Ampair towed generator - does it need servicing??

[tudorsailor]

When I bought my yacht (pre-owned as they say) the previous owner did not give me the towed generator that he had. Becuase I am thinking of doing the ARC+ I have got the generator from him. It has sat unused in his shed for 7 years. The socket on the yacht is still wired into the electrics so I am hoping that I can mount the generator, plug it in and get the charge.

Should I get the unit serviced? I asked Ampair and they can do a factory service for £150 + VAT + transport. Seems a lot for something that may not be essential

Is there a way to test the unit? Can I "service" it myself? Does it need servicing at all?

Thanks

TudorSailor

 

[Jabs]

I seem to remember that the only thing that might deteriorate is the bearings.

I have one and it seems bombproof!

Is the regulator mounted between your socket and the batteries?

Have you checked the rather good instructions?

Tony

 

[srm]

Mine was bought early 80's and used whenever sailing and also motoring for around five years, then sat in the garage for many years as boats were changed. I tried using it about ten years ago and the generator would stop, then run for a short while and stop again until the rope had wound up enough to overcome bearing friction. Factory service with new bearings resolved this.
Suggest you try yours first and if it runs smoothly keep using it. A battery monitor, or simply a digital voltmeter across the battery, will show if its charging. Failing that hold one of the wires just clear of the battery terminal with the generator running and the other connected and see if you get a spark. From experience I know that holding both wires will also confirm that it is producing a charge, but its not a very good idea. However, any doubts (especially as you don't know how much use it has had) then a service will give peace of mind.
Changing the bearings yourself may need a press, but a local engineer could be cheaper than sending it away. I have found agricultural engineers are a good place to try for changing pump bearings as they seem to be more adaptable and willing to look at unusual jobs.

 

[Jabs]

I think the instructions contain info on changing the bearings.

More importantly, carry the spec so you can buy them from a bearing distributor rather than the OEM.

Tony