Mastervolt Whisper 6 User manual

INSTALLATION MANUAL U.S.A EDITION
WHISPER 6 / 8 / 11
- 3600 RPM -
Marine diesel generating set 120/240V / 60Hz
Digital Diesel Control
MASTERVOLT
Snijdersbergweg 93,
1105 AN Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Tel.: +31-20-3422100
Fax.: +31-20-6971006
www.mastervolt.com
V7. July 2009
Art.nr. 50200364

CONTENTS
2Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt. All rights reserved.
Reproduction, transfer, distribution or storage of part or all of the contents in this document in any form without the prior written
permission of Mastervolt is prohibited.
CONTENTS:
1INSTALLATION............................................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 General .............................................................................................................................................................. 3
1.2 Location.............................................................................................................................................................. 3
1.3 Instructions for optimal sound and vibration insulation ....................................................................................... 3
1.3.1 Steel base plate................................................................................................................................. 3
1.3.2 Further recommendations ................................................................................................................. 3
1.4 Ventilation........................................................................................................................................................... 4
1.5 Connections ....................................................................................................................................................... 5
1.5.1 Fuel supply ........................................................................................................................................ 5
1.5.2 Cooling .............................................................................................................................................. 7
1.5.3 Exhaust system ............................................................................................................................... 10
1.5.4 Digital Diesel Control system (12 Volt) ............................................................................................ 13
1.5.5 AC power system (120 - 240 Volt)................................................................................................... 16
2INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................................................................................. 18
2.1 Installation table ............................................................................................................................................... 18
2.2 Commission table............................................................................................................................................. 19
2.3 Installation specifications Whisper 6, 8 and 11 – 3600RPM............................................................................. 20
2.4 Specification of the accessories ....................................................................................................................... 20
2.5 Installation materials Whisper 6/8/11................................................................................................................ 21
3DIAGRAMS & DRAWINGS ........................................................................................................................................... 25
3.1 DC wiring diagram............................................................................................................................................ 25
3.2 Wiring codes and colours ................................................................................................................................. 26
3.3 Diagram electronic governor Whisper 8 and 11 3600 rpm ............................................................................... 27
3.4 AC wiring diagram 120 - 240V / 60Hz .............................................................................................................. 28
3.5 Remote control panel drawings ........................................................................................................................ 29
3.6 Dimensions Whisper 6, 8 and 11...................................................................................................................... 30

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 3
1 INSTALLATION
1.1 GENERAL
This installation manual is valid for the following models:
Part number Description
50902055 Whisper 6 / 120/240V 3600rpm
50902056 Whisper 6 / 120/240V 3600rpm –
ungrounded
50903055 Whisper 8 / 120/240V 3600rpm
50903056 Whisper 8 / 120/240V 3600rpm –
ungrounded
50604055 Whisper 11 / 120/240V 3600rpm
50604056 Whisper 11 / 120/240V 3600rpm –
ungrounded
For other models see our website: www.mastervolt.com
To ensure reliability and durability of the equipment, it is
very important that the installation is carried out with the
utmost care and attention. To avoid problems, such as
temperature problems, noise levels, vibration, etc. the
instructions set out in this manual must be followed and all
installation work must be carried out professionally.
1.2 LOCATION
Since Whisper generating sets have extremely compact
dimensions, they can be installed in tight locations. Please
consider that even almost maintenance-free machinery
must still remain accessible.
When selecting the location area in which to mount the
generating set, make sure there is sufficient room to carry
out any maintenance work. The unit must be easily
accessible on the service side and on the distribution side
to have access to the V-belt
Please also note that in spite of the automatic oil pressure
sensor it is still essential that the oil level is checked
regularly.
1.3 INSTRUCTIONS FOR OPTIMAL SOUND
AND VIBRATION INSULATION
Position the generating set as low as possible in the
vessel. As the generating set is already secured to the
base frame by means of flexible engine mountings, the
frame can be mounted directly to the vessel’s main
structure.
1.3.1 Steel base plate
However to keep resonant vibrations at a minimum, it is
recommended to mount the generating set on a solid steel
base plate, approx. 3/4” (20 mm) weighing approx. 130Lbs
(60 kg) or 50% of the weight of the generating set. The
engine draws its inlet combustion air through several holes
in the capsule base. Therefore the capsule must be fitted
with sufficient clearance between the capsule underside
and the base plate. For the Whisper 6/8-3600rpm a steel
base plate is available from Mastervolt as an optional
accessory (ref. fig. 20, page 18)
1.3.2 Further recommendations
Whisper generating sets are standard equipped with a
"GRP" (Glass Reinforced Plastic) sound cover. The
canopy has been designed to give effective sound
insulation. For optimum sound and vibration dampening,
the following factors should be considered.
1 Avoid mounting the generating set in close proximity
to thin walls or floors that may cause resonance.
2 Sound dampening is extremely poor if the generating
set is mounted on a light weight flimsy surface such
as plywood which will only amplify vibrations. If
mounting on a thinner surface cannot be avoided, this
should at least be reinforced with stiffening struts or
ribbing. If possible, holes should be bored or cut
through the surface to help reduce the resonance.
Covering the surrounding walls and floors with a
heavy coating plus foam will certainly improve the
situation.
Figure 1: Mounting of the Whisper generating set. X = wrong, V = OK

