BeechTalk - BT - Relative cost to operate a Cessna T303 (Crusader)

Username Protected · **Posted:** 13 Dec 2024, 23:03

What are the autopilot options for the Crusader? I see that the STEC 55x is STC'd for it, but I saw one for sale with an STEC 3100.

Also, is the Cruise Air STC for increased power still available? I see reference to it being owned by Outlaw Aircraft now, but can't find info on either. Is this STC even worth it?

Username Protected · **Posted:** 14 Dec 2024, 10:21

Cruise Air STC is nice for climb. The original 24" 2400 max climb cruise setting is too low. I usually did cruise at 24" and about 2400-2350 RPM depending on where it was smoothest. But I did use the STC increased MP for climb.

The STC has what I think is an error. It does not change the green arc of the fuel flow meter. Only the green arc of the Manifold pressure is increased.

So if you run top of the green MP and RPM in climb. New 27.5" MP and 2400 RPM and run top of the green on the original fuel flow meters you will burn them up.

The original top of green arc on the fuel flow is about 15.8 GPH. I remarked to change top of the green arc fuel flow about 20 GPH. Sorry I forget exactly what it was in lbs, I don't have the airplane and paperwork here anymore to check.

Blue arc on MP gauge above 27.5" to show full rich operation needed and allow the aneroid to lean automatically. From the factory.

I did call down to Outlaw 2 years ago and Robert was still there. I believe he would still sell the STC.

Username Protected · **Posted:** 14 Dec 2024, 12:32

Quote:

What are the autopilot options for the Crusader? I see that the STEC 55x is STC'd for it, but I saw one for sale with an STEC 3100.

The most modern autopilot option is the STEC 3100. I believe Bob Thomason organized the STC process with Genesys. I have the 3100 with yaw damper and VNV options. It gets along pretty well with the Garmin navigators and G500txi. For example, you can adjust your VS or IAS (FLC) values from the G500 and that communicates back to the 3100. However, the G500 will not autoswitch to an ILS on final the way a Garmin autopilot will. So far as I know, there are no STCs for a Garmin AP for the Crusader.

Attachment:

Autopilot closeup.JPEG

Username Protected · **Posted:** 14 Dec 2024, 16:53

Daniel have you had any troubles with the yoke rollers wearing on the yoke shafts and causing a step that catches slightly. Causing trouble with the autopilot altitude hold.

I have had other airplanes with the same black finishing anodizing on the yoke shafts wear on panel bushings or rollers.

Username Protected · **Posted:** 15 Dec 2024, 20:19

Quote:

Daniel have you had any troubles with the yoke rollers wearing on the yoke shafts and causing a step that catches slightly. Causing trouble with the autopilot altitude hold.

I have had other airplanes with the same black finishing anodizing on the yoke shafts wear on panel bushings or rollers.

Haven't had any trouble holding a pretty stable altitude. But thanks for the heads-up, Charlie, I'll keep my eyes open for wear on the shaft.