Y33 running bilge blower while underway

Jan 3, 2023
13
Yamaha 33 Cleveland
Hi all, currently our blower runs while the engine key is in the on position. Is this how yours are set up? There is no switch to turn it off or on by its self. I am a little concerned about burning the blower out on long motors.

yanmar 2gm20f - under companion way

Thank you
 
Jan 4, 2006
6,601
Hunter 310 West Vancouver, B.C.
This is how I wired by my bilge blower which is not a bilge blower but an exhaust fan to cool the alternator. I installed an exterior alternator regulator a number of years ago and the alternator ran extremely hot. The exhaust fan was able to lower the engine compartment by about 30F ° . I believe I've heard that newer Hunters have exhaust fans installed for engine cooling.
 
May 17, 2004
5,174
Beneteau Oceanis 37 Havre de Grace
The blowers on most diesels are designed for just that purpose. Unlike a gas engine where the goal is to exhaust flammable vapors before starting, the goal on a diesel is to help cool the alternator and engine compartment in general while the engine runs.
 
Jun 8, 2004
2,878
Catalina 320 Dana Point
I am a little concerned about burning the blower out on long motors.
Well, they do burn out every 10-20 years but most people run them whenever engine is running, there is nothing to worry about I'm aware of.