Generator Winterization

[MExcelsior]

I have some quick questions about Generator Winterization. (Westerbeke, 5Kw low profile). Basically want to know if I did this correctly.

#1, I ran about 4 gallons of -50 through the generator for winterization. (Through pickup hose disconnected from seacock.)

#2 Changed Oil, Fuel/Water Separator, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, Sprayed Fogging Oil into Cylinders before putting in New Spark Plugs.

My questions are these:

The raw water strainer is clean, but can't remove to get all the pink stuff out. (It's currently about 1/2 full).

Can I leave the pink stuff in the strainer?
Did I need to bring the Generator up to temp before putting in "Pink" as you would do on an I/O Engine? (I did not)
Do I need to drain the exhaust or block, or should it be fine with "Pink" in all winter as an anti-corrosion agent?

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[fc3]

Westerbeke gensets all have standard closed cooling for the engine. Closed cooling on the 3kw is the only exception. Therefore you don't need to let the engine warm up. You should be fine. There is a 3/8" plug on the bottom of the strainer that allows it to be drained. Or you can use a shop vac. BTW, you don't need 4 gallons for that system, but more isn't going to hurt.

Best regards,
Frank

 

[johnsross3]

I'm not an expert, but I've heard that spark plugs shouldn't be changed until the engine has been restarted at spring commissioning. The reason I heard was that the fogging oil can foul the plugs. Thus you restart the engine next spring, burn off the fogging oil and then change the plugs.

Otherwise I think you did fine. And from my understanding, the pink can stay in the strainer. It may freeze or turn slushy when cold, as it would elsewhere, but it won't expand, which is why we use it throughout our boats.