Aeronca Champ, Adding a Battery, Starter, and Radio

[Bartman]

Hi all,

In addition to a new weight and balance, what needs to be done if you have an Aeronca Champ that was built without an electrical system and you'd like to put one in? I'm guessing it's more than a logbook entry but is a field approval necessary?

An older gentleman I was introduced to has a Champ that he'd like to sell and a few friends and I are considering buying it to share as a group. If my Citabria sells, I'm going to need some low & slow time with the door off every once in a while.

Thanks!
Bart

 

[Bob Turner]

Partly up to your IA. A complete electrical system might require a field approval, but you need to study the definition of major alteration carefully. A battery alone can use data in Chapt. 19 of AC43.13-2B, or can be portable. The rules for portable electronic devices are incredibly lax.
But first, check the type certificate - I bet some champs are eligible with a logbook entry.

We find that battery only is simple, legal, and adequate, even for starter-equipped.

Do not forget that a legal engine driven system will forever take you out of the no transponder clause, and may reduce the value of your aircraft significantly for that reason.

 

[Hiperbiper]

In addition to all the good points made by Bob the electrical system question starts with the engine that's in the Champ. A 65 doesn't have any provision for driving an alternator. A C-85-8 is likewise hampered. A C-85-12 does have the capability of both a starter and an alternator. Of course any O-200 engine swap would work too.
A decent battery in a bag in the baggage compartment goes a long way to making the early Champs more "civilized" without adding weight, aggravation and complexity to a marvelously fun airplane...

Chris

 

[Bartman]

Thanks for the replies!