  | 
				Matronics Email Lists Web Forum Interface to the Matronics Email Lists   
				 | 
			 
		 
		 
	
		| View previous topic :: View next topic   | 
	 
	
	
		| Author | 
		Message | 
	 
	
		jpx(at)Qenesis.com Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 7:26 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				Does anyone have some scientific information (beyond the practical  
 description in the Connection) that I can use to convince someone that  
 running the engine ground strap to the engine mount is a poor choice ?
 
 Thanks !
 
 Jeff Page
 Dream Aircraft Tundra #10
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		AV8ORJWC
 
 
  Joined: 13 Jul 2006 Posts: 1149 Location: Aurora, Oregon "Home of VANS"
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 9:15 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				Totally separate but possibly dead on.  My 1978 Ford pickup suffered
 catastrophic electrolysis of the cab floorboards and the entire bed
 (years 28-31).  The Tailgate was replaced with an Electro-Hydraulic
 1,000 pound Tommy Lift. The lift motor used high current capacity
 welding cable with neoprene shielding for the Positive.  NO GROUND.
 Just the mounting to the bed of the truck and the frame rails.  All of a
 sudden over the last several years, the truck began rapid corrosion
 (Really Rapid - Decomposition).
 
 My conclusion.  Stray electrons looking for the primary path to ground -
 found their path without the aid of the missing ground.  My action -
 Never again! use a structural mount in hopes of taking a path of less
 effort during installation.  Provide an adequate ground from the battery
 or generator source.  Listen to Bob.  Semi-monocoque construction makes
 it even more valid.
 
 YMMV.
 John Cox
  						Now for the experts.
 
 --
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		longg(at)pjm.com Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 9:52 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				How about the scientific principle of rubber engine mounts being a poor
 conductor of electricity? That would go for the cadmium plating on the
 bolts themselves. Not a perfect conductor. Scientifically engine
 mounting bolts will corrode over time, get oily and generally loose what
 connectivity they have.
 
 Under Ohm's law the addition of the engine mount changes sub R in the
 equation reducing the conductance value of the material. If he works out
 the equation using the combined values conductivity will be less. After
 he is done scratching his head, he'll recognize why it's done this way.
 
 See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_conductance
 
 If he is trying to save $3.00 on the cost of the additional 5" of cable
 required to anchor it to the engine, there is little argument on his
 side.
 --
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelect Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 12:56 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				At 10:14 AM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
  	  | Quote: | 	 		  
 
 Does anyone have some scientific information (beyond the practical
 description in the Connection) that I can use to convince someone that
 running the engine ground strap to the engine mount is a poor choice ?
 
 Thanks !
 
 | 	  
     The shortest, lowest resistance and minimum parts count path
     in any high current conduction path is the road to Ground
     System Nirvana. See:
 
 http://www.aeroelectric.com/articles/grnding.pdf
 
     Engine mounts are steel assembled with steel
     hardware. The joints between mounts and other
     components of the airframe are not treated for
     the purpose of electrical "bonding". The engine
     mount is intended to hold the engine on the
     airplane and was not designed or installed to
     be a part of the electrical system.
 
     Note that Figure Z-15 and Chapter 5 of the
     'Connection speak to and illustrate a notion
     that engines are best tied to the single point
     fire-wall ground block with a single-flexible-
     fatwire. To avoid having the firewall sheet
     participate in a PARALLEL ground path (read
     ground loop) any bonding jumpers across the
     engine mounts are best removed.
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		Kellym
 
 
  Joined: 10 Jan 2006 Posts: 1706 Location: Sun Lakes AZ
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 1:22 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				Given such a ground path, how does one get lineboys trained that the engine exhaust pipe is a terrible place for ground wire, that the fuel tanks are in the wings, and something like a bare spot on wing tiedown has a much shorter ground path? I always wonder how static charge is supposed to make it from the fuel tank through the airframe to the engine and down the rusty, carboned up exhaust pipe, usually with a swivel or slip joint or two to that ground wire, without significant resistance.
  
  Robert L. Nuckolls, III wrote:  	  | Quote: | 	 		  --> AeroElectric-List message posted by: "Robert L. Nuckolls, III" <nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelectric.com> (nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelectric.com)   
    
  At 10:14 AM 5/26/2009, you wrote:   
     	  | Quote: | 	 		  --> AeroElectric-List message posted by: "Jeff Page" <jpx(at)Qenesis.com> (jpx(at)Qenesis.com)     
      
  Does anyone have some scientific information (beyond the practical     
  description in the Connection) that I can use to convince someone that     
  running the engine ground strap to the engine mount is a poor choice ?     
      
