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Jabiru 3300 Alternator - Upgrade
Contemplating selection of Jabiru 3300 for my Cruzer (in progress).
One point of concern I have is the small-ish (for my plans) 20 amp alternator.
Also concerned because the alternator is of a design the puportedly doesn't put out much current below 2000 rpm, at least according to the limitation described in the in the Jabiru Pilot’s Operating Handbook –(Section 3.10) :
"When the engine is turning at approximately 2000 RPM and above the alternator produces sufficient power for all lights to be run continuously. However, below this RPM the alternator cannot produce this power output and power must be drawn from the battery if all electrical systems are running. To reduce the load on the alternator, Jabiru Aircraft recommend only using the Landing Light for takeoff and landing – turning it off during normal cruise operations and wherever safe while taxiing."
Consequently, I've been considering the 45 amp Jab 3300 alternator upgrade that Rotec sells.
Does anyone out there have experience with this?
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Stephen R. Smith on
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Hello Kevin,
I don't have experience with the Rotec alternator. I do have 2,400 hours of experience with the Jab alternator. Your not wrong about its limitations. But building and flying light aircraft is an exercise in compromise. Light, simple and reliable are very important concepts to adhere to.
My IFR-capable 601XLB has a lot of equipment in it; 1) Dynon 10 inch HDX with full auto pilot, ADS-B, and transponder. I have an Avidyne IFD-550 radio and back-up attitude/terrain with VOR/Glideslope etc. Heated pitot tube. I also have a large tablet that runs off aircraft power and chargers for phones. For years I operated out of a class-D airport with all the extra time on the ground that is required. I have been able to make it work but not everyone can.
One important component to make this work has been switching to an EarthX ETX900. No, it does not contain more energy then a conventional battery but will deliver it in a more favorable way. It maintains voltage and current delivery capacity until nearly dead. Its a game changer.
Yes you can run your lights all the time when in the air if you wish. I do try to limit use of electronic stuff when on the ground. I don't turn on the Avidyne on the ground except when I need it.
So I think the Jab alternator is a marvel, though not perfect. It has been simple, light and reliable for me. Others have had issues.
Steve
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Permalink Reply by John Austin on
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I've had pretty much the same experience as Steve: I have a STOL 750 with EFIS, EMS, autopilot, radio, ADS-B in and out, iFly GPS, strobes, transponder, etc., and with my EarthX battery, never had an issue with lack of electrical power during ground operations or in the air. As Steve says, the Jab's alternator is light, simple, and it works. No external drive issues such as belt maintenance, etc. since it direct-drives off the crank. Just like Chris Heinz is the master of simplicity and lightness of Zenith aircraft, Jab's are also very simple and light!
I have no experience with Rotec, either, but unfortunately, I've never seen a positive comment about Rotec support and have seen many negative comments that they either ignore support requests or are very slow to respond. I'm of the mind-set that I'll pay premium prices for a product if the support quality justifies it!
John
N750A
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