Generator Problem -- Kohler 4.0kw in 1994 290 DA

[EricW]

My Kohler 4.0 kw quit on me last week. I suspect a major problem, but I am hoping for the best.

The generator had been running great for at least 3 hrs one evening. I was running the A/C and 110v outlets. Suddenly, it started screeching and rpms dropped down some. This lasted about 5 seconds, and then it shut down on its own before I could get to the switch to shut it down myself.

I waited a little while, and then tried to restart it. It cranks over a little slower than normal, and there is a light whining noise while cranking. It starts to fire and tries to start but won't start. To me, it's acting like something belt-driven by the generator is locked up. The screeching sound it made sounded like a belt slipping on an engine.

I thought maybe the water pump was locked up, so I checked the impeller. Water pump and impeller appear normal and are spinning free. Also, oil & coolant levels are normal. I really don't know what else to check or look at. I can tell you that access to the generator is horrible on this twin-engine 290 DA.

Anybody have any ideas? Thanks!

 

[Dieseljeff]

There is a timing belt on your generator. I doubt you can gain access to check without removing.
You probably have to remove the starboard engine and pull the genset out to really see what is going on.

Maybe a bearing has gone bad?
I can't see the timing belt making a squeeling sound but IDK for sure?

Jeff

 

[EricW]

Thanks, Jeff. Not good news, but I'm not surprised. When I get a chance, I might try to pull off some of the covers on the genset and see if I can find anything. I don't know much about the genset, and didn't know there was a timing belt. It sounds like a decent possibility.

 

[Dieseljeff]

Look for the service manual TP-5338.
Might be able to download from somewhere.
Lots of good info.

Jeff

 

[JimG]

I believe the timing is gear driven... there are no belts.

Not sure what would be screeching... maybe a bearing.

 

[Dieseljeff]

According to the manual TP-5338:
Models 4CZ, 6.6CZ, 3.5CFZ & 5CFZ

"The crankshaft driven timing belt is used to drive the camshaft, water pump, and sea water pump.
Replacement of the timing belt will require removal of the flywheel and sea water cooling lines. This
procedure should only be done by a qualified technician."

Also:

"Direct connected to the engine, generator has sealed precision ball bearing with precision
machined steel sleeve in end bracket to prevent shaft misalignment, extend bearing life."

This looks to be the only bearing that could be possibly squeeling?

Jeff