Westerbeke BCD 4.4KW Operator's Manual page 28

Fuel System
The fuel system should be installed in such a manner as to allow the engine-mounted fuel lift pump to pump
to maintain a positive inlet pressure to the injection pump under all operating conditions. The minimum size
of the fuel supply line and fuel return line is 1/4 inch, inside diameter, and there should be a primary fuel fil-
ter installed between the fuel tank and the fuel lift pump. Only one fuel filter is installed on the engine, be-
tween the mechanical fuel lift pump and the injection pump; this filter has a replaceable filter element.
The fuel tank's fuel pickup tube should be clear and unobstructed. No screens or gauze strainers should be
incorporated in the fuel pickup tube.
Make sure that the fuel supply and return lines are securely anchored to prevent chafing and that all fittings
are sufficiently tightened to prevent leaking. Also make sure your fuel system has a positive shut-off valve;
know its location and how it operates.
NOTE: DO NOT use spring-loaded check valves in the fuel supply line in lieu of mechanical
shut-off valves. This type valve can create fuel starvation problems for the engine's fuel sys-
tem.
Fuel tanks that are located below the engine's fuel system level must have its fuel return at the tank extend-
ing down into the tank in the same manner as the pickup tube, otherwise fuel siphoning out of the engine's
fuel system through the return will take place.
Make sure the fuel tank filler is properly sealed to prevent water entry should it become awash. The fuel
tank's vent should be routed so as to prevent water entry as well.
Be sure there is a fire extinguisher installed near the unit and that it is properly maintained. Be familiar with
its use. An extinguisher with the NFPA rating of ABC is appropriate for all applications in this environment.
Oil Drain Hose
An oil sump drain hose is installed on the engine with the discharge end secured by a bracket at the front of
the engine. Oil may be drained from this hose by removing the cap and the discharge end of the hose from
the support bracket and lowering the hose into a container. The hose cap fitting is 1/4 inch NPT (National
Pipe Tap) and can be extended, or have a pump added, for easier removal of the old oil,
if
desired.
Connecting Pressure Sensing Devices to Oil Galleries
Oil pressure sensing devices, such as senders and switches, must not be connected to an engine's oil gal-
lery with the use of extended nipples or tees. The reason is simply that continued engine vibration causes
fatigue of the fittings used to make such a connection. If these fittings fail during engine operation, lubricat-
ing oil will be lost and internal engine damage will result.
When additional sensing devices such as switches or sensors need to be installed that function on engine
oil pressure, these devices must be bulkhead-mounted and connected to the oil gallery using an appropriate
grade of lubricating oil hose. Any fittings used to connect the hose to the gallery must be of steel or malle-
able iron composition. Brass must not be used for this application.
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Westerbeke Generators