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Warbird Electrical Systems
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Author:  A2C [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 2:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Warbird Electrical Systems

Are the rebuilders using original stuff for experimental warbirds or using similar item found in homebuilts?

For the regulator I think a solid state type which is maybe 6" x4" would replace the old relay type-3 times bigger.

For the generator, maybe an automotive type alternator adopted with the generator gears.

For the battery maybe the newest type that doesn't release vapors.

If this stuff were used (for experimental where you don't need an STC or 337), you could probably eliminate up to 50 lbs of excess weight, and have a more efficient and safer system in my opinion.

Author:  Jeff Nelson [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 2:17 pm ]
Post subject: 

My company rewires warbirds for various people. In our experience, it's been about 50-50 using the original versus replacing with modern stuff. Most of the Stearman, Waco, Stinson (and others) guys go with Jasco alternators and regulators. I've seen P-51s with alternators and others with generators. I think it all depends on the owner.
Almost all owners go with modern wire, usually MS22759 or equivalent, along with modern terminals and connectors. Actually, most of the components used in older aircraft have a modern replacement. The gauges and instrumentation are generally able to be rebuilt.
Hope this helps a bit....

Author:  A2C [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 2:37 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks for the info Jeff. I'm going to do the electrical myself, but thanks for the very helpful information.

For the alternator, I was thinking of using a 50 amp automotive-probably Ford. I don't want to use an existing STC, rather do my own.

Author:  Mr. Scott [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 3:09 pm ]
Post subject: 

Jeff,

Does your company stamp information of the wire insulation or do they use sleeves? If actually stamp, how can I contact your company?

Scott

Author:  Airlift48 [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 3:11 pm ]
Post subject: 

We are looking into what it takes to eliminate the ton of mechanical inverters on the -97 and replace them with solid state stuff. Don't know what we will do yet.

As far as the Douglas, it is Standard Transport, so it has the carbon pile regulators and mechanical inverters. It is a constant battle to keep the generators sharing the load equally, since we draw so little in its current configuration.

Author:  A2C [ Sun Jan 18, 2009 3:27 pm ]
Post subject: 

Quote:
We are looking into what it takes to eliminate the ton of mechanical inverters on the -97 and replace them with solid state stuff. Don't know what we will do yet.

As far as the Douglas, it is Standard Transport, so it has the carbon pile regulators and mechanical inverters. It is a constant battle to keep the generators sharing the load equally, since we draw so little in its current configuration.


Definitly can get harder and harder to keep a relay type system working, when the newest technology will do the job. You'd probably need an STC or field approval since you're standard category.

Author:  Jeff Nelson [ Mon Jan 19, 2009 9:25 am ]
Post subject: 

Quote:
Does your company stamp information of the wire insulation or do they use sleeves? If actually stamp, how can I contact your company?


Scott, we use a Kingsley stamper. We'd like to get a laser marker but we're mobile and laser markers are not. I'll pm you with contact info.

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