I will take a picture next time the lower cowl is off.
This was a one-time so I will fly again locally with my backup alternator!
Sent using myEarthLink
On Fri May 02 15:50:44 EDT 2025 Charles Kuss wrote:
The B&C alternators are based on real Nippon Denso alternators. Depending on the
model and the age of the alternator, you may be able to remove the brush pack
externally. The older model alternators brush pack is retained with 2 screws
at the rear of the alternator. Take the screws out and you can withdraw the brush
pack.
Once the brushes wear to the point that less than 1/2 of the remaining brush is
held inside the brush holder, they can "cock" and bind up. Same thing that can
happen on your car, truck, motorcycle or aircraft's brake calipers. Once more
than 50% of the piston comes out of the caliper, it will "cock" and bind up.
This is the reason that there is a minimum thickness for both brake rotors and
brake pads.... to prevent that from happening.
Ralph, send me a photo of the rear of your B&C. I can then highlight where the
mounting screws are, assuming it's the correct style of alternator.
Other alternator style require you to split the 2 case haves of the alternator
to inspect the brushes. Once the alternator is removed, that is a fairly easy
job.
Charlie Kuss [rhymes with puss]
PS I've CC'd this email to you personally, in case you don't have my email address.
On Friday, May 2, 2025 at 07:57:22 AM EDT, <
recapen@earthlink.net (mailto:recapen@earthlink.net)
> wrote:
recapen@earthlink.net (mailto:recapen@earthlink.net)
>
Thanks Joe,
I have a spot where I can check the voltage directly at the battery - I will
set that up for the next test flight!
The belt is the next easiest to check...
I can reseat all of the connections...
Anyone know how to check for worn brushes?
Thanks again,
Ralph
-----Original Message-----
From:
owner-aeroelectric-list-server@matronics.com (mailto:owner-aeroelectric-list-server@matronics.com)
<
owner-aeroelectric-list-server@matronics.com (mailto:owner-aeroelectric-list-server@matronics.com)
> On Behalf Of user9253
Sent: Thursday, May 1, 2025 22:26
To:
aeroelectric-list@matronics.com (mailto:aeroelectric-list@matronics.com)
Subject: Re: B&C 60Amp alternator failure modes
fransew@gmail.com (mailto:fransew@gmail.com)
>
The vast majority of electrical problems are due to bad connections, for
instance loose or corroded terminals.
Another possibility is an indication problem with the voltmeter.
Connect a separate voltmeter to the main bus to verify that the voltage is
actually dropping.
Other possibilities are worn alternator brushes or a loose belt.
--------
Joe Gores
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