Four winns 238 Vista Owner'S Manual Download

Page: 36 / 128

Vista Owners Manual
10/93

Section E

Page 9

E - 9

GENERATOR OPTION

An optional generator is available on the 278 model to
provide 120 Volt (220V) AC power when the boat is away
from the dock. The generator can be operated while run-
ning at or below cruising speed. The generator should
not be operated when the boat is being run at high speeds.
Insufficient cooling water may be available due to the
speed.

A generator factory installed by Four Winns is capable of
providing sufficient power for most electrical needs includ-
ing cooking, refrigeration, and air conditioning. It is pos-
sible to overload the generator by trying to operate too
much equipment at one time. The circuit breaker that
protects the output circuits on the generator set will trip
should that occur. See the generator manufacturers infor-
mation for specifications and additional details.

A generator installation includes an additional battery. This
battery is specifically for the generator and is isolated
from the remainder of the 12 Volt electrical system. This
battery is directly wired to the generator.

When a generator is installed, an AC power shoreline trans-
fer switch is installed in the Electrical Center. If you wish
to use dockside power, be sure the generator is off, turn
the switch to the Shore Power position and connect the
shore power cords as explained in Section E-8a. If you
wish to use generator power,

Be sure the shore power cord(s) are disconnected.

Move the selector to the Generator position.

Check the bilge for fumes, and operate the blower for
at least 4 minutes.

Start the generator using the remote generator start
switch on the dockside panel.

Be sure to operate the bilge blower for
at least four (4) minutes before starting
engine or generator, or whenever oper-
ating the engine(s) at idle speed. Check
the bilge blower output before each use.

If a generator is installed, periodic generator maintenance
as outlined in the generator owners manual is necessary.
Refer to the manufacturers literature for more information.

E - 10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

A. Battery Maintenance

Be sure to keep the batteries charged. Also, keep the
batteries clean, especially the terminals and connection
lugs. Be sure the batteries are fastened securely while
in use.

Replenish a battery indicating a low charge. Determine
the reason for the discharge. Lack of battery usage is as
detrimental to battery longevity as is over-use. Alternat-
ing battery usage is important. Refer to the battery
manufacturer’s instructions included with your battery.

B. Electrical Wiring Maintenance

Periodically, inspect all wiring for nicks, chaffing, embrittle-
ment, improper support, etc. Examine the shore power
cord closely for insulation cracks and corrosion in the
electrical devices. Spraying the receptacles and electri-
cal connections with an electrical connection cleaner will
reduce corrosion and improve electrical continuity.

DO NOT allow corrosion to build up on connec-
tions. Shorts or ground faults can result.

The entire 120 (220) volt circuitry, especially the shore
power cord, should be seasonally tested for proper con-
tinuity by an experienced marine electrician. This will
help detect any short, open wire, or ground fault. Also,
check the polarity indicator system for proper operation.

120 (220) volt AC electrical power can be danger-
ous. DO NOT attempt to service a system un-
less you are familiar with, and experienced in,
performing such service.

E - 11

STRAY CURRENT CORROSION

A. General

Electrically induced underwater corrosion occasionally
affects boats and their related components. This is re-
ferred to as “Stray Current Corrosion” and appears as
surface pitting or deterioration. Stray current corrosion is
the decomposition of chemical compounds by electric
current.