KAD32 compressor bypass switch

[Kedger]

Wondering about installing a compressor bypass switch on my boat, so the compressor doesn’t always kick in when I’m in rough seas and can’t get out of the 1600-2400 RPM range

Can anyone walk me through doing this myself? or has anyone documented and posted pics of the process?

One member suggested just bypassing the clutch, another suggested asking Volvopaul for advice since I was on a different forum page...

 

[A_8]

It's very simple, there is a cable going to the compressor. You just install a switch that opens and close the circuit and that will do it. You can offcourse install the switch wherever and draw a cable to the compressor etc.

 

[Kedger]

Great, thanks, another member suggested some down sides,

"Trouble being that if you do the switch, I think you might find your over fueling for the air that’s going in so you will smoke and cause yourself other problems coked up turbo etc

this is just the drawback of that system."

But a local shop here in B.C. said they have done what you suggest without any issues at all? Thoughts A_8? others?

 

[A_8]

I manually disconnected the SC on my former KAD43 on occasion when I was in for a longer 8-12 knot ruff ride and had no issues with smoke etc. It was maybe a 2-4 hours, 5-6 times over 10 years which actually indicates I may not have needed to do it.

The best solution is probably a relay close the SC and controlled from the helm, I think the SC clutch is hungry for power when it engages so long cables might need to get thick if you dont use a relay but I am not sure, best to measure the amps with a clamp meter before you decide.

Generally though that is probably the least economical speed/rpm you will get on a planing boat and mine would consume 4 litres per nautical mile (2ltr per engine), normally meaning 19 knots or more it would be 2.3-2.6 ltr.