Bad wiring especially the ground. Check all of the Engine to airframe,
Battery to airframe. Alternator to Engine.
Could be the regulator as well. Depends on how old it is. If it is
mechanical it may have burned contacts or is sticking.
Michelle


Jon Kraus wrote:

Tell me what you think about this issue:
I flew 4443H ('79 Mooney 201) Saturday morning for a couple of hours.
One time during the flight, for about 5 minutes the High / Low voltage
light was flickering. It did stop flickering, the ammeter wasn't
showing a discharge, and the battery voltage remained above 13 volts
so I didn't worry about it. My partner then took it for a couple hour
flight. At his destination he forgot to turn the master off so when he
returned he needed to get a jump. He got it started, took off, was
flying home, and after 30 minutes or so lost all electrical power. He
made it home and after a manual gear extension landed without incident.

Alernator History:
The alternator was rebuilt 800 hours ago (2001)
I am unsure about the voltage regulator
New battery (GIL 35) 7 months ago

Is it possible that the battery just needs to be charged (low on water
maybe? I know probably not) or does it sound like the alternator /
voltage regulator has headed south? Maybe a set of alternator brushes
would cure the issue?

If we need to get a rebuild done can I get some recommendations for
shops (prices?) Also do you usually replace the voltage regulator at
this time too?

Any info or experiences would be appreciated. Thanks!!

Jon Kraus
PP-ASEL-IA