An IFR trip in a Cessna 170...

HA · Post by HA » Wed Dec 07, 2005 3:05 pm

one of our B200's has a radar altimeter that counts down, starts at 1000' and calls out every 100 feet ("900...800..."etc) until wherever you set DH

I'm sure the right-seaters are always amused when I continue the count "100.....impact" in my best bitchin' betty voice

rudymantel · Post by **rudymantel** » Sat Dec 10, 2005 12:07 am

Russ, great IFR story. The 170 is one of the few airplanes small and economical enough to goof around the airport, do touch and go's and yet use for real transportation. ILS approaches in a 170 are FUN ! Fortunately, my altimeter is easily in the scan, which certainly makes life easier.
A few years ago I flew serious IFR on the leg from Charleston up to Manassas. It was after dark (winter time) and broke out at 400 ft in light rain. Very satisfying.

I'm gonna miss that airplane...

trake · Post by **trake** » Sat Dec 10, 2005 4:23 am

A Century One autopilot is great for this kind of flying, not only relieves the work load but provides an all electric back-up to the vacuum system. Very expensive- $3700 15 years ago. I think they are approved for the B model

Post by **GAHorn** » Mon Dec 12, 2005 9:32 pm

http://www.centuryflight.com/pricing/frame/pricing.htm

The price is now $7100. PLus installation. If you want the optional electric trim...it's another $2000. The radio tracking option is another $700.
If you found one in the junkyard, the installation kit is $2000. Without the STC paperwork. (good luck)

Typical installation fees are about $2200.

Used units (and out of date new pricing) may also be found at: http://www.avionix.com/autopilots.html

A better deal may be had by buying a used S-tec system 60, if you want the full Monty.

johneeb · Post by **johneeb** » Mon Dec 12, 2005 9:48 pm

gahorn wrote:http://www.centuryflight.com/pricing/frame/pricing.htm

The price is now $7100. PLus installation. If you want the optional electric trim...it's another $2000. The radio tracking option is another $700.
If you found one in the junkyard, the installation kit is $2000. Without the STC paperwork. (good luck)

Typical installation fees are about $2200.

Used units (and out of date new pricing) may also be found at: http://www.avionix.com/autopilots.html

A better deal may be had by buying a used S-tec system 60, if you want the full Monty.

George,

Has something crept up on me again? Is the S-tec now approved or do you know of someway of gaining approval for the 170?

Post by **GAHorn** » Mon Dec 12, 2005 10:21 pm

Nope. But the caveat is "if you want the full Monty'. S=tec might be willing to make a special deal for a willing guinea pig.