Plane Power Alternator

[OR75]

Went out to the plane (84 J model) today to install my brand new Plane-Power AL-12P70. Everything fine, until it didn't fit. I double checked all of the cross references, the old alternator was the correct model, new one was correct. The problem is that the tension arm (long bracket with slot) is too short on the new alternator. Looking at the pictures, you can see how the old alternator had 2 bolt options for the tension arm, the new alternator has one, and it's in a slightly different position. In addition, the distance between the shaft center and the pivot bolt is about 3/8" shorter on the Plane-Power alternator. Either a longer tension arm, or a shorter alternator belt would make this fit.

 

This was supposed to be a simple owner-performed project with A&P signoff. I called the A&P who came over and scratched his head also. He's done a couple before, not on a Mooney, and had no troubles. We left it that I would call Plane-Power in the morning and see what they had to say.

 

Did anybody else have any similar issues?

 

Thanks, Larry

 

old thread ... but wondering how how/if you resolved the footprint issue  

[larryb]

I took it to my shop at the next annual and had them deal with it. They used a new belt and had no issues.

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[Shadrach]

I know it's a pisser not to have a piece be turn key. It appears that a bracket could easily be made. Are you sure it's the right alternator for your application? The crankcase for my A1A engine has 2 mounting bosses that provide an axis for the generator to be rotated about; the opposite tab is for securing it at the proper tension. The new alternator in your pic appears like it's designed to fit my engine.

[OR75]

thanks. clearly, it does not look like the same footprint. 2 bolts for the PP vs. 3 bolts for the prestolite.

the pulley seems larger too now that you mention it and I guess it will require a new belt. not a big deal in itself, but I am guessing requires removing the prop ....  

I will stick with what I currently have .... 

[MB65E]

The Gates belt listed in the installation   Instructions was not the correct size for my A1A installation. The nice thing is that it lists Gates belts in the STC. Multiple trips to O'rylies to get the right one. Had one early issue with mine at about 15 hrs, the diode failed. Awesome customer service.  Free replacement overnighted. However, guess who got to play with the lower cowl 15 hrs later. 

Nice product, not sure how the new support is now that Hartzell owns them I believe. 

-Matt

 

[N131MA]

I upgraded my M20E with the Plane Power Alternator. The legacy alternator (Motorola?) caused radio noise.

I was very happy. STC included, Radio noise gone, even with 1000 RPM, taxi lights and nav lights on, no negative amps.

[FoxMike]

carqwik,

I have been thinking about putting one on my Bravo.  Talked to a sales guy.  He did not know if the pulley now installed was the right size and was unsure if the alternator bearings would tolerate the longer arm of force.  I assume you are having no problems.  Which side is number 2 pilot or copilot?

Thanks in advance

Walt

 

[jetdriven]

The Gates belt listed in the installation   Instructions was not the correct size for my A1A installation. The nice thing is that it lists Gates belts in the STC. Multiple trips to O'rylies to get the right one. Had one early issue with mine at about 15 hrs, the diode failed. Awesome customer service.  Free replacement overnighted. However, guess who got to play with the lower cowl 15 hrs later. 

Nice product, not sure how the new support is now that Hartzell owns them I believe. 

-Matt

 

The support is great. If its out of warranty, you can buy a new one for 500$, or if you dont trust it, you can pay 500$ for an overhauled Kelly Prestolite alternator plus 150$ for a core.

 

Edited October 13, 2015 by jetdriven