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Cruising Boat Generator (small)
I'm considering the addition of a small, quiet diesel generator for our
cruising boat. I have a wife eager to go back cruising again but her requests for more power sucking conveniences has made me consider cancelling the wind generator & solar panels in favor of a small generator. A generator would charge the batteries, run the AC (cruising all summer too), water maker & washer (yea, I know...but she's willing to go). I was planning to add a K.I.S.S. wind generator & a couple larger solar panels but am considering taking that money and putting toward a used generator. Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? Thanks! Glenn. s/v Seawing |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Glenn (s/v Seawing) wrote:
Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? A/C on an anchor? You are talking about running a genset 100% of the time afloat. I think that'll pretty much take all the enjoyment out of sailing. You say a small boat - well how small? Generators, especially diesel, are noisy. So what will you do - build it a compartment and then line that compartment with lead sound deadening? OK, then you need to vent it. Even so, you'll know it's running which would make me crazy. I don't think you can get a big enough generator to power, say a microwave and a/c, quiet enough on a 35' boat. There isn't the room for it. If you can't get your wife to simplify her life, get a trawler. -paul |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
In article ,
Paul Cassel wrote: Glenn (s/v Seawing) wrote: Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? A/C on an anchor? You are talking about running a genset 100% of the time afloat. I think that'll pretty much take all the enjoyment out of sailing. You say a small boat - well how small? Generators, especially diesel, are noisy. So what will you do - build it a compartment and then line that compartment with lead sound deadening? OK, then you need to vent it. Even so, you'll know it's running which would make me crazy. I don't think you can get a big enough generator to power, say a microwave and a/c, quiet enough on a 35' boat. There isn't the room for it. If you can't get your wife to simplify her life, get a trawler. -paul Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an enclosed place and being uncomfortable... I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is generator. I think it was a Marineaire unit. The Honda lasted long enough to kill the heat and humidity so I could get to sleep and still have enough juice to charge the battery so I could use my sleep apnea machine. It was a lot quieter than I would have thought. I happen to like sailing so a trawler would not work for me. Marineair (http://www.marineair.com/contained/index.html) now has a little cuddy unit that works off the batteries so the generator could just charge them (I ran my A/C or 110, right off the generator plugged through my shore power). There are solutions for most problems if you look. Harlan -- To respond, obviously drop the "nospan"? |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:22:17 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)"
wrote: I was planning to add a K.I.S.S. wind generator & a couple larger solar panels but am considering taking that money and putting toward a used generator. Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? If you boat in Florida in the summer time you definitely need a diesel gen set for air conditioning. The biggest considerations are dealer service and parts availability, and that depends on what area you are in. Miami/Lauderdale you can get parts and service for just about anything, not necessarily true in the Keys or on the west coast. For a deal ask around with local installers for a good running "take out"; take a look on EBAY/Craigs List; or check for "boat show specials". I highly recommend getting a good inverter system and battery bank to save generator time when your power needs are more modest. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Harlan Lachman" wrote in message ... | In article , | Paul Cassel wrote: | | Glenn (s/v Seawing) wrote: | | Two questions: | | 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? | | 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? | | | A/C on an anchor? You are talking about running a genset 100% of the | time afloat. I think that'll pretty much take all the enjoyment out of | sailing. You say a small boat - well how small? Generators, especially | diesel, are noisy. So what will you do - build it a compartment and then | line that compartment with lead sound deadening? OK, then you need to | vent it. Even so, you'll know it's running which would make me crazy. | | I don't think you can get a big enough generator to power, say a | microwave and a/c, quiet enough on a 35' boat. There isn't the room | for it. | | If you can't get your wife to simplify her life, get a trawler. | | -paul | | Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep | apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably | know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an enclosed | place and being uncomfortable... | | I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is | generator. I think it was a Marineaire unit. The Honda lasted long | enough to kill the heat and humidity so I could get to sleep and still | have enough juice to charge the battery so I could use my sleep apnea | machine. It was a lot quieter than I would have thought. | | I happen to like sailing so a trawler