Generator replacement for a Carver 404

Or you fall asleep and your diesel tank runs empty because it's a small tank just to feed the generator, yet you have 100's of gallons of gasoline in your gas tank. Or the generator crapped out because the gen tank never gets used enough and is full of algae. It's a major additional headache of dealing with 2 fuels. There are millions of boats with gas generators installed. The CO is a non issue in a properly installed gas generator.

Well, I just wouldn't go duel fuel. My fuel of choice would be diesel but you've already got gas. So I'd make sure I had a well installed system with CO detection and every other precaution possible. I'd listen to the warnings from Rcrapps and take them seriously, but rather than splitting the fuels I'd use them to install a safe system.

Just my 2 cents; it would be weird to have 2 fuels on such a modern boat and may scare off potential future buyers. You've also got to install a separate tank and deck fill to accommodate a diesel genny. Any engine can be repaired unless you've got a blown piston or swallowed valve or such. Why not get a good mechanic to fix what you've got, may have to pay a little more but get one that will guarantee his work, far cheaper than replacing.

While valid, your scenario is geared more towards salt water users. (Saltwater) cooled generators tend to eat up the cooling/exhaust system, especially in the North. The problems arise when winterizing and draining the water.

Since my Gen-Set issues arose, I have spent countless hours researching this matter. In southern areas, the heat exchanger is left full of (salt) water, and there are typically no problems. In the North, the issues arise when you drain the salt water to winterize. Should you start your generator and hear an exhaust leak, you obviously will have a CO problem.

Common sense goes a long way with this matter (like with everything). If you are running any sort of gasoline motor onboard, use your blower and have a working CO detector in more than one place. Duplicity in everything marine is key. You have 2 engines to make sure you get back home if one goes out. As cheap as a CO detector is, buy 3 or 4.

Big boats are a new hobby to me, but I am a quick study.

Just my .02

Hey guys, we've never heard from the OP after all this discussion.

first this not pointed at anyone particular
its been a over a month since this thread started i guess things happen sometimes...... not only on this thread but in general not responding back to threads that are started is whats so frustrating to me on this and other forums i am on. it would be nice for the OP's to reply to threads they start and when offered help would write back and say whether the suggestions fixed the problem or not or something else helped. its like people put up a question and then fall off the earth. in a perfect world when searching topics you might actually be able to get some good advice with the solution. wow what an idea!