cheap small generators for the go small go now crowd.

[Marc]

It's been awhile since I have posted here but I have been lurking.  This morning I fell across a link that showed how to make a DC generator out of a engine and a car alternator.  It had all the instructions.  Where did it go?  Marc

[Shipscarver]

Here's one for the electronic power types.  I need to operate a respirator, using 1.7 A.  What would be the smallest (reasonably priced) free standing battery and recharging system or combination I could use while cruising?

[Auspicious]

Here's one for the electronic power types.  I need to operate a respirator, using 1.7 A.  What would be the smallest (reasonably priced) free standing battery and recharging system or combination I could use while cruising?

Is this a c-pap machine or similar? 1.7A at what voltage? If it's at 12VDC then the load is not much different than a fan or a couple of lights.

My recommendation (based on personal and first-hand observation of others) is to beef up your house bank, make sure you have a separate engine start battery, and set up charging accordingly. Put the machine on the house systems with a breaker that is not easily switched off by accident.

If it's 1.7A at 120 VAC you have quite a challenge, especially on a small boat and if you need 24/7 operation. In that case, and without any personal knowledge, I'd start looking at pressurized gas systems that require no power. Carrying pressure tanks carries its own risks.

[AdriftAtSea]

BTW, adding safety cages to the breakers on a boat is a pretty simple task.  Blue Sea makes ones that fit over the standard breaker panels and require you to open them to flip the breaker.

[Shipscarver]

It's for a C-Pap, used for approximately 8 hours a day.  It is currently used only on shore power, but has the DC cig/plug-in that has never been used.  It would be nice to use it away from the dock.

[Auspicious]

Piece of cake. Use the cig plug connection (not an inverter) and you'll be set. I've run 12V to guests with c-pap machines on several boats, including my own, with no big impact on battery state. I'd rather have a considerate guest with a c-pap than someone who leaves lights and fans on after walking away.

[s/v Faith]

Just a thought.  I was thinking about the phenomena where a Sailor with a wind generator can become 'most hated' in an anchorage and still remain oblivious to the problem...

  There is some issue with noise generated on one's boat where it seems tolerable to the offender, but is not at all so to others in the same anchorage.

  I can honestly say that I have rowed away from Faith with the little Honda purring away and been unable to tell if it was still running when I returned until I was within 20' or so.

  I doubt the same with even a well muffled Chinese lawn mower engine, even if it is enclosed in a fancy housing. 

Remember,  even if the noise is ok with you... unless you are out of sight of others they may have a different opinion and deserve consideration.

  (Applies to wind generators too!)

[Captain Smollett]

Just a thought.  I was thinking about the phenomena where a Sailor with a wind generator can become 'most hated' in an anchorage and still remain oblivious to the problem...

  There is some issue with noise generated on one's boat where it seems tolerable to the offender, but is not at all so to others in the same anchorage.

  I can honestly say that I have rowed away from Faith with the little Honda purring away and been unable to tell if it was still running when I returned until I was within 20' or so.

  I doubt the same with even a well muffled Chinese lawn mower engine, even if it is enclosed in a fancy housing. 

Remember,  even if the noise is ok with you... unless you are out of sight of others they may have a different opinion and deserve consideration.

  (Applies to wind generators too!)

I've heard wind generators 'swhining' from over 200 yards away.  It can be annoying.

But I will say this.  There was a boat here earlier in the year that had a wind gen that I NEVER heard...even in 40+ kt blows.  It was the most amazing thing.  I wanted to get over and check out what brand it was for this specific reason, but alas, I never did.

[s/v Faith]

Did it look like this John?



   Rutland 913 Wind Charger