Monterey Boats 378SE, Owner'S Manual

Page: 85 / 210

85
MONTEREY
BOATS
Electrical System
• Start the generator and inspect the strainer
for leaks.
The generator fuel system is equipped with a wa-
ter separating fuel filter and operates much like
the fuel system for the main engines. Refer to
the Fuel System chapter for more information on
generator fuel system.
You also should read the generator owner’s man-
ual for detailed information on the safe operation
and maintenance of the generator.
DANGER
GENERATOR ENGINES PRODUCE CARBON MONOXIDE
WHICH IS A LETHAL, TOXIC GAS THAT IS COLORLESS
AND ODORLESS. IT IS A DANGEROUS GAS THAT WILL
CAUSE DEATH IN CERTAIN LEVELS. ONLY OPERATE THE
GENERATOR IN WELL VENTILATED AREAS AND NEVER
OPERATE THE GENERATOR WHILE YOU ARE SLEEPING.
6.8 Bonding System
Your boat is equipped with a bonding system that
interconnects all underwater metal hardware and
thru-hull fittings to ensure that they are of the
same electrical potential. Anodes are attached to
the bonding system at the transom trim tab planes
and outdrives. The anodes deteriorate before the
other metals, thereby protecting the underwater
metals from galvanic corrosion or stray electrical
current. Since the anodes are sacrificial, it is im -
portant to monitor them and replace the anodes
when they have deteriorated to 50 - 75% of their
original size. The bonding system is connected
to the DC ground and the earth ground wire for
the AC electrical system. It provides a path to
the safety earth ground in the event of a fault in
the shore earth ground connection and when the
boat is away from the dock.
6.9 Electrical System Maintenance
12 Volt DC Electrical System Maintenance
At least once a year, spray all exposed electrical
components behind the helm and in the plugs, with
a protector. Exterior light fixture bulbs should be
removed and the metal contact areas coated with
a non-water soluble lubricant like Teflon or silicone
grease. The sockets should be sprayed with a
protector. Care must be taken not to get any oil
or grease on the glass portion of the bulbs as this
will cause the bulb to overheat and burn out.
WARNING
WHEN REPLACING LIGHT BULBS IN MARINE LIGHT
FIXTURES, ALWAYS USE A BULB WITH THE SAME RATING AS
THE ORIGINAL. USING A DIFFERENT BULB COULD CAUSE
THE FIXTURE TO OVERHEAT AND MELT OR SHORT CIRCUIT.
Notice:
LED lights are sealed and cannot be serviced.
Inspect all wiring for proper support, sound in-
sulation, and tight terminals, paying particular
attention to portable appliance cords and plugs.
Check all below deck wiring to be sure it is prop-
erly supported, that the insulation is sound, and
that there are no loose or corroded terminals.
Corroded terminals should be thoroughly cleaned
with sandpaper or replaced, tightened securely
and sprayed with a metal and electrical protector.
Inspect all engine wiring.
Check the electrolyte level in the batteries regu-
larly and add distilled water as necessary. If the
batteries are frequently charged by the automatic
battery charger, the electrolyte level will have to
be checked more often. The correct fluid level in
the cells is usually approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch
above the plates. If fluid is needed, fill to the
proper level with distilled water. Do not over fill!
Notice:
Some batteries are sealed and do not require
or allow the inspection of the electrolyte.
Keep the battery tops clean and dry. Dirt and
water can conduct electricity from one post to the
other causing the battery to discharge.
The battery posts should be kept free of corrosion.
Remove the cables and clean the posts and cable
clamps with a battery post cleaner or sandpaper
as required. Coating the battery posts and cable
clamps with Teflon or silicone grease will protect
them and reduce corrosion.
Battery cables, both hot and ground, must be
replaced when they show signs of corrosion or
fraying. Deteriorated cables cause a considerable
voltage loss when high currents are drawn, such
as starting the engine.