CapnCampn wrote:
I have a Champion Non-inverter 3500/4000W generator that isn't putting out it's rated output - I've tried running 2 1500W electric heaters on it, and it will bog down and die.
The Gen is model C46540
I'm at about 2500ft, and they say that the generator will be down about 300 watts at this altitude, so should sustain 3200 watts.
Watts Volts Hz
21 119 64
750 117 61
1220 116 59
1370 116 59
1420 116 59
1930 115 58
2050 115 58
2330 113 56
At the 2300W range, the engine on the generator was working really hard, and starting to lug - you can see this in the frequency column. At one point, it was about to die, and the kill-a-watt actually reset. I turned off a heater before the engine died though.
I feel that this load shouldn't be a problem since it is only ~66% of the generator's rated output.
The temp was ~60 degrees, and I am at 2700ft elevation.
From the engine side, the gas is not new, but has had stabilizer in it, and the oil only has about 2 hours on it. I think I adjusted the valves the spring before last, but I can’t remember for sure. The Spark arrester is clean.
I'm not sure what else to check at this point. Generally it does what I want it to do, but it's a little disappointing that it won't do at least 3KW.
Clearly you are getting to the correct Hz (+-60Hz) so the governor is working at no/low loads but the genny is losing power (RPM) as it tries to load up.
Use fresh gasoline with no additives. Then:
Have you checked the engine static compression? Have you checked the engine spark timing? Have you checked for vacuum leaks? Have you checked the crankcase breather function? Any of those singly or in combination would explain the engines inability to generate rated horsepower @ RPM and ultimately the rated wattage.
The Champion tech team correctly advised you of the expected power loss because of your elevation above sea level and ambient temperature.
Chum lee
