Century IIB Problems

[Steve Dawson]

My J has a Century IIB and after flying it in heading mode for an hour the plane started to wander to the right. After reengaging the heading I found that it wouldn't follow the heading bug left or right but would stay in the original setting and then start to slowly move to the right. When I set it to nav or approach mode it wouldn't track but would still wander to the right. The roll control will work when it's in the AP mode only. Any suggestions on what's wrong? 

Thanks

Steve

[Jibsheet1]

I also fly a J with the Century IIB and it had the exact same problem. Slowly and almost imperceptibly the plane drifted to the right regardless of whether or not the AP was linked to the GPS or the heading bug. I was fortunate to have a simple problem and solution. I flooded the two AP switches with contact cleaner and I have not had a problem since. It is a quick and cheap thing to try before you start buying parts.

Good luck!

[N201MKTurbo]

I agree the above solution could work. What you describe is the radio coupler signal not getting summed with the roll error. This is done through the right switch. If you remove the roll knob by loosening its set screw, you will find two screws that hold on the face plate. Remove the face plate, under it you will find the screws that hold amplifier in place. Remove the amp and you will have better access to the latching switch contacts.

[Steve Dawson]

Thank you guys. It sounds like it's a poor connection and I'm going to go over it tomorrow. I like those low cost fixes.