>I want to put in an external power connection (piper style) that I found at
S n F. Reason being, If I ever get caught out somewhere and temporarily run
down the battery for a poor starting technique or some other reason, it will
be a little tricky to get the cowling back on after start. ;) For those of
you that have installed a ground power plug, where is the ideal place to
locate it? I was thinking about stealing one fine gentleman's idea that
lives in Tampa, but hate to run that much copper from the RH footwell to
behind the pilots seat. It may be the only safe place though. Any thoughts
and suggestions. <
I initially considered using the Piper type external power connector but
changed my plans when I realised how heavy and over engineered it was for a
Europa. Although a standard type connector allows use of existing ground
power sets a lead would still need to be carried if a battery jump start was
required. The combined weight of the Piper plug and socket seemed excessive
so I looked around for a lighter more portable alternative. I found that a
moulded plug and lead (originally used for USA washing machines - available
in Sears or Home Depot) proved to be ideal. I also bought a socket and a
pair of 50A crocodile clips. The socket was positioned just
aft of the flap slot aperture and uses the aircraft skin to make a small
access door. The centre pin of the plug (connected to the live pin) provides
a return path through the socket to power a ground power light on the
instrument panel. The lead can be rolled up small enough to fit inside one
of the underseat lockers when not in use. I also made up a second lead to
connect to a battery mounted on a small trolley for external power starts at
my home airfield. This is kept charged using a solar panel.
Running 4 gauge wire aft from the engine compartment creates a small weight
penalty (<2lb) if the battery is forward mounted. This is easily achieved
using oval plastic electrical ducting (4 gauge wire is an exact sliding fit
allowing end feeding after installation. The ducting is held in place by
'bid' layups. If the ducting is routed just below door frame level the
layups also reinforce the lower door frame (essential to prevent the frame
flexing during entry and exit).
Nigel Charles
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