  Thanks !     
     | 	     
     The shortest, lowest resistance and minimum parts count path   
     in any high current conduction path is the road to Ground   
     System Nirvana. See:   
    
  http://www.aeroelectric.com/articles/grnding.pdf   
    
     Engine mounts are steel assembled with steel   
     hardware. The joints between mounts and other   
     components of the airframe are not treated for   
     the purpose of electrical "bonding". The engine   
     mount is intended to hold the engine on the   
     airplane and was not designed or installed to   
     be a part of the electrical system.   
    
     Note that Figure Z-15 and Chapter 5 of the   
     'Connection speak to and illustrate a notion   
     that engines are best tied to the single point   
     fire-wall ground block with a single-flexible-   
     fatwire. To avoid having the firewall sheet   
     participate in a PARALLEL ground path (read   
     ground loop) any bonding jumpers across the   
     engine mounts are best removed.   
    
    
         Bob . . .   
    
          | 	   [img]cid:part1.04030200.02060605(at)aviating.com[/img]
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
	
  
	 
	
	
		
	 
	
		|  Description: | 
		
			
		 | 
	 
	
		|  Filesize: | 
		 1.97 KB | 
	 
	
		|  Viewed: | 
		 19878 Time(s) | 
	 
	
		
  
 
  | 
	 
	 
	 
 _________________ Kelly McMullen
 
A&P/IA, EAA Tech Counselor # 5286
 
KCHD | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		europaul260i(at)bvunet.ne Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 1:22 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				How about some anecdotal evidence. I had a Cadillac 4.9 liter V8 installed 
 in my Pontiac Fiero. Since it weighted 15 pounds more than the V6 that was 
 in there, I had the battery moved from the rear engine compartment to just 
 on top of the front axle. My voltmeter would not show over 13.5 volts even 
 when the battery was weak and would drop below 12 volts if I ran the AC and 
 lights at the same time. I would also have intermittent problems starting 
 the car when it was hot. The battery was grounded to the frame and the 
 engine was also grounded to the frame. A 9 foot #2 wire went from the 
 positive terminal to the starter. After putting on a new starter the engine 
 would not start hot the very first time I drove it somewhere. I put a 9 foot 
 #2 wire from the negative side of the battery to the one of the mounting 
 studs of the starter and now no more starting problems. The voltmeter shows 
 14.5 volts on start-up and after a brief drop when turning on the lights and 
 AC, it shows 13.5 volts. The ground is important. I only wish it hadn't 
 taken me 2 years to figure it out.
 
 Vaughn Teegarden
 
 ---
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		frank.hinde(at)hp.com Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		 | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelect Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 2:51 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				At 04:21 PM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
  	  | Quote: | 	 		  Given such a ground path, how does one get lineboys trained that the 
 engine exhaust pipe is a terrible place for ground wire, that the 
 fuel tanks are in the wings, and something like a bare spot on wing 
 tiedown has a much shorter ground path? I always wonder how static 
 charge is supposed to make it from the fuel tank through the 
 airframe to the engine and down the rusty, carboned up exhaust pipe, 
 usually with a swivel or slip joint or two to that ground wire, 
 without significant resistance.
 
 | 	  
    The line boy's ground lead is not intended to carry
    more than micro-amps of current . . . and then for
    only enough time to equalize the STATIC charge on
    the airplane with the STATIC charge on the fuel truck.
 
    Given the proliferation of composite aircraft it's
    not a bad bet for fuel truck operators to use the exhaust
    pipe . . . it's metallic and definitely connected to
    the crankcase through other metallic parts. Now, it's
    entirely possible that a metallic tank resides in a
    composite wing and is plumbed up with some modern
    synthetic tubing . . . it's a tiny bit of a crap-shoot.
 
    Bottom line is that the rusty, gunked up piece of pipe
    is not a bad choice.
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		MauleDriver(at)nc.rr.com Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 5:49 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				The Z-14 I've put into my RV10 follows the best practices as described 
 in the Connection with one oversight.... I have the 2 sided forest of 
 tabs on the firewall but I only have an AWG 8 cable  running to it from 
 the rear batteries instead of an AWG2 fat wire.  And it's too late to 
 swap it out without significant re-work.
 
