MSFT-1
Well Known Member
Yesterday, I was flying home in my RV-8 at about 6500 feet on a nice, clear day (hazy and hot but otherwise nice). I noticed a burning smell (like melting plastic) but not even a hint of smoke. I throttled back and decended which seemed to improve things (though it was never particularly bad). I then noticed that my alternator discharge light was on steady. I elected to land. I had no issues landing and my radio, GPS, lights and flaps all seemed to work fine.
Now my airplane is sitting a hundred miles from home. I plan to drive back up tonight to take the cowling off and begin troubleshooting the problem. A friend suggested that alternator diodes can smell when they go bad and to check there first. Any other thoughts on what to check first? Any troubleshooting steps or other guidance would be very much appreciated.
Regards,
Bruce
Now my airplane is sitting a hundred miles from home. I plan to drive back up tonight to take the cowling off and begin troubleshooting the problem. A friend suggested that alternator diodes can smell when they go bad and to check there first. Any other thoughts on what to check first? Any troubleshooting steps or other guidance would be very much appreciated.
Regards,
Bruce