Installation of a Generator

[2000-310]

Hello all, Im fairly new to the site and am looking for some advice, I currently am proud owner of a 2000-310,  since 2002, and very happy with the boat, 5.0EFI with Bravo 3's, the only thing missing is a Generator and debating whether to install one. Im looking at a Kohler 5EC used gen with low hours and thru the posts ive read the gen is placed in the port side infront of the fresh water tank, is this the recommended location,  or the center in front of the motors? and would anyone have pictures of where their gens are located., thanks Kerry

[Lifes Good]

Good question! 

I have seen the genny on both sides too.  Mine is in the center and prefer it there.  It is easy to get to the impeller and the spark plugs.  The plug closest to the fire wall is a bugger to get out, but I would think it would be more difficult to get to it if the genny was up against the hull, as you need to crouch down and in to get to that location.  Plus, if you need to mannually start it, it's a very easy reach via the center.

The other concern I would have putting it on the Port side is the extra weight along with full water.  Generally, you may always carry more water on board than your waste tank....  Just my two cents worth...

LG

[2000-310]

Thanks LG, its my preferred location, just a matter of relocating the batteries to the port side.
Ive always noticed if im not carrying fresh water, i have to balance the boat with less fuel in the starboard side. would i have to pull both motors to install the genny in the center.

[Dream 'Inn]

I believe you'd have a tough time placing in front of the engines.  Port side is where it will have to go.  I've looked at my share of boats from the 310, 312, & 320s.  I believe from 2004 on it was placed in front of the engine, but there are some definite changes that allow this.  If you look at the V-berth in those boats, it is a bit smaller than the 310s.  this is because everything is shifted a little more forward, allowing a little more space in the engine room for the genny.  I know in mine there is absolutely no way you could fit the generator in front of the engines.  Mine is located in front of the water tank on port side.  Between this, the water tank on that side, and the waste on the other, with batteries in the middle, everything is pretty easy to keep balanced.

Good luck with your decision.  Just curious, after 9 years with the boat, what has made you finally decide on getting a genny?  We absolute love ours and the convenience of having it built in and turn on with the touch of a button.  Have you ever thought about a portable genny &/or adding an extra deep cycle battery in parallel?

Lifes Good, that outer plug is the absolute worst!  The impeller is a pain too, but after doing it once, it's not near as bad the second time around (the plug is still a bear each time though).

[Lifes Good]

Interesting about the 310 and smaller engine room but larger front bunk...    If thats the case then your right the Port is it.  As for the impellar, I just have a pop off plate and the 4 bolts to the casing and I am done in about 15 min. 

I kinda agree, with the really good batteries and a strong 12v converter to 110v.  You could have all the power you need with out the big bucks of genny.  For a bout $2K you could have a really nice set up that powers the stove and micro and never touch your current house & starter batteries...  Clean and quite with now holes to drill on the bottom and side hull.

Keep us posted and pics would be great!

LG