Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers
MGL Enigma Pitot Static issue
I've just had a 601XL delivered to me.
The ferry pilot said it was showing some wonky airspeed readings.
Upon investigation it was a blocked pitot tube. While I had the tube off and the panel apart I figured I'd do a pitot and static test.
The plane has the MGL Enigma EFIS. When slight pressure is applied to the pitot side the airspeed increases which is to be expected. Airspeed stays within 10 knots for a minute.
When applying a vacuum to the static side the altitude doesn't change but the airspeed increases.
I cant figure out or understand what could be causing this.
Any ideas?
Cheers
Rich
Rich Astley
I double checked with the ferry pilot and he stated that the indicated altitude matched his EFB.
I'm wondering if the Enigma uses another sensor or way of getting altitude data?
I cant fly right now as I'm ironing out a few other quirks - and the weather is bad.
Apr 20, 2022
Bob Simmons
I'm no MGL expert, but the Enigma can use two different types of port connections, depending on the type of AOA probe you have installed. They are single port (relative) systems or dual port (differential) systems. I imagine the indications you're seeing are due to the unique attributes involved with your particular installation. You can consult the installation manual (https://support.michiganavionics.com/portal/en/kb/articles/enigma-a...) and the user manual (https://support.michiganavionics.com/portal/en/kb/articles/enigma-a...). If you can't get your answers from there, I'd suggest asking questions on the MGL User Forum (https://mglavionics.co.za/phpBB3/index.php). Sorry I can't help more.
Apr 20, 2022
Jerry Latimer
The airspeed indicator is also attached to the static port. So when you apply vacuum to the static port the pressure differential between static and pitot increases. This should show an increase in indicated airspeed.
I have a MGL MX1 but the same applies to my AV30 and my old analog steam gauges.
Apr 21, 2022