Running Generator While Underway

Mattyknj

I recently purchased a 2009 Rinker 320 FV with a 5K generator. I have heard a lot of different opinions about running the generator while underway based on the type of thru hull installed on the boat. Is the boat rigged to run the generator underway from the factory?

LaRea

Welcome to the forum! 

Rinker designed an upgraded water intake that helps scoop water at high speeds.  Yours probably has it.  But here's what I'd do:  check the amount of water coming out from your generator exhaust when sitting still, then get on plane, and make sure it's still pushing the same amount of water.  You're probably fine, but it's worth checking.  

Mattyknj

Thank you LaRea, I will do that this weekend. I know the generator has safety sensors but while underway you can't hear anything and it would be an expensive oversight of something happened.

Liberty44140

I believe that al has responded that all of them can run with the genny on at speeds up to 30mph and then there is a special scoop they designed to be able to run up to 50mph. My 2006 342 has the scoop to run up to 50 so chances are that your 09 has the same. Either way you can run up to 30 which is likely plenty. 

Mattyknj

Thanks Liberty44140. I ran it over the weekend and it worked without issue at 28mph until I sucked seaweed into my sea strainer. I swam under the boat and it does have the new style scoop so as far as I can tell I am good to go. Thanks for all the help.

Liberty44140

Mattyknj said:

Thanks Liberty44140. I ran it over the weekend and it worked without issue at 28mph until I sucked seaweed into my sea strainer. I swam under the boat and it does have the new style scoop so as far as I can tell I am good to go. Thanks for all the help.

That’s great!