Genset Double-Check

Marine generators don't have it easy. They labor away in tight, stifling corners of the engine room or lazarette and, all too often, are overlooked until something goes wrong. If it's been a while since your generator was pressed into service, chances are it could use a bit of attention. This is especially true if you are planning a summer cruise where the genset will rack up a fair number of hours powering the air conditioning and other on-board systems that you can't seem to live without. The time to ferret out potential problems isn't when you are anchored in that scenic cove.

Prior to the trip, review your generator's operating manual and perform all necessary services (oil and filter changes, zinc replacements, belt inspection and replacement and so forth). It's important to get this process started well ahead of the departure date because if a problem is detected, you will need time to schedule service or repairs with a factory-authorized service center, and these businesses can get pretty busy at the peak of the boating season.

Here are some other checks and services you should performed before the big cruise:

•Ventilate the compartment, remove any debris such as oily rags or stray parts from the area and clean the generator's exterior surfaces and the surrounding area.

•Make sure the starting battery is fully charged.

•Inspect and tighten all hose clamps and fittings, especially the exhaust connections.

•Inspect all electrical connections and tighten and clean as needed.

•Inspect all mounting hardware and other mechanical nut-and-bolt connections to ensure they are secure. Tighten any loose connections.

•Check all fluid levels and add or replace as necessary. Refer to the operator's manual to ensure replacement fluids are suitable for expected operating temperatures.

•Perform all pre-start checks as outlined in the operator's manual and verify all through-hull valves are open as necessary.

•Start and run the generator set while inspecting for visual leaks and odd noises.

•Make sure you are able to start and stop the generator from all on-board control stations.

Turn on all the electrical loads you will use during the trip; be sure not to overload the generator. Make sure the generator will handle the load it is rated for. Check the manual to be sure, but a good rule of thumb is four amps of 240-volt current per kilowatt. (A 10 kW genset should carry at least 40 amps.) As the ammeter climbs, make sure the frequency doesn't drop much below 60 Hz, listen for the generator bogging down and watch for black smoke in the exhaust.

A generator that can't carry its rated amps is just as unhealthy as a main engine that won't turn full rpm. Whatever problem is causing the lost power will likely get worse. Run the generator under at least 80 percent load for 30 minutes and watch the temperature gauge to make sure the cooling system is up to the task.

Note the generators' current operational hours and add the number of hours you expect to log during the trip. Based on the total hours and the service intervals outlined in the operator's manual, determine if any service will be required during your trip. If service is required, identify the necessary replacement parts and fluids and purchase them ahead of time from an authorized dealer. Write down contact information for and locations of service centers along your planned route in case you need an unexpected part or service. Some companies sell prepackaged spares kits. Northern Lights offers the On-Board Spare Parts Kit, which includes all items needed for routine service. Onan's Cruise Kit contains the following: two oil filters, two fuel filters, V-belt, two zincs, spark plugs or glow plugs and a laminated service schedule.