Together with Poul Strømberg, we go through the basics of the Blackwing 600RG plane, starting with the master switch. The middle position is for the engine run-up. You can use this position to turn the key and start the engine. All the power is now on the backup battery, which is used to start up the screen, Garmin, radio, EFIS, etc. This ensures you don’t damage any components during the run-up.
All the power is given to the engine, which is connected to the backup battery, in that position. When the engine is up and running, give it a couple of seconds and then switch to the second position. When you engage the master switch to the second position, the backup battery disconnects from the engine because the engine is self-sustaining. The main battery will now power all the avionics.
When working on the ground with the Garmin G3X, you can set the red backup button to the middle position. This allows you to use only the backup battery, keeping the main battery unused. It draws no power from the main battery.
In-flight, if the engine’s main battery generator fails, you can also switch the red backup button to the middle position. This enables you to use the radio while flying but not the transponder or propeller adjustment.
Poul explains that if the engine’s generator completely fails and the engine stops running, you should set the red backup switch to the second position, which connects the backup battery to the engine. This allows you to attempt a restart using the backup battery, providing approximately 30 to 45 minutes of power. During this time, the backup battery will power the radio and transponder, among other systems, but it’s crucial to land as soon as possible in such a situation.
If you have finished preparing your flight plan on the Garmin G3X using the backup battery (with the middle switch position) and want to start your plane, Poul recommends the following steps:
- Turn on the Master switch to the middle position.
- Then, turn off the backup battery switch.
This sequence prevents your screen from turning black in between, allowing the main battery to seamlessly take over. Although the radio will still be powered by the backup battery, indicated by a yellow warning on the Garmin G3X and the illuminated backup button.
Propeller management, gear, and flap management are all powered by the main battery.
However, this procedure is not necessary if you are just going to start flying. Than you just switch on as described as on chapter 1
Regarding throttle position management, there’s a recommendation from Rotax. However, Poul suggests using a 38% throttle position. This is an excellent position to put your throttle on prior to start
Now that you’ve started the engine, you’ll notice the coolant temperature rising (e.g., 76°C in the video) while the oil remains cold (e.g., 35°C in the video). If the temperature gets too high and your RPM is above 2500 RPM, you might receive a lane warning. This is common with a cold engine. The lane warning light will blink to indicate an issue. It should disappear once you perform the magneto check.
There are cautions and warnings displayed on the Garmin G3X. A caution shows a yellow message on the Garmin G3X and illuminates a yellow light above. A warning, on the other hand, lights up a red light and displays a red text on the Garmin G3X. A warning typically indicates something is wrong with the engine or a sensor, whereas a yellow caution is less stringent.
The ESP, or Electronic Stability Protection, is a safety feature. If active, the autopilot will take over if you bank too much while flying manually.
On your Garmin G3X, you receive traffic warnings from ADS-B, while on Skydemon, the information comes from the GDL 90. Skydemon displays altitude from sea level, although Poul is not completely sure about this. This information needs to be double-checked for clarity.