Expanding to Serve You Better
Five Locations
Family Owned. Serving South Florida for 30+ Years
Gillen Yacht Services Opens 5th Location at Safe Harbor Rybovich Palm Beach
Our Fifth Location Serving the Large Yacht Market
- We’re proud to announce the opening of our newest location at Safe Harbor Rybovich, Palm Beach, one of South Florida’s most prestigious superyacht facilties. This marks a significant milestone in the Gillen family’s commitment to serving the large yacht market with world-class capabilities and personalized service.
- Safe Harbor Rybovich, Palm Beach
- Seminole Marine Boatyard, Palm Beach
- Fabrication & Repair Facility, Palm Beach
- Safe Harbor LMC, Fort Fauderdale
- Harbour Towne Marina, Fort Lauderdale
With five permanent locations, two aircraft, and a mobile service fleet, the Gillen family
is better positioned than ever to deliver excellence wherever your vessel calls home.
Dave Sr.'s Tips: Generator Care
Expert Insights from Three Decades at the Helm
Whether you’re cruising the Bahamas or docked for the season in Fort Lauderdale, proper maintenance ensures
reliable power when you need it most. Here’s what every
marine generator owner should know:
Routine Maintenance Tips for Your Boat Generator
Keeping your generator in good shape ensures reliable power on the waterm reduces costly repairs, and extends its lifespan. Here are some essential tips to follow between professional services:
David Gillen Sr.
- Run the Generator Regularly
- Run at least once a month for 20-30 minutes under load (e.g. air conditioning, battery charger, water heater)
- This keep seals lubricated, prevents carbon build up, prevents condensation and possible corrosion internally and identifies issues early
- Check & change Engine Oil
- Check oil level before each outing
- Top off with the manufacturer’s recommended marine-grade oil
- Change oil and filter every 200 hours or at least once per season
- Inspect & Replace the Raw Water Impeller
- Visually inspect for cracks, wear, or missing vanes every 200 hours or at the start of every season
- Replace annually or sooner if signs of wear appear- this prevents overheating and serious damage
- Flush the Cooling System
- If possible, flush the generator with fresh water to prevent corrosion and salt buildup during long lay-overs
- Periodically check and clean the heat exchanger and zincs
- Monitor the Fuel System
- Use fresh, clean fuel and add a stabilizer if the boat will sit unused
- Replace fuel filters every
- Check Belts & Hoses
- Inspect for cracks, glazing, or looseness at least once a season
- Replace worn belts or hoses immediately to avoid sudden failure underway
- Inspect Electrical Connections
- Look for loose, corroded, or frayed wires
- Keep terminals clean and lightly coated with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion
- Keep the Generator Clean and Dry
- Wipe down regularly to spot leaks early
- Make sure the ventilation area is clear of obstructions to prevent overheating
- Record Maintenance in a Log
- Keep a simple maintenance log with dates, engine hours, and tasks performed
- This helps with warranty compliance and makes professional servicing smoother
When To Call a Professional
- Unusual Noises, Vibrations, Smoke, or Warning Lights
- Persistent Difficulty Starting
- Overheating or Tripping Breakers Under Load
