Skip,

I operate the switch like you on occassion but it is safer to keep the
system off except when in use.  REASON

I did a test.

Normalized straight and level flight at cruise speed with the AP.  Then I
touched the pitch trim momentarilly to change the adjustment.  Up or down
doesn't matter.  Then I applied pressure to retain the original attitude.
Much to my surprise the stick forces are tremendous.  I had to apply about
30-40 lbs of force to maintain the original attitude. Multiplied out through
the leveraged mechanical advantage of the system the forces would be
tremendous.

CONCLUSION.

You do not want a runaway, could be disastorous.  I would assume that the
action would be to immediately cut power to reduce speed and forces, attempt
to maintain control and stabalize the craft.

ANY OTHER COMMENTS ON THIS FROM YOU OTHER GUYS???

Bob Smiley
N94RJ