@fortel
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Alan,
The Dynon D10A EFIS was recently approved for our airplanes, and I installed one. It takes the place of the attitude indicator, but is capable of far more, including a built-in autopilot. Only a servo (or two for two-axis) is required- no other equipment needed. But it’s against the FARs at the moment.
I thought the new FAA Non Required Safety Enhancing Equipment (NORSEE) policy would fast-track some autopilot for us, but I think there isn’t that much demand by AA1 owners. I’ve posted to a number of forums, registered my request with most of the autopilot manufacturers, etc. but there’s been no traction. I’m not surprised. But you might do the same. If enough of us chime in…
Peter
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Hi,
I’m not a Guru by any stretch, and not even a mechanic. But thought I’d chime in in case you’re in a hurry and no one else posts. I own a 1970 AA1, and have had a couple of annuals done, plus some owner maintenance. So I’m getting familiar. I looked at several AA1s before pulling the trigger.
If you don’t have any particular concerns, here’s what I’d focus on, in addition to what you mentioned.
Bonding- make sure there are no bonding / debonding issues. I think these early years are less prone (we don’t have the purple glue) but one plane I looked at had suffered from debonding and was subsequently repaired.
Control surface torque tubes / bearings. The torque tubes have a wear limit, and if beyond limits, it can be expensive. There are undersized bearings and sleeves to help, but if the limit is reached, it means a new torque tube (I believe.) Check for slop in the hinges.
Check for signs of fuel leaks. The quick drains are no big deal, but there’s a small tube in the middle of the spar and, any fuel weeping from that indicates one of the tanks is leaking, and probably means removing at least one wing to fix.
Not sure what else to add- these planes seem pretty simple. The GPA forum is fantastic, as are all of the related YouTube videos.
I love my Yankee; it has been completely reliable for the time I’ve owned it, is a blast to fly, and is very economical.
Good luck and have fun!
Peter
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