would not work for me. | | Marineair (http://www.marineair.com/contained/index.html) now has a | little cuddy unit that works off the batteries so the generator could | just charge them (I ran my A/C or 110, right off the generator plugged | through my shore power). | | There are solutions for most problems if you look. People like you make me mad. You anchor right upwind of me and the first thing I see is a fat guy setting a red Honda generator on the top deck of his trawler right at the back. This is the very best place from which to broadcast noise. Then the fat man fires up the generator, plugs in the load and the quiet generator now takes on an aggressive, snappy tone that is very irritating for any other anchored boat within a quarter mile. Then the fat man goes below and says to his fat wife. "Nice and cool in here pretty soon, Hon. Get me a beer and how about some chips and French onion dip, please." Then the fat man pigs out and aggravates his sleep apnea and asthma all the more. "Hon, that generator isn't very loud at all is it? I can hardly hear it in here." In here is the key but what about the other boats anchored around yours, you selfish twit? What about the people who are trying to sleep under an open hatch catching a bit of a breeze.? Noise, noise and more noise. All nite long it grinds away. You are one rude, selfish son of a bitch. Sickly assholes like you should stay home so you don't visit your infirmities on healthy people who don't need air conditioning and are physically able to enjoy the ambient conditions. You, sir, are an asshole. Greg |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
In article ,
"Gregory Hall" wrote: "Harlan Lachman" wrote in message ... | In article , | Paul Cassel wrote: | | Glenn (s/v Seawing) wrote: | | Two questions: | | 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? | | 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? | | | A/C on an anchor? You are talking about running a genset 100% of the | time afloat. I think that'll pretty much take all the enjoyment out of | sailing. You say a small boat - well how small? Generators, especially | diesel, are noisy. So what will you do - build it a compartment and then | line that compartment with lead sound deadening? OK, then you need to | vent it. Even so, you'll know it's running which would make me crazy. | | I don't think you can get a big enough generator to power, say a | microwave and a/c, quiet enough on a 35' boat. There isn't the room | for it. | | If you can't get your wife to simplify her life, get a trawler. | | -paul | | Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep | apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably | know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an enclosed | place and being uncomfortable... | | I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is | generator. I think it was a Marineaire unit. The Honda lasted long | enough to kill the heat and humidity so I could get to sleep and still | have enough juice to charge the battery so I could use my sleep apnea | machine. It was a lot quieter than I would have thought. | | I happen to like sailing so a trawler would not work for me. | | Marineair (http://www.marineair.com/contained/index.html) now has a | little cuddy unit that works off the batteries so the generator could | just charge them (I ran my A/C or 110, right off the generator plugged | through my shore power). | | There are solutions for most problems if you look. People like you make me mad. You anchor right upwind of me and the first thing I see is a fat guy setting a red Honda generator on the top deck of his trawler right at the back. This is the very best place from which to broadcast noise. Then the fat man fires up the generator, plugs in the load and the quiet generator now takes on an aggressive, snappy tone that is very irritating for any other anchored boat within a quarter mile. Then the fat man goes below and says to his fat wife. "Nice and cool in here pretty soon, Hon. Get me a beer and how about some chips and French onion dip, please." Then the fat man pigs out and aggravates his sleep apnea and asthma all the more. "Hon, that generator isn't very loud at all is it? I can hardly hear it in here." In here is the key but what about the other boats anchored around yours, you selfish twit? What about the people who are trying to sleep under an open hatch catching a bit of a breeze.? Noise, noise and more noise. All nite long it grinds away. You are one rude, selfish son of a bitch. Sickly assholes like you should stay home so you don't visit your infirmities on healthy people who don't need air conditioning and are physically able to enjoy the ambient conditions. You, sir, are an asshole. Greg Greg, as the coordinator of the AWAKE chapter up here, let me disabuse you of the common misconception that folks with OSA are necessarily fat. While there is a correlation with weight and menopause with OSA, it is just a correlation. There are kids and thin folks and normal folks who have it too. Second, one can cool down a cabin fairly quickly with an AC since there is such a small space. In most places once the cabin is cooled down there is no need to keep running the AC. That still leaves the fairly quiet small gen set running. But my guess is that that huge powerboats in your gunkhole are what you here. But mostly, I am sorry that the joy of cruising and sailing has left you such an embittered, angry person. We have one thing in common. We both hope not to share anchorages with the other. Harlan -- To respond, obviously drop the "nospan"? |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Harlan Lachman" wrote in message
