blueflyer
Well Known Member
I was reading the FAQs about the PMAG, and came across this one:
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Q: Will the P-MAG work when I slow the engine on final approach?
A: The P-MAG is designed to operate at less than typical in-flight idle speeds (1,000 rpm) . It will operate at 700 to 800 rpm, and sometimes less. If a particular craft is known to have an in-flight idle below the speed the P-MAG alternator will sustain the ignition, it should be noted so the pilot can stay above that speed if the emergency condition is ever encountered.
This minimum P-MAG speed is easy to ascertain on the ground. Your ground idle will be significantly less than your in-flight idle. When doing a run up, simply isolate the P-MAG side of the ignition (if not running dual P-MAGs), and gradually slow the engine toward idle. Note the speed where the engine quits (if at all). If this speed is comfortably less than your in-flight idle speed, you should be covered. If not, note the operating limitation so you'll be prepared in the even of a power emergency.
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I know some folks have their ground idle set at 500RPM or so, but can you get your in flight RPM's below 700-800? I would hate for my mags to quit on me if I chop the power for some reason.....what are your thoughts?
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Q: Will the P-MAG work when I slow the engine on final approach?
A: The P-MAG is designed to operate at less than typical in-flight idle speeds (1,000 rpm) . It will operate at 700 to 800 rpm, and sometimes less. If a particular craft is known to have an in-flight idle below the speed the P-MAG alternator will sustain the ignition, it should be noted so the pilot can stay above that speed if the emergency condition is ever encountered.
This minimum P-MAG speed is easy to ascertain on the ground. Your ground idle will be significantly less than your in-flight idle. When doing a run up, simply isolate the P-MAG side of the ignition (if not running dual P-MAGs), and gradually slow the engine toward idle. Note the speed where the engine quits (if at all). If this speed is comfortably less than your in-flight idle speed, you should be covered. If not, note the operating limitation so you'll be prepared in the even of a power emergency.
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I know some folks have their ground idle set at 500RPM or so, but can you get your in flight RPM's below 700-800? I would hate for my mags to quit on me if I chop the power for some reason.....what are your thoughts?