Is Gyro Drift the tendency of a prop plane to turn left because of engine torque? Or am I confusing two completely different effects?
The reason I ask, is because I’m trying to turn off the “turn left” effect, until I get better at flying props, and I’m wondering if the gyro drift ON/OFF slider is what I need to accomplish that.
Thank you.
No, gyro drift is on the instruments. https://www.mcico.com/resources/flight-instruments/how-directional-gyros-work
There are several factors that cause the left turn tendencies on props and you can’t turn them off, you will need to learn to compensate with rudder or rudder trim. Or use an autopilot.
Or turn ON rudder assist in the assistance menu
Gyro drift is drifting of directional gyroscope which is usually zero at the equator and maximum (360 degrees / 24 hours = 15 degrees / hr) at the poles. Unless you fly a steam gauge aircraft without flux valve this option won’t affect you. The G1000 for example has a “sensor” sensing where magnetic north is and automatically correcting for AHRS drifting over time. On the steam gauge C172 for example you need to align the directional gyroscope with the magnetic compass every once in a while manually.
Thank you all for your quick and timely replies. Very helpful, and I must say you’re all right on top of it, when it comes to helping a guy out. Much appreciated.
Incorrect. The effect you describe is called precession. Gyro drift is an error that accumulates within the instrument as a result of friction (actually two effects - Bias instability and Angular Randow Walk - ARW).
Unfortunately it appears that MSFS/Asobo have got that wrong, too. In the sim, I am getting drift of approx 10°/hr which is WAY too high. Should be 5-10 times less or so.
And it seems that MSFS does NOT model precession.
In other words, MSFS seems to have Drift and Precession mixed up…
Thank you for the more thorough explanation. I see there is really a lot I still need to learn.
You’re welcome. Bug report filed. See here -
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