Generator

[packerlandpilot]

I have a 32-foot gas boat and I want to check into prices for generators. I would think that a small (3kw) generator would be fine for this size boat to just run a fridge, a water heater, and other small appliances. What kind of price should I expect to pay for a small generator for my boat? I am seeing that a small generator around this size is easily $5,000+. Can anyone explain why a marine generator is so expensive compared to a home portable generator that will run around $500?
Thanks

 

[seabob4]

Re: Generator

Very simple. It has that word "Marine" in front of it.

Keep this in mind. A genny installed on a boat, especially a gas powered one, HAS to be safe to use in basically an enclosed living space. Therefore, fuel delivery systems and exhaust systems must be engineered to protect a user from any mishap, as the user, especially when anchored offshore, cannot simply get off the boat and seek safety should a problem arise.

Gennys used on boats must also be able to tolerate and withstand the harsh environment of the ocean, or lake. All gennies have their exhaust cooled by raw water, some even have the whole engine cooled by raw water. This means that the entire internal cooling passages have to be engineered to withstand the ravages of salt water. This is no easy, nor cheap, task. Remember, since they are water cooled, that means a water pump is necessary, as well as jacketed cooling passages in the engine, something you won't find at Home Depot. All gennys that I know of you a closed cooling system, which uses a heat exchanger. Seen any of these at Lowes?

Do some research into Marine Generators, educate yourself. BTW, on a 32, I'd opt for no less than 5 KW, especially if you have AC.

 

[rbh]

Re: Generator

just like seabob4 said, marine generators are expensive! you have to hard mount them and them do all the plumbing, and wiring.
we are opting for a small quiet genny that can be temporarly mounted on the swim grid, just big enough to charge the batteries 2400-2800watts, 65-75 pounds.

 

[arks]

Re: Generator

I installed a new Kohler 5KW marine generator in my Silverton 2 years ago. Yeah they're expensive but, as seabob said, for good reason.

Be aware that if the boat isn't already wired and plumbed for it, the actual cost of the generator is only the beginning.....in my case I did the complete installation myself and buying all the necessary parts almost doubled the final talley.

I used this PDF from Northern Lights to assist me during the installation. It is thorough and easy to read. http://www.northern-lights.com/PDFs/manual_pdfs/IM1000.pdf

And before you ask, YES- all the items purchased (including the wire) were MARINE rated. There is a difference, and it ain't just the price!
One more thing- before pushing the "start" button, I paid an authorized Kohler dealer 2 hours labor to certify the installation for warranty purposes. To my credit, he only found 2 minor issues, which I promptly corrected.

Final cost (you better sit down)........$8,970- which included a Kohler sound shield.

Was it worth it? For me and my family the answer is yes.

 

[Plasma George]

Re: Generator

Thought I'd throw it out there, I'm a sales rep for CumminsOnan. I sell the small portables, and vehicle type mounted gens....and home standby systems. I work next to Marine salesman who sell to boat builders and dealers along the Jersey shore.

If you see the link below, you'll see the 4kW aircooled unit we offer...(I sell the RV unit that's very similar). It can run off a small tank, deck mounted, and can be wired to a strip for outlets....It doesn't have to be hard-wired, and mounted in a engine compartment like the sea water cooled units. Those types are exactly what the others have mentioned, and usually require a proessional installation, and a "Start-up" for warranty.

http://www.cumminsonan.com/marine/products/gasoline