I'm considering picking up a remote start generator (something along the lines of a Champion 3400 watt). Reading the operation manual, it says that you cannot remote start the generator under load. Doesn't that entirely defeat the purpose of having a remote start? What's the point of starting it up with the remove and then having to go out and plug in the power shore cable? What are some of the ways of getting around this (maybe only plugging in the converter/charger with a wall switch on off until generator warms up?)

Well their manual says the same thing about their non-remote start gens and I have one and it starts just fine under load. It stutters for a fraction of a second. I notice that the generator itself does not apply the load for a second or so after starting. The extension cord I have has an LED light and it stays dark for a second or so before turning on.

One good way to prevent starting under load, and simultaneously adding a valuable feature to your RV, is to install an EMS system. They generally have a turn-on delay ranging from several seconds to a couple minutes. It would be necessary to use a bonding plug on the generator so the EMS doesn't complain of an open (unbonded) ground connection.

EMS = Emergency Medical System? Ethyl MethaneSulfonate? Earthen Manure Storage?? Inquiring minds want to know.

remote start generators have a delay before enabling power, otherwise they would never start due to the present load on the windings.

phemens wrote: What's the point of starting it up with the remove and then having to go out and plug in the power shore cable? The point IS that they get more of your money.IF....remote start is REALLY a valuable feature for you, shop for one that is really designed for that.....instead of one that has that added on without the proper engineering.A good generator with remote start, or automatic start, will have an engineered automatic connection delay built in, so that it comes up to speed and voltage before the load is connected.When you price a properly designed generator, you might decide that you don't need remote start after all.

Remote start generators - no load at start? | Good Sam Community

MrWizard
Moderator
Nov 09, 2018
i think that is for 'large' honda home/residence backup generators
that thing wold be hard wired to the generator behind your house
the one you use when the storm knocks out the utility power
BFL13
Explorer II
Nov 08, 2018
Just curious how the different ones also operate the choke. I see a youtube on the Honda 3000 wireless remote that says it does the choke automatically somehow. Seems like magic to me!

I was looking at this ad for a wire type (the poor guy hasn't sold it for months now--might be a reason for that) I can't figure out where you plug the RV in--it has a cable to the back of the unit, but where does the cable go to? The Rv or the gen? I can't figure this thing out at all. Is there a missing cable to get the shore cord to the Gen?

https://www.usedvictoria.com/classified-ad/REMOTE-CONTROL-ENGINE-START-RUN_31623203
time2roll
Nomad
Nov 08, 2018
I thought everyone had an EMS by now ;)
MrWizard
Moderator
Nov 08, 2018
somebody who has been a member for 10yrs and has over 5000 posts
would seem this member is NOT an unknown audience

this is an RV forum and the reference in an electrical question regarding RVs has too mean something, besides the comments he made for the acronym

most likely meant to be funny, not a true question
Sam_Spade
Explorer
Nov 08, 2018
SoundGuy wrote:
agesilaus wrote:
EMS = Emergency Medical System? Ethyl MethaneSulfonate? Earthen Manure Storage?? Inquiring minds want to know.

Living under a rock? :W

No. Being disrespectful.

Using acronyms with a general, unknown audience is just rude.

Something else that they apparently don't teach in school.....but should.
SoundGuy
Explorer
Nov 08, 2018
agesilaus wrote:
EMS = Emergency Medical System? Ethyl MethaneSulfonate? Earthen Manure Storage?? Inquiring minds want to know.

Living under a rock? :W
MEