I have recently downloaded the old school 727-200 & -100 from Thomas Ruth (who has some amazing planes).  As I was flying the Braniff 727-200 the other day from KDFW to MMMX, I was unable to find a switch on the Autopilot that would control the climb and decent rate ft per minute (ie 1800, -1200).  Did those pilots from the 60's, 70's and 80's have to fly to say 30, 000 ft then set the altitude to hold or is there a way to use the auto pilot to control the climb and decent?  . 

 

  Also what about the approach and landing with the ils on the autopilot?  Any information would be useful.  Thanks.  

 

PS.  I would rather not install an autopilot that would be similar to a plane like the 737-800.  I'd like to fly this plane proper.

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I think the AP will hold the current attitude when engaged in "manual" mode. If not, use elevator trim to control your climb and then engage ALT HOLD when your altitude is reached.

 

Approach and landing is done like in any other aircraft. Set ILS frequency in NAV1, set runway course, upon glideslope intercept engage AP "LOC+GS" mode and disengage ALT HOLD. That should get you down.

 

If not, hand-fly the final. Way more fun anyway.

 

 

 

- Edit:

 

Just did a quick circuit.

 

Autoland works as described. Watch your speed and time your flap extensions and you'll be fine.

 

As for climb, use the "up/down, left/right" wheel on the AP panel. Left/right is the same as setting the heading bug on the HSI, up/down controls vertical speed. Watch your airspeed!

Thanks, I 'll give it a shot tonite.   I'll followup if I have any further questions.

I'm looking at the autopilot, did you mean go from NAV LOC to AUTO G/S or MAN G/S on approach?

MAN GS or something.

 

 

If only Tom had labeled everything consistently...

Well, I did it.  I had a pretty decent landing. Turned off autopilot 6 nm out.  Took getting used to and involved a go around due to the fact I forgot to turn of the auto throttle (with all the excitement).  The pitch wheel doesnt respond well at all.  Easier with autopilot panel.  Bjoern, thanks for the help!

No problem.

 

I only fly with the classic autopilot and it works pretty well for me.

When in ALT hold, the pitch up/down on the throttle panel will control the rate of descent/ascent.  Regular movement of the pitch wheel will not work even when it's AP on/ HDG hold.

 

For others that have flown it, any chance the dials on the HSI work when in the VC?  Mine don't seem to.  Otherwise a fantastic airplane!