... bs troll material deleted Greg, as the coordinator of the AWAKE chapter up here, let me disabuse you of the common misconception that folks with OSA are necessarily fat. While there is a correlation with weight and menopause with OSA, it is just a correlation. There are kids and thin folks and normal folks who have it too. Second, one can cool down a cabin fairly quickly with an AC since there is such a small space. In most places once the cabin is cooled down there is no need to keep running the AC. That still leaves the fairly quiet small gen set running. But my guess is that that huge powerboats in your gunkhole are what you here. But mostly, I am sorry that the joy of cruising and sailing has left you such an embittered, angry person. We have one thing in common. We both hope not to share anchorages with the other. Harlan Don't worry. Just say plonk. He doesn't actually sail. He's a stalker on Usenet. -- "j" ganz @@ www.sailnow.com |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:39:17 -0400, Wayne.B
wrote: On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:22:17 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)" wrote: I was planning to add a K.I.S.S. wind generator & a couple larger solar panels but am considering taking that money and putting toward a used generator. Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. Bruce-in-Bangkok (Note:displayed e-mail address is a spam trap) |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Bruce in Bangkok" wrote in message
... On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:39:17 -0400, Wayne.B wrote: On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:22:17 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)" wrote: I was planning to add a K.I.S.S. wind generator & a couple larger solar panels but am considering taking that money and putting toward a used generator. Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. I have used the Honda EU2000i which is a DC generator with an inverter for 2000W for close to 5 years now. Very quiet under light load and with the eco throttle it speeds up a bit when the hot water heater comes on. I have used it on the boat as well as in the RV when I didn't want to crank up the big coach generator. I just went to the Mayberry site (mayberrys.com) and saw that Yamaha has a line of the inverter type gennys matching the Honda line. No interest in the company, but just a satisfied user. Leanne |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:46:59 +0700, Bruce in Bangkok
wrote: If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. Unfortunately that is not a marine generator that can be installed below decks, nor it is a diesel. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Leanne wrote:
"Bruce in Bangkok" wrote in message ... On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:39:17 -0400, Wayne.B wrote: On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:22:17 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)" wrote: I was planning to add a K.I.S.S. wind generator & a couple larger solar panels but am considering taking that money and putting toward a used generator. Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. I have used the Honda EU2000i which is a DC generator with an inverter for 2000W for close to 5 years now. Very quiet under light load and with the eco throttle it speeds up a bit when the hot water heater comes on. I have used it on the boat as well as in the RV when I didn't want to crank up the big coach generator. I just went to the Mayberry site (mayberrys.com) and saw that Yamaha has a line of the inverter type gennys matching the Honda line. No interest in the company, but just a satisfied user. Leanne I also have the Honda EU2000i and use it as a backup to the engine alternator. Although very quiet at idle, its a bit noisy at full throttle (i.e. when charging) and I consider it anti-social to use in a tight anchorage where a neighbor might be 50 feet from my cockpit. It is, however, quieter than the engine for me down below, so I use it when neighbors are more than a 100 yards away. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Wow, this post sure generated a s***storm of comments.
For what you want to do, I would install a small diesel genset. I particularly like the 3.5 KW NextGen. It operates at a more reasonable 2800 rpm and is much cheaper than the bigger, heavier 1800 rpm gensets. It won't last as long as the big 1800 rpm units, but it will do the job. And with its integral sound enclosure, it won't be any louder. For this application, I think diesel is essential. The gas Honda 2000i will work but it is noisy and it will burn a lot of gas for AC cooling in the middle of the summer. It is definitely much, much cheaper than a permanently installed diesel genset. But most complaints about noise go away with the permanently installed diesel genset. The NexGen will cost about $5,000 with soundshield, about another $500 for muffler, hoses, etc and about $2,000-$5000 to have it professionally installed, nothing for the DIY. David |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:10:57 -0700, "David&Joan"