INSTALLATION
4Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
3 Never connect the base of the generating set directly
to bulkheads or tanks.
1.4 VENTILATION
The generating set normally draws air from the engine
room. Engine rooms with natural ventilation must have
vent openings of adequate size and location to enable the
generating set to operate without overheating. To allow an
ample supply of air within the temperature limits of the
generating set an opening of at least 16 sq inch (100 cm2)
is required.
A "sealed" engine compartment must have a good
extraction ventilator to maintain reasonable engine room
temperatures. High temperature of intake air reduces
engine performance and increases engine coolant
temperatures. Air temperatures above 104°F (40°C)
reduce the engine power by 1% for each 5°F of rise. To
minimise these effects the engine room temperature must
not be more than 27ºF (15 ºC) above the outside ambient
air temperature.
Apply a combination of ventilators, blowers and air intake
ducting to meet the temperature limit. The air inlet ducts
should run to the bottom of the engine room to clear fumes
from the bilge and to circulate fresh air. Air outlets should
be at the top of the engine room to remove the hottest air.
An engine room blower should be used as an extraction
ventilator to remove air from the engine room.
In cases where it is impossible to meet the above
mentioned temperature limit by using machine room
ventilation, connections are to be made for an air inlet
directly to the enclosure. With these connections the
generating set can be directly connected to an air duct.
Air inlets should be louvered, where appropriate, to protect
the engine room and to protect the generating set from
water spray. As an extra precaution, the fitting of a cowl
ventilator with a cover box located as high as possible, is
recommended.
EXHAUST (1)
40 mm REMOTE CABLE (2)
12x0,3 mm2
AC CABLE (3)
FUEL RETURN (6)
16 mm2
BATTERY - (7)
8 mm
FUEL IN (4)
8 mm
16 mm2
BATTERY + (5)
AIRVENT IN (10)
19 mm
AIRVENT OUT (9)
WATER IN (8)
19 mm
19 mm
WHISPER 6/8
EXHAUST (1)
1 5/5” (40 mm)
AC CABLE (3)
REMOTE CABLE (2)
12xAWG22 (0.25mm2)
FUEL IN (4)
5/16” 8mm)
BATTERY + (5)
AWG2 (25mm²)
FUEL RETURN (6)
5/16” 8mm)
BATTERY – (7)
AWG2 (25mm²)
WATER IN (8)
3/4” (19mm)
AIRVENT OUT (9)
3/4” (19mm)
AIRVENT IN (10)
3/4” (19mm)
EXHAUST (1)
1 5/5” (40 mm)
REMOTE CABLE (2)
12xAWG22 (0.25mm2)
AC CABLE (3)
FUEL IN (4)
5/16” 8mm)
BATTERY + (5)
AWG2 (25mm²)
FUEL RETURN (6)
5/16” 8mm)
BATTERY – (7)
AWG2
(
25mm²
)
AIRVENT IN (8)
3/4” (19mm)
AIRVENT OUT (9)
3/4” (19mm)
WATER IN (10)
3/4” (19mm)
Figure 2
Whisper 6 and 8
Whisper 11

