Have you ever had this problem

[riptide]

If my gen is running and I start my port eng , even turn the key and engage the starter,dont have to turn the eng over. The gen shuts down and will not re start,if I hit the re set button on the gen it will start up right a way. If the port eng is running ,you can start the gen with no problem.I think there is some sort of a serge feed to the gen and the ovrt ride protection is shutting the gen down. This just started yesterday ,haven't done any elect work or added anything or changed anything on the Boat. :huh::huh:...Rip

 

[fwebster]

I think, but am not sure since my 390 had an Onan MCCK generator, that one of your batteries is weak. The Westerbeke probably senses voltage and shuts down in order to protect is alternator when the starting load takes the voltage on the generator bank below about 10.5V.

 

[Pietro]

Frank could be right as in the original scheme the gen is connected to one of the engine's battery. This is tha plan on my boat, starboard in this case:



FYI I added one battery just for the gen.

 

[Happy Hour IV]

Start the generator, then start the starboard engine. Bring starboard up to 1500 rpm. If generator keeps running then try to start the Port engine. If generator quits then look for failing port starter or loose battery cables. If generator keeps running in this scenario then look for failing
port battery.

This is not a guaranteed analysis because it assumes that the alternators and charger/convertor are both in working order. It will at least
point you in the general direction.

Most likely just an old battery as others have said

 

[sweet revenge]

Sounds like a weak battery or check the connection on your battery switch?