Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Phil Smith on June 3, 2013 at 11:27pm

Arron,

 

I was advised by "someone" at a Rotax center that the ACS switch will work for a while but will fail due to the large voltage / amp spikes.  I installed two switches IGN A and IGN B and wired them to control the mopdules...actually very simple mod.  Never did use the ACS switch to control the modules.  What switches did I use...can't remember but there is info as to what you need in the various pubs.  I left the ACS switch in the panel for a "key feature" and blanked out the L and R .  You might be able to see this in one of the panel pics in my site.

 

Still Grinnin

 

Phil Smith

Buhl ID

Ch 701 912 ULS

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Permalink Reply by Rick George on June 4, 2013 at 12:32pm

I also use two toggle switches = IGN A and IGN B. I added a "on-off" key switch to be able to lock out the ignition. I have had problems with the ACS switches in other airplanes - so I don't use them. Since there is no mixture to shut down the engine, the toggle switches are used to shut off the engine. I pull the throttle to low idle, shut off one switch, then about a second later I shut off the other ignition switch. Try to minimize the abrupt stop of the Rotax.

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Permalink Reply by Bob McDonald on June 4, 2013 at 7:07pm

Never had a problem with the ignition switch. 2005 CH601HD & 2010 CH750 both flying with not troubles. Rotax 912 soft start module and slipper clutch.

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Permalink Reply by Aaron May on June 4, 2013 at 10:31pm

Bob, Rick, Phil, et al:

I've heard there are plenty of folks out there who are having good results with the ACS switch.  Bob, have you found you wish you could turn off the ignition systems independently for a smoother shut-down, like Rick explained in his reply above?

Also, do you see any advantage to being able to turn on the starter without having the ignition on?  I've heard that some people find that flexibility advantageous. This is my first Rotax, so I can only speculate until I start using it. 

Thanks for the input. 

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Permalink Reply by Doug MacDonald on June 5, 2013 at 10:09am

I've got around 200 hrs on my 701 with a 912 UL and an ACS ignition switch.  I thought I had a failed switch at one point but it was a broken P-Lead wire at the ignition module.  When I thought I had a bad switch, I took the switch assembly apart to inspect it.  The internals of the switch looked like brand new.  I have an ACS switch overhaul kit in my toolbox if I ever need it but so far the switch has worked flawlessly.

As for the flexibility of having independent ignition toggle switches, I have not had any time where I felt toggle switches would be an advantage.  I do not have a soft start module so soft start may be a situation where ignition toggles could be an advantage.

Doug M

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Permalink Reply by Danal Estes on June 5, 2013 at 12:01pm

The "two toggles" plus whatever separate key/starter has an operational advantage: The engine can be "burped" for oil check via the starter.  Cranking with cold mags cannot be accomplished with a "Off/L/R/Both/Start" switch. 

There are a few other maintenance scenarios where you may wish to crank with cold mags.  

Danal Estes

LSRM-A/WS + Rotax service

CH750/Jabiru 3300 Owner. 

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Permalink Reply by Aaron May on June 5, 2013 at 9:43pm

This makes a lot of sense Danal. I really don't see any downside to using toggles and a push button starter, but the benefits are obvious. I'm thinking of putting a hidden switch in the starter button circuit to add safety. Can't make it easy for someone messing around to accidentally start turning the prop. 

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Permalink Reply by Peter Autenried on June 5, 2013 at 12:47pm

Look at the other thread on ignition switches http://www.zenith.aero/group/stolch750/forum/topics/acs-ignition-sw...

Apparently for the 912iS the ACS ignition switch does not work.  -- Peter

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Permalink Reply by Aaron May on June 5, 2013 at 9:44pm

Thanks Peter. The choice is pretty obvious now. No reason to use the ACS switch.

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Permalink Reply by Aaron May on June 8, 2013 at 10:48am

Thanks to all who have replied.  I've decided to go with a push button starter and two toggle switches instead of the ACS key. My question for those of you who have the toggle switch arrangement is: what have you done (if anything) to replace the safety and security of the keyed switch?   I've seen various ideas such as a key or hidden switch to simply disconnect the starter button circuit. I'm leaning toward a hidden switch,  but the problem is that you have to remember to flip it back every time or it becomes useless.  I'm curious to see what others have done. 

Thanks, 

Aaron

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Permalink Reply by Ken Ryan on June 8, 2013 at 10:54am

Why not just use a keyed switch for the master?

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Permalink Reply by Aaron May on June 8, 2013 at 11:10am

Ken,

Makes sense. Is there a good lightweight option for that? The ACS key switch I have is kinda heavy and I was looking forward to the weight savings.

Aaron

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