Westerbeke 4.5KW BCGB-60HZ Operator's Manual page 57

BATTERY CHARGING CIRCUIT
The DC Circuit on the BCGB functions to start, operate and
stop the generator's engine. The circuit is best understood by
reviewing the DC Wiring Diagram and Wiring Schematic.
The engine's DC wiring is designed with three simple basic
circuits: start, run and stop.
The engine has a 12 volt DC electrical control circuit that is
shown on the Wtring Diagrams. Refer to these diagrams
when troubleshooting or when servicing the DC electrical
system or the engine.
BATTERIES
A
CAUTION:
To avoid damage to the battery charg-
ing circut, never shut off the engine battery switch
while the engine is running. Shut off the engine battery
switch, however, to avoid electrical shorts when work-
ing on the engine's electrical circuit.
Specifications
The minimum recommended capacity of the battery used in
the engine's 12-volt DC control circuit is 300 CCA.
BATTERY CHARGING
The generator supplies a continuous 17 amp charge from its
battery charger to the starting battery.
'iNTEGRAL _______
y/
;;t.0NTROllER" //"'-----.
~//
I
~~~
YEllOW
(+)
RED TO CIRCUIT
, BREAKER
NOTE:
Should the battery charger or bridge rectifier fail, the
generator windings are protected by a 30 amp fuse.
Battery Maintenance
Review the manufacturer's recommendations and then estab-
lish a systematic maintenance schedule for your engine's
starting batteries and house batteries.
• Monitor your voltmeter for proper charging during engine
operation.
• Check the electrolyte level and specific gravity with a
hydrometer.
• Use only distilled water to bring electrolytes to a proper
level.
• Make certain that battery cable connections are clean and
tight to the battery posts (and to your engine).
• Keep your batteries clean and free of corrosion.
A
WARNING:
Sulfuric acid in lead batteries can
cause severe burns on skin and damage clothing. Wear
protective gear.
COMPONENT TESTING
Refer to COMPONENT TESTING in this section.
TESTING THE CHARGING CIRCUIT
See the next page.
Engines & Generators
44