is a critical flight command indicator that integrates a self-contained vertical gyro to provide pilots with essential pitch and roll attitude data. Because it serves as the primary attitude source for various BendixKing Flight Control Systems—including the , KFC-200 , and KFC-250 —following its installation and maintenance protocols is vital for flight safety and autopilot reliability. Core Technical Overview
When in doubt, contact an authorized Bendix/King avionics dealer or a certified repair station for assistance. A correctly installed KI‑256 will provide years of faithful service and is an essential component of many of the most trusted autopilot systems in general aviation.
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Verify that the unit erects quickly and remains stable. If the unit precesses or is slow to erect, the internal bearings may be contaminated, necessitating an overhaul. ki 256 installation manual
Ensure the instrument panel matches the aircraft's standard cruise attitude pitch angle. The KI 256 is typically calibrated for a 0-degree, 8-degree, or 11-degree panel tilt. Verify your unit's part number matches the panel's physical tilt.
+14VDC or +28VDC at 0.7 Amps maximum (internal lighting); 10VAC at 430Hz with 0.2 Amps maximum (excitation voltage for pick-offs).
Once the mechanical and electrical connections are secure, the system requires bench testing and in-flight adjustment. Ground Alignment Check is a critical flight command indicator that integrates
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 unit is front-panel mounted and available for either zero-degree or 8-degree instrument panels.
The BendixKing KI 256 serves as a critical attitude and flight command indicator, requiring strict adherence to engineering standards for installation and integration with legacy autopilots. Key procedures include implementing Service Bulletin 11 for modified command bar boards and precise pneumatic calibration at 4.5 in. Hg. Detailed installation, modification, and maintenance, including Service Bulletin 11, can be found in the documentation provided by peter2000.co.uk KI 256 Flight Command Indicator A correctly installed KI‑256 will provide years of
: The unit measures 3.55" W x 3.37" H x 7.31" L and weighs roughly 3.3 lbs .
The electrical connector interfaces the unit with the autopilot (e.g., KC 295 computer).
The KI‑256 does not work alone. It is designed to be the attitude reference and flight‑director display for a complete Bendix/King autopilot suite. In a typical installation:
, it includes improved PC boards that reduce loading effects on pitch and roll outputs. Common Troubleshooting Issues Slow Erection
Ensure the instrument panel is shock-mounted but rigid enough to prevent excessive vibration. Vibration accelerates gyro precession and wear.