iKarus C42 Owner's Manual

C42 Owner’s Manual (Microlight) Page 31
Electrical circuit diagrams are given at the end of this manual. Note that the MIPS electronic
engine monitoring system is optional.
Battery
A small lightweight lead acid battery is installed beneath the seats for engine starting. It has a
capacity of 5 amp hours and very high current capability. No maintenance is required, apart
from keeping the contacts clean and dry. The battery is charged from the engine’s in-built
alternator, via a rectifier-regulator unit.
T
he engine ignition system is independent of the rest of the electrical system and does not
require the battery to operate.
Fuses
Fuses are provided to protect wiring to all the electrical services with the exception of the starter
motor. If a fuse blows, it is important to determine the cause of the failure before replacing the
fuse. Under no circumstances replace the fuse with one of a higher rating.
Instruments
A variety of electrical instrument configurations is available, with an essential minimum as follows:
Fuel gauge
Tacho
Cylinder Head Temperature gauge (CHT) *
* Note: there may be a significant difference between the CHT reading and that of the coolant
temperature, with the CHT gauge likely to read low, and to have a slower response. Although the
CHT gauge may indicate an acceptable temperature, it must not be assumed that the coolant
temperature lies within limits.
Switches
A master switch provides isolation of the battery from the main bus. The master switch must be
closed (on) before attempting to start the engine, and must remain on to ensure that the
battery is charged properly.
Separate isolating switches are provided for the remaining services or groups of services. Where
a radio is installed, it is wise to turn off the radio switch before starting to reduce the risk of high
spurious voltages damaging the radio.
NOTE: - The ignition switches stop the engine by grounding the ignition circuit. The engine is
started and runs with the switches open, and is stopped by closing the switches. The ignition
switches are therefore mounted in the reverse sense to the other switches to enable the normal
aviation switch sense to be maintained. ie. up for ON, down for OFF.
It is also important to note that disconnection of the ignition switch wires, by accident or during
maintenance, renders the engine live. Great care must be exercised in this case to ensure that
the engine cannot be started accidentally. Normally remove the spark plugs’ caps.
10.4 Electrical System

iKarus C42 Specifications

General

Manufacturer	Comco Ikarus
Type	Ultralight Aircraft
Engine	Rotax 912
Cruise Speed	160 km/h
Stall Speed	65 km/h
Seats	2
Height	2.3 m
Maximum Takeoff Weight	472.5 kg
Range	800 km
Service Ceiling	4000 m
Power Output	80 hp
Rate of Climb	5 m/s