Portable Generator use

[Serenity]

I have a Yamaha 2000 generator that I intend to use while on the hook. When running and plugged into the ac service, I have a slight glow on my "polarity" light on the AC panel in the cabin. This was done while the yacht was on the hard. The wiring is correct. Is it possible that the generator is not grounded and that will cause a polarity issue? When the boat is in the water, I was thinking of using a water guppy anode as the ground. Does or did any other AOG members have a similar problem?

[rcwhite]

Small portable generators can have a floating neutral which is likely the cause of the dim polarity light.
Depending on the unit you can connect the neutral and ground at the generator to address this but
talk to support first. There should only be a single point where neutral and ground are connected
and on a boat, this is on shore. (or onboard generator/inverter when in use and shore power disconnected)
I woudn't put much faith in any of the on board GFCIs when powered off of the portable generator
in this configuration.

[Serenity]

Thanks for your input. However, who is "support"?

[rcwhite]

If you are unable to find anything in your manual, you may want to try
customer support which could be the dealer you purchased from or possibly Yamaha direct.

https://www.yamaha-motor.com/corporate/contactus.aspx
(800) 962-7926

If you are unable to find a resolution, typically you could use something like this to replace
the plug on your 15-30 adapter or make your own.

https://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Indu ... B01BYSFQSW

If you do this, do not use the modified adapter for any other purpose than connecting to the
portable generator.

Chris

[Serenity]

Chris, great info. I ordered the plug. Will advise the results. Thanks.

[Serenity]

I finally had a chance to run my portable genny with the plug mentioned by Chris. Everything worked great. Interesting, I sold Leviton products for 35 years and I never knew that had a plug designed for portable generators.

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