   The isssue is how to get the engine adequately grounded for the 
 start.  I remember this same situation being discussed recently on 
 either the RV10 or AeroConnection list but I'd like to get some more 
 input regarding my choices as I see it.
 
 Choice1: Run a flat fat wire (AWG 2 equivalent) from the forest of tabs 
 lug to the engine and keep the engine mount out of the circuit.  Here 
 I'm depending on the AWG 8 cable and the firewall to provide and 
 adequate ground for starting.  I feel that I do have a solidly grounded 
 airframe and it is a metal fuselage.
 
 Choice2: Ground the engine to the mount per Van's wiring diagram  - 2 
 straps from the mount to the engine and relying on the 6 mount bolts to 
 provide what they're  not designed to provide.  Here I'm trusting that 
 the steel engine mount will work as a working part of my  electrical 
 system - clearly this is what the Connection is steering me away from.
 
 Choice3: Do both 1 and 2 which gives me a better chance of an adequate 
 ground than either choice alone gives me, but I run the risk of ground 
 loops.  (what is the potential impact of ground loops in the starter 
 circuit?  Does this introduce potential ground loop problems to systems 
 connected to the forest of tabs?)
 
 Bob, thanks for covering the same ground over and over!
 
 Bill "enjoying panel wiring and fiberglassing at the same time" Watson
 RV10 40605
 
 Robert L. Nuckolls, III wrote:
  	  | Quote: | 	 		   
  <nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelectric.com>
 
  At 10:14 AM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
 > 
 >
 > Does anyone have some scientific information (beyond the practical
 > description in the Connection) that I can use to convince someone that
 > running the engine ground strap to the engine mount is a poor choice ?
 >
 > Thanks !
 
     The shortest, lowest resistance and minimum parts count path
     in any high current conduction path is the road to Ground
     System Nirvana. See:
 
  http://www.aeroelectric.com/articles/grnding.pdf
 
 
 | 	 
 
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelect Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 8:38 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				t 08:47 PM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
  <MauleDriver(at)nc.rr.com>
 
 The Z-14 I've put into my RV10 follows the best practices as 
 described in the Connection with one oversight.... I have the 2 sided 
 forest of tabs on the firewall but I only have an AWG 8 
 cable  running to it from the rear batteries instead of an AWG2 fat 
 wire.  And it's too late to swap it out without significant re-work.
 
    Is this the ONLY ground for the rear-mounted batteries?
    8AWG is waaayyyy too small. Pull it out and ground the
    battery(ies) locally to the airframe.
 
 http://aeroelectric.com/Pictures/Batteries/Battery_Install_OBrien_1.jpg
 
 http://aeroelectric.com/Pictures/Batteries/Battery_Install_OBrien_2.jpg
 
 http://aeroelectric.com/Pictures/Grounding/Local_Battery_Grounds_1.jpg
 The isssue is how to get the engine adequately grounded for the 
 start.  I remember this same situation being discussed recently on 
 either the RV10 or AeroConnection list but I'd like to get some more 
 input regarding my choices as I see it.
 
 Choice1: Run a flat fat wire (AWG 2 equivalent) from the forest of 
 tabs lug to the engine and keep the engine mount out of the circuit.
 
     This is a given . . . no matter what the
     rest of the ground system looks like.
    Here I'm depending on the AWG 8 cable and the firewall to provide 
 and adequate ground for starting.  I feel that I do have a solidly 
 grounded airframe and it is a metal fuselage.
 
     I'm not sure from your description where the ends
     of the 8AWG wire are tied. This size of
     wire is too small for any significant starter
     performance.
 
 Choice2: Ground the engine to the mount per Van's wiring diagram  - 2 
 straps from the mount to the engine and relying on the 6 mount bolts 
 to provide what they're  not designed to provide.  Here I'm trusting 
 that the steel engine mount will work as a working part of 
 my  electrical system - clearly this is what the Connection is 
 steering me away from.
 
     It's been done before. Leave it alone.
 
 Choice3: Do both 1 and 2 which gives me a better chance of an 
 adequate ground than either choice alone gives me, but I run the risk 
 of ground loops.  (what is the potential impact of ground loops in 
 the starter circuit?  Does this introduce potential ground loop 
 problems to systems connected to the forest of tabs?)
 
