Running the Generator

[pugtug613]

I read on a website that you should ALWAYS run your genny with a load. The article said, even if you are only charging the batteries, you should turn everything on while running. Also, before you shut it down, turn off all loads plus turn that switch back to off. Then shut down the genny. Has anyone else heard of this? The article said the genny will not last as long if you don't do that.

The article also addressed the main engine. It suggested running at a slow speed for 5 - 10 minutes or until running temp is reached. Then run at 80% load (not sure what that means). At some point in your trip, go to WOT for at least 5 minutes. This will reduce water build up in the oil.

I guess I should pay attention. I just turn the key and go! 😳

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

The article you read is good advice. Regarding the generator you'll find that you'll not be able to turn everything on, at least on ours, as this will cause an overload. Charging the batteries and running the air conditioning at the same time is about max. If I add a toaster or coffee maker at the same time it's just to much and will trip the power off. As far as turning things off before you actually turn the generator off I've found this to be a good practice. One time I did not and after the generator was off and I had left the battery charger and hot water heater on I turned the inverter on and fried the inverter.

The 80% load you questioned on your main engine is simply running it at 80% of it's maximum RPM's. I don't do this as we travel at trawler speeds but I guess by doing so would let you know how your engine is performing early on in a cruise. I do make it a practice to take my engine up to 80% or so towards the end of a trip but not 100% for 5 to 10 minutes. Not only does this reduce water buildup in oil it cleans any carbon buildup out of the system.

Jim

 

[knotflying]

Running up your RPM's is also good for getting the turbo exercised.

 

[Boont Boater]

The article makes sense - I doubt that I would run at WOT - but that's just me.

Generators definitely need to be offline when they are warmed up and shut down. A lot of amps draw can happen to the windings in the generator or a motor being run at start up or shut down - this causes heat and potential damage.

I've found another reason to run Aurora at high speed for awhile when we go out. Twice now a cooling problem has showed up once on Aurora and another on the charter Ranger up in Bellingham when I cranked up the Turbo. If I've got a problem I'd rather discover it on an empty bay rather then in front of a freighter bearing down on me. 😱

Jeff