Lynnmor wrote:
Many generators need some residual magnetism to get the production of electricity started. It is possible for that to be lost over time, so I wouldn't want to leave a generator sit for years without exercising it.
While you are correct, in practice, as long as the manufacturer used the proper steel designed for electrical use (yes, there ARE specialty steels designed specifically for electrical use) AND you do not shut the gen down under full load there will be enough residual magnetism left in the steel to start the generating process even if the gen sits for months or yrs...
Shutting down a gen under a full load can alter/remove the residual magnetism much faster than letting a gen sit for 10 yrs.
Watched my Dad bring back to life folks gens that were built in the 1950's-60's that for one reason or another sat not used for 20-30yrs and never had an issue with them not having enough residual magnetism and would generate voltage as soon as the engine started. Always was engine issues with those old gens he fixed for people..
