M1031 Apecs 4500 controller programming

[deank]

Hello All,

I have read all of the threads about B4Thunders apecs 4500 controller from years ago. I would like to try this setup. Does anyone have the programming parameters? I can get the controller, the programming interface cables and the software. I just need the specs.
Thanks ahead of time.

Dean

 

[deank]

Let’s try this differently. Are there any members here that have an M1031 with the apecs 4500 controller from b4thunder in Florida or south Georgia? I plan to get the controller and the programming interface. I have read the software documentation, I can copy the calibration file from an already programmed unit.
Thanks.

 

[wrenchturner6238]

Hello. I do not have the apecs 4500 controller . I have the original controls (that are intermittent) and would like to install this updated controller too but have had little luck

 

[deank]

We are in the same boat my friend.
We need some help from the collective.

 

[wrenchturner6238]

Yes we are. Hopefully we can work on this and get a fix.

 

[alpine44]

The APECS 4500 is a simple PID controller. Factory default settings and tuning procedure are described in the manual starting at page 43.

Since the M1031 has a mechanically controlled injection you need the mechanical actuator for the injection pump and a way to measure the engine rpm.

PS: I develop flight control (GNC) systems for a living and can help you understanding the concepts if needed. The rest ist iterative improvement of the control parameters until they fit your needs.

 

[deank]

The M1031 has all that the Apecs 4500 needs for inputs. There is a magnetic pickup on the PTO for rpm sensing. It has an actuator to drive the throttle. There is a safety circuit through the transmission shifter linkage, the transfer case shifter has a switch to ensure it in neutral.

we are trying to find an SS member that already has the Apecs 4500 so we can copy the configuration file.

 

[wrenchturner6238]

it looks like we can download the calibration software right from Woodward onto a computer that has a serial port

 

[deank]

I will try that this week. I have an older laptop I can use.

 

[alpine44]

The M1031 has all that the Apecs 4500 needs for inputs. There is a magnetic pickup on the PTO for rpm sensing. It has an actuator to drive the throttle. There is a safety circuit through the transmission shifter linkage, the transfer case shifter has a switch to ensure it in neutral.

we are trying to find an SS member that already has the Apecs 4500 so we can copy the configuration file.

Having the necessary sensors and effectors already installed makes the project a whole lot easier.

Finding a M1031 configuration file would obviously be the quickest way to success but if you cannot find one I would not discount the route of evolving your own configuration. Most likely, the factory defaults from the manual will get you in the ballpark.

In either case you will need the computer interface. Here is the diagram:

 

[alpine44]

Also, try this:

Control Configuration Files

Access and download your Woodward control configuration files for streamlined technical support.

www.woodward.com

 

[alpine44]

it looks like we can download the calibration software right from Woodward onto a computer that has a serial port

....or via a USB to serial converter

 

[alpine44]

I just bought an APECS 4500 with actuator on fleabay for $60 (less than what I would have to pay for the housing and connectors of a DIY controller) and will report soon on the interfacing with the PC-based calibration software.

The calibration software is available free from Woodward here: https://www.woodward.com/products/support/software-assets/calibration-tool/5418-2570-obj_e/

 

[deank]

Sounds good. I look forward to hearing the results.

 

[deank]

Wow. I cannot find a controller on fleabay for less than $650. What was your search string?

just found one for $100

 

[deank]

Ok. Now I have an older windows 7 computer with a serial port up and running with the woodward programming software. Now I have to collect specific info for parameters, I need to count the teeth on the PTO gear where the MPU is located as a first step.

I still need to get my hands on a controller and the interface cable. Probably in January, plate is full between now and then.

 

[alpine44]

Ok. Now I have an older windows 7 computer with a serial port up and running with the woodward programming software. Now I have to collect specific info for parameters, I need to count the teeth on the PTO gear where the MPU is located as a first step.

I still need to get my hands on a controller and the interface cable. Probably in January, plate is full between now and then.

This is a cold weather project for me too. I'll keep you posted on how to connect the controller to the Woodward software.

 

[deank]

I have the manual also.