Westerbeke BTDA 15.0 Operator's Manual & Installation Manual page 39

Starting Under Normal Conditions
Follow the procedure below for normal starting of the generator:
1. Make sure there is sufficient fuel on board. Keep fuel tank(s) as full as possible. Check
the fuel filters and water separators for the presence of contaminants and/or water. Drain
and clean them as needed.
2. Check the coolant level in the plastic recovery tank. Add coolant solution as needed.
NOTE: Excessiv~ loss of coolant from the plastic recovery tank indicates
a cooling system leak. Check the entire cooling system and pressurize
the system using a common automotive radiator pressure tester to
locate the leak. In cases of excessive coolant loss, the system must
be refilled as outlined under the "Preparation For Starting" section of
this manual.
3. Check the oil level in the engine sump and look for fuel leaks, particularly H signs of such
leaks are found on the bottom of the engine or below the engine.
Start the generator in accordance with the "Starting Procedure" instructions in this manual
and allow the engine's operating temperature to reach into the 140 - 150· F range before
placing a load on it.
Starting Under Cold Conditions
Under extremely cold temperatures, the following conditions can occur. Follow the instructions
listed below when operating your engine in cold weather.
Lubricating Oil Turns Viscous - Make certain that the lubricating oil used conforms with the
ratings for the prevailing atmospheric temperature. Refer to the "Lubrication System" section
of this manual for an atmospheric/oil viscosity specification table.
Voltage Across the Battery Terminal Drops - Make certain that the battery is fully charged to
minimize voltage drop across the battery terminals.
The Temperature of the Intake Air is Low and the Compression Temperature does not Rise
Enough - Allow the glow plugs to operate sufficiently to aid in starting during the preheat period
whenever the temperature of the intake air is low and when the compression temperature does
not rise enough. Refer to the preheat chart found in the "Starting Procedure" section of this
manual.
15KWBTDA 37
Westerbeke Generators