General - Westerbeke BCG4.0KW Operator's Manual

GENERAL
Introduction
This manual contains the equipment operating procedures as well as additional information needed to help
the operator keep the marine equipment in proper working order. Study and follow the instructions careful-
ly. A planned maintenance program is included in this manual; adhering to the program will result in better
equipment performance and longer equipment life. Proper diagnosis of a problem is the most important
step to satisfactory repair; therefore, a troubleshooting table is included.
Understanding the
Gasoline Engine-Driven Generator
The gasoline engine driving an AC generator is in many ways similar to a gasoline automobile engine. The
cylinders are vertical in-line, and the engine's cylinder head has an overhead camshaft which is belt-driven.
The engine utilizes conventional points and a condenser-type distributor which is horizontally mounted and
camshaft-driven. The engine incorporates a pressure-type lubrication system, and a fresh water-cooled en-
gine block which is thermostatically-controlled. To a large degree, the generator's engine requires the same
preventive maintenance that is required of a gasoline automobile engine. The most important factors to the
generator's longevity are proper ventilation, maintenance of the fuel system, ignition system, cooling sys-
tem, lubrication system and the AC end.
Ordering Parts
Whenever replacement parts are needed, always provide the generator model number, engine serial num-
ber, and generator serial number as they appear on the scarlet and gold name plate located on the gener-
ator end. You must provide us with this information so we may properly identify your generator set. In
addition, include a complete part description and part number for each part needed (see the separately fur-
nished Parts list). Also, be sure to insist upon Westerbeke factory packaged parts, because "will fit" or
generic parts are frequently not made to the same specifications as original equipment.
Note that component locations in the manual are referenced from the front of the engine which is the pul-
ley/drive belt end. (The flywheel/generator end is the rear end.) Left and right sides are determined by the
engine; imagine straddling the engine and facing in the same direction as the front of the engine: the left side
is at your left, the right side at your right.
Westerbeke generators sets are thoroughly checked and given a final run under various load conditions
before leaving the factory. Test running the generator ensures dependable operation, long service, and a
satisfied owner.
Care at the factory during assembly and thorough testing have resulted in a Westerbeke gasoline engine-
driven generator capable of many thousands of hours of dependable service. However, what the manufac-
turer cannot control is the treatment the unit receives in the field. That part is up to the owner/operator.
5 Westerbeke Generators