A Garmin Beast Mode Tech-Up!
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- Опубликовано: 28 янв 2025
- In this in-depth aviation video, Chris Palmer from Angle of Attack takes viewers behind the scenes of upgrading his 1963 Cessna 172, November Two Four Two Three Uniform, with a cutting-edge Garmin GFC 500 autopilot. Over the years, Chris has been modernizing this vintage aircraft, but the addition of this autopilot brings the plane to a whole new level of sophistication and functionality.
HERE'S THE SHOP WE USED IN PALMER ALASKA
▹ Matsu Valley Avionics: www.matsuvalle...
The video begins on a beautiful day in Palmer, Alaska, with Chris introducing his aircraft and setting the stage for the exciting work ahead. He explains the value of retrofitting older airplanes with modern avionics, taking viewers through the rationale behind this latest upgrade and why the Garmin GFC 500 autopilot is such a game-changer for his plane.
Chris then gives an inside look at the autopilot installation process, joining skilled technicians in the hangar as they retrofit the autopilot system into the aircraft. From securing the servo motors to the control cables, the team demonstrates the precision and craftsmanship required to integrate a modern autopilot into a vintage airframe. Viewers will gain insights into the process of fitting and installing the servo clamps on the aircraft’s existing roll and pitch cables, showcasing how Garmin’s autopilot system interacts with the plane’s flight controls.
Throughout the video, Chris explains the digital capabilities of the GFC 500, highlighting its ability to offer airline-level precision in a general aviation aircraft. He discusses how the autopilot makes long cross-country flights easier and how it relieves workload in IFR conditions, making it a vital tool for safety and efficiency.
In addition to the autopilot installation, the team is performing an annual inspection on Two Three Uniform. Chris offers a glimpse into the maintenance side of things, with Cody, one of the shop’s mechanics, servicing the airplane’s landing gear, oleo struts, and engine, all while Chris marvels at the learning opportunity this hands-on process provides.
As the installation progresses, Chris dives deeper into how the autopilot communicates with the aircraft’s systems. He explains how the Garmin Mode Controller (GMC) acts as the brains of the operation, interpreting pilot inputs and sending them to the servos via a CAN bus system. This digital autopilot system, Chris explains, is a significant leap forward from older autopilot designs, offering smoother, more precise control over the aircraft’s heading, altitude, and airspeed.
A key safety feature that Chris emphasizes is Garmin’s Electronic Stability and Protection (ESP) system. This feature monitors the aircraft’s attitude and flight parameters, adding corrective inputs if the aircraft exceeds certain limits, helping prevent dangerous situations like stalls or over-banking. The system also includes a “level” button-what Chris humorously refers to as the “magic blue pill”-that automatically levels the airplane if the pilot becomes disoriented.
Finally, Chris touches on how adding this autopilot qualifies his Cessna 172 as a TAA (Technically Advanced Aircraft). This new classification allows students to log TAA time, a significant benefit for his flight school. Chris highlights how this upgrade offers not only safety and comfort, but also an advantage for student pilots working toward their commercial licenses.
As the installation wraps up, Chris reflects on the transformation of his beloved Cessna 172, bringing it firmly into the 21st century. He expresses his gratitude to the team working on the project and shares his excitement for how this autopilot will enhance both his own flying experience and that of his students.
Whether you’re a pilot, a student, or an aviation enthusiast, this video offers a detailed and engaging look at the process of upgrading a classic aircraft with cutting-edge technology. Don’t miss this incredible transformation-be sure to like the video, subscribe for more aviation content, and hit the notification bell to stay updated!
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What do you guys think of the Autopilot? Do you like these tech deep-dives? COMMENT BELOW
Nice for route-flying. 🍻
This is the best aviation RUclipsr
You're too kind!
Its great to see such an old plane be reborn with all this extra tech.
I agree. She's such an amazing bird!
It's so cool to see 23U getting all the love she deserves. Thank you Chris for taking the time to film this and bring us along. P.S. I still have my old Cleeaar!! Shirt and wear it from time to time 👍😁😆
Love to hear it! That's a classic!
Glad you had steve do your install he's a good guy does great work.
Looking forward to seeing it in action! Sounds like this will be fantastic for your school and students.