     Do them both and ground the batteries
     to the airframe. The 8AWG wire can be
     cut loose and pulled out.
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelect Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Wed May 27, 2009 5:37 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				At 11:35 PM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
  	  | Quote: | 	 		  
 <nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelectric.com>
 
 t 08:47 PM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
  <MauleDriver(at)nc.rr.com>
 
 The Z-14 I've put into my RV10 follows the best practices as 
 described in the Connection with one oversight.... I have the 2 
 sided forest of tabs on the firewall but I only have an AWG 8 
 cable  running to it from the rear batteries instead of an AWG2 fat 
 wire.  And it's too late to swap it out without significant re-work.
 
 | 	  
    Bill, re-reading my posting from last night I'm not
    sure I conveyed a clear image of my recommendations.
    In a nutshell:
 
    Add local grounds to airframe for the batteries if
    you don't already have them.
 
    Add crankcase to firewall ground stud for engine.
 
    Leave jumpers across the engine mount biscuits.
 
    You can cut the 8AWG wire out if you wish and
    if it is practical. It adds only weight and
    offers no significant electrical function.
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		airlincoln(at)sbcglobal.n Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Wed May 27, 2009 10:03 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				The discussion about engine mounts as ground points has generated a question.  The "When is a Good Ground Not?" article shows 2AWG wire for the high current paths as do the Z-15 diagrams demonstrating various grounding architectures.  
 
 The Z-13/8 diagram I was planning my electrical system around shows 4AWG wires for these same high current paths.  All my "fat wires" will be under 3 feet since my RG battery, starter and battery contactors, 40A alternator, and firewall ground block will all be on or close to the firewall.  I thought I had read somewhere in the "AeroElectric Connection" that 4AWG was fine as long as all the fat wires were 3 feet or less, but now I can't find it.
 Could someone confirm that 4AWG welding cable is acceptable for the high current wires when these wires are all located on the hot side of  the firewall, wired per Z-13/8 and each under three feet in length?
 Lincoln Keill
 RV-7A
 Do not archive
  [quote][b]
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		MauleDriver(at)nc.rr.com Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Wed May 27, 2009 10:13 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				It's crystal clear now!  Thanks
 
 Robert L. Nuckolls, III wrote:
  	  | Quote: | 	 		   
  <nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelectric.com>
 
  At 11:35 PM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
 > 
 > <nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelectric.com>
 >
 > t 08:47 PM 5/26/2009, you wrote:
 > 
 > <MauleDriver(at)nc.rr.com>
 >
 > The Z-14 I've put into my RV10 follows the best practices as 
 > described in the Connection with one oversight.... I have the 2 sided 
 > forest of tabs on the firewall but I only have an AWG 8 cable  
 > running to it from the rear batteries instead of an AWG2 fat wire.  
 > And it's too late to swap it out without significant re-work.
 
    Bill, re-reading my posting from last night I'm not
    sure I conveyed a clear image of my recommendations.
    In a nutshell:
 
    Add local grounds to airframe for the batteries if
    you don't already have them.
 
    Add crankcase to firewall ground stud for engine.
 
    Leave jumpers across the engine mount biscuits.
 
    You can cut the 8AWG wire out if you wish and
    if it is practical. It adds only weight and
    offers no significant electrical function.
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
 | 	 
 
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		skywagon
 
 
  Joined: 11 Feb 2006 Posts: 184
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Wed May 27, 2009 11:25 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				Static is usually described as high voltage and  little to no current.  
  That means those nasty electrons are really juiced  up...like a 2 year old loaded with chocolate cake, etc.  They can jump tall  buildings, and wide gaps, etc.  
   
  A hopped up electron does not need a good conductor  to move and be a nuisance.  Rusty or otherwise not well connected pipes,  etc. work just fine.  So connecting a static grounding line to an exhaust  pipe should work just fine to dump most, if not all, of the electrons to  ground.  
   
  Most of my Cessna wing is bare aluminum.  As  an extra precaution, I lightly touch the fuel nozzle to the wing surface before  I even take the fuel caps off.  That also relieves any final electrons off  the table before fueling.  Also, as the fuel flows, I make sure the nozzle  is touching the metal filler neck.  In dry climates especially, flowing  fuel will also generate some static.  With the nozzle grounded against the  filler metal that takes care of those speedy critters also.
  David
  [quote]   ---
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
	
  
	 
	
	
		
	 
	
		|  Description: | 
		
			
		 | 
	 
	
		|  Filesize: | 
		 1.97 KB | 
	 
	
		|  Viewed: | 
		 19861 Time(s) | 
	 
	
		
  
 
  | 
	 
	 
	 
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelect Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Wed May 27, 2009 1:37 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				At 01:00 PM 5/27/2009, you wrote:
  	  | Quote: | 	 		  The discussion about engine mounts as ground points has generated a 
 question.  The "When is a Good Ground Not?" article shows 2AWG wire 
 for the high current paths as do the Z-15 diagrams demonstrating 
 various grounding architectures.
 
