Converting to Plane Power Alternator

[ryoder]

How much to install an alternator soup to nuts? How much to replace the generator?

I might install electric AC some day and it needs to work while taxiing.  Can I get by with a generator during the day without all the lights on and with my basic panel while the AC is running?

[Andy95W]

6 hours ago, ryoder said:

How much to install an alternator soup to nuts? How much to replace the generator?

I might install electric AC some day and it needs to work while taxiing.  Can I get by with a generator during the day without all the lights on and with my basic panel while the AC is running?

The alternator kit is $756 and will probably take 6-8 hours for the installation.  Figure maybe $1200-1400 total, depending on labor costs?

I don't know the current draw of an electrical AC system, but if you are talking about true air conditioning with compressor/evaporator etc., I'd guess no way for a generator to do that.  If you are talking about the ice cooler type cool air pump, then maybe, but you'll be running it on battery power for all intents and purposes.  Battery life may suffer accordingly.

[ryoder]

http://www.arcticaircooler.com/product-p/rac-200-1-12d.htm

 

this is the unit

[Andy95W]

A normal, old fashioned landing light will draw about 18 amps and will drain a battery fairly quickly at night.  The Arcticair unit (nice, BTW) draws a minimum of 19 amps, with a startup draw of 40 amps with a level off at about 25 amps.

I think you will be unhappy with this solution powered by your battery/ generator, and I think your battery life will suffer until you get the alternator conversion.  I don't know this for sure, just guess-timating.

The ice water cooler option would be significantly cheaper and your generator/battery could probably handle the draw, on the other hand.

[jetdriven]

per the FAAs aging aircraft AC batteries and belts are easy minor substitutions as well. 

[ryoder]

I use the ice box ac now and am limping along with it.  I probably need a Cherokee with factory AC but then I like RG and a smooth airframe.  Mooney just didn't make the perfect airplane for a CB that likes to arrive in style without being all sweaty.

[MyNameIsNobody]

On November 6, 2015 at 1:26:20 PM, irishpilot said:

Hey guys, my question wasn't in a quest to create a "generator vs alternator" debate. For those who provided what you learned during your install, thank you. My install is complete and I'm going to go flying.

 

Sent from my Galaxy S5 via Tapatalk

 

 

I know.  I just wanted to put my personal experience out there so others might spend their money on other mods like a HID landing light...for instance if they want to.  Merely a counter-point to all the alternator love.

[Gary0747]

Five years ago Paul Lowen owner of Lake Aero and long time Mooney Guru said the generator is more reliable than the alternators available at the time.   Just make sure the carbon brushes are replaced when worn and the generators are reliable. The Zeftronics solid state regulator are infinitely more reliable than the old electro mechanical ones. One caution with an alternator is to make sure your electrical system has a Crow Bar protecting your expensive electronics from a run away high voltage or spike. 

[carusoam]

1) I didn't believe the ice box could work until Phillip posted all the data and pictures.

2) I still feel the same way about the ArcticAir refrigeration system.  I am looking forward to somebody posting pictures of how well it works in our airplanes with our electrical systems.

All the heat generated by the machine has to go out, without mixing with the cool air being delivered to the passengers.

Ryan, Tampa would be a good place to demonstrate how good their product really is.  A side by side comparison with your current icebox device would be great!

Best regards,

-a-

[robert7467]

Just do it.... Real simple install. You might have to close in some of the dog house around it.