Use shielded twisted-pair wire (MIL-W-22759 or equivalent) for all AC outputs and flight director signals.
: A high-end system used in light twins and turboprops. 2. Technical Specifications & Panel Variants
Before installing a KI 256, it's vital to understand its operational dependencies:
: A single-box autopilot computer system common in high-performance singles. ki 256 installation manual
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Instrument panels are rarely perfectly vertical. BendixKing manufactures the KI 256 with specific chassis tilts—most commonly or 8-degree variants. Installing a 0-degree unit into an 8-degree tilted panel introduces an uncorrectable static pitch error to the autopilot, leading to degraded altitude performance. Always check the part number suffix against the aircraft's physical panel angle before mounting. Cooling and Environmental Requirements
This guide covers basic installation steps for the KI 256 unit (standard single-module installation). It assumes a protected indoor environment, 0–40°C ambient temperature, and access to standard tools. Installing a 0-degree unit into an 8-degree tilted
Installing a Bendix/King KI‑256 Flight Command Indicator is a detailed process that demands careful mechanical work, precise electrical wiring, and systematic calibration. When done correctly, the result is a highly reliable attitude reference and flight director display that has proven its worth in millions of flight hours.
The KI 256 must be shock-mounted within the standard "Sacred Six" instrument grouping, specifically positioned at the top-center position directly above the horizontal situation indicator (HSI).
If you are holding a (paper or PDF), pay special attention to the Section 2: Unpacking and Inspection . These gyros are sensitive to shock; the manual mandates inspection of the shock mounts on the tray. It assumes a protected indoor environment
The electrical connections on the back of the KI 256 bridge the pneumatic unit to the digital or analog flight computer (such as the KC 295 or KC 192). Interfacing relies heavily on standard MIL-spec shielded wire to prevent RF interference from radiating into sensitive attitude loops. Core Interconnect Functions
Verify that the horizon bar erects to a level position matching the physical attitude of the aircraft on the ramp.