Westerbeke 8.0BTDA - Voltage Drop Under Load

[lorenzoj]

I did not realize that the rpm was dropping that much.
The manual governor (speed control ) normally has an adjustment to adjust speed droop If the change is consistent, then it may be a matter of a linkage adjustment. Did this condition occur gradually or a step change? A broken preload spring could cause this problem

[flippercarson]

Lorenzo,

The genset has had the problem since the boat came to us.

There is certainly an adjustment to control generator RPMs. I have tinkered with that to change the no load speed of the genset. The issue is how much it drops under load.

I am in agreement that either the weights in the governor or the springs require service/replacement. I just haven't had the time to tackle this problem just yet.

In the meantime, I'll continue gathering information.

Someone with this specific genset must have experienced the same problem.....

Originally Posted by lorenzoj

I did not realize that the rpm was dropping that much.
The manual governor (speed control ) normally has an adjustment to adjust speed droop If the change is consistent, then it may be a matter of a linkage adjustment. Did this condition occur gradually or a step change? A broken preload spring could cause this problem

[mark krebs]

I have the same generator and the same problem. 8 BTD. The governor set speed is easy enough to control by adjusting the solenoid pushrod length.
But, under load, it varies about 10Hz across 4.5kW: well within appropriate operating load, so that seems like a "weak" governor response.
Seems like the governor needs more authority or in control systems lingo, more gain. I don't know what it is yet, but will post when I do. Meanwhile, if you've resolved it, I'd love to hear.

A fuel filter or electrical adjustment both sound wrong to me.