GWS Gyro has anyone used it in a airplane?
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GWS Gyro has anyone used it in a airplane?
Thinking about purchasing one to put in an old warbird i got for free. Had to do some repairs on it. The price is right at $40.00. Thanks for any information.
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RE: GWS Gyro has anyone used it in a airplane?
I read... somewhere... that someone had put one in a Smith Miniplane. If memory served, he used it on the rudder. From reports, he said it helped on landing approaches. Iguess his field was almost always in crosswinds. So the gyro on the rudder helped compensate for it...
I wish Icould find that reference again...
I wish Icould find that reference again...
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RE: GWS Gyro has anyone used it in a airplane?
Frank,
Assuming it is on rudder, and assuming it is a rate gyro, it can be a big help with ground handling, especially as suggested above, with crosswinds. Principally it helps maintain a straight path on take-off and landing. It does become a liability in the air if you cannot switch it off. If you don't plan a lot of aerobatics with your warbird, it should not be too bad. Note, though, that it will always be working the rudder, so you will have to watch your battery charge life.
I have one on a short coupled bipe that makes a world of difference. It is switchable so I don't have to deal with it in the air. Don't always use it, but it is nice to have.
Bedford