Disconnect and enjoy what you trained for! Sometimes I fly whole flights without connecting the AP. A lot of fun. Some might argue that it isn't safe. I argue that
1) I have the training
2) I have a colleague that can help me out with the radio, selections and settings.
3) It gives me experience, extra joy of being at work and will probably make the day when the AP is U/S a lot safer.
And I don't feel bad about connecting it if I need to free some capacity.
That's my 5 cents worth...
/LnS who really enjoys actually flying.