Westerbeke — Field Flashing
Repair & overhaul · stationary exciter stator windings
From a Westerbeke service manual covering: WTA 15, WTA 20, WTA 25, WTA12KW, WTA15KW, WTA16KW, WTAl5KW. Check it applies to your exact model before use.
Before you start
- The DC battery used for field flashing must be completely independent from the generator's DC starting battery to prevent a short circuit in the regulator board from damaging it.
Procedure
- Record auxiliary DC voltage and main output line voltage with generator running.
- Connect DC battery negative to the regulator board heat sink.
- Connect DC battery positive to the generator case.
- Make connections for only a few seconds while generator is running.
- AC output per line to neutral should peak at 140-150 volts during flashing.
- When flashing voltage is removed, output should drop back to 120 volts.
- Apply load several times and run loaded for some time.
- Shut down and restart to assure proper startup.
Tools required
- independent 12 VDC battery Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- 12 VDC field flashing
- 140-150 VAC peak per line to neutral
- drops back to 120 VAC
Source: Westerbeke service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.