Re: AK fly-in buzzkill
Posted: Wed Jun 17, 2009 4:49 am
Well, I decided to chance it, so I brought my trickle charger down to the airplane the next morning. Popped it on there (plugged into an inverter off my truck; I wonder how many ways that is a bad idea...), and let it run for a minimum of time while I exercised the dogs (see note 1). I cleared all the cables, latches, hatches, covers, etc. up. Then hand-propped it again, so I didn't use up whatever charge the battery had taken. Ran the plane around the pattern for about 1/2 an hour, with a significant flow/charge showing on the alternator gauge. I landed, grabbed a drink, and then did a normal battery start. It worked, slowly, but still worked.
So, to make sure I really got the thing topped off, I burned up the remainder of my dinosaurs checking out the Chugach trail systems....had to ensure a proper charge, you know.
Glad it all worked out, and I appreciate the reminders about the field requirements for charging.
Karl
N43F
Note 1. If you soak a tennis ball in caribou-steak juices, a bloodhound can turn into a damn fine retriever!!!
So, to make sure I really got the thing topped off, I burned up the remainder of my dinosaurs checking out the Chugach trail systems....had to ensure a proper charge, you know.
Glad it all worked out, and I appreciate the reminders about the field requirements for charging.
Karl
N43F
Note 1. If you soak a tennis ball in caribou-steak juices, a bloodhound can turn into a damn fine retriever!!!