 The Z-13/8 diagram I was planning my electrical system around shows 
 4AWG wires for these same high current paths.  All my "fat wires" 
 will be under 3 feet since my RG battery, starter and battery 
 contactors, 40A alternator, and firewall ground block will all be on 
 or close to the firewall.  I thought I had read somewhere in the 
 "AeroElectric Connection" that 4AWG was fine as long as all the fat 
 wires were 3 feet or less, but now I can't find it.
 
 Could someone confirm that 4AWG welding cable is acceptable for the 
 high current wires when these wires are all located on the hot side 
 of the firewall, wired per Z-13/8 and each under three feet in length?
 
 | 	  
    The drawings published on our website and publications
    are intended to illustrate architectures. Exact sizing
    of circuit protection, wires, batteries, alternators, etc.
    are up to the builder based on a host of considerations.
 
    Your recollection is accurate in that if the battery,
    starter and alternator are all within short distances
    of each other (3' or so) then 4AWG is adequate to the
    task of managing fat-wire duties.
 
    When engine and batteries are remotely located from each
    other (rear mounted batteries in RV-8, canard pushers) will
    benefit from something bigger like 2AWG battery cables.
    Really extreme cases like some some winged watercraft,
    parallel 2AWG or 0AWG is often used.
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		tomhanaway
 
 
  Joined: 12 Aug 2006 Posts: 111 Location: Murphy, NC
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 5:08 am    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | Bob,My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W.One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts?Thanks, Tom HanawayBoynton Beach, FLRobert L. Nuckolls, III wrote:> <nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelectric.com>> > At 11:35 PM 5/26/2009, you wrote:My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  0 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  1 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  2 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  3 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  4 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  5 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  6 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  7 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  8 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  I’m working on an rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below explanation to Bill W. | 	  9 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  0 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  1 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  2 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  3 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  4 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  5 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  6 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  7 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  8 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally, the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two completely separate mounts? | 	  9012345678901234  
    
        [quote][b]
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 _________________ RV-10. Built and sold
 
RV-8a. Building | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelect Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 1:11 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				At 07:58 AM 5/28/2009, you wrote:
 
   	  | Quote: | 	 		   	  | Quote: | 	 		  Bob,[/b]
 My first post to this site.  I’m working on an
 rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below
 explanation to Bill W.[/b]One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting a
 jumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a single
 biscuit.  In a later post, you advise “any bonding jumpers across
 the engine mounts are best removed” to avoid parallel grounds. Equally,
 the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this a
 contradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between two
 completely separate mounts?
 [/b] | 	 
  | 	  
     No, I was referencing a project-in-process where an
     already too-small 8AWG battery(-) wire was installed.
     Upsizing that wire was not an attractive option.
     The work-around involved the used of jumper straps
     around the shock mount biscuits and local battery grounds.
 
     Now, if you're starting from scratch and your
     battery is located near the firewall, that
     posting was not applicable to you. Use NO
     JUMPERS on the engine mount biscuits. Wire
     as suggested in chapter 5 and Figure Z-15.
 
     Welcome to the List!
 
  
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
      [quote][b]
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		tomhanaway
 
 
  Joined: 12 Aug 2006 Posts: 111 Location: Murphy, NC
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 4:42 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				Thanks Bob.  
 Sorry to beat a dead horse but I need one more clarification.  Your response mentions “if battery near firewall”.  The batteries are actually both in the aft area.  Can the battery be locally grounded to airframe at site of battery (metal frame craft) with B&C tab forest on firewall for grounds and engine ground?     
    
 Or is best solution still to run a 2awg ground wire up to firewall and proceed with grounding to tab forest as above?  
    
