Generator

[overboardnj]

We are thinking of buying a boat with a Kohler 6.5 kw generator with sound shield in it. <br /><br />It doesn't work. Are they easily repaired? <br /><br />What would a new one cost?<br /><br />Is it easy to install? Does it have to be specifically a Marine Generator?<br /><br />thanks

 

[tommays]

Re: Generator

depends on whats wrong ?<br /><br />depends on who you buy it from but there not cheep and are marine units<br /><br />depends on how bad they stuffed it into boat<br /><br /><br />tommays

 

[overboardnj]

Re: Generator

i'm not sure just whats wrong. whether its with the actual engine or if it generates electricity or not.<br />I was trying to find out what the life of a generator usually is.<br />its been in a boat in salt water environment, the usual----beats hell out of mechanical/electrical parts, its 18 yrs old, how much would you want to put into it before buying a new one and having them install it.

 

[tommays]

Re: Generator

if its 18 years old i think its done its duty unless its a minor problem<br /><br />tommays

 

[overboardnj]

Re: Generator

you're probably right--thanks<br />any idea what they run?

 

[navigator336]

Re: Generator

A new one is expensive. I believe a 1987 Kohler will fall into the recall range for the exhaust manifold (Kohler will fix this for free - see Boat US web site for more details on the recall). Kohler generators are good, but their service support is lousy. I've been told a typical life expectancy on a gas gen set is about 1000 hours. I believe a generator that doesn't run is worth zero. If the current owner is willing to pay to have a service tech come out and determine what's wrong, then it may have some value.<br /><br />Don't put anything other than a marine generator below deck!

 

[prockvoan]

Re: Generator

A 6500kw gas genset cost around $6500 plus installation charges down here in the south.That is without a sound shield.

 

[brianallinger]

Re: Generator

you will find excellent help with older generators at http://www.smokstak.com/forum/ <br />they have a forum dedicated to Kohler Generators. there is alot of expert help there if you decide to fix it your self.

 

[waterone1@aol.com]

Re: Generator

I've worked on many of these units, if you can post some particulars, that would be helpful. If it cranks over and starts, but will not run....that is a plus....could be as simple (cheap) as a bad run relay. On the other side, just a new carb will cost over $350.