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PSU_RVr's avatar
PSU_RVr
Explorer
Mar 27, 2015

generator/electrical problem

Having an issue with what I assume is my generator. I can run the generator and normally don't have any issues. I can run electronics, the microwave works, etc.
However, when I try to run the AC, something resets. The AC will actually start running for a couple seconds and blow cold air. But then everything resets. Not really sure what is happening. What I see is the electrical display panel - that shows I'm connected to 50amp service - will turn off and back on like I just plugged in.
The generator never shuts down. I am only running 1 AC unit, and it doesn't matter which one I run.
There are no issues when I'm on shore power. I can run both AC units without issue.
I don't have a lot of expertise with generators. I know the oil level is good and the oil was recently changed.
  • I could be that the AC starting capacitors are about to fail and are drawing too much current when trying to get the compressor going. This overloads the generator but it is not enough to trip a circuit breaker. If the voltage drops too low from the excess current draw, it can cause the energy management system to allow the transfer switch to reset.
  • What exactly do you mean by.."Everything resets"? Do you loose all power? Do you loose power just to the AC, but not everything else?..
  • Could be bad breakers or ATF switch problem. Generator out put voltage could be a problem.
  • Is this something that's worked previously, but not now?