[geeks] Generator question...

[Mike Hebel]

On Fri, 28 Dec 2007 12:03:37 -0500, "James Fogg" <James at jdfogg.com> wrote:
>> Idle curiosity here.  Is it possible to use a standard generator
> "head" in
>> a vertical form?
>>
>> Suppose I have an old 3.6vka "head" lying around and an old 6hp
> lawnmower
>> engine.  Could I just construct a vertical frame with the gas engine
> on
>> top
>> and the generator mounted underneath?
> 
> 
> Not likely. I'd expect prompt bearing failure. Vertical applications
> require thrust bearings.

That's what I thought.

> Also, many generators use a special engine with a very long tail on the
> crankshaft and either a cone coupling or a shaft that extends through
> the generator armature.

Hmm...all the ones I'm seeing have direct-shaft mounts on them.  You get
the right kind of horizontal gas engine and they mount right up.

> And 6HP won't generate much juice.

Supposedly 6hp is good for 3kw which is more than what I'd run in the
garage or for spot projects.

> So, now that I've rained on your parade, google Listeroid engines. A
> twin cylinder Listeroid is usually good for 12HP and uses very little
> diesel fuel.

Oddly it's snowing right now here in the Midwest...

No rain really because you confirmed what I suspected.  I knew about
Listeroids but I need to read up more on them.

Mike Hebel
-- 
"I'm the voice in your head, I'm the cuckoo beside you, the angel you
dread, and the demon inside you..." - Fly Little Bird, Seanan McGuire