Final Report on Aerocruz 100 (TT) Autopilot Install

[ProtoFly]

2 hours ago, MarquezJC said:

Anyone have a link to the STC? Not able to find it on Duncan's website.  I am trying to verify if the STC covers the 66 F model.  If so, does anyone know of good installation shops in the eastern US region?  I'm located in VA. 

My last emails with Duncan say that only the 'long body' is covered by the STC, and that they are working with BK to get the new STC approved for C through K models.  I've asked Duncan for an update, as I'm ready to purchase as soon as the STC is updated.

[ProtoFly]

On 9/15/2025 at 5:02 PM, hammdo said:

This isn't the actual STC.  I've emailed Duncan Aviation, who hold the STC, for clarification, as they've repeatedly told me that they had to withdraw the STC for Mooney's earlier than the 'L' model - e.g., only 'Long Body' Mooneys are currently covered.  To be clear, I'm REALLY hoping the issue with the brackets have been resolved and the STC is cleared for all models....

[ProtoFly]

Just to update my own comments:  Duncan has confirmed that the STC is still good for all Mooneys, but there's a bit of a catch:  One or more of the brackets for the servos will need to be modified, depending on the airframe.  SOME A&P/IA's are OK with this, and consider it to be a minor modification, and some may not be OK with this.  Updated brackets are in the 'approval' process, so be aware that you may or may not have to get a field approval for the bracket modifications.

Thinking it might be time for me to order up an autopilot...would like to get it installed sooner rather than later, as long as I don't have to go the 'field approval' route....

[MarquezJC]

Anyone know of an A&P/IA around VA that has done this and was successful with the field mod approval? 

[cliffy]

If the IA  is OK with using the "minor mod" procedure for the changes on the brackets no other "field approval" is required AFAIK.

Even the included directions show how you have to "modify" the mount tray to fit around the flap cross shaft to clearance it. They also give a letter authorizing the modification of the tray IF the IA agrees to accept it for the 337 sign off after an A&P has signed it off as a Minor Modification in the log book.. Shortening the tray is just another minor modification to the tray itself IMO, just as cutting the flap shaft clearance holes are. Ask the IA that will sign off the install how he feels. Basically the 337 says something like-"Installed AeroCruze 100 A/P in NXXXX  with reference to STC so and so - ground checks OK".   

A "Field Approval" is totally different than a "minor modification" that any A&P can sign off. 

[hammdo]

^^^

This. My IA/AP sees this as minor mods and well within the scope allowed with the STC… No need to wait if you want this autopilot and have a shop to do it… Just pay what is needed for the minor alteration…

-Don