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 5
1.5 CONNECTIONS
The generating set comes supplied with all supply lines
and output cable (i.e. electric cables, cooling water
connections, exhaust, fuel lines etc.) already connected to
the engine and generator. The supply lines are fed through
the capsule’s front base. The connections are marked as
shown in fig. 2.
All electrical connections, cable types and sizes must
comply with the appropriate national regulations. Supplied
cables are rated for ambient temperatures up to 158ºF
(70°C). If the cables are required to meet higher
temperature requirements, they must be run through
conduits.
ATTENTION!
Before working (installation) on the system
read the section safety instructions
1.5.1 Fuel supply
1 FUEL TANK
Fuel tanks should be made of appropriate material such as
(stainless) steel or plastic. Steel tanks should not be
galvanised or painted inside. Condensation can occur in
metal tanks when temperature changes. Therefore, water
accumulates at the bottom of the tank and provisions
should be made for the drainage of this water.
The tank will need a filling connection, a return connection
and an air ventilation connection which will require
protection against water entry.
Some official regulations do not allow connection points at
the base of the fuel tank; in this instance connections are
to be made at the top of the tank with internal tubing down
to a few cm above the bottom of the tank.
2 FUEL LIFT PUMP
The generating set itself is equipped with a fuel lift pump;
therefore the tank can be installed at a lower level than the
generating set. The maximum suction height is 3ft (1m).
If the pump has to lift the fuel higher than 3ft (1m) an
external fuel lift pump must be installed. The control board
is already prepared to connect an extra fuel pump.
3 FUEL PIPES
When the tank is above the generating set (figure 3)`we
recommend ending the return line on the top of the tank .
When the return is on the top - in case of a leakage the
return line cannot overflow because of siphoning. One will
only need a fuel cock in the fuel supply line.
When the tank is below the generating set (figure 4) we
recommend ending the return line on the bottom of the
tank (A) below the inlet of the supply line to discharge
under the lowest fuel level. This prevents air getting into
the fuel line. Here also one needs a fuel cock only in the
supply line
Both supply and return fuel pipe lines should be
appropriate material and 5/16” (8 mm) outer diameter
tubing. The quality of the tubing of fuel pipes could be
submitted to local regulations depending on the application
of the vessel.
The fuel pipes can be plumbed to the flexible hoses which
are on the generating set and have a connection to fit to
5/16” (8 mm) pipe. This fuel lines fulfils CE standards and
are according to ISO 7840 A2.
It is important to avoid bends in the pipes, as they could
trap air bubbles. The return pipe should never be
connected to the suction pipe. Other consumers of diesel
fuel, such as the propulsion engine and heaters, have to
be connected to separate suction and return pipes.
4 FUEL FILTERS
A fine fuel filter is installed which requires maintenance.
Mastervolt advises to install an extra fuel filter/ water fuel
separator near the fuel tank.
Before starting your generating set for the first time follow
the fuel system bleeding procedure in the users manual.

INSTALLATION
6Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
Fig. 3: Fuel supply (fuel tank is above the generating set)
Fig. 4: Fuel supply (fuel tank is above the generating set)
1 Fuel return;
2 Fuel supply;
3 Prefilter / water separator (optional);
5 Fuel tank;
pp y
1 Fuel return;
2 Fuel supply;
3 Prefilter / water separator (optional);
4 Extra fuel lift pump (optional);
5 Fuel tank;

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 7
1.5.2 Cooling
Intercooling is based on a raw water pump, heat
exchanger and water-injected exhaust. Cooling liquid in
the internal cooling system is cooled in a heatexchanger
by outboard water (raw water or seawater). After the raw
water is warmed up in the heatexchanger it is dumped
overboard by injecting it in the exhaust.
The generating set should have its own sea water (coolant
water) inlet and should not be connected to any other
engine systems. A properly installed cooling system is
critical to keep engine temperatures within an acceptable
range. Ensure that the installation complies to the
following installation instructions.
1 THE INTERNAL COOLING SYSTEM
The internal cooling system should be filled with cooling
liquid. (Refer to the users manual 2.5.12) When the engine
becomes hot the liquid expands and the system is
pressurised. After the pressure becomes too high the
release valve in the filling cap on the manifold opens and
the expanding liquid is pressed into the expansion tank
that is in the delivery. Also the air in the system that is
collected at the top of the manifold is released in this way.
When the liquid cools down there will be under-pressure.
Another valve opens and the liquid is sucked into the
manifold again. This system works only when there is
enough liquid initially. This has to be checked when
commissioning the generator set. By filling up the
expansion tank when necessary there will always be
enough liquid in the system. The hose that is in the
delivery has to be connected to the connection on the side
of the filling cap. This hose is made of heat resistant
plastic and is not sensitive for kinks.
The hose goes through a hole that has to be drilled in the
lower part of the canopy close to the place where the tank
is mounted.
See figure 5. The tank has to be placed close to the
generator. When it is mounted above the top of the
manifold the liquid in the tank will be drained when the cap
on the manifold is taken off. When keel cooling or radiator
cooling is applied the system will not be pressurised. A
Afb. 4a.
Fig 5.
1 Water level 5 Air vent;
2 Water/exhaust separator 6 Water strainer;
3 Seacock 7 Seacock.
4 Waterlock
Fig. 6.
MAX. 10CM (4")
MIN. 60CM (24")
MAX. 150CM (60")
MIN. 3CM (1,2")
1
5
6
7
2
3
4
5CM (2")

