Hello DS:

Just to give you some idea of cost, I bought a used Navomatic 300A with the intention of installing it in my 1978 C-172N.  I bought the computer, servo actuator, directional gyro, and turn coordinator for about $1,000.  I then started looking into installation, and discovered that there were significant modifications required to the right wing to install the servo actuator.  I priced out the parts for that at about $1,100.  I am estimating another $2,000 to $3,000 to install everything, as the wing needs to be modified and all the wiring needs to be done to connect all the components and integrate it into the current navigation equipment.  So about $4-$5K to install a 30 year old serviceable autopilot in a 30 year old airplane.

I am assuming your airplane has never had an autopilot and so will need the same equipment and installation as mine.  Much of the same modifications will need to be made to install a new autopilot, such as an S-Tec or Century.  I had inquired into installing a new S-Tec 30 a few years back, and got an ballpark estimate of $9K-$10K, and the 30 is very a basic unit.

It all seems pretty expensive, but I am giving it serious consideration as I am now flying IFR and the autopilot would be a real help in managing the extra workload.  Just another word of advice, if you do go forward with it,  check Preferred Airparts and the salvage yards for parts.  Parts from Cessna will double the cost, and the parts from Preferred are in many cases new stock. As a comparison, the bellcrank you will need to purchase for the Navomatic install is an $1,100 special order part from Cessna, but I found one for $600 from another parts house.

Hope the information helps.

Jon

I can answer pretty much all of your questions
Give me a Call 941-360-6877 ext 109
I have some as removed units but I suggest a new system myabe a STEC system 30 around 13,000 installed that would include a Directional Gyro with a Heading bg
Kirk
Sarasota Avionics

I'd like to find a 2 axis autopilot to installin my 1959 C 182B. Can't afford alot???  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   Thanks