Paul, I just (in Nov) replaced my mechanical Delco VR with the Zeftronics GCU (Generator Control Unit- PN G1120N for the 12A generator) $127 from Sacramento Sky Ranch.
I did this because my battery was not charging (it turned out to be a bad battery) and while troubleshooting the system I discovered my voltage regulator was the model for the 35A generator and my C85 had a 12A generator. Rather than buy another mechanical VR to get the correct part installed I decided to put the electronic one in. I did the work myself and had my mechanic check it out. It is a very easy replacement. The Zeftronics unit is form fit and function identical with the delco except you need shorter mounting bolts (the electronic unit does not need rubber shock mount grommets so the delco bolts are too long). I used sandpaper to clean the aluminum under the GCU as this is the ground connection. Over all including taking everything out of the baggage compartment, labeling the wires before I removed the old unit, making the pre and post install voltage and current measurements (with the engine running) and going out and finding new bolts the job took about 2 or 3 hours. Had I known about the bolts it would have taken a little less but I tend to work on airplanes slowly and methodically. I keep a laboratory notebook where I log all my measurements and draw diagrams of everything before I disassemble anything. The electronic unit has three status LEDs (although you need an inspection mirror is see them while running) and the three wires are the same. All in all for $20 more than the mechanical unit you get a modern continuos (vs two field winding resistance, relay chatter modulated) unit that should not wear out and is better protected from damage. Well worth it. You also save 6 ounces (and in a coupe every little bit helps<g>) My mechanic did put together a 337. While the exact same unit is PMA approved with the same generator in a Cessna 120 apparently each installation is separate. However the 337 he put together includes the pma information for the part in other installations. Overall I cannot imagine ever replacing the mechanical unit with another mechanical one. It is 1930's technology and the electronic unit is not much more expensive. It also protects the battery and generator better. Sensing voltage and current with relays is primitive. I assume the electronic unit is also temperature compensated but I cannot find proof of this. You do have to factor in the time to get the paperwork done. David Abrams [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://ercoupe.com > -----Original Message----- > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] > Sent: Monday, January 17, 2000 1:54 AM > To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > Subject: [COUPERS-TECH] Voltage regulators > > > Let's talk voltage regulators. Has anyone installed one > of the solid state generator controllers? If so I'd sure > like to hear of your opinion. > > Cheers: > > Paul > N2409H > > > > --------------------------------- > to unsubscribe send mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] > > _____________________________________________________________ > Check out the new and improved Topica site! > http://www.topica.com/t/13 > --------------------------------- to unsubscribe send mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] _____________________________________________________________ Check out the new and improved Topica site! http://www.topica.com/t/13
<<attachment: winmail.dat>>
