Generac Genny Problem Need Info

I also had 5 to 7 volts AC at the transfer switch but that is not what provides the exciter current. Normally not much exciter current is needed as a residual magnetic field provides enough induced current but sometimes it loses some of the residual field and needs a dc current applied to excite and build the magnetic field. If you start the generator and simply continue to hold the start button for 3 to 5 seconds it allows the circuit from the voltage regulator to provide the dc current needed. I decided to install the boost kit to get a reliable field boost regardless of how long I pushed the start button.

Try simply holding the start button for a few seconds after the engine starts.

Quote from manual: The Controller Circuit Board houses a field boost
diode and resistor that are not part of the automatic
choke circuit. These two components are part of a
“field boost” circuit (Figure 2.4). During engine cranking
only, a positive DC (battery) voltage is delivered
through a diode, resistor, brushes, slip rings, and the
generator rotor. Application of this voltage to the rotor
“flashes the field” whenever it is started. Flashing of
the field each time the generator starts makes sure
that a sufficiently strong magnetic field is available to
produce “pickup” voltage in the stator windings.

Thanks for the info. I do have 5 volts showing but is this enough to excite the field? Will try the drill method.

I had the same problem on my QP65 and it turns out the field boost current is only applied while the start button is pushed. You can try holding the button a little longer when starting to let the current build or install a field boost kit (0H07850SRV) which provides a current source independent of the start button being depressed. Have not had a problem with 120VAC coming up since the install.

Here's where I bought mine and also a link that has a link to PDF instructions:
http://www.apelectric.com/0H07850SRV-Generac-Guardian-field-boost-uplift-k-p/0h07850srv.htm
http://www.zillerelectric.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1378

Here is a better link for the flashing issue:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080210111402AAaNJIu

Partial quote:
Field Flashing of Portable Generators
This tip comes from the Briggs & Stratton Customer Education Department via Precise Engine Repair web site.
As an alternative to flashing a rotor winding with a battery applied to the brushes, an electric drill may be used. Follow these steps to flash the generator:
Plug the electric drill into the generator receptacle. (Cordless drills do not work)
If the drill is reversible, move the direction switch to the forward position.
Start the generator
While depressing the trigger on the drill, spin the drill chuck in reverse direction. This will excite the field and the generator will now produce electricity. If spinning the chuck one direction does not work, try spinning the chuck in the other direction as you may have the reverse switch positioned backwards.
Use caution not to get your hand or other materials caught in the chuck. As soon as the field is excited, the generator will produce power and the drill will turn on.

Some generators need a small charge in the exciter to get them producing and can lose that charge if not used for a while. I remember my brother having that problem with an Onan generator and he somehow got it producing again by connecting a battery to it. I would ask him but he passed away a couple of years ago. I did an internet search and came up with this article that is not real helpful but may point you in the right direction.

http://www.fixya.com/support/t1055190-generator_runs_but_not_generate