Can't wait to see to the autopilot used. Great explanation Chris!
Thank you for the behind the scenes look into installing your autopilot. 23U sure is coming along nicely. I am sure your students love flying with all the awesome upgrades. Keep up the excellent work. Safe skies my friend 🇺🇸🛩️
Great panel , and such a Sophisticated auto pilot great choice
Sophisticated behind the scenes, but really so easy to operate. Thanks!
Nice
Love these videos as much as the rest! It's cool to see the "mystery behind the magic". Love the content, Chris. Take care and see you at Sun n Fun again next year!
Thanks! Yeah, I think it's really cool and I've genuinely enjoyed educating myself on the whole thing. Happy to share.
Great video here Chris. Someday I would like to have one installed but will have to save up some money first.
An autopilot is a game changer! I didn’t want to spring for the GFC 500 in my 172 so ended up with the Aerocruz from BK. Not as cool as the GFC 500 but it works great and was quite a bit less! Hope that guy working in the tail doesn’t get a cramp!!
Thanks for explaining the install process of this up grade
Most welcome.
Love this in-depth look! Just started using the AP in N2018 this spring. It's awesome to understand more.
It was really enlightening. Nice to be able to see how it all comes together.
Thats actually super cool to see from the inside and the actual mechanism that makes the things happen. Great vid chris!
It's way too cool.
That's going to complete the panel modernization...teally cool.
Thx Chris
Yeah, can't really think of anything else that's needed :D
Excellent video. Great explanation of why installations are airframe specific.
Thanks! Glad you liked it.
I installed a GFC 500 on my C172 and it was one of the best choices I made. It works together with an AERA760 and does many things, greatly increasing flight safety.
another nice video THANKS
Thanks!
Awesome video. I was always frustrated with how much certified avionics installations cost and now I understand.
These guys did it fast, too. These autopilot installs are very straight forward because they're airframe specific. Outside of that, avionics are project based and subject to many variables.
Did you mean to crank the music volume so high at 1:11 ?
Press F in chat for all headphone wearers
Hey cool. You clipped it out!
@@1dullgeek Yeah, I don't know how that got past the edit. Had to just take my whole personal intro out. Oh well!
@@angleofattack Wait. Since that intro got cut, I suddenly can't remember who you are. 😂
Just a Quick Clarification; TAA Only requires a 2 Axis Autopilot, along with the PFD and MFD of course. Not a 3 Axis. 61.129(j) If you're curious! But the Mighty Skyhawk is looking very fine good sir! Keep up the good work!
was coming here to see if anyone else mentioned it. Not many GA planes are 3-axis and I don't think this 172 is either.
@@flysport_tedder Yes you are correct. Typically they will be multi-engine aircraft which will have a Yaw Dampener, but even then it's not really a full axis. It just adds pressure to the rudder to maintain coordination.
How effective is it in a wind sheer? Just disengage the AP and manually take control?
Nice shirt!
Oh yeah! Wairworthy for the win!
How much was installation for the autopilot? Never seen one on a 152/172 so this is really nice to see!
It was roughly $14000 between the unit and the time with the crew. But they often have deals and you can get the unit for a little less.
these methods of integrating servos to existing control cables have been around for decades before Garmin was a company.
Fair! Tried and true. If it appeared as though I was giving them sole credit, that wasn't my point. I was merely expressing my own misunderstanding.
@@angleofattackGarmin makes a great product though. I have a full Garmin panel and they make a great system. Fly safe.
You need to go through cost and length of downtime, etc. would love to hear of all these details.
I’m hoping to put in a GFC500 too. What was the cost to install it?
It was roughly $14000 between the unit and the time with the crew. But they often have deals and you can get the unit for a little less. Go to a shop that has done a lot of them. Makes all the difference.
Very nice Chris!’ Beats the PMDG 737!
Sure does because it's REAL
I see a lot of older aircraft being modernized , cheaper than a new one.
How much it costs, bro?
Why are you putting off exhaust pipe extensions? Get rid of those black exhaust stains
Thanks for the reminder. Do you have any idea where to get them?
Sure is dragging an airplane out of the dark ages (so to speak) and into the modern world.
One pertinent question - how much weight does it take from your useful load?