 Thanks,  
 Tom  
          
   
 From: owner-aeroelectric-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-aeroelectric-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Robert L. Nuckolls, III
  Sent: Thursday, May 28, 2009 5:10 PM
  To: aeroelectric-list(at)matronics.com
  Subject: Re: AeroElectric-List: Re: Engine mount as starter ground path  
   
    
 At 07:58 AM 5/28/2009, you wrote:
  
  
      
     	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on anrv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the belowexplanation to Bill W. | 	    
     	  | Quote: | 	 		  | One and two are clear.  I read #3 as putting ajumper across an individual mount t0 both sides of a singlebiscuit.  In a later post, you advise any bonding jumpers acrossthe engine mounts are best removed to avoid parallel grounds. Equally,the Connection speaks of a single point ground at firewall. Is this acontradiction or does it refer to not having jumpers between twoMy first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  0  
 
     No, I was referencing a project-in-process where an
     already too-small 8AWG battery(-) wire was installed.
     Upsizing that wire was not an attractive option.
     The work-around involved the used of jumper straps
     around the shock mount biscuits and local battery grounds.
  
     Now, if you're starting from scratch and your
     battery is located near the firewall, that
     posting was not applicable to you. Use NO
     JUMPERS on the engine mount biscuits. Wire
     as suggested in chapter 5 and Figure Z-15.
  
     Welcome to the List!
  
  
      
        Bob . . .
  
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------   	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  1 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  2 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  3 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  4 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  5 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  6 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  7 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  8 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | My first post to this site.  Im working on an | 	  9 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  0 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  1 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  2 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  3 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  4 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  5 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  6 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  7 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  8 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | rv-10. I thought I understood the grounding once you gave the below | 	  9 	  | Quote: | 	 		  | explanation to Bill W. | 	  0
        [quote][b]
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 _________________ RV-10. Built and sold
 
RV-8a. Building | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		nuckolls.bob(at)aeroelect Guest
 
 
 
 
 
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 5:03 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				At 07:34 PM 5/28/2009, you wrote:
   	  | Quote: | 	 		   Thanks Bob.
  Sorry to beat a dead horse but I need one more clarification.  Your response mentions “if battery near firewall”.  The batteries are actually both in the aft area.  Can the battery be locally grounded to airframe at site of battery (metal frame craft) with B&C tab forest on firewall for grounds and engine ground?   
   
  Or is best solution still to run a 2awg ground wire up to firewall and proceed with grounding to tab forest as above?
   
  Thanks,
  Tom
    | 	   
  
      You say "both batteries". Which Z-figure are
      you crafting?
 
  
         Bob . . .
 
         ----------------------------------------)
         ( . . .  a long habit of not thinking   )
         ( a thing wrong, gives it a superficial )
         ( appearance of being right . . .       )
         (                                       )
         (                  -Thomas Paine 1776-  )
         ----------------------------------------
 
      [quote][b]
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		Kellym
 
 
  Joined: 10 Jan 2006 Posts: 1706 Location: Sun Lakes AZ
  | 
		
			
				 Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 5:12 pm    Post subject: Engine mount as starter ground path | 
				     | 
			 
			
				
  | 
			 
			
				The RV-10 by necessity and design has the battery(s) located in the 
 tailcone to partly offset the weight of the IO-540 up front.
 Given that the structure from the battery location to the firewall is 
 all riveted aluminum in the lower half of the fuselage there likely is a 
 solid ground path. Running a fat wire to parallel that ground path, or 
 to replace it doesn't appear to be all that good an option.
 Kelly
 
 Robert L. Nuckolls, III wrote:
  	  | Quote: | 	 		  
     No, I was referencing a project-in-process where an
     already too-small 8AWG battery(-) wire was installed.
     Upsizing that wire was not an attractive option.
     The work-around involved the used of jumper straps
     around the shock mount biscuits and local battery grounds.
 
     Now, if you're starting from scratch and your
     battery is located near the firewall, that
     posting was not applicable to you. Use NO
     JUMPERS on the engine mount biscuits. Wire
     as suggested in chapter 5 and Figure Z-15.
 
     
 
 | 	 
 
 
  |  | - The Matronics AeroElectric-List Email Forum - |  |   |  Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
 
  http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?AeroElectric-List |  
  |  
 
 
 
  
 _________________ Kelly McMullen
 
A&P/IA, EAA Tech Counselor # 5286
 
KCHD | 
			 
		  | 
	 
	
		| Back to top | 
		 | 
	 
	
		  | 
	 
	
		 | 
	 
 
  
	 
	    
	   | 
	
You cannot post new topics in this forum You cannot reply to topics in this forum You cannot edit your posts in this forum You cannot delete your posts in this forum You cannot vote in polls in this forum You cannot attach files in this forum You can download files in this forum
  | 
   
 
  
Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group
  
		 |