wrote: Wow, this post sure generated a s***storm of comments. For what you want to do, I would install a small diesel genset. I particularly like the 3.5 KW NextGen. It operates at a more reasonable 2800 rpm and is much cheaper than the bigger, heavier 1800 rpm gensets. It won't last as long as the big 1800 rpm units, but it will do the job. And with its integral sound enclosure, it won't be any louder. For this application, I think diesel is essential. The gas Honda 2000i will work but it is noisy and it will burn a lot of gas for AC cooling in the middle of the summer. It is definitely much, much cheaper than a permanently installed diesel genset. But most complaints about noise go away with the permanently installed diesel genset. The NexGen will cost about $5,000 with soundshield, about another $500 for muffler, hoses, etc and about $2,000-$5000 to have it professionally installed, nothing for the DIY. David Good advice. Deck mounted gas generators really have no place on a boat except for emergencies. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
That's what I'm talking about; charging batteries & when I'm using some item
that requires power (an appliance, water heater etc.). I often hear folks talk about how a sailboat should have nothing electric powered on it, beyond maybe a few lights...I also hear the same bunch complain how their wives won't move aboard with them. Well, my wife is willing to move aboard for winters, and in this case, for a year and a half. I think I can reciprocate by providing her some creature comforts. We normally don't need air conditioning, however Florida/Bahamas in the summer time...might be nice a couple hours a day or so. Glenn. "Harlan Lachman" wrote in message ... In article , "Gregory Hall" wrote: "Harlan Lachman" wrote in message ... | In article , | Paul Cassel wrote: | | Glenn (s/v Seawing) wrote: | | Two questions: | | 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? | | 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? | | | A/C on an anchor? You are talking about running a genset 100% of the | time afloat. I think that'll pretty much take all the enjoyment out of | sailing. You say a small boat - well how small? Generators, especially | diesel, are noisy. So what will you do - build it a compartment and then | line that compartment with lead sound deadening? OK, then you need to | vent it. Even so, you'll know it's running which would make me crazy. | | I don't think you can get a big enough generator to power, say a | microwave and a/c, quiet enough on a 35' boat. There isn't the room | for it. | | If you can't get your wife to simplify her life, get a trawler. | | -paul | | Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep | apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably | know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an enclosed | place and being uncomfortable... | | I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is | generator. I think it was a Marineaire unit. The Honda lasted long | enough to kill the heat and humidity so I could get to sleep and still | have enough juice to charge the battery so I could use my sleep apnea | machine. It was a lot quieter than I would have thought. | | I happen to like sailing so a trawler would not work for me. | | Marineair (http://www.marineair.com/contained/index.html) now has a | little cuddy unit that works off the batteries so the generator could | just charge them (I ran my A/C or 110, right off the generator plugged | through my shore power). | | There are solutions for most problems if you look. People like you make me mad. You anchor right upwind of me and the first thing I see is a fat guy setting a red Honda generator on the top deck of his trawler right at the back. This is the very best place from which to broadcast noise. Then the fat man fires up the generator, plugs in the load and the quiet generator now takes on an aggressive, snappy tone that is very irritating for any other anchored boat within a quarter mile. Then the fat man goes below and says to his fat wife. "Nice and cool in here pretty soon, Hon. Get me a beer and how about some chips and French onion dip, please." Then the fat man pigs out and aggravates his sleep apnea and asthma all the more. "Hon, that generator isn't very loud at all is it? I can hardly hear it in here." In here is the key but what about the other boats anchored around yours, you selfish twit? What about the people who are trying to sleep under an open hatch catching a bit of a breeze.? Noise, noise and more noise. All nite long it grinds away. You are one rude, selfish son of a bitch. Sickly assholes like you should stay home so you don't visit your infirmities on healthy people who don't need air conditioning and are physically able to enjoy the ambient conditions. You, sir, are an asshole. Greg Greg, as the coordinator of the AWAKE chapter up here, let me disabuse you of the common misconception that folks with OSA are necessarily fat. While there is a correlation with weight and menopause with OSA, it is just a correlation. There are kids and thin folks and normal folks who have it too. Second, one can cool down a cabin fairly quickly with an AC since there is such a small space. In most places once the cabin is cooled down there is no need to keep running the AC. That still leaves the fairly quiet small gen set running. But my guess is that that huge powerboats in your gunkhole are what you here. But mostly, I am sorry that the joy of cruising and sailing has left you such an embittered, angry person. We have one thing in common. We both hope not to share anchorages with the other. Harlan -- To respond, obviously drop the "nospan"? |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
I hear ya. I don't know what makes people so full of hate and anger when
