Plugged in but ac won't work without generater running

Sounds like issue might be with your 'transfer switch'

The transfer switch swaps AC power from shore or generator to feed main AC panel

No AC from shore...OK from Gen---transfer switch stuck on generator input
Bad relays/burnt contacts etc.

Moved from Forum Technical Support

It would help if you filled in your profile so we know what you have.

Have you checked your breakers?

Get a multimeter from Ace or similar hardware store and test the connections at the pedestal. All the items you listed could be DC powered and you don't really have AC available.