This document provides maintenance instructions and Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) for the GFC 500 Autopilot with Electronic Stability and Protection as installed under Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA01866WI.
Applicability This document applies to all Part 23 aircraft equipped with the GFC 500 installed under AML STC SA01866WI. Modification of an aircraft by STC SA01866WI obligates the aircraft operator to include the maintenance information provided by this document in the operator’s Aircraft Maintenance Manual and the operator’s Aircraft Scheduled Maintenance Program.
The Garmin GFC 500 is a popular retrofit autopilot system designed for a wide range of general aviation aircraft. It provides advanced autopilot features and capabilities to enhance the safety and ease of flying. Here’s an overview of the Garmin GFC 500 autopilot system:
Features and Functions:
- Autopilot Control Unit (GMC 507/GMC 507): The GFC 500 system typically includes a control unit that allows the pilot to engage and control the autopilot functions. The GMC 507 features a dedicated mode controller, while the GMC 507 provides a simplified mode controller.
- Integrated Flight Control: The GFC 500 integrates with the aircraft’s flight control system, including the ailerons, elevator, and rudder, to provide precise control in pitch and roll axes.
- Altitude Hold and Vertical Speed: The autopilot can maintain a selected altitude and vertical speed, making it easier for the pilot to manage the aircraft’s climb and descent.
- Heading and Track: The GFC 500 can maintain a selected heading or track when navigating to a specific waypoint or following a flight plan.
- GPS Steering: It can interface with GPS navigation sources to provide lateral guidance, such as flying a GPS-derived flight plan.
- GPSS Roll Steering: The autopilot can also provide lateral steering guidance, allowing the aircraft to fly precisely along a flight plan course.
- VOR/LOC/GS and GPS Approaches: The GFC 500 supports flying VOR, localizer, glide slope, and GPS-based approaches. It can automatically track and intercept navigation signals.
- Emergency Level Mode: In case of an unexpected situation or loss of control, the autopilot can be activated to level the aircraft.
- Yaw Damper (optional): An optional yaw damper can be integrated to help reduce yaw oscillations and improve stability, especially during turbulent conditions.
Installation and Setup:
The installation of the Garmin GFC 500 autopilot system involves several steps:
- Aircraft Compatibility: Verify that your aircraft is eligible for a GFC 500 retrofit installation. Garmin provides a list of supported aircraft models.
- Installation Kit: Ensure you have the necessary installation kit, including autopilot servos, brackets, wiring harnesses, and other components specific to your aircraft.
- Wiring and Configuration: Follow the installation manual and wiring diagrams provided by Garmin to connect the autopilot components to your aircraft’s avionics and flight control system.
- Calibration and Testing: After installation, the system must be calibrated and tested thoroughly to ensure all functions work correctly. This includes ground and flight testing.
- Certification and Documentation: If required, obtain the necessary certification or approvals from aviation authorities to legally operate the GFC 500 autopilot system in your aircraft.
- Pilot Training: Ensure that all pilots who will operate the autopilot system are properly trained on its use and limitations.
It’s important to have the GFC 500 autopilot system installed and configured by a certified avionics technician or shop to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, always refer to the specific installation and operating manuals provided by Garmin for your aircraft and autopilot model.
