Westerbeke 7.6 BTD Diesel Generator - help needed

[kcarrothers]

I was unable to start my Westerbeke diesel generator. The remote panel was completely dead and when I pressed the pre-heat switch, nothing registered on the panel, no blower or priming pump, nothing.

I managed to isolate the problem as a bad exhaust temperature switch which cuts the engine if the exhaust temp gets too high, as when there is insufficient cooling water circulating.

Without this switch in the circuit, the pre-heat and starter function fine. Being in the Honduras, getting a replacement switch may take some time, and in the mean time I cannot run the water maker, battery charger, etc.

My question is whether it is safe to run the generator without this switch in place, provided I monitor the engine operating temperature gauge (until I get the replacement part).

Anyone have any experience or suggestions?

Thanks for any advice.

Ken
Purrfect One

[Cheechako]

I would say just as safe as running your main engine without one. Keep an eye on things. BTW...I've heard of that problem on those westerbekes before, as well as the Pandas. Water solled exhaust ...right?

[doug86]

Originally Posted by kcarrothers

My question is whether it is safe to run the generator without this switch in place, provided I monitor the engine operating temperature gauge (until I get the replacement part).

Anyone have any experience or suggestions?

The EGT switch is notorious for failing on Westerbekes. Your solution is what everyone does; bypass the switch and only run the gen when you are there to monitor it. Replace switch asap.