online. I'm certain this individual wouldn't stand up to a full-grown man with the same attitude. "Block Sender" does provide a solution for this type. Glenn. "Capt. JG" wrote in message ... "Harlan Lachman" wrote in message ... bs troll material deleted Greg, as the coordinator of the AWAKE chapter up here, let me disabuse you of the common misconception that folks with OSA are necessarily fat. While there is a correlation with weight and menopause with OSA, it is just a correlation. There are kids and thin folks and normal folks who have it too. Second, one can cool down a cabin fairly quickly with an AC since there is such a small space. In most places once the cabin is cooled down there is no need to keep running the AC. That still leaves the fairly quiet small gen set running. But my guess is that that huge powerboats in your gunkhole are what you here. But mostly, I am sorry that the joy of cruising and sailing has left you such an embittered, angry person. We have one thing in common. We both hope not to share anchorages with the other. Harlan Don't worry. Just say plonk. He doesn't actually sail. He's a stalker on Usenet. -- "j" ganz @@ www.sailnow.com |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Well, I actually use a Honda iu2000 onboard to charge batteries & run the
water heater when at anchor. It's very affordable, but a bit noisy. Charging, it runs slow and makes very little noise away from the boat but it's vibration is pretty loud below decks. This thing is portable, simple and incredibly reliable. I was thinking of something more fuel efficient and quieter...and not gasoline. Glenn. "Leanne" wrote in message ... "Bruce in Bangkok" wrote in message ... On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:39:17 -0400, Wayne.B wrote: On Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:22:17 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)" wrote: I was planning to add a K.I.S.S. wind generator & a couple larger solar panels but am considering taking that money and putting toward a used generator. Two questions: 1) Any advise in choosing a generator? 2) Where to look for good used generator (Florida based boat)? If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. I have used the Honda EU2000i which is a DC generator with an inverter for 2000W for close to 5 years now. Very quiet under light load and with the eco throttle it speeds up a bit when the hot water heater comes on. I have used it on the boat as well as in the RV when I didn't want to crank up the big coach generator. I just went to the Mayberry site (mayberrys.com) and saw that Yamaha has a line of the inverter type gennys matching the Honda line. No interest in the company, but just a satisfied user. Leanne |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Wayne.B" wrote in message ... On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:46:59 +0700, Bruce in Bangkok wrote: If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. Unfortunately that is not a marine generator that can be installed below decks, nor it is a diesel. Right, besides the noise, I don't like that this think can never be below deck (gasoline). The generator and it's fuel supply always sit at the stern rail. Don't get me wrong, we're used to it & live with it pretty well. A similar sized diesel system would be welcome. Glenn. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Thanks David for the reply. I found NextGen on the web and will look into
them. Glenn. "David&Joan" wrote in message ... Wow, this post sure generated a s***storm of comments. For what you want to do, I would install a small diesel genset. I particularly like the 3.5 KW NextGen. It operates at a more reasonable 2800 rpm and is much cheaper than the bigger, heavier 1800 rpm gensets. It won't last as long as the big 1800 rpm units, but it will do the job. And with its integral sound enclosure, it won't be any louder. For this application, I think diesel is essential. The gas Honda 2000i will work but it is noisy and it will burn a lot of gas for AC cooling in the middle of the summer. It is definitely much, much cheaper than a permanently installed diesel genset. But most complaints about noise go away with the permanently installed diesel genset. The NexGen will cost about $5,000 with soundshield, about another $500 for muffler, hoses, etc and about $2,000-$5000 to have it professionally installed, nothing for the DIY. David |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 03:27:33 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)"
wrote: "Wayne.B" wrote in message .. . On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:46:59 +0700, Bruce in Bangkok wrote: If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. Unfortunately that is not a marine generator that can be installed below decks, nor it is a diesel. Right, besides the noise, I don't like that this think can never be below deck (gasoline). The generator and it's fuel supply always sit at the stern rail. Don't get me wrong, we're used to it & live with it pretty well. A similar sized diesel system would be welcome. Glenn. Well, I can say from experience that you probably do not want an air cooled diesel generator either. The previous owner of a power boat I am rebuilding installed one. Noisy, vibrates and makes a nice heater for the cabin when it is cold. Plus, no emergency shutdowns installed. The problem with a fixed gen set in a 35 foot boat (I think the OP said that) is where do you put it? I've seen them installed but generally it turns out to be a compromise. Bruce-in-Bangkok (Note:displayed e-mail address is a spam trap) |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
I have installed a Northern Lights diesel genset on our sailboat.
