Kohler generator for dummies, questions

[glazingguru]

Hi,
Because we are usually in the slip when we need power, I have yet to need my generator. I have started it a few times and will make a habit out of starting it more often. I realized that although I started it, I had put no load on it. The instructions I have are vague as far as how to start and use it. I switch the shore power to off and start it, then I flip the breaker switch on the generator to on and now what? I dont see anything happen and no sign of electrical power. Can anyone give me step by step instructions? I feel kind of dumb here.

[Lyndon670]

What size Kohler is it and what is the kw output?

It is very easy to do, start by turning on your blowers. Once you are comfortable that the vapours are out, hold the toggle (or turn the switch) to the 'start" position. Once you here the genny is running, return the switch/toggle ro the "run" position. Now you will also see a switch on your AC panel that says "SHORE" or GENERATOR. It is set up that the switch can't be in the same position (Shore and Generator) at the same time. Flick the switch to the "Generator" setting. You may have a faulty AC meter on the panel, so don't count on the reliability of its readings. Plug a nightlight into an outlet that you can see from the panel.

If none of this works, there is 2 switches/breakers on the genny. One is a start switch and the other is a breaker that will run the power to the panel.

If this doesn't work, you may have to have a marine electrician to look at it.

[glazingguru]

I guess I'll keep trying. I went out last weekend and looked a little more. The toggle on the circuit panel has two position, start and run. On the side of the genny there is a breaker switch marked on and off and a start/run toggle. The electrical panel has two indicators, shore power and AC.

[eric_b]

On my 1986 32 Convertible, there is a relay in the AC panel that knows when the genny is running and autoimatically switches the circuit. So for me, all I do is turn off AC mains, disconnect Shore Power, start Genny, turn on AC mains.

Real Simple....

[Tommyfmu]

Problems with a generator comes more from not using it, than by using it. They should be run, as a general rule of thumb, at least once per week for at least one hour under some load.

[g36]

Hi,
I flip the breaker switch on the generator to on and now what? I dont see anything happen and no sign of electrical power.

are you opening the engine hatch each time and flipping it on the genset? once you know that the breaker on the genset is on you dont need to switch it off each time you run it just leave it alone. following the above instructions with starting and turning the ship/shore switch to ship(generator)also make sure the main breakers on the panel are on mine will usually flip off when turning the ship /shore switch verify they are on with the genset running. if you have movement on the ac panel meters when at the dock you will see them operate on the genset. also i dont know how long you've had your boat, but did the genset develop power when you had a survey? or anytime?

[glazingguru]

Well, I figured it out and it wasnt that hard. HOWEVER, the damn thing still ran for a while and then shut itself off. I couldnt figure it out so I asked a mechanic to look at it. Come to find out, the wet muffler was shot and leaking into the bilge. The guy said it was even possible it could leak while not being run??? Anyway, I am replacing it and I hope that cures the problem with it shitting itself off because I suspect it was overheating.

[4mo]

This site is great, first night out on our 370 and the generator was working but the load switch on the generator wasn't on. 2 minutes online and my wife thinks I'm competent.

Thanks!

[tomschauer]

I am glad you found a problem. I say A problem because the leaking muffler would not cause the generator to overheat or shut down, it would just but water and CO into your bilge, both of course not good.
If you don't use it often, try replacing the raw water impeller, it may be that simple. If not let us know.

[bud37]

Source of the post This site is great, first night out on our 370 and the generator was working but the load switch on the generator wasn't on. 2 minutes online and my wife thinks I'm competent.

Thanks!

And the admiral is correct.... .......