X-Mozilla-Keys:                                                                                 
Mike Wills wrote:

At 01:50 PM 9/1/1999 -0700, you wrote:

Ken Powell wrote:

     OK, I have learned much from the previous discussion on electrical
     systems.  However, this raises another question - assume that the
     battery will be replaced yearly:

     1.  Why not run 2 alternators with only 1 battery?  Seems that we
     might save 8 - 10 lbs.

     2.  In this case, your second alternator is your backup, not the
     battery.  Even if the battery does die, you still have 2 alternators
     to get you home.  This has a certain appeal due to the high amp loads
     that Tracy mentioned (up to 16 - 20 amps).

     3.  Note that you can get really small alternators (~35 amps) off
     Geo's and Suzuki's in the junk yard.  I think you could have a
     functioning alternator (alternator, mount and belt) for under 8 lbs.

     What am I missing here?

     Ken Powell

 Ive considered this. Since I plan to have my RV equipped essentially the
same as Tracy's I'd sure like to see him jump in here with his total
current requirements. Is 35a enough to run everything in the airplane
assuming day VFR (no lights).
 The following is from a message I have archived. This is from Bob Nuckolls
who runs the Aero Electric Connection for homebuilders when he's not at his
regular job as an EE at Raytheon (Beech).

    If anyone is interested the very latest and greatest of battery
    developments is invited to check out:

    http://www.boldertmf.com

    If you have dual alternators (full electric panel and one alternator
    running vacuum pump pad) and two of these three-pound batteries to
    crank engine and stabilize alternator, it's now possible to have an
    electrical system (starter, batteries, AND alternators) whos total
    weight is LESS than the 24 a.h. battery that most people fly in their
    airplanes with an order of magnitude higher flight system reliability.

Mike Wills

 
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