This leads me to a couple of thoughts which I did not have when I bought it. Consider buying one which is the same manufacture as your pirmary engine if possible. This might allow you to use the same filters and repair kits. Weight. A diesel genset has weight. Where are you going to put it. Probably not on the center line. Thus you need to have an off-setting weight to counter ballance or you will have a list. (mine has one to port) regarding noise. Mine is in a sound enclosure. It is remarkable quiet for me and my neighbors.. fumes. if you have a small portable gasoline unit on your bow or stern, how are you going to keep the deadly fumes from "falling" back into your cabin and killing you while you sleep. I would argue that there is much less risk of this with a diesel "wet exhaust" setup. -Mark http://GoReads.com |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
In article . com,
"Mark R." wrote: .... Weight. ... Noise. ... Fumes. ... Another option is to install larger batteries and an inverter - suitable for limited power needs, but otherwise nice. (Running a 600 W microwave for 10 minutes will draw 80 A from a 12 V battery for 10 minutes, ie some 12 Ah). Depending on your needs this can be a good option. And cheaper as well. Works well for me. Marc |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Bruce in Bangkok" wrote in message
... On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 03:27:33 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)" wrote: "Wayne.B" wrote in message . .. On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:46:59 +0700, Bruce in Bangkok wrote: If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. Unfortunately that is not a marine generator that can be installed below decks, nor it is a diesel. Right, besides the noise, I don't like that this think can never be below deck (gasoline). The generator and it's fuel supply always sit at the stern rail. Don't get me wrong, we're used to it & live with it pretty well. A similar sized diesel system would be welcome. Glenn. Well, I can say from experience that you probably do not want an air cooled diesel generator either. The previous owner of a power boat I am rebuilding installed one. Noisy, vibrates and makes a nice heater for the cabin when it is cold. Plus, no emergency shutdowns installed. The problem with a fixed gen set in a 35 foot boat (I think the OP said that) is where do you put it? I've seen them installed but generally it turns out to be a compromise. I watched them install a BalMar single cylinder diesel, in a 36' Cape Dory. They put it aft of the engine which made the boat squat in the ster. Not pretty to look at. The other thing was that if you had to get to the steering quadrant, you had to unbolt the generator and slide it out into the pilot berth and then squeeze by it to get to the steering and packing gland. When the generator was running, you could hardly stand the vibration and noise down below, but they had air conditioning. Leanne |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Bruce in Bangkok" wrote in message
... On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 03:27:33 GMT, "Glenn \(s/v Seawing\)" wrote: "Wayne.B" wrote in message . .. On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:46:59 +0700, Bruce in Bangkok wrote: If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. Unfortunately that is not a marine generator that can be installed below decks, nor it is a diesel. Right, besides the noise, I don't like that this think can never be below deck (gasoline). The generator and it's fuel supply always sit at the stern rail. Don't get me wrong, we're used to it & live with it pretty well. A similar sized diesel system would be welcome. Glenn. Well, I can say from experience that you probably do not want an air cooled diesel generator either. The previous owner of a power boat I am rebuilding installed one. Noisy, vibrates and makes a nice heater for the cabin when it is cold. Plus, no emergency shutdowns installed. The problem with a fixed gen set in a 35 foot boat (I think the OP said that) is where do you put it? I've seen them installed but generally it turns out to be a compromise. Bruce-in-Bangkok (Note:displayed e-mail address is a spam trap) Yes, I hear you. In my case, there's lots of room. Seawing is a 41' Center Cockpit with a large engine room. Originally there was a generator installed, but it was dead when I bought the boat & I've removed it and used the space for a house bank. Glenn. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Harlan Lachman wrote:
Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an enclosed place and being uncomfortable... I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is generator. Harlan, The generator you post is gasoline powered, not diesel. The issues of a gasoline generator are much different. They are lighter, quieter, and easier to manage, but you then need to transport petrol which some folks don't wish to do including the OP. Also even though these are very quiet by generator standards, they are, IMO, disruptive in a completely silent anchorage, but YMMV. -paul |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
In article ,
Paul Cassel wrote: Harlan Lachman wrote: Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an enclosed place and being uncomfortable... I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is generator. Harlan, The generator you post is gasoline powered, not diesel. The issues of a gasoline generator are much different. They are lighter, quieter, and easier to manage, but you then need to transport petrol which some folks don't wish to do including the OP. Also even though these are very quiet by generator standards, they are, IMO, disruptive in a completely silent anchorage, but YMMV. -paul Agree with all the negatives. Every one. OTOH, they are portable (can be used for other purposes), take little fuel, are quieter, and generate the power the original poster enquired about. harlan -- To respond, obviously drop the "nospan"? |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Paul Cassel wrote in
