Small Aircraft; Low Wing; 1 Eng; Fixed Gear
Air Traffic Control Fully Certified
Air Traffic Control Time Certified In Pos 1 (yrs) 3.5
Communication Breakdown; Confusion; Distraction; Time Pressure
ATC Issue All Types; Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance
Procedure; Human Factors; Aircraft
Aircraft X told EST radar they had an alternator problem but didn't want to declare an emergency. They wanted to turn off their avionics for a short time and then come back up on frequency.  When we tried to give ZMA LAL HI the handoff; they refused the handoff because they were too busy.  We attempted to convince the pilot to land at an airport to have the problem looked at. They wanted to continue on and left our radar coverage to the north.No ATC should ever be too busy to assist a pilot having some sort of trouble.  We should never be told unable in this case.  Of course; the best thing for the pilot to do would have been to land.  That being said; it is our job to keep an eye on the guy and ensure his problems do not multiply.  If they do; we are ready to help him out in any way we can.
RSW controller reports of an aircraft that is having alternator problems; but didn't want to declare an emergency. ATC tried to hand off the aircraft to ZMA but they didn't want the aircraft because they were too busy. Controller complains that ZMA should have taken the aircraft. Aircraft continued on its way.