Kohler 3.5CFZ, 4CZ, 5CFZ, 6.5CZ Installation, Generator Selection and Wattage Requirements

Section 6. Installation

Introduction Lighting Load

Use this section as a guide when installing the Marine generator set, then refer to Section 2. Operation for specific service instructions. Reliable and safe generator set operation depends largely upon proper installation. Remember that the generator set will probably be the craft’s sole source of electrical power.

When installing a marine generator set, it is recommended that the installation comply with all applicable Regulations and Standards. See Reference Material for documents issued by governing agencies. Information presented here should be followed in planning and making installations. Specifications given should be used only in initial planning. Use current dimension drawings and wiring diagrams.

NOTE

A wood block is located under some generator set end brackets to prevent damage during shipment. For the same reason, metal brackets are used to attach some generator sets to their wood shipping bases. These items MUST be removed prior to installation in order to provide adequate vibration clearance during generator set operation. Check that all packing material, literature, and loose accessories are removed from generator set prior to operation.

Generator Selection and Wattage Requirements

Total wattage requirements (lights, motors, appliances) must be considered when selecting a generator set, or when sizing wattage usage where available space and construction limit the size of the generator set. The 4-lead reconnectable generator set can be connected for 120 volt or 120/240 volt 60 Hz (110 volt or 110/220 volt 50 Hz), see Section 5. Wiring Diagrams.

NOTE

When a generator set is reconnected to produce a voltage different than nameplate voltage, notice should be placed on the unit indicating this change. Decals (part number 246242) for this purpose are available from authorized Kohler dealers/distributors.

The lighting load is usually easiest to calculate. In most cases, simply add the wattage of each lamp to be operated off the generator set. Note that in many applications, not all of the lights or lamps are in the generator set AC circuit— some are DC powered by the 12-volt battery in the craft. Make sure the total includes only lights actually on the generator set AC circuit.

Motor Loads

When figuring generator set capacity requirements that include electric motors, do not overlook the high current demanded by the motors during start-up. The in-rush or starting current is typically 2--3 times higher than that required when the motor reaches normal operating speed. Reserve capacity must be allowed for in-rush demands plus other loads which could be on the line as the electric motor starts.

Air conditioning units are perhaps the most common type of motor load for generator sets in marine applications. The starting characteristics of the different varieties of air conditioners vary greatly— one particular 12,000 Btu unit has, for example, lower starting requirements than a 10,000 Btu unit of another make. When only one unit is involved, there is usually no starting problem, provided the lighting and appliance load is not too high when the unit is started.

Simultaneous starting of two air conditioning units, however, can present problems if the capacity is marginal. Because of the variation in starting characteristics of the various makes of air conditioners, no definite statements are made in this publication regarding multiple-motor starting capabilities of the marine generator set covered. Delayed starting or use of easy-starting devices on air conditioner units should be considered whenever simultaneous starting of more than one motor is involved.

The starting and running requirements of some motor loads common to marine applications are listed in Figure 6-1; use this as a guide when selecting generator set capacity requirements involving motor loads. See Figure 6-2 for generator set capabilities regarding air conditioners.

TP-5695 12/93 Installation 6-1