: Harlan Lachman wrote: Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an enclosed place and being uncomfortable... I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is generator. Harlan, The generator you post is gasoline powered, not diesel. The issues of a gasoline generator are much different. They are lighter, quieter, and easier to manage, but you then need to transport petrol which some folks don't wish to do including the OP. Also even though these are very quiet by generator standards, they are, IMO, disruptive in a completely silent anchorage, but YMMV. -paul I personally HATE it when I'm in an anchorage near someone who has a Honda generator running. I find them far from quiet, especially at night if someone is using one to keep an AC running. What ticks me off even more is people running them at dock becuase they're too cheap to pay for a power hookup and the marina doesn't have rules to prevent it. -- Geoff www.GeoffSchultz.org |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:56:30 -0600, Paul Cassel
wrote: Also even though these are very quiet by generator standards, they are, IMO, disruptive in a completely silent anchorage, but YMMV. Just as is done with smoking, you could have segregation. Generators here quiet over there. The generator crowd will invite those less endowed, electricity wise, over for very cold drinks with lots of ice, and adequate or better air conditioning. Perhaps a voluntary curfew on unnecessary noise. Pigs might fly. Casady |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Bruce in Bangkok wrote:
The problem with a fixed gen set in a 35 foot boat (I think the OP said that) is where do you put it? I've seen them installed but generally it turns out to be a compromise. That size sailboat usually has such a relatively small engine anyway, I've often wondered why someone doesn't market a combination primary propulsion/genset. IOW, one engine that drives both the prop and the generator. Seems it would help with the space problem as well as weight distribution. Rick |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Geoff Schultz" wrote in message .. . | Paul Cassel wrote in | : | | Harlan Lachman wrote: | | | Glenn, I have a different take than Paul. As an asthmatic with sleep | apnea, really hot humid nights are very bad for me. As you probably | know, hot, humid nights have more stuff in the air. Being in an | enclosed place and being uncomfortable... | | I found it possible to run the smallest AC off my Honda 1000is | generator. | | Harlan, | | The generator you post is gasoline powered, not diesel. The issues of | a gasoline generator are much different. They are lighter, quieter, | and easier to manage, but you then need to transport petrol which some | folks don't wish to do including the OP. | | Also even though these are very quiet by generator standards, they | are, IMO, disruptive in a completely silent anchorage, but YMMV. | | -paul | | I personally HATE it when I'm in an anchorage near someone who has a Honda | generator running. I find them far from quiet, especially at night if | someone is using one to keep an AC running. What ticks me off even more is | people running them at dock becuase they're too cheap to pay for a power | hookup and the marina doesn't have rules to prevent it. | | -- Geoff | www.GeoffSchultz.org Thank you for being a voice of sanity in this sea of selfish assholes who think their fat bodies and comfort takes precedence over maybe 20-30 other cruisers with anchored boats trying to enjoy the peace and quite of a good anchorage. Good until the fat-assed, selfish, generator-running crowd shows up, that is.Then the anchorage begins to sound and smell more like an airport. One good thing about those Honda generators, thought. They are light. When the inconsiderate clods fire one up and then jump into their dinghy to go ashore because even they can't stand the racket the light weight makes it very easy to grab the generator and toss it overboard. You gotta do it right, though. Don't lift it. Slowly drag it so those black rubber feet leave skid marks. Then when the assholes return and find their generator gone they see the skid marks and think maybe a huge wake slid it over the side. Either way end of problem as far as listening to all that noise. Greg (deep-sixed over a dozen portable generators to date!) |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
lid wrote:
Bruce in Bangkok wrote: The problem with a fixed gen set in a 35 foot boat (I think the OP said that) is where do you put it? I've seen them installed but generally it turns out to be a compromise. That size sailboat usually has such a relatively small engine anyway, I've often wondered why someone doesn't market a combination primary propulsion/genset. IOW, one engine that drives both the prop and the generator. Seems it would help with the space problem as well as weight distribution. Oh, like the new Yanmar-set? http://www.yanmarmarine.com/press/ar...ist=100&id=420 -- A: Top Posters! | s/y Charlotta | Q: What is the most annoying thing on mailing lists? | FIN-2674 | http://www.fe83.org/ Finn Express Purjehtijat ry | ============= | Harald H Hannelius | harald (At) iki (dot) fi | GSM +358 50 594 1020 |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
In article ,
Harald Hannelius wrote: http://www.yanmarmarine.com/press/ar...ist=100&id=420 Sounds too good to be true! -- Molesworth |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 18:49:03 +0000 (UTC), Harald Hannelius
