TP-6252 2/08
15
Section 2 Operation
Section 2 Operation
2.1 Prestart Checklist
Carbon monoxide.
Can
cause
severe
nausea,
fainting, or death.
The exhaust system must be
leakproof and routinely inspected.
WARNING
Operating the generator set. Carbon monoxide can cause
severe nausea, fainting, or death.
Be especially careful if
operating the generator set when moored or anchored under
calm conditions because gases may accumulate. If operating
the generator set dockside, moor the craft so that the exhaust
discharges on the lee side (the side sheltered from the wind).
Always be aware of others, making sure your exhaust is
directed away from other boats and buildings.
To ensure continued satisfactory operation perform the
following checks or inspections before or at each
startup, as designated, and at the intervals specified in
the service schedule. In addition, some checks require
verification after the unit starts.
Air Cleaner.
Check for a clean and installed air cleaner
element to prevent unfiltered air from entering the engine.
Air Inlets.
Check for clean and unobstructed air inlets.
Battery.
Check for tight battery connections. Consult
the battery manufacturer’s instructions regarding
battery care and maintenance.
Coolant Level.
Check the coolant level according to
the cooling system maintenance information.
Drive Belts.
Check the belt condition and tension of the
water pump and battery charging alternator belt(s).
Exhaust System.
Check for exhaust leaks and
blockages. Check the silencer and piping condition and
check for tight exhaust system connections.
Inspect the the exhaust system components (exhaust
manifold, mixing elbow, exhaust line, hose clamps,
silencer, and outlet flapper) for cracks, leaks, and corrosion.
D
Check the hoses for softness, cracks, leaks, or dents.
Replace the hoses as needed.
D
Check for corroded or broken metal parts and replace
them as needed.
D
Check for loose, corroded, or missing clamps.
Tighten or replace the hose clamps and/or hangers
as needed.
D
Check that the exhaust outlet is unobstructed.
D
Visually inspect for exhaust leaks
(blowby)
. Check
for carbon or soot residue on exhaust components.
Carbon and soot residue indicates an exhaust leak.
Seal leaks as needed.
D
Ensure that the carbon monoxide detector(s) is (1) in
the craft, (2) functional, and (3) energized whenever
the generator set operates.
For your safety: Never operate the generator set
without a functioning carbon
monoxide detector(s) for your
safety and the safety of others on
your vessel.
Fuel Level.
Check the fuel level and keep the tank(s)
full to ensure adequate fuel supply.
Oil Level.
Maintain the oil level at or near, not over, the
full mark on the dipstick.
Operating Area.
Check for obstructions that could
block the flow of cooling air. Keep the air intake area
clean. Do not leave rags, tools, or debris on or near the
generator set.
Seawater Pump Priming.
Prime the seawater pump
before initial startup. To prime the pump: (1) close the
seacock, (2) remove the hose from the seawater-filter
outlet, (3) fill the hose and seawater pump with clean
water, (4) reconnect the hose to the water filter outlet,
and (5) open the seacock. Confirm seawater pump
operation on startup as indicated by water discharge
from the exhaust outlet.
