FlyingDude Posted March 12, 2023 Report Posted March 12, 2023 Hi guys, Has anyone swapped out their generator with an alternator? Are there any tangible improvements? Any suggestions on good and durable brands/PNs? I'm only seeing 2 options on spruce but you never know... Thanks... Edit: I got a 67 E with io360-a1a...
Shadrach Posted March 12, 2023 Report Posted March 12, 2023 26 minutes ago, FlyingDude said: Hi guys, Has anyone swapped out their generator with an alternator? Are there any tangible improvements? Any suggestions on good and durable brands/PNs? I'm only seeing 2 options on spruce but you never know... Thanks... Edit: I got a 67 E with io360-a1a... Just one man’s opinion. After switching to a solid state VR (Zeftronics) I could see little upside to converting from a generator to alternator. The charging system is positive by 1100 rpm (+/- 100rpm depending on temp). I’d save 6lbs but I don’t really need it.
carusoam Posted March 12, 2023 Report Posted March 12, 2023 My 65C got the Zeftronics to control the generator… My M20R has an alternator… Both systems are improved with a good VR. The alternator… starts producing power at a lower RPM…. But, doesn’t produce enough power at idle while taxiing… Don’t be in a rush to toss a good generator… But, if you do… There are a ton of PlanePower alternators around here… Expect to update doghouse seals at the front where the pulleys are…. Where the alternator adds value… when T/O into low IMC… after start up…. The alternator has a better chance of putting the most electrons back into storage before departure… This is where additional battery strategies are money well spent… PP thoughts only, not a mechanic… Best regards, -a-
outermarker Posted March 12, 2023 Report Posted March 12, 2023 I was told that there is an inspection plate to see brush wear on the generator. BUT you have to remove the generator to get to it!!! Is this true? For my type of flying, I can't see the expense of a new alternator bracket, alternator, wiring, STC and labor for installation verses having the generator rebuilt. Also, if you do find yourself with a dead battery and manage to hand start it, the alternator won't charge the battery but a generator will. Aircraft flew IFR for decades using a generator.
Jim Peace Posted March 12, 2023 Report Posted March 12, 2023 I have a plane power that has been in my C for about 9 years. No issues. I do like to do a lot of preventive mx. Wonder if there is anything I could do this annual? Send it out for overhaul? Is there such a thing? My guess is about 900-1000 hours on it.
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