[UK-CONTEST] Off Topic, but contest related

[Adrian Rees (M1LCR)]

Hi
I need to build a substantial 13.8v / 12v Regulation system. This isn't the
"normal" supply that amateurs use.

The scenario: I have just bought a GAZ 66 / R142 Russian (although badged
GDR) Radio Vehicle (Circa 1970) that will be used heavily for contesting.
Apart from alot of seriously useful stuff that can be
used for amateur radio, it has a DC Generator fitted. This generator has a
pair of meters fitted to it, with ranges of 0-30V and 0-50A. (I have no
doubts its capable of a significant current, due to the very heavy duty
cables attached to its output).

Its designed to charge eight 6V batteries (in a Series Parallel arrangement)
to give 12V when charged. The Generator / Battery combination also supplies
the vehicle interior lights.

Now I don't want to put my precious rig on such a combination, unless its
regulated heavily (even considered putting an additional rectifier in as
well !). The reason for this is that there appears to be a system that
monitors the battery voltage and automatically starts the generator when
low. A switch / control panel is fitted, marked "TET" and I've figured out
how that works, but there's no Voltage Stabilisation circuitry to be seen.
Hence the retro fit.

I have thought of 2N3055's but was wondering if anyone has seen something
better.

Thanks

Adrian (M1LCR)

PS: Anyone read Russian / German ? I have a shed load of documentation that
I could do with translating !
Even a Russian equivalent of a Haynes manual!