Ampair Wind Generator

niftynickers · #1 (**permalink**) 08-03-2006

Aboard NiftyNickers we have an Ampair Pacific 100 wind generator purchased about three years ago from Jack Rabbit Marine.This past weekend while cruising Long Island Sound the wind turbine stopped spinning.Apparently the bearings have failed.I called JackRabbit for info,service,parts and was informed that they no longer sell or service Ampair products.The tech. that used to do Ampair repairs is no longer employed there and that any futher inquiries are to be directed to Ampair LTD. in England.I guess another shovel of dirt on the grave of customer service.Obviously my last purchase from Jack Rabbit Marine.
It is also very hot on LI Sound hoping for cooler temps around Block Island.
Dianne and Chuck Burke S/V NiftyNickers C37 #139

PBzeer · #2 (**permalink**) 08-03-2006

If you decide to get a new wind generator, I just had my new Air-X out yesterday, and not only was it quiet, but kept my single Group 24 battery (from PO) charged up with fridge, stereo, depth and A/P running. Had 10 -15 knots of wind all day, and it actually brought the battery up to full charge during our sail. It's also an American company.

camaraderie · #3 (**permalink**) 08-04-2006

Well...I wouldn't blame JackRabbit as lots of people have been burned by Ampair...They are not responsible for out of warranty repairs for a company that has left all high and dry. Looks like you need a new one.
Suggest Air-X or Fourwinds or Kiss. (I like the 4 Winds best myself but the other two brands seem to get a lot of positive reviews over at the SSCA. )

rschaedel · #4 (**permalink**) 10-18-2006

I also just learned yesterday that now that Jack Rabbit is no longer an option we are on our own. I have left my Ampair 100 with a local auto electric shop that does very good work on alternators to see if they can solve a clicking noise problem on the Ampair 100.
Bob on PSC 40 #47 ACADIA
West Bath, ME

hellosailor · #5 (**permalink**) 10-18-2006

Bearings is bearings, more or less. Any good alternator shop, or machine shop, should be able to locate bearings that will work. There are some commercial suppliers like McMaster who might have bearings available as well. With a little digging, this might be a $50-100 repair.

challsea · #6 (**permalink**) 03-04-2008

I appreciate that this topic is 2006 but would like to add to it.
From my own experience I know that Ampair provide excellent
support anywhere in the world irrespective of whether the user bought
directly from Ampair or via one of the Ampair distributors .

With regard to this particular thread , on the east coast of the USA there
are two distributors and their details are on the Ampair website
The closest to Long Island is Triton Marine:

Triton Marine Services Inc
1050 Sensation Weigh / PO Box 486, Beaufort, NC 28516
Tel +1 (252) 728-9958
Fax +1 (866) 871-5230

Regards,
Charles

camaraderie · #7 (**permalink**) 03-04-2008

So Charles...how come you are supporting a company that left dozens of US customers high and dry and refused to honor their warranties or provide service?
Ask JackRabbit: Ampair Pacific 300

I find it most interesting that you show a US Flag and that you're posting from England. Could be that you have some interest in this company? I have removed your link to AmpAir as it is against policy to link to another site within your first ten posts.

For anyone considering a wind generator..here is what Practical Sailor had to say about AmpAir:
Bottom Line: Compared with the entire test group (large- and small-rotor units), the Ampair was very wellconstructed and exceptionally quiet. Compared to its nearest competitor, the Rutland, the Ampair’s heavier
construction and the ability to repair problems in the field give it a slight edge for those cruising in more remote
locations. Its downsides are its output (the lowest of all the units tested) and its weight (the heaviest of all units
tested).

challsea · #8 (**permalink**) 03-06-2008

I have no connection with the company and was not aware of the problems
you refer to.
All I said was based on my own experience of the company which was excellent.
When I decided a few years ago to refurbish my genny which I
had bought from a boat jumble they were very helpful and supplied me with a
set of bearings which I fitted myself.. I drove down to Poole and
collected them and they showed me how to fit them.

I came across the Sailnet article as I am following another thread and I was
speaking of my own experiences which I made clear.
I thought it may be helpful to give the address where someone could get
assistance.

As for reference to the flag I can't see a flag on my post at all. As you rightly point out I am in the UK but I know nothing about a flag and I have PMed you about this.
There was no intention to mislead anyone and my comments were contributed in good faith.
Regards
Chas

camaraderie · #9 (**permalink**) 03-06-2008

As discussed off line...we a straight now on this and I hope all will welcome you aboard.
The display of the flag in your header is working and I include it below. Don't know why you still can't see it. If any members have a clue...please chime in.
header.JPG

niftynickers · #10 (**permalink**) 03-20-2008

Curious how Bob on Acadia made out with his repair at the generator/alternator shop.I replaced both of my bearings and still have a loud clicking sound.Think it may be a slightly bent shaft.I will try the place in North Carolina that was suggested.