INSTALLATION
8Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
cap without release valve should be applied. Refer to the
special manual for these applications.
2 RAW WATER SUPPLY
For raw water supply the following installation materials
are required: -a skin fitting - a sea cock - a water strainer -
hoses and clamps. In order to keep the suction resistance
in the line at a minimum, the sea water intake system (i.e.
sea cock, tru-hull fitting, inlet filter, etc.) must have the
following inner diameter at least
Model Minimum inner diameter
Whisper 6 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
Whisper 8 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
Whisper 11 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
The suction hose should be kept as short as possible.
Raw water plumbing should avoid bends as much as
possible.
Restriction of raw water flow, caused by kinked hoses,
undersized pipes or connections, will reduce the engine
cooling capability. This is the main cause for overheating
of an engine.
After running the generating set for the first time, check the
coolant flow rate using a stopwatch and by holding a pail
of a known volume under the wet-exhaust outlet. The flow
rate should be according to the data in the users manual
3 INSTALLATION OF THROUGH HULL FITTING
It is good practice for yachts to use a hull inlet fitting with
an integrated strainer (water scoop). For propulsion
engines in motorboats the water scoop is often mounted
against the sailing direction to induce more water intake
for cooling.
This should not be done in the case of a
generating set! When sailing at higher
speeds, water will be forced into the inlet and
your generating set will overflow!
Fig. 7 Installing water intake
On motorboats and on sailing boats the water scoop for a
generating set should be fitted with the opening faced
backwards to prevent water being forced in during sailing.
Use a sealant when mounting the skin fitting.
4 WATER STRAINER
Use an appropriate water strainer with connections of the
following dimensions:
Model Inner dimensions
Whisper 6 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
Whisper 8 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
Whisper 11 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
Install the water strainer in a well accessible position,
(refer to fig. 6-6) 5 cm above the waterline.
SAILING DIRECTION
SAILING DIRECTION
FLOW DIRECTION
FLOW DIRECTION

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 9
5 SIPHON BREAKER (AIR VENT)
When the point of water injection is below the waterline,
then -when the engine is stopped -there is a risk that the
cooling water may enter the engine as a result of
siphoning. To avoid this happening, the generating set is
designed to accommodate a siphon breaker (air vent). In
the standard delivery the connections are bypassed.
Hoses with the following inner diameter should be used:
Model Inner dimensions
Whisper 6 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
Whisper 8 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
Whisper 11 – 3600 rpm 3/4" (19 mm)
If the generating set cannot be mounted such that the
bottom of the generating set is placed above the waterline,
an air vent must be installed.
Extend the water hose of the by-pass 24” (60 cm) above
waterline and install an air vent. Ideally, the air vent should
be mounted above the yacht keel center line (i.e. to
minimize the influence of swaying on the water intake).
The hose of the drain should go downwards. Water must
flow out freely and air has to flow in freely as well.
Fast motorboats will lay deeper when sailing at large
speed and can cause pressure on the waterinlet. This
should be avoided to prevent fleeding the engine.
If the air vent is clogged the water hoses will
not be vented when the generating set has
stopped and water can be forced into the
engine. This leads to immediate engine
problems and eventually severe damage!
DAMAGE CAUSED BY THE INGRESS OF WATER IN
THE ENGINE IS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTEE
On the valve is a little hose to drain a little water that could
be spilled from the valve. This hose should go down and
may not end under water, because it should ventilate air
into the valve to break the siphoning (figure 8).
OPEN
Fig 8: Wrong siphon breaker hose routing
Check the air vent at regular intervals. Open, clean and
lubricate the valve as required.
OPEN
Fig. 9 Mastervolt siphon breaker

INSTALLATION
10 Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
1.5.3 Exhaust system
Water is injected in the exhaust system of the generating
set. In this way the cooling water that has passed the heat
exchanger is mixed with the exhaust gases. Temperature
and volume of the gases are thereby reduced
considerably, so that a rubber exhaust hose can be used
and the level of noise is reduced as well.
1 STANDARD EXHAUST SYSTEM INSTALLATION
The generating set exhaust system must remain
completely independent and separate from the exhaust
system of any other engine on board. A water lock
prevents the generating set from being flooded by cooling
water and should be installed as close to the generating
set as possible. The lock must be large enough to hold the
entire water volume held in the hose from the top of the
goose neck to the water lock. The water lock must be
installed at the lowest point of the exhaust system (ref. to
fig. 10-1). The exhaust hose must have an inner diameter
of 1 5/8” (40mm), no less, no more. The exhaust system
must be installed so that the back pressure inside the
exhaust does not exceed 1psi (2 inches mercury, 27
inches – 70 cm watercolumn) and total length from the
genearot to the top of the goose neck or or
water/separator does not exceed 10ft (3m). (Refer to
paragraph 5.4.3 of the users manual).
The exhaust hose descends from the capsule to the water
lock. Then the hose rises via the "goose neck" to the
through-hull exhaust outlet, situated minimum 2" (5 cm)
above the water line (ref. to fig. 10-5.) The "goose neck"
must be vertical and situated preferable along the ship’s
keel center line. If the generating set is mounted less than
24" (60 cm) above the waterline, a "goose neck" must be
installed to prevent the engine from overflowing. It is
recommended to install an extra muffler close to the
through-hull fitting.
1 Exhaust water lock; 4 Goose neck;
2 Exhaust outlet muffler; 5 Through-hull exhaust outlet Ø 1 5/8” (40mm);
Fig 10 3 Exhaust line Ø 1 5/8” (40mm) 6 Water level.
Max. length A - B = 10 ft. (3 m)
3
3
4
2
5
6
A
Minimum 60cm (24")
Maximum 150cm (60")
5 cm (2")
B
1

