Nathan Young wrote in message . ..
Anyway, the pilot cycles the alternator field
current to bring the alternator back online. The battery is run-down
a bit, so the current delivered by the alternator spikes from zero to
around 30-40 amps, and then gradually tapers off as the battery is
charged.


This is exactly what happens every time I start my airplane.
Battery is a bit low from delivering a bunch of amps to the starter.
After I let go of the key, the alternator goes from zero to 30-40
amps, then gradually tapers off.

John Galban=====N4BQ (PA28-180)