Generator installation joins lethal AC voltage, fuel, hot exhaust, seawater and carbon monoxide in a confined space. It is not a casual DIY project.
Mechanical and fluid systems
The foundation must carry weight and starting torque while isolating vibration. Provide service access to filters, pump, belt, heat exchanger and electrical end. Fuel supply and return must not create cross-flow or starvation problems with the main engine.
The raw-water intake, pump and exhaust must work at every trim and heel angle. The anti-siphon device must remain above the relevant waterline and accessible for cleaning. The waterlock must hold drain-back volume. Exhaust back pressure must remain within the generator maker’s limit.
Electrical integration
The design needs compatible voltage and frequency, overcurrent and earth-leakage protection, neutral and earthing arrangements, source selection or transfer switching, correct cable, isolation and inverter interaction. Incorrect neutral-earth switching can defeat protection. Use an appropriately licensed and marine-competent electrician as required by the jurisdiction.
Commissioning
Test no-load and staged-load voltage, frequency, current, cooling flow, exhaust temperature, leaks, vibration, alarms and automatic shutdowns. Confirm there is no path for shore power, inverter and generator outputs to back-feed each other. Install carbon-monoxide alarms in suitable accommodation areas and test them regularly.