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 11
1 Water level 3 Seacock
Figure 11 2 Water/exhaust separator 4 Waterlock
MAX. 4" (10CM)
MIN. 24" (60CM)
MAX. 60" (150CM)
MIN. 1,2" (3CM)
1
2
3
4
Ø 1
5
/
8
”
Ø 1
5
/
8
”
Ø 1
5
/
8
”
Figure 12: Only after the exhaust / water separator the exhaust hose may have a length of over 24 feet (7.5 meter)
OK!
WRONG!
A
B
Ø 1
5
/8 “
(40 mm)
Ø 1
5
/8 “
(40 mm)
Ø 1
5
/8 “
(40 mm)
Max. length A - B = 10 ft. (3 m)
Up to 10ft (3m): Ø 1 5/8 “ (40 mm)
10-30 ft (3-10 m): Ø 2” (51 mm)

INSTALLATION
12 Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
2 "SUPER SILENT" EXHAUST SYSTEM
See figure 11. In order to reduce the noise level of the
generating set to a minimum, an option to reduce the
exhaust noise further (especially exhaust water splashing)
is an exhaust/water separator. The exhaust/water
separator allows the cooling water to be ejected through a
line separate from the exhaust fumes and also functions
as a goose neck to prevent water from flooding the engine.
If the exhaust/water separator is mounted more than 60
cm above the water level an additional goose neck is not
required.
If the through-hull exhaust outlet has to be mounted far
from the generating set (Total length of the exhaust piping
from generator to top of goose neck (water separator) is
more than 10ft / 3m.), an exhaust/water separator must
definitely be installed. The sea water from the separator
must then run down along the shortest possible path to the
through-hull outlet.
Only after the exhaust/water separator the exhaust hose
may have a length of over 7,5 m if the exhaust hose
diameter is also increased from Ø 40 mm (1 5/8”) to 51 mm
(2”) in order to reduce the back pressure (ref. to figure 12)
However watertraps should be avoided as the fumes still
contains water and this should not accumulate in bents
(refer to figures 13 and 14). An additional outlet exhaust
muffler close to the hull outlet will help further to reduce
noise emission
Fig.13: Water trap in exhaust system
Figure 14: Water will collect in the hanging bend of the exhaust gas hose and will cause back pressure
OK! WRONG!
OK!
WRONG

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 13
If the generating set and the exhaust system have been
installed correctly, neighbouring boats will not be disturbed
by generating set noise, With the "super silent" exhaust
system, generating set noises are almost inaudible. For
optimal noise reduction, the sea water outlet from the
exhaust/water separator (center outlet on the unit) should
be installed below the water level to eliminate noisy
splashing of the effluent sea water.
The through-hull outlet for the exhaust fumes should not
direct the fumes directly toward the water surface as this
will cause excessive noise (ref. to fig. 15).
Do not direct the outlet directly toward the
water surface.
Figure 15
1.5.4 Digital Diesel Control system (12 Volt)
1 DIGITAL DIESEL CONTROL SYSTEM
The electrical control system is standard in 12 Volt with
negative earth. Non- earth return is available as an option
for aluminium vessels to prevent corrosion.
All electrical wiring has been prepared on the generating
set to the control panel prior to despatch from the factory.
The engine is controlled by a very advanced
microprocessor based system: Digital Diesel Control.
The “black box” containing the microprocessor is located
on top of the alternator.
A local control panel is on the generating set.
Remote control
A remote control panel also containing a microprocessor is
in the delivery. A 50ft (15m) intermediate 8-pole
communication cable is in the standard supply as well
(refer to fig. 16). If necessary an optional longer (up to
100ft / 30m) intermediate cable can be connected if the
standard length does not suit the required distance. When
a longer distance than 100ft / 30m is required, consult the
Mastervolt service department for advice.
Fig. 16 Remote control cable
Figure 10
OK!
WRONG!

