Sailing Vessel Delos Ep. 522: Generator Breaks in Half, Toilet Repair, and Big Decisions

Generator Catastrophe

• 💥 The primary issue is the generator breaking in half, a shocking discovery made after it stopped working and threw an error code.
• 🔍 Initial troubleshooting revealed metallic dust and a loose component, but the main problem was a cracked housing that compromised the entire unit.
• 🛠️ The generator, with 2,700 hours, suffered a catastrophic failure, possibly due to improper assembly or loose bolts over time, rendering it unusable.

Toilet System Overhaul

• 🚽 A secondary repair involved the boat's toilet, which was found to be leaking and making strange noises.
• 🤢 The process involved dealing with unpleasant waste and rust buildup, requiring a thorough cleaning and replacement of hoses and motor.
• ✅ Despite the mess and a sliced finger, the toilet system was successfully repaired and tested for leaks.

Troubleshooting and Repair Efforts

• 📉 Resistance tests on the generator's control board indicated a faulty component, with readings far from the expected values.
• 💡 The investigation pointed to a melted and stuck brush in the generator's exciter as a potential cause for the error codes.
• 🔧 The cracked generator housing presented a significant challenge, with the part being discontinued and expensive.

Seeking Professional Help and Alternatives

• 👨‍🏭 A local welder, Shane, was consulted to repair the cast aluminum housing of the generator, a complex and multi-stage process.
• ⚠️ Despite initial successful welds, the housing cracked again, indicating the difficulty of the repair.
• 🤔 The team considered alternatives, including using a DC generator set with inverters, or sailing without essential systems like refrigeration and water making.

Decision Making and Reflection

• ⚓ The crew faces significant decisions about their next steps, including whether to stay in Fiji for repairs or continue their journey.
• 😥 The frustration of equipment failure is compounded by the realization that parts may not be readily available or durable.
• 😌 Despite the setbacks, the experience highlights the importance of taking breaks, seeking help, and maintaining a positive attitude amidst challenging repairs.