I previously posted on an alternator problem (http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=46156&highlight=alternator+problems).
I'm using a PlanePower alternator wired as per instruction with a 5 amp breaker on the field circuit.
I thought I had cured by replacing some of the wiring. THe wire from the field switch to the alternator had a small nick in it - tho I could never really see how it could short because of the way it was loomed and protected from chafing... Anyway my problem returned and as ever is intermittent, variable and irritating.
For today, I started with master at "bat" then turn the field on - breaker blows. Master to off, reset breaker, master on to bat then field - all is fine. Add radio, lights etc - ie increasing load - no problems. Come to power checks - breaker pops when one mag goes off. Finish power check, master off reset breaker master on - no problems, flew home (35 minutes) no problems, nor any problems with post flight mag check....
I really don't see how the mags have anything to do with the alternator load.
I am now wondering if the mag circuits can induce voltages in the (adjacent) field circuit and breaker?
How many folk have ended up using a eg 7.5 amp breaker for the field circuit I wonder?
Thanks for any insights.
Chris
I'm using a PlanePower alternator wired as per instruction with a 5 amp breaker on the field circuit.
I thought I had cured by replacing some of the wiring. THe wire from the field switch to the alternator had a small nick in it - tho I could never really see how it could short because of the way it was loomed and protected from chafing... Anyway my problem returned and as ever is intermittent, variable and irritating.
For today, I started with master at "bat" then turn the field on - breaker blows. Master to off, reset breaker, master on to bat then field - all is fine. Add radio, lights etc - ie increasing load - no problems. Come to power checks - breaker pops when one mag goes off. Finish power check, master off reset breaker master on - no problems, flew home (35 minutes) no problems, nor any problems with post flight mag check....
I really don't see how the mags have anything to do with the alternator load.
I am now wondering if the mag circuits can induce voltages in the (adjacent) field circuit and breaker?
How many folk have ended up using a eg 7.5 amp breaker for the field circuit I wonder?
Thanks for any insights.
Chris