IFR Takeoff

[rlmarshall]

I'm working on getting my IFR rating current after only 40 years of not using it. GCA's and ADF's were my thing back then.
Question: with Skyview Expert Autopilot set, what is the proper sequence when taking off into overcast? When I lift off and establish a straight ahead climb then press AP (I have the Autopilot control panel) I can maintain wings level (roll hold) and climb rate, but drift left immediately and somewhat abruptly with my feet off rudder pedals. Would it be better to tap AP and then immediately tap HDG?

 

[k.gregory]

Bob, you could select HDG as your lateral mode & VS or SPD as vertical mode with the AP Panel before lining up, which gives you command bars but does not engage the AP. Adjust the pitch and heading bugs to where you want them before starting the takeoff roll. After liftoff just put the plane in the FD and hit AP. That's one way of skinning that cat...