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ARCTIC STAR OPERATING MANUAL
NW Explorations
selector switch off and contact the dock manager. You may need to run the generator rather
than use the shore power. Fortunately, most docks have had their power supply upgraded and
have been wired correctly.
5.2
Generator
The 12 Kw Northern Lights diesel-powered generator produces AC power to keep the batteries
charged and provide power for the AC electrical system. When the generator is running, power
is supplied to the inverter/charge that charges the house bank of batteries and the starting
batteries for the two main engines. The generator also charges its own starting battery with its
alternator. The generator should be running when you operate high load equipment such as
the anchor windlass or davit for launching or loading the inflatable tender. These winches
require a high load and can quickly draw down the house bank of batteries. We recommend
that you start the generator as you reach your destination and prepare to anchor.
Note:
After you have anchored and launched the tender, let the generator run for at least an
hour to charge the batteries and to run the refrigerator and freezer. The generator must be
running to operate the stove, refrigerator, freezer, and to operate the air conditioning system.
5.2.1
Starting the Generator
1.
Be sure the AC Power Selector switch is in
the OFF position,
2.
Press the preheat/shutdown bypass toggle
switch and hold for 15 seconds,
3.
Hold the preheat/shutdown bypass toggle
and press the start toggle until the
generator is running, release both toggle
switches.
4.
Check the generator exhaust and listen for
gurgling of sea water being expelled below
the water line. The water will not be
expelled through the exhaust port. Be sure that fenders and lines will not obstruct the
exhaust; if a fender is near the exhaust port, it will be melted.
5.
After a brief warmup of a minute or two, turn the AC Selector Switch to ‘GEN’
6.
Check the AC voltmeter and amp meter to be sure AC power is on
a.
If not, check the Master Breaker switch is ON.
The AC voltmeter is to the right of the helm and reads 120 volts when the generator is running
or when the boat is plugged into shore power. The ammeter indicates the amount of power
being used to charge batteries and other AC power uses. The dial between the two meters
switches between leg 1 and leg 2. Each leg should read 120 volts on the voltmeter however
there will be a difference of power demand registering on the ammeter.
5.2.2
Stopping the Generator
1.
Turn the AC Selector switch to the OFF position,
2.
Allow the generator to cool down for three minutes or so,
3.
Press and hold the ‘Stop’ button until the generator stops running.
