Towed water generators

[Wotname]

My apologies if this has been asked in a previous thread (but I haven't been able to find such).
Has anyone used towed generators; if so, what was you experience of them - good, bad, indifferent?

[Sunspot Baby]

Try this thread for discussion http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...log-12804.html

George

[Wotname]

Thanks, I have read that thread but it doesn't give real life experiences of of using towed generators. The actual physical aspects of the tow line and rotor will be similar I expect but I am really looking for first hand experiences.

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha Wot,
I lost a Walker knot log on a Pacific crossing to either shark or net and at the time had a towed generator (they've been around a long time) I never put it in the water again because I was afraid of losing it.
That's not much help in answering your question but I'll be installing a wind generator and some solar panels when I get round to it.
Kind Regards,
JohnL

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by SkiprJohn

Aloha Wot,
I lost a Walker knot log on a Pacific crossing to either shark or net and at the time had a towed generator (they've been around a long time) I never put it in the water again because I was afraid of losing it...JohnL

John’s “saved” his towed generator - but to what purpose?

[Vasco]

Try this site: Onpassage.com :* Water Towed Generators for cruising yachts
I've heard good things about the Duogen but it's real pricey. I think it goes in the water somewhat like an outboard motor rather than really being towed.

[dacust]

Originally Posted by Vasco

I've heard good things about the Duogen but it's real pricey. I think it goes in the water somewhat like an outboard motor rather than really being towed.

I wonder how much efficiency is lost in air mode due to the right angle drive and that long shaft. Gotta be at least 10%. Could be worth it for the water mode, but I'd worry that the pivot yoke would be a major wear point. Cool design, though, keeps more weight at the deck level.

[Wotname]

Yes the duogen does look good but is far outside my budget. Maybe SkiprJohn has a good one available, only used once (on a Sunday).

The fact they have been around for a long time, still in production but rarely seen (by me at least), is intriguing. Obviously only useful on longer passages.

I wonder how inconvenient they are to rig and derig, how well they REALLY work at 4 to 5 kts, how they behave in heavier weather and how much hassle they are in general. Maybe one more thing to ship and stow below in a blow.