Belated reply. But maybe this info will be helpful to others.
I purchased a used Entec West 4200D with 840 hours and installed it in my
Lancer 36. The footprint was the defining factor as I beleive it has the smallest footprint of any
diesel genset on the market, and the only one that would fit into the planned space. I relocated my hot
water heater to the port lazerette and installed the
generator in the space perviously occupied by the hot
water heater. It sits in the
engine room, athwart ship, aft of my main
engine. I am able to easily access all of the areas that require routine
service (impellers,
oil change), and can unbolt it and turn it sideways if necessary for complete access to all
parts of the
generator.
Re
noise: The
Farymann diesel is known for being noisy. An optional sound enclosure is available from Entec West, however it would not fit into my space. I have good engine room
insulation and added a set of doors that isolate the genset from the main engine, thus creating a semi-sound. enclosure. The result is a very reasonable level of sound while seated in the
cockpit or below
deck.
Re vibration: The Entec West Genset comes mounted with shock absorbing
motor mounts on a
Steel skid. Bolt the skid to a solid platform ( I was able to use the platform that had been constructed for the hot water heater) and you should experience minimal vibration.
Re
Reliability: I have had a series of problems with the water pumps (both fresh and raw water). All have been serviceable and trace back to poor
maintenance by the previous owner. Aside from that, the unit has been extremely reliable. The
control panel has a series of indicator lights that readily show you any issues that you may have with
oil pressure,
exhaust temperature, or
coolant temperature. The
control panel will also shut down the engine if any of these indicators are set off.
RE Customer Support: Outstanding! Entec West always answers their
phone and will talk you thru any problems you may be encountering. Keep in mind that I bought my unit used, they still have been more than willing to help me with any issues I have encountered.
So there it is. I hope this proves useful to anyone else considering an Entec West Generator. I will be happy to answer any other questions.
Bill