DC-9 Autopilot

[richards]

I love the new DC-9, no question about it. However, I can't get the autopilot to work. When trying to engage the servos, there is an audible 'click' but no movement. Neither does the "z" keyboard command had any effect.
Secondly, the KLN90 GPS-receiver cannot be switched on.

Any ideas? Thanks

Richard

[George Carty - HJG]

Does SHIFT+A fix the problem?

[richards]

Found the problem: avionics switch was off when changing from the Cessna to DC-9.

[aerofoto - HJG Admin]

"YES" .... if starting with the default CESSNA (recommended) .... then apart from maybe shutting down its engine using the switch only (assuming one wants to do a cold/dark DC9 engine startup scenario) .... then it's not a good idea to adjust any other CESSNA panel instrumentation .... simply because whatever is adjusted there will then be transferred across to your DC9 panel scenario too.

1.0: PANEL/SYSTEMS CONFIGURATION .... DEFAULT ENGINES RUNNING SCENARIO

Always start FS and this scenario using the default MSFS CESSNA flight. Do not adjust any panel instrumentation on the CESSNA. Select your DC9 aircraft of choice.

In this default scenario the aircraft and panel will load into FS with the engines already running. Certain panel instrumentation and systems must still be set up in accordance with the following procedures in order for the panel to work properly.

2.0: ENGINE STARTUP PROCEDURES AND PANEL/SYSTEMS CONFIGURATION

Always start FS and this scenario with the default MSFS CESSNA flight. Shutdown the CESSNA engine using the Starter switch. Do not adjust any other panel instrumentation on the CESSNA. Select your DC9 aircraft of choice.

In this scenario the aircraft will load into FS with its engines not running and with most panel instrumentation and systems still needing be set up in accordance with the following procedures in order for the panel to work properly.

FS will "ALWAYS" remember the last aircraft configuration and then apply it to the very next aircraft selection.

Mark C
AKL/NZ

[craig]

FS will "ALWAYS" remember the last aircraft configuration

I prefer not to start cold and dark, so my default ac is the Vistaliner Fed Ex Super 27, ready to go.

Switching to a DC-9, she's up and running, but there are a number of procedures to follow and switches to flip to get the flaps set, and off the ground without a cacophany of alarm noise.

Then you can even raise the gear! What a plus ;D

Excellent work!

[aerofoto - HJG Admin]

I still recommend that folk start each DC9 scenario .... in fact every HJG related aircraft scenario .... using tthe default CESSNA, or, other default MSFS aircraft.

Doing this makes transition to "ANY" add-on aircraft a lot smoother and less potentially problematic .... but .... it's up to you guys of course !

Mark C
AKL/NZ

[dutchman2]

Since the topic heading is already Autopilot, thought I would tack on here.
Is there anyway (hidden click spot like the DC-8) to reset the autopilot / autothrottle warning in the instrument comparator (what you all call the bow-tie)?

[aerofoto - HJG Admin]

Within "SECTION 3" of my "DC9 PANELINSTALLATION & HANDLING NOTES" .... there is an extensive chapter relating to just the AP alone within which I do believe I've covered this ....

The AP system can be disengaged, inflight, by setting the AP paddle switch to its "SERVOS DISENGAGED" position .... or by selecting the keyboard "Z" command. Deactivating the AP will trigger AP disconnect warning/alarm and will also cause the red "AP" annunciator lamp on the Main Panel Bowtie gauge (located above both the Altimeter and ROC/ROD gauges) to illuminate and then flash constantly. This warning lamp can be canceled/extinguished by clicking ("once only") on the main Panel "INST WARN RESET" knob (located beside the Bowtie gauge).

Folks .... to get the most/best out of these DC9 panels I urge (at the risk of sounding like a stuck record/damaged CD) that these notes be read

Mark C
AKL/NZ