Autopilot vs hand fly for EFATO B737NG

[Jet Man]

I'd like to hear thoughts of experienced B737NG (and classic) pilots regarding engaging the autopilot at 400' after an EFATO (obviously when the a/c is under control!)

My previous operator would have chopped bollocks off for doing such but a check captain/TRE in my current organisation advocates it - we tried it in the sim a few weeks ago and it seemed to work OK.

The only difference in modes I can tell is the pitch changes from TOGA to MCP SPEED so that the 0-200 fpm rate of climb is substituted for speed priority.

Engaging autopilot has obvious advantages such as better monitoring of checklists (if any) and emergency procedure, etc.

Any thoughts?

[I-2021]

Hi Jetman,

my Operator requires that the engine out procedure is flown manually till clean manoeuvering speed. Probably it is a common rule. A/P engage in normal conditions is also limited to a minimum altitude of 1000 ft AGL.

[seat 0A]

In my company the use of the autopilot is restricted to above 1000 HAA after T/O.
On both the PG`s and the NG`s