Converting a 60 amp 24 volt system to 100 amp

[Sam Coates]

What is involved in upgrading the alternator on my F33A from a 60 amp to a 100 amp? Is it a simple bolt on or do I have to rewire and change the voltage regulator?

Thanks

Sam

[Don Lawrenz]

Hi Sam

In addition to the alternator mechanical issues you should check the actual wire size installed in your aircraft from the alternator to the relays and buss for the capability of handling higher current. Your mechanic should have access to a handy chart from which he can determine proper size to handle the increased current. The voltage regulator will also need to be replaced in all likelihood.

[Tracy Ryan]

It's definately not a bolt on upgrade. Nor is it cheap. Beech's kit is over $4,600 and none in stock. Then you have to add the labor. Beech estimates 24 - 30 man hours. There may be others, but I would bet they aren't much, if any, cheaper.

I would look for ways to reduce amperage needs before I spent that much money. Overhauls on the 100 amp alternators are high if done by a reputable repair station. What you'll get today are Kelly Aerospace (Prestolite) alternators and I wouldn't have one if they gave it to me.

The first items I would change are the landing and taxi lights, and the NAV lights. There are LED replacements for all of them that will reduce their amperage requirements dramatically. Non-dimmable interior lights are also candidates for LED replacements.

HBC Kit Information:

36-3004-1 P

ALTERNATOR, 100-AMP (24-VOLT)

A36 E-1111, E-1241 AND AFTER

A36TC EA-1 AND AFTER

F33A CE-748, CE-772 AND AFTER

F33C CJ-149 AND AFTER

V35B D-10097, D-10120 AND AFTER

THIS KIT PROVIDES PARTS AND INFORMATION TO INSTALL A 100-AMP, 24-VOLT ALTERNATOR.

WT. CHANGE :

F33A, F33C = WT: + 6.0 LBS @ 11.0 ARM; 66.0 MOMENT

A36, A36TC = WT: + 6.0 LBS @ 11.0 ARM; 66.0 MOMENT

V35B = WT: + 6.0 LBS @ 11.0 ARM; 66.0 MOMENT

EST. MAN/HRS: : 24 TO 30

MEN : 1 (MAN)