INSTALLATION
14 Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
One can mount the control panel after drilling a hole in the
dashboard using the plastic cover. Refer to the
dimensional drawing in paragraph 3.5. The panel without
the plastic cover fits the Mastervision modular panel
system.
More remote control panels (slave panels) can be put in
parallel by using the modular connectors on the back of
the units. As a slave one can use the same panel offering
all functions again. It is also possible to use an old or new
type slave panel only to start and stop the generator.
Old type remote panels and system panels can be
connected by means of the green connector.
Pay attention to the colour codes as indicated in fig. 17
when fitting cable to the green connector. Some software
versions in old system panels (supplied before May 2004)
could conflict with the software in the DDC and an update
of the software of the system panel could be necessary.
When this is the case consult to the Mastervolt service
department for advice.
When using the factory settings, installation is very simple:
just plug the remote cable into the remote and the
generator is ready to use. Refer to fig. 17.
WIRINGCOLOURS
RED
GREEN
BROWN
YELLOW
PINK
PURPLE
BLUE
WHITE
GREY/ PI NK
GREY
RED/BLUE
BLACK
MAX. 150 mA
WARNING RELAY
REMOTE CABLE
REMOTE CABLE
2
1
5
4
3
8
7
6
11
10
9
12
SENSE BAT. 2
121110987654321
Whisper Remote Panel
WRP/2
J3
Fig. 17 Remote box terminals
Acoustic alarm or warning lamp
One can connect an external max.150 mA relay to
generate an acoustic warning or applying a warning lamp
etc. Be aware of polarity as some relays has a diode
inside and should be connected plus to plus en minus to
minus as indicated. Refer to fig. 17.
Connection for emergency stop / fire alarm switch
To connect an emergency stop button or to stop the
generator automatically in case of a fire alarm, you can
use the bypass connection between fastons J7 and J18 on
the backside of the local control panel. See fig. 18. To do
so, remove this bypass connection and then replace it by
an emergency switch or a potential free fire alarm switch
with normally closed contacts
Fig. 18: Connection for emergency stop / fire alarm switch
Automatic start/stop
Mastervolt cannot be held responsible for
damage caused by the unattended running
generator using the auto-start/stop mode
or interval mode
Using the auto-start/stop (interval) mode
the generator can start unexpectedly.
When working on the electrical system, the
3 Amp fuse must be removed from the
control panel and the battery plus cable
must be removed from the battery.
The Mastervolt Digital Diesel Control system offers several
options for automatic starting and stopping.
Access to this menu and other menus could be blocked.
For blocking and setting up this options refer to the
APPENDIX of the DDC users manual.
Remove bypass
between J7 - J18
Normal operation
Alarm / emergency
local control panel
(rear view)

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 15
One of these options is to monitor a second battery (not
being the starter battery) to start the generator
automatically when the voltage of this battery drops below
a certain setting.
Other names for this second battery are “auxiliary battery”,
“service battery”, ”users battery” or “consumers battery”.
We will refer to this battery as “the second battery”(BAT2).
In some menus the starter battery could be indicated as
“the first battery” (BAT1).
A sense wire to monitor the second battery should be
connected (attention polarity!) to the connector on the
back of the remote panel. Refer to fig. 17. The sense wires
must be connected directly on the second battery before a
main switch and be protected by a 3 Amps fuse.
(Monitoring the generator starter battery does not require
an extra sense connection)
Settings
When one want to apply other settings than the factory
settings refer to the DDC users manual, especially to the
APPENDIX.
2 STARTER BATTERY
For starting, the Whisper generator requires a battery with
a capacity of at least 70Ah. The generating set can be
connected with the main engine battery or have its own
battery.
We strongly recommend the use of a separate battery for
the generating set and to keep the wiring system for the
propulsion engine and the domestic DC supply system
completely separate and individually connected to
separate batteries.
However, the negative of all the batteries on the vessel
should be interconnected (when on earth) to avoid
difference in the voltage level of the earth on different
places causing trouble to electronic devices which might
be in the system.
The above recommendation is not valid for ships having
the starter battery of the propulsion engine or other
auxiliary equipment positive grounded. When this is the
case an expert should be consulted.
A battery switch may be used.
The starter battery is charged by the standard internal
charger in the alternator. An additional battery charger will
help to keep the battery in good condition when the
generating set is not used. A battery charger is not
included in the standard supply. A high efficiency battery
charging unit can be ordered from Mastervolt which is able
to charge both the ship’s main battery and the starter
battery. Also a small charger can be used to charge the
starter battery only, such as the IVO SMART 12/10. A
battery switch and a charger are included in the battery
installation kit, art. no. 50230210 (70Ah)
IVO 12/10
A
12V
B
230V AC
Figure 19

