I just purchased a boat with a 2002 BV 1506 Beta Marine engine. The alternator appears to have a chronic slip problem. I adjust it, then it works for a couple of trips and then I have problems again. Any thoughts?
Based on the documentation I have, I assume the standard 65Amp (it is painted red), it certainly is not the 100A, and it is a v-belt.
I do not know what belt is on, I will purchase one from Beta Marine NC, but I don't think it is going to solve the problem.
Many of your answers in the forum assume poor air flow is the problem. Isn't that typical on marine installations? The Prout has a large engine room with several hatches, but no fans.
You can see from attached photo that the problem is not new, the whole front is coated in dust. I plan to clean this all off and see how quicky things deteriorate. This is a photo before I purchased.
Your alternator is the 65 amp model. The belts are wearing because of the corrosion on your V pulleys. Look at your photo and the bottom crankshaft pulley. You can actually see the surface is not smooth and clean. This surface will eat up the belt and this causes all the belt dust on the front of the engine. If you can find a way to keep the pulleys clean, you will have found a way to keep your belts lasting longer. If the maintenance is an issue for you, I suggest that you upgrade to the modern polyvee belt (serpentine type belt) pulleys.
Maintenance is not an issue. As I said, I just purchased the boat and this is the starting condition. Is there a recommend way to clean them up initially and then going forward?