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ghmuller's avatar
ghmuller
Explorer
Feb 11, 2022

LP Generator Starts then Stalls

I have an ONAN 5500 LP Generator. My 5th Wheel has 3 40 lb bottles. Two on a two-stage auto-changeover regulator, and one on it's own regulator.
The main lines from each regulator are connected via a T. The hose for the generator is connected to a T located at the output of the single-tank regulator. The gnerator has always worked fine. Recently Jayco did a recall to replace a potentially bad regualtor. They replace the auto-changeover regulator with a Camco model.

I recently went on a trip and tried to use the generator. The single tank is shut off, and the dual tanks are on. The generator starts, and then stalls in 3 seconds. Sounds fuel starved. I opened the single tank and the generator will start and run fine. I can run with only the single tank on, and the generator, 40,000 btu furnace and stove all run at the same time. If I turn on the dual tanks and shut off the single, the generator stalls and the furnace goes out. 30 seconds later the furnace re-ignites and runs okay. It seesms as though the new regulator can't supply the amount of LP that the generator demands. Has anyone experience this kind of problem? Any ideas of what I can check? (When they replaced the regulator they did a leak-down test but did not do a demand test).

Thanks!
  • I'll guess that the new regulator is either defective or inadequate for the additional gen propane requirement. Did Jacoy supply 3 tanks, T etc. or has there been modifications?
  • Sounds like you diagnosed the problem 100%.
    It also appears that the dealer replaced the old one.
    Is there a reason not to call them and tell them, the new regulator they installed doesn't work right, and get it replaced again?
  • Wonder if the two tied tanks have an excess flow prevented?? If so, turn off both tanks and VERY slowly open the valves.
  • CA Traveler wrote:
    I'll guess that the new regulator is either defective or inadequate for the additional gen propane requirement. Did Jacoy supply 3 tanks, T etc. or has there been modifications?


    Yes the RV came with the three tanks. No mods.
  • wolfe10 wrote:
    Wonder if the two tied tanks have an excess flow prevented?? If so, turn off both tanks and VERY slowly open the valves.


    They can run the furnace and stove, but I’ll try this.
  • Had the same issue when I replaced my regulator. New regulator was said to be capable of supplying up to 400,000BTU but generator error codes said fuel issue. Returned Camco regulator and replaced with different brand and problem solved. Sounds like the regulator on your single tank has the ability to supply enough volume.

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