Since it's
quiet:
When I was a kid a guy at
the parts store demonstrated to my Dad that when electrical power was needed, a
generator put a load on the engine. After that, my Dad was careful not to run
lights, radio, heater fan, or other non-essentials when he was trying to get
good gas mileage.
I have continued that
tradition, however, I have seen it stated that electrical draw on an alternator
doesn't increase the mechanical load.
When low on fuel will it
help to turn off electrical components not needed for flight?
Is it true of an
alternator; an electrical power demand doesn't cause an increased mechanical
load?
Or, does keeping headlights
on during the day decrease gas mileage?
Thanks!
Ben
|