wrote: wrote: Bruce in Bangkok wrote: The problem with a fixed gen set in a 35 foot boat (I think the OP said that) is where do you put it? I've seen them installed but generally it turns out to be a compromise. That size sailboat usually has such a relatively small engine anyway, I've often wondered why someone doesn't market a combination primary propulsion/genset. IOW, one engine that drives both the prop and the generator. Seems it would help with the space problem as well as weight distribution. Oh, like the new Yanmar-set? http://www.yanmarmarine.com/press/ar...ist=100&id=420 From the brief description I believe that the generator described is a DC generator which in turn drives an inverter to produce AC. Essentially the same system as the new Honda. If so it should solve a lot of problems. Bruce-in-Bangkok (Note:displayed e-mail address is a spam trap) |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:34:44 -0400, "Gregory Hall"
wrote: Greg (deep-sixed over a dozen portable generators to date!) Sure you have. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
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Cruising Boat Generator (small)
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 18:49:03 +0000 (UTC), Harald Hannelius
wrote: That size sailboat usually has such a relatively small engine anyway, I've often wondered why someone doesn't market a combination primary propulsion/genset. IOW, one engine that drives both the prop and the generator. Seems it would help with the space problem as well as weight distribution. Oh, like the new Yanmar-set? http://www.yanmarmarine.com/press/ar...ist=100&id=420 That's an interesting product but you can get almost as much power using a big alternator and an inverter. Add a large battery bank of 400 to 800 Amp Hours and you have a great deal of flexibility. It's important to get the alternator mounted correctly: Solid mount, properly aligned, and the right belt(s). |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Richard Casady wrote:
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:56:30 -0600, Paul Cassel wrote: Just as is done with smoking, you could have segregation. Generators here quiet over there. The generator crowd will invite those less endowed, electricity wise, over for very cold drinks with lots of ice, and adequate or better air conditioning. Perhaps a voluntary curfew on unnecessary noise. Pigs might fly. Then where do you place the guys who play annoying music? |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Wayne.B wrote:
On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:46:59 +0700, Bruce in Bangkok wrote: If I were planning on putting a generator in a boat I'd "ping" Larry as he recently described a new model Honda that apparently is a DC generator and an inverter combined. Larry says that he uses one and it is quite and efficient. Unfortunately that is not a marine generator that can be installed below decks, nor it is a diesel. Technically untrue. You can create an isolated compartment and vent overboard. I don't think Glenn's goal can be achieved on a small boat without silly compromises. Frex, I could create the compartment, sound proof it, etc, but then he'd lose his fuel tank, etc. |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
Glenn (s/v Seawing) wrote:
Summer in FL & the Bahamas might be harder to deal with though. It all depends on breeze. If you on anchor, it's ok. If you are tied up at the dock, especially in Aug and Sep, then it's tough, but then you have shore power. The only time I've been badly distressed in FL during summer is being anchored in the inland near a spit of land which was full of flying insects. I wanted to shut the boat up due to the insects -- not the heat. I suggest you TRY it first and then decide. I never had any temperature issues away from land aside from flyng insects. -paul |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Richard Casady" wrote in message ... | On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:56:30 -0600, Paul Cassel | wrote: | | Also even though these are very quiet by generator standards, they are, | IMO, disruptive in a completely silent anchorage, but YMMV. | | Just as is done with smoking, you could have segregation. Generators | here quiet over there. The generator crowd will invite those less | endowed, electricity wise, over for very cold drinks with lots of ice, | and adequate or better air conditioning. Perhaps a voluntary curfew on | unnecessary noise. Pigs might fly. | | Casady Pie in the sky. It'll never happen. Portable generator users don't wanna listen to a bunch of portables grinding away all night long any more than the rest of us. When they turn off their noise they expect it to be quiet. That's how these people are. It's me, myself and I. That's their mentality. Built-in generators with water lift mufflers are an acceptable alternative as far as noise goes. If there's any wind at all they can't even be heard because their exhaust sounds pretty much like waves lapping on a hull. But, most of them are diesel. And we all know diesel stinks. I sure don't wanna be breathing diesel fumes all night long. Even if I can't hear the exhaust, I can smell the fumes. So what diesel boats need to do is anchor downwind of EVERYBODY! Unfortunately you rarely see it. They know that downwind from everybody exposes them to assholes who anchor upwind of everybody and run generators. The only civilized alternative is anchored boats should all contain considerate people who care about their fellow boater and who all agree that once the sun sets any and all generators are to be turned off. (Ever hear of storage batteries? Try fans instead of air conditioning!) This includes those obnoxious wind generators, too. The noise they make is particularly bothersome. How has it come about that a few selfish people are ruining cruising for all concerned? Greg |
Cruising Boat Generator (small)
"Paul Cassel" wrote in message . .. Richard Casady wrote: On Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:56:30 -0600, Paul Cassel wrote: Just as is done with smoking, you could have segregation. Generators here quiet over there. The generator crowd will invite those less endowed, electricity wise, over for very cold drinks with lots of ice, and adequate or better air conditioning. Perhaps a voluntary curfew on unnecessary noise. Pigs might fly. Then where do you place the guys who play annoying music? Miami. Glenn. |
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