- Oct 6, 2006
- 12,155
- Boat Info
- 1996 450DA
- Engines
- 3116 Caterpillars
I've posted this several times, but it is buried in 100's of pages of discussion bordering on WWIII over the use of portable generators on boats. This might help you more fully understand the safety concerns:
"FAQ- Portable Generators:
The elements of risk and the reasons that a marine generator are safer than a portable are:
1. Explosive fumes
- Honda- carburetor vents at the carburetor, fuel bowl drains inside the case, fuel system vents out the fuel fill cap to atmosphere at the generator.
- Marine Generators- fuel system vents internally, tanks vent out the side of the boat well away from any potentnial ignition source.
2. Ignition protection
-Honda - not ignition protected
-Marine generators - fully ignition protected
3. Grounding -
-Honda - not grounded to the boat's electrical system
-Marine Generators- fully grounded to the boat's system and bonded.
4.Carbon Monoxide-
-Honda - exhaust exits at the point of use which can be near occupied spaces
-Marine Generators- Exhaust exits the boat remotely mixed with water at the waterline in the area normally cleared of fumes by wind/breezes.
Study the risks and make your own decision, but the fact that some have used a Honda without incident does not make it a safe or recommended practice, it only means they have decided the risk to the health and safety of their families is one that are willing to assume."
"FAQ- Portable Generators:
The elements of risk and the reasons that a marine generator are safer than a portable are:
1. Explosive fumes
- Honda- carburetor vents at the carburetor, fuel bowl drains inside the case, fuel system vents out the fuel fill cap to atmosphere at the generator.
- Marine Generators- fuel system vents internally, tanks vent out the side of the boat well away from any potentnial ignition source.
2. Ignition protection
-Honda - not ignition protected
-Marine generators - fully ignition protected
3. Grounding -
-Honda - not grounded to the boat's electrical system
-Marine Generators- fully grounded to the boat's system and bonded.
4.Carbon Monoxide-
-Honda - exhaust exits at the point of use which can be near occupied spaces
-Marine Generators- Exhaust exits the boat remotely mixed with water at the waterline in the area normally cleared of fumes by wind/breezes.
Study the risks and make your own decision, but the fact that some have used a Honda without incident does not make it a safe or recommended practice, it only means they have decided the risk to the health and safety of their families is one that are willing to assume."