Other Vessel Upgrades
If your plans include installation of new, power-hungry equipment (another air-conditioning unit, gyrostabilizer, etc.) your existing generator may not be able to meet the additional power requirements. If you decide to replace your generator, always consult the manufacturer or an authorized representative as part of the selection process to determine which model best suits your current (and future) power needs. A generator that’s too small will constantly labor to meet demands, leading to poor performance and a shorter service life. Conversely, installing a generator that’s too large (the bigger is better syndrome) will lead to “underloading” problems, such as carbon buildup in the engine, incomplete fuel combustion, and overall inefficient operation. How long you plan on keeping the boat, as well as your intentions (such as extended cruising), are also things to consider.
The Bottom Line: Repair or Buy a New Generator – Making the Right Decision
While important, the decision to repair or replace extends beyond simply comparing the price of installing a new generator with the cost to repair your current unit. After all, if you do a complete rebuild on a 10-year-old generator, at the end of the day, you still have a 10-year-old unit—without the warranty that comes with a brand-new one.
-by Frank Lanier
