[PCW] Honda generators, was Carbon monoxide -- explosion risk

[Robert Deering]

I do Georgs.  I used a 2 KW version on my previous boat (actually I usually
transported it to shore to power small chest freezers when on fishing
trips), and it is being designed into my soon-to-be-completed new powercat.
It's a great machine.  Very quiet.  Trouble-free after three years of use.  

Even though my new boat has diesel power, I opted for the Honda.  Several
reasons:

1.  Cost - a diesel genset is not cheap, and the cost of installing it with
exhaust and water supply only added to it.  Besides, I already own the
Honda.

2.  Access - my Honda will be in an ondeck locker that's properly vented.  I
can easily get to it for inspection & maintenance.  Air-cooled, it's very
simple.

3.  Fuel - while it would seem to be a no-brainer that I'd go with diesel
since my boat is diesel, I will also have a gas supply onboard for the
tender.  That gas will be stored in a nearby vented locker, to providing
fuel safely to the genset is simple.

4.  Usage - I don't live in Florida, and I don't have to run AC...we don't
even know what 'AC' stands for up here.  If I did I might choose
differently.  I'll have onboard freezing capacity (this boat will be a
fishing as well as cruising machine) and that is typically the only time I
see running the genset for any period of time.  For general electrical
generation I've installed upgraded high-output alternators and a large house
battery bank.

5.  Integration - I'm going with a Victron Inverter/charger.  Victron has
designed some of their systems to mate with Honda inverter generators.
Don't need to go into details here, but it's a slick combination.

6.  Weight - the Honda weighs around 60 lbs.  A diesel generator is well
into the hundreds.  Every pound of weight exacts a fuel penalty, typically
more-so on cats. 

7.  Flexibility - I can easily change this out when my needs or the
technology changes.  Heck, ten years ago these inverter gens were just
somebody's idea.  Who knows?  In five years there might be fuel cell gensets
that emit zero noise and water vapor (probably made by Honda).  If I had a
big investment in a fixed, inboard generator I would be more resistant to
change.

Check back with me in a year or two.  Maybe I'll have changed my tune.  But
for my application the Honda looks about right.  

Bob Deering
Juneau, Alaska