GENERATOR OPTION/TYPICAL PANEL

Before Activating Generator

Read and understand the blower warning label shown above. Before attempting to start the generator make sure all equipment switches and shore power breakers on the main ship’s panel along with the generator sub panel are in the “off ” position. This procedure assists in eliminating any voltage equipment surges upon generator start-up. Ensure that the generator switch is off on the sub panel. Make sure the generator seacock is in the “open” position. It is located in the sump. Also, make sure the generator fuel valve is in the “open” positon.

Typical Generator Start-Up

At this point start the blower switch and allow to run for at least 4 minutes before starting the generator. After runing the blower for at least 4 minutes energize the momenary start switch and release. The generator will start. While the generator warms up check immediately for water at the generator exhaust thru-hull fitting. Shut down the generator switch immediately if no water is exiting the generator exhaust thru-hull fitting.

Generator Shutdown Generator Transfer

The generator is now ready to transfer A.C. current to the applicable equipment components.

Position the generator switch to the “on” mode and at the same time push the transfer bar to the right. This will result in the generator switch set to a full “on” position. At this point, turn the A.C ship’s main panel shore power breaker to the “on” position. Equipment breakers can now be activated as needed.

Note: Never flip the main ship’s panel shore power breaker to the “off ” position with equipment breakers still being activated as it could cause generator/component circuit damage.

To shut the generator down deactivate any equipment breakers on the main panel. Deactivate the main ship’s panel shore power breaker. Move the transfer bar to the left which will force the generator breaker to the “off ”position. Touch the generator stop toggle switch and release. The generator will stop.

Systems

GFCI Outlet

Sometimes current in a circuit escapes its normal route and finds a “ground fault”. If that vehicle ends up to be your body and the current passes through your heart the results could be deadly.

A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) senses this ground current before a fatal dose can be conducted and in a fraction of a second cuts the current.

The GFCI device marine speaking is not ignition protected which means the device can not be installed in the engine room or the fuel tank area of a gasoline powered boat because of a lack of ignition protection. Your vessel has several 120 volt receptacles. A GFCI style outlet is found as the first receptacle in the circuit. By this placement all 120 volt outlets downline are protected.

You can identify the GFCI primary receptacle by the test and reset breaker in the center of the device. Check for GFCI protection monthly. If a problem develops with the GFCI circuitry call a marine electrician to access the situation.

GFCI outlets are especially useful when electrical equipment is used such as drills, curling irons and hair dryers. Never use any electrical devices when puddling water is present to prevent possible shock hazard.

TEST MONTHLY

TYPICAL GFCI RECEPTACLE

Testing GFCI’S

To test a GFCI on your yacht find a 120 volt night light or small lamp to plug into the GFCI outlet. Try the device in another circuit first to make sure the device lights. After the lamp is plugged into the GFCI outlet the lamp should light. Now press the “test” button at the CFCI receptacle center. The GFCI “reset” button should pop out and the lamp or night light should go out. This means the GFCI device is functioning properly. You can use the lamp or night light to check each of the outlets downstream from the GFCI receptacle. The lamp should go out each time it is moved to a different outlet on the same circuit as the GFCI “test button” is pressed. Also, GFCI down stream receptacles can be tested with a plug-in type GFCI tester. This tester contains its own GFCI test button which accomplishes the same end as the GFCI receptacle “test” circuit. These testers can be purchased at “box” stores, electronic outlets or marine supply stores.

Chapter 5

Ignition Protected Devices

Many electrical devices in everyday use tend to “arc” or spark when being used. These include motors, fans, switches, relays, etc.

Vessels employ many of these same devices but they are shielded from any sparking that may cause the device to ignite with any vapors such as found in the engine and/ or fuel tank areas. Shielded devices are known as being ignition protected.

When replacing any electrical device in the engine compartment make sure it is ignition protected. This means it has been tested and normally the device is stamped with a marking making it safe to use. Do not install any electrical device before ensuring it is ignition protected.

Many automotive stores sell replacement engine electrical parts such as alternators and starters. They do not feature flame arrestors and therefore must not be used in the engine compartment. Use only the engine manufacturer’s approved replacement parts in the engine compartment.

Systems