & autopilot. Does it lock up your controls ? Can you overcome the force of the servos? Please post your results--John R
Do I understand that every time you adjust the barometer on your EFIS altimeter, you also have to sync the altitude with the TruTrak AP manually? So that an update during flight from ATC from say, 29.98 to 30.12, would require syncing the AP with the change in altitude on your EFIS and that change doesn't automatically sync?
That is correct. Would be nice if it could take the Baro setting from the EFIS but it doesnt
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey The TruTrak is nice, but that is a little sketchy for me. I think flying between Florida and the PNW the certified coupled approaches of the S Tec 55x is worth the extra $$.
I love your content, BTW. Obviously the camera work is amazing, but it's nice to find someone who has great content and also understands how to properly use a music track!
Stay safe, thanks for the reply, and keep the shiny side up!
thanks for the videos... you are really good at describing everything. Question..why did you fly all the way to FL to have the panel upgraded? I've heard that installation costs are less in FL but it is that much less to cover the costs and time to fly across the country? If you could compare the aerocruze to the trios how do they compare?
The price was very good and the shop was the most experienced in the HDX and TruTrak autopilot especially at the time when it was newer for certified planes. I also had a freelance job out there so it made sense to fly it out and get the work done there. Don’t know too much about the trio but I think it’s similar. I liked the TruTrak company better than the trio STC group when I researched it several years ago
That is incredible! I used to have a dji Mavic pro 2 that had similar gps functions! Love these videos!
Glad you like them! Thank you for the comment.
nice overview - love you videos - thanks for sharing
Excellent ! Very pro job...
Thanks a lot!
I notice at 9:08 when you go through the steps to set up ALT SEL that you comment "push the KNOB twice". I can not find anywhere in the documentation that pushing the KNOB twice is required. Am I missing something???? Nice video BTW. A friend recently had this installed in his Cherokee 180 and we are both trying to work through the various modes. As we learn more about the operation of the system, I might ask another question.....especially about using the AP during approaches. Thanks
Great video. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Awesome detailed video! Really well done on all your videos!!
I’m reluctant to pull the trigger on Dynon panel for my Piper Warrior because of the stated legal limitations of the Aerocruz 100 and the fact that altitude has to be manually synced between the Dynon and Trutrak. Do these things bother you when flying? What are your thoughts on this?
New owner of a 2019 model Trutrak Vizion. When I sync altitude, I can only get within a multiple of tens of feet from actual. I don’t have single digits when using the knob and it’s driving me nuts. It only advances in tens of feet and I can’t find any info on the problem. I see tutorials where the exact altitude can be entered using single digits.
i just get it as close as i can that way. none of the equipment in our planes is that precise anyway.
Hello,
Great video. I’m currently looking at a Cherokee 300 but am having a hard time getting away from my job to take the time off and check it out. I’ve got about 100-150 hours of single engine fixed wing. I’m a commercial Helicopter with just about 5500 TT. I flew UH-60’s in the Army now I fly for CBP. I’m thinking about getting a plane because I’m planning on retiring in the next 7-8 years and that would be my retirement hobby. I’d love to hear more about your purchase adventure and would welcome any advice.
Thanks in advance!
Scott
You can email me at flyingmonkeysocal@gmail.com and we can talk buying planes...
Took me 26 minutes to actually notice I hadn't clicked thumbs up the whole time. I was busy watching!
Thanks for the thumbs up and thanks for watching!
Great video, thank you!
Great video I am getting mine in May. Thank you
Hope the install goes well and you enjoy it!
At my airport, Dupage (KDPA), we'll select and activate the RNAV 20R approach in our G430W. From the IAF at FARMM, we set the AP to 3000ft. As we near the next waypoint DUKBE, the GS ARM comes on. After passing DUKPE, we reset the ALT HOLD to descent down to 2500. Upon reaching 2500, the GS ARM will not come back on and it appears the approach communication between the AP and the G430W is lost. The aircraft will track the localizer, but will not follow the glide path. We've tried to reactivate the approach but that doesn't work. Some say to maintain 3000, but that shouldn't be necessary. Any ideas?
thats an interesting one. The AP will only go in to GS ARM mode when a few conditions are met - you have to be in ALT HOLD mode a certain distance from the FAF and it has to have acquired the signal (and you be below the glide path I think). I'm wondering if once it displayed GS arm you did nothing, would it just fly the vertical guidance starting at 3000' a little farther out from the FAF? My guess is yes. If you try it email me the follow up at flyingmonkeysocal@gmail.com please.
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Hi..It took about a month just a month to get back with you, but I did send an email with more information.
I've been talking with Bruce Grammon at Mid Continent and he really doesn't know what the problem might be.
