Onan Generator and NMEA 2000

[InsuredApple]

Hey all.

I've got a 21.5MDKBR Onan generator on my boat. There's a remote panel in our salon. I'm trying to see if I can somehow get data from the generator on our NMEA2000 network.

Thoughts?

[merrimac]

Assuming this is a non-ECU engine?


What are you interested in, engine hours, RPM, current output?

[InsuredApple]

I think I found what I need...

SAE J-1939 CAN data link
Part Number: 0541-1195-03

From there I can take it to NMEA2000

[InsuredApple]

Originally Posted by merrimac

Assuming this is a non-ECU engine?


What are you interested in, engine hours, RPM, current output?

Thanks for your reply.

I'm interested in everything -- current output is probably up there. I'm just keen to keep an eye on data while charging the batteries (and running the generator).

[merrimac]

Yeah, I just looked up your generator and it supports the J1939 link so the next step would be to convert that to NMEA2000, there are converters from Maretron, Offshore Systems and YachtD, probably others as well.


I have no personal experience with any of these. Whatever you get, make sure you can configure it. Some brands require a display or USB interface of their liking to do this.

[InsuredApple]

Originally Posted by merrimac

Yeah, I just looked up your generator and it supports the J1939 link so the next step would be to convert that to NMEA2000, there are converters from Maretron, Offshore Systems and YachtD, probably others as well.


I have no personal experience with any of these. Whatever you get, make sure you can configure it. Some brands require a display or USB interface of their liking to do this.

Ah yes. Programming and configuring.

I'm not a huge fan of Maretron anymore -- and our boat is packed with their stuff. I have a Maretron VDR100, which is a paperweight now, as it eats up USB sticks, and Maretron's support stopped trying to help. I believe the VDR100 has some firmware issues that I hope will be fixed one day.

It looks like the J1939 kit for my Onan 21.5 will run about $721 in Florida. I'll probably go with the Yacht Devices NMEA 2000 / J1939 adapter. Their WiFi gateway has worked decently well, and their email support is responsive.

I just took off the panels of the generator, and it looks like the install may be somewhat easy (but... who knows... it's a boat).

Thanks for your help!