Westerbeke W-46 - Page 83

WALTER V-DRIVE TRANSMISSION
OPERATION
A pressure drop warning light is WATERLINE
mounted on the instrument panel on
V-drives equipped with an oil cir-
culating pump. The warning light will
stay on until the boat gets under way
and the engine speed increases to suf-
ficient RPM for the pump to maintain
pressure. This normally occurs at
approximately 1200 RPM, but the actual
speed may vary by as much as 400 RPM.
Extended cruising at low RPM, such as
when trolling, is not harmful to the
V-drive, even though the warning light
may stay lit. Normal operation is
between 6 to 12PSI. The light will
go on when the oil pressure drops
below 2PSI. Loss of oil and/or
insufficient oil level are the major ,jt49 PRESSURE
causes of pressure drop. The oil DROP SWITCH
level should immediately be restored,
and while running the boat, the unit should be checked for leaks. If
the oil level is normal and the light stays lit when the boat reaches
normal cruising speed, the wiring should be checked for loose and/or
corroded connections. If the wiring is correct and the light remains
lit, the 449 pressure drop switch, which is mounted on t~e side of the
v-dr ive , (see illustration) , should be checked for proper operation.
The switch can easily be removed and an accurate oil pressure gauge
installed in its place. If the pressure is normal, the switch should
be replaced. If the pressure is below normal, the oil lines should be
checked for blockage. The pump should be inspected and replaced if
necessary. The pump is standard on the RV-48 and an optional feature
on other models (not available on the RV-10).
A clatter or rattle in the V-drive at low RPM is due to the over-
riding of the propeller during the compression stroke of the engine.
Although ~nnoying, it is not harmful. It may be reduced by adjusting
the idle s~eed and/or tuning up the engine ,for smoother operation.
The o'iL level should be checked several times during the season,
especially on V-drives without pumps
WATER DRAIN
For 'protection from freezing during winter lay-up, remove the small
pipe plugs (located diagonally opposite) on the front and back of the
housing marked Water Drain (see illustration)a On the RV-10 only, one
of the water lines going into the water-cooled bottom cover must be
disconnected to drain the water.
FLANGE AND ENGINE REALIGNMENT
When the boat is launched after being in drydock, the line-up of the
V-drive to the propeller shaft flange and the engine to the V-drive
should be rechecked and corrected if necessary. some engines with
rubber mounts may sag and must be raised with adjustments or shims for
proper alignment ·
Engines & Generators
81