A bit of history: I purchased the AP in January 2021 and it worked fine. But, the display started becoming a bit blurry, so in Aug, 2022 (within the warranty period)
I sent it to Mid-Continent. They didn't have parts to repair it, so instead they sent me a brand new controller head.
This is when we noticed this problem with GS ARM. All the presets were checked to be exactly as they should be for the C172.
So, here is what I've found and luckily, I did find a work-around:
Once I am in ALT HOLD and GS is ARM-ed, as long as I don't re-ALT HOLD with a new
altitude, the AP will work fine. It will eventually GS CPLD and fly the approach very nicely.
However, if before GS CPLD, if I press the ALT button and descend to a new altitude, the AP will ALT HOLD, but NOT re-GS ARM nor will not GS CPLD to the glide path. It will
fly the airplane laterally just fine, but not the horizontal component.
Just a couple days ago, I discovered if I arrive at the new altitude and go into ALT HOLD, pressing the MODE twice (once to go into HDG, then again to go back to GPSS), it will re-GS ARM!
I tried this 5 or 6 times and it worked consistently. Actually, I found out that pressing ALT HOLD, then the SET button twice without
even changing altitudes, pressing the MODE button twice will get back the GS-ARM. The AP will then continue on and GS CPLD and fly the glide path.
With the original AP controller, I didn't have to press the MODE button twice. I could fly down to the new altitude and the AP would go int ALT-HOLD, then automatically GS-ARM.
The current controller has an issue, but Mid Continent, has no idea what is happening. I even spoke with a tech support guy who actually wrote some of the operating system and he too, is clueless.
Bruce Grammon at Mid Continent is well aware of this situation, and now he feels my controller is working fine and the AP is not supposed to automatically go into GS ARM. He says he is "pretty sure", he has seen some obscure document stating that pressing MODE twice will re-GS ARM. He said he would send it to me if he could find it.
My thinking is that the controller is faulty and I will ask for a new one. Other than this issue, the AP works fine. It could even be something I am doing incorrectly, but I don't know what it might be.
I would think you and others have been in situations where you can change altitudes during an approach. Maybe you could give this scenario a try, and even do a video.
You are the only one I know with this autopilot, so I'd be curious if you experience the same thing as I. If your AP automatically re-GS ARMs after changing altitudes, then it would indicate
I have a bad controller.
Thanks for whatever help you can offer. Incidentally, here is a link to a video taken when we were flying a pressing the MODE button twice after pressing ALT HOLD.
1drv.ms/v/s!AoWAHVexc964m1Fji6hUrrF7UWpK?e=XDEa6h
.allan C172N N8466E
Thanks for this video. I am putting the Avidyne and Dynon HDx in my Cardinal and was curious about the truTrak AP. Not a bad gizmo but I think I’ll wait for Dynon’s AP to get certified. The other Cardinal I fly has an S-Tec coupled to an Aspen 1000, which I really love too. Unfortunately, Dynon does not play well with other’s AP systems.
I wish the Dynon AP were certified for my PA32. I like the TT but the Dynon AP integrated into the system would be amazing. I have a switch that allows the Dynon to control the HDX but it will not command roll steering on the flight plan. So no turn anticipation or procedure turns, holds, etc. But the HDX will command heading, altitude, and VS with its bugs.
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey So as pandemic has impacted, the FAA dragged its feet on the Dynon A36 AP cert, hence, all else will fall behind schedule. Given that the Cardinal is much later in the pipeline, we must get the Aero Cruz 100 to fill the 3-4 year gap. I think the PA32 is earlier for Dynon. Too bad the Baro knob won't work, I'd think a software patch could do that. Regardless, this video now has better meaning as I wait for the parts to arrive (half from Spruce and the servos from Chief).
Servos finally in and the plane heads to the avionics shop this week. I keep viewing this video and learn more each time. Thanks for posting this.
Nice video!! Is there any reason why you couldn't use track mode to fly an ils or vor approach?
I think you could do that as long as above 700 feet.
Great video, Eric.
Thanks! Great work on the install!
Very informative well. video enjoyed it I will be watching more thank you
I'm so glad you found it useful.
Excellent video. I bought a TruTrak vision a couple years ago and never have figured out all the details that you showed in your video. TruTrak should’ve done a video like this along time ago. They used to do what they called a tip Tuesday but they quit doing that sometime ago. I subscribe to your channel and will really enjoy watching you fly. N34490
Glad it was helpful!
You have it right, NASTE is Nast-E, Nasty. Thanks for sharing. I’ll look for you next time you call Joshua!
you're a controller on Joshua Approach? That's awesome. All the controllers that handle the SoCal area have been so great over my short 5 year flying career around here. Always appreciate it.
