Sudden Charging Problem on my Citabria

Markus

Markus

New member
Hi all! First many thanks to Robert to publicize the picture of my 1970 Citabria, D-ERRD in the latest B-C Contact. I'm very proud of that.
Now my problem: I renewed my instrument- and electric panel and added a circuit breaker (a Toggle Thermal Circuit Breaker) in the Alternator Field Circuit in accordance to Service Letter 418A. I think that really makes sense. Since this update the alternator has failed several times. After switching the Alt.Field Switch (resp. Circuit Breaker) off and on it works again (the breaker didn't trigger). I had that problem never before. Why now, after adding the Breaker? The only thing I changed is, that I now start the engine and after that I switch on the Field current. Has anyone an Idea? I haven't checked the regulator and the OV Relay yet because I want to wait for ideas what could happened. It's a Prestolite VSF 7203 with OV Relay X17621.
Many thanks for your help.

Markus
 
I would suspect the over voltage relay. I don't know an easy way to test it and since it is not expensive, I would be inclined to replace it and see if that fixes the problem.
I had a Pitts that did the same thing, and after replacing the Over voltage relay, it has not done it again.
Good luck.
Bill B
 
This is a way obsolete electromechanical device that I believe is no longer available even if you really wanted it. I suggest replacing both it and the regulator with a Zeftronics R15V0N combined unit. Double check with Zeftronics for the part number, then buy from Aircraft Spruce for the best price (they don't mind.)
 
Robert,
I think you are correct, the OV relays are probably a thing long gone. The one I put in the Pitts was about 10 years ago.
I found this little solid state one from B&C for $40. http://www.bandc.aero/over-voltageprotectionmodule.aspx
Or as you said, the new Zeftronics regulator unit has the OV built in.
Bill B
 
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