I think the trim tab concept is to simplify installation. If your control cables work fine and are adjusted properly, then one train of thinking is to not mess with those. Adding small trim tabs is a simple thing to do without messing with your controls. That said, most autopilots do work by installing along the control cables. One system uses a bar often used at a horn, another sister ribs another cable to the control cable and the new one goes around the servo with a capstan. Either is designed so you can override by manual control and they don't mess up your original control cables. If something happens, like the loop comes off the capstan, the original controls still work fine. I was going to build a KR, but changed to a Zenith CH-650 with full Dynon system and we have two servos for autopilot. One of each kind. The bar or rod type and the capstan type on elevator. They've worked great for 2 years now. The autopilot controls are built into each Dynon screen, just add servos and calibrate. Dynon servos are about $750 each, total $1,500, which I think is a lot for servos, but the total is cheap for a full autopilot system. Other brand servos can be used.
As for balancing a prop, I'm wondering maybe you balanced by weight, but is there a chance the twist is a bit different for each blade? There is a dynamic prop balancer, and I know some in KR land have them as it was used at the Oregon gathering a few years ago. Our EAA Chapter 84 in WA has one in the tool crib. They cost $1,200 to $1,500 (for the cheap ones, shop type are $4k+). Having a shop do it is often about $400 to $500. Our chapter charges $20 but it is only available to members and then only with supervision by a member with experience. Belonging to a EAA Chapter with a good tool crib is very valuable, even after your build is complete. We also have very high quality aircraft scales in our chapter, as well as swaging tools, a vinyl cutter, a 3D printer, and more. We want to add a cable tensiometer as this is often a one time use when setting control cables in a build. All these items are typically used only a few times during a build and generally not worth buying as an individual. Jim McGauhey Prez, EAA Chapter 84 Snohomish, WA -----Original Message----- From: Gary Sack <garys...@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, May 14, 2020 11:52 PM To: KRnet <krnet@list.krnet.org> Subject: KR> Two questions I've enjoyed the comments concerning the autopilot. My question is: could the servos drive springs attached to the control cables. This has been done in aircraft for pitch trim and works pretty well. Seems simpler and more aerodynamic than trim tabs that work opposite of the desired result. Either way, I am interested. Second question...a year ago I wrote about damaging my KR prop while hand starting. I have repaired the prop and statically balanced it, but it vibrates badly. Is there a simple way to dynamically balance a prop? Also does it matter how the prop is orientated to the throw of the crankshaft? I know the engine is fine because my spare prop runs smoothly. I took Richard's advice to mount a Subaru starter on my HAPI engine. I had some problems getting the adapter plate just right, but my engine really cranks now. Thanks. _______________________________________________ Search the KRnet Archives at https://www.mail-archive.com/krnet@list.krnet.org/. Please see LIST RULES and KRnet info at http://www.krnet.org/info.html. see http://list.krnet.org/mailman/listinfo/krnet_list.krnet.org to change options. To UNsubscribe from KRnet, send a message to krnet-le...@list.krnet.org