INSTALLATION
16 Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
3 OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS AND WARNINGS
The battery should be secured for seagoing conditions and
the terminals should be insulated. For extra safety the
battery can be enclosed in a wooden, plastic, Fiberglas
etc. (non metal) box. Even when the earth return system is
applied a negative battery cable should be used and the
vessel should not to be used as a conductor.
In the negative battery cable a 250 Amp starter battery
switch could be applied to switch off the battery. The
battery cables are supplied in a standard length of 1.5 m, if
longer cables are required a larger cross sectional area
should be considered to compensate for voltage reduction.
When two batteries are used in series to provide a 24 Volt
supply system, never take off 12 Volt (starting) power from
one of these batteries. This will result in severe damage to
the batteries within a short time.
Disconnect the battery leads if electrical welding is to be
carried out, otherwise damage will be caused to the diodes
of the alternator.
As explosive hydrogen gases are discharged
during charging, the battery should be located
in a well ventilated room. Ensure that the
supplied battery cable connectors are properly
fitted and never remove during or shortly after
charging as sparking can occur, which may
ignite the hydrogen gasses.
1.5.5 AC power system (120 - 240 Volt)
Before working (installation) on the system
read the sections on safety in the users
manual.
Be sure that all electrical installations (including all safety
systems) comply with all required regulations of the local
authorities. All electrical safety/shutdown and circuit
breaking systems have to be installed onboard as the
generating set itself cannot be equipped with such
equipment for every possible variation.
The vessel’s power supply system should be suitable and
safe for the AC voltage which is applied and the power
that will be generated. Special attention has to be paid on
dividing the system in branches which are fused
individually.
It is absolutely essential that each and every circuit in the
on-board electrical system is properly installed by a
qualified electrician.
1 FUSE
An output fuse (from the generating set to the system)
should be installed to protect the installed electrical
system. The following maximum output current applies for
each separate phase:
Maximum single phase
output current
Model
120V 240V
Whisper 6 – 3600 rpm 48 Amps 24 Amps
Whisper 8 – 3600 rpm 61 Amps 30 Amps
Whisper 11 – 3600 rpm 90 Amps 45 Amps
The fuses must be of the slow reacting type. For electrical
motors connected to the system, a motor protection switch
must be installed

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 17
2 GROUNDING
With the U.S.A. models neutral of the AC
alternator is grounded. The housing of the
alternator and all other metal parts are
grounded as well.
The connection between “neutral” and “ground” is
necessary as part of a insulation failure protection system
as commonly used in the U.S.A.
WARNING
In all situations the transfer switches between
shore, inverter and generator should switch all
connections, the phase line(s) (L) as wel as
neutral (N). Off course this is the case when
using a Mastervolt Masterswitch
For safety reasons connect the main ships ground to
negative point of the generating set start battery. When a
ungrounded DC system or positive grounded DC system is
applied the battery negative should not be connected to
the main ships ground.
3 CABLE
For the power cable we recommend the oil resistant cable
with the following cross sectional area:
Model cross sectional area
Whisper 6 – 120-240V
3600 rpm
4xAWG12 / 4 mm²
(15ft / 5m. included)
Whisper 6 – 120V
3600 rpm
3xAWG6 / 10 mm²
(not included)
Whisper 8 – 120-240V
3600 rpm
4xAWG12 / 4 mm²
(15ft / 5m. included)
Whisper 8 – 120V
3600 rpm
3xAWG6 / 10 mm²
(not included)
Whisper 11 – 120-240V
3600 rpm
4xAWG6 / 10 mm2
(not included)
Whisper 11 – 120V
3600 rpm
3xAWG4 / 16 mm2
(not included)
One wire for earth is included. For longer cables it is
recommended to apply cables with a larger cross section
(refer to ISO 13297 annex A).
4 TRANSFER SWITCH
A power source selector switch much be installed between
the generating set and the ship’s electrical supply system.
This switch must ensure that all AC consumers can be
switched off at once. This switch should also be installed
to keep the generating set and shore (grid) power systems
separate.
Transfer switches - to switch over from shore to ship or
from generating set to inverter - should be well designed to
switch over all wires including neutral (and not only phases
or line) and there should be provisions with the aid of
timers to prevent relays from clattering.
Mastervolt recommends the installation of a Mass
Systemswitch as the power source selector. This works
automatically when the generating set is not running the
input remains in the shore position and as soon as the
generating set is running the Mass Systemswitch switches
automatically after 10 seconds delay time over to the
generating set position.

INSTALLATION
18 Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
2 INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS
2.1 INSTALLATION TABLE
1 Install a steel foundation plate between ship’s hull and
generating set, with 4 shock mounts (ref. to fig. 20)
‘foundation plate’ (optional for Whisper 6 and 8).
2 Mount the generating set directly to the foundation
plate.
3 Connect the (sea) water inlet to the strainer.
4 Connect exhaust system.
5 Connect a siphon breaker or ‘air vent’ into the cooling
circuit, if necessary.
6 Connect ‘fuel supply line’ to the water separator/ fuel
filter.
7 Connect ‘fuel return line’ to the fuel tank.
8 Connect remote panel (just plug in).
9 Connect the AC cable from the AC box to the power
source selector or Mass Systemswitch.
10 Connect plus and minus from the 12V starter battery
to the battery cables.
11 Install a Mastervolt battery charger. (optional)
Fig. 12.
Fig. 20

