Page 17
PPS Installation and Operating Manual
Rev. C.2 (January 19, 2018)
4.3c Ground Test with engine running
This section verifies the proper operation of the PPS with the engine
running. If this is coincident with first engine start, be sure to integrate
the kit manufacturer’s first engine start safety procedures with the test
plan below. You may consider first verifying proper operation of the
engine and once that is complete, begin the electrical system test.
Prolonged low-power operation of a new engine may adversely affect the
engine. Be sure you understand the engine break-in requirements, and
balance those against the time needed to test the electrical system.
The following tests should be used as a guideline. Follow the engine
manufacturer’s starting and safety procedures.
•
Ensure that the battery is fully charged. If the voltage drops
rapidly during engine start, then the battery is bad or not fully
charged.
•
Start the engine.
•
Note the bus voltage. Then turn on the primary alternator. If
installed turn on the alternator enable to the PPS.
•
The voltage should increase to 14.2 volts +/- 0.3 volts (check
with your alternator manufacturer for specifics)
•
If installed, verify the alternator current output.
•
If installed, verify the main bus current output. Current should
show charging or zero current flow once alternator is operating.
•
Verify the each alternator can be turned off and on.
•
If installed, turn on the alternator enable to the PPS on and off.
Verify correct operation.
•
If installed, turn the main battery enable to the PPS on and off.
Verify correct operation.
•
Turn off all switches.
4.4 Flight Test
Prior to flight, make sure you understand how to operate the PPS and
clear faults. This section provides a series of recommended steps which
should be incorporated into the overall flight test plan as you deem
appropriate. Review the ground test steps, as complete and thorough
ground testing will mitigate the risk of trouble while airborne.
Do not fly the aircraft until you are comfortable everything
operates correctly on the ground and you are knowledge-
able about the systems and their proper operation.
It is the pilot’s responsibility to develop a test plan that ensures a safe and
productive first flight. Typically, the first flight is focused on verifying
basic flight characteristics and proper engine operation. With that in
mind, we recommend deferring complete electrical system tests until
after you are comfortable that the engine and airframe are performing as
expected, and you are comfortable flying the aircraft.
If you are installing the system as a retrofit, it is still important to
complete as much of the testing on the ground as possible.
Once airborne, keep an eye out for traffic and obstacles during the test
procedure. Carry a handheld radio as a backup in case of electrical
system failure. If you encounter any difficulties in flight due to improper
setup or unknown electrical system behavior, land as soon as practical or
simply turn off the master switch.
Verify backup power is ON for ignition and required
devices prior to turning off the master switch.
If you have completed a thorough check out on the ground, the chances
of problems while airborne are greatly reduced.
Verify each of the following in flight:
•
Verify the each alternator can be turned off and on.
•
If installed, turn on the alternator enable to the PPS on and off.
Verify correct operation.
•
If installed, turn the main battery enable to the PPS on and off.
Verify correct operation.