I am at Joshua! It’s a fun facility.
Flew a lot before my time at Joshua too, about 10 years ago. We’d have you for a visit if we ever open for tours again!
Great video, packed with great information for those of us contemplating installation of the TruTrak. Thanks
Glad you liked it!
How do you handle being vectored to headings by ATC? Just use the TRK function?
1 of 3 ways - 1) use the CWS button push and hold and manually steer to the desired heading, let go, then reprogram alt hold 2) use TRK mode and dial in the Track on the head unit. Once you arrive at track you can adjust a couple degrees so you are flying the desired heading (but if you dont its never been an issue w/ATC) 3) I have a source select swicth and when I flip to the Dynon HDX the HDX bugs will control ALT., HEADING, and VS.
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Thank you. Very much appreciated. Great review. Will be ordering an Aerocruze shortly.
Thinking about getting back into flying, having a bit of paralysis by analysis. How does your family do with flying in/out of KMMH?
Definitely do it! It’s worth the effort! They have done pretty well and gotten used to the turbulence etc.
Can you make all AP changes on the dynon hdx rather than the trutrak?
I have another video on my channel that explains the functionality of the autopilot when it is switched to be controlled by the HDX. I think it is the first or second video on my channel and only a minute or so long- check it out!
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Thank you! Great stuff!
Great review. Helped me pass instrument. Do you have a video for Avidyne IFR?
Not specifically but I have a lot of instrument flying videos as part of a series on the Flying Monkey Patreon. They just added a couple free options so check it out at www.patreon.com/socalflyingmonkey
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Thanks. I have signed up for Patrion. Will watch them
How many NM did you fly on each of your legs?
Excellent review! Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
How did you do that edit in the cockpit without you in it? I am starting to play around with after effects and I'd love to know how you did that or point me to a video @socalflyingmonkey
i did it with a planar track and planar transform of an empty plate of the seat in Davinci Resolve Fusion. I have some fun tutorials on my Patreon for filiming and post producing flying videos.
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Didn't think I'd ever hear back; thank you for responding. I will check out your stuff on Patreon! I am finishing my last couple weeks in college and decided to do a complete 180 in my career and want to be a producer so I am mastering all my skills to make myself more well rounded! Thank you!
Excellent video trying to do the same N55563
I used to own N55585!
Small airplane world. ;)
the trutrak will not automatically sync with the baro on E5
does the autopilot keep the turns coordinated when turning?
No there is no yaw dampener.
If it can't be legally used for instrument approaches, that's a deal killer for me. But I must admit, I've never used my Century IIIB for practice instrument approaches, or IPCs... In fact, in my first solid IFR flight many, many years ago, I forgot I even had an autopilot, I was so nervous not to screw up. It's stuck with me ever since, I guess....
Hi Eric you might install Trutrak autotrim module. I have installed it in my plane and it works fine
Is it available for certified aircraft? I'm thinking you probably have an experimental? Always jealous of the lower cost and larger selection of avionics for experimental aircraft!
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Yes I've got an LSA
Does the true track have a flight director?
no it does not. The Dynon HDX has a flight director that works with their own autopilot but that AP is not yet certified for my airplane model the PA32. Hopefully, soon (ish)....
Great video! Thanks for posting
Thank you very much. Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video, thanks! We bought an Arrow with a Trutrak, Aspen EFD 1000 Pro and a Garmin 430w and the Trutrak seems to work great when coupled to the 430w for GPSS. One question I have is - what is the best procedure when in GPSS mode when given vectors from ATC? It is a bit of a pain to couple the Trutrak to the Aspen (there is a manual switch), bug the heading then put the Trutrak in Aspen mode. With your setup, when in GPSS mode, do you just switch to TRK mode and use the knob to get on to the course provided by ATC? Or use the CWS? We haven't played with the system much, but since I saw your video I figured I would ask here. Thanks!
When given vectors I typically just push the mode button to go into track mode and dial in the desired track. I also then confirm the altitude is set to the desired altitude. Has worked for me so far. FOr some reason I dont ever hold the control wheel steering button but maybe I should start trying to do it? I think that would work pretty well too!
@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Thanks! That's sort of what I planned to do and then just keep an eye on the heading on the Aspen HSI to make sure I'm on the right heading (since ATC uses heading taking wind into consideration and TRK is ground track). Played with it a bit yesterday in the air and the Trutrak held altitude and heading great! Followed the Garmin 430w GPSS commands like it was on rails. Great system. Thanks!
I bet that reduces your fatigue levels a ton on those long flights. I can't imagine flying an 8 hour day without autopilot.
It definitely helps!