INSTALLATION
US / WHISPER 6/8/11 / July 2009 / Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt 19
2.2 COMMISSION TABLE
1 Check if a siphon breaker (air vent) is necessary and
has been installed
2 Open the seawater inlet valve and check all water
connections. Check if the strainer is installed above
the seawater level.
3 Check if the exhaust system is properly installed.
Check maximum length of exhaust hose, diameter of
exhaust hose, position of the waterlock, maximum lift.
Also check the minimum required height of 24” (60
cm) above sea level of the exhaust loop (goose neck).
4 Open the seawater outlet valve and check all water
connections.
5 Check the AC cables and the grounding.
6 Check if an AC breaker is installed before or after the
power source selector. When there is only a circuit
breaker, use it to disconnect the generating set from
the grid.
7 Check all DC connections, check if the battery switch/
circuit breaker is closed.
8 Open the fuel valve and bleed the fuel system. Check
if there are no air leaks in the fuel supply line, and
check if the lift of the fuel is less than 3 ft (1 meter).
Check if there is no air in the water fuel separator.
9 Check if the air intake in the canopy is not blocked.
10 Check the oil level and color of the oil. Check the
coolant level
11 To bleed the fuel system push the startbutton on the
local control (not on the remote panel) and hold at
least 5 seconds and as long as necessary to bleed
the system.
12 Start the engine by pushing the start button.
13 Check when the generating set is running, the delay
of 5 to 10 seconds in the power source selector
transfer.
14 Check voltage and frequency under ‘no load’
conditions.
15 Check voltage and frequency under ‘full load’
conditions.
16 Check if the battery charger of the generating set is
working (max. 14.5 Volt).
17 Close the sound shield and check the noise level.
18 Stop the generating set and check the engine again
for leakages of oil, fuel or water.
Installation checklist available on our website:
www.mastervolt.com.
Commissioning form available on our website:
www.mastervolt.com.

INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS
20 Copyright © 2009 Mastervolt / July 2009 / WHISPER 6/8/11 / US
2.3 INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS WHISPER 6, 8 AND 11 – 3600RPM
TECHNICAL DATA
Whisper 6 Whisper 8 Whisper 11
Dimensions wxdxh. 26” x 19.5” x 21.7”
660 x 495 x 550 mm
26” x 19.5” x 21.7”
660 x 495 x 550 mm
31.9” x 20.7” x 24.2”
810 x 525 x 615 mm
Weight including sound shield 392 Lbs / 178 kg 392 Lbs / 178 kg 463 Lbs / 210 kg
Max. operation angle 25° 25° 25°
Remote panel 15 m cable Digital Diesel Control System
Battery capacity min. 12V, 60 Ah 12V, 60 Ah 12V, 60 Ah
Fuel consumption 0.5 – 1 gl/h (1,5 – 4 l/hr), load dependent
Lift fuel pump electric driven 12 V DC, max. lift 3ft (1 m)
Cooling indirect cooling
Cooling pump raw water Mastervolt self priming impeller pump, PTO driven, type M
Minimum water supply 3-4 gl/min (9-15 l/min) 3-4 gl/min (9-15 l/min) 3-4 gl/min (9-15 l/min)
Crank case lube oil capacity 2.5 US qts + 0.5 US qts oil
filter; total: 3 US qts
(2.4l.+ 0.5l oil filter, total
2.9l.)
2.5 US qts + 0.5 US qts oil
filter; total: 3 US qts
(2.4l.+ 0.5l oil filter, total
2.9l.)
3.7 US qts + 0.5 US qts oil
filter; total: 4.2 US qts
(3.6l. + 0.5l oil filter, total
4.1l)
Alternator synchronous brushless, maintenance free water cooled
Voltage regulation Capacitor Capacitor capacitor + AVR
Output power at
power factor cos phi = 1
6 kW, 120-240V 60 Hz 8 kW, 120-240V 60 Hz 11 kW, 120-240V 60 Hz
Battery charger alternator including regulator (40 Amps)
2.4 SPECIFICATION OF THE ACCESSORIES
Water scoop 3/4” = 19 mm
Inlet valve 3/4” = 19 mm
Water strainer 3/4” (19 mm) in, 3/4” (19 mm) out
Air vent 3/4” (19 mm)
Inlet suction hose 3/4” (19 mm)
Fuel filter/water separator 30 micron
Fuel inlet and return 5/16” (8 mm)
Exhaust hose in/out Ø 1 5/8” (40 mm)
Water lock Ø 1 5/8” (40 mm)
Water/gas separator Ø 1 5/8” (40 mm)
Anti shock mounts art. nr. 50230552
Foundation plate min. 60 kg (only for the Whisper 6 and 8)
Battery charger (optional) IVO SMART 12/10; 12V / 10 Amps, 230V/50-60Hz
Other manuals for Whisper 6
12
This manual suits for next models
2
Table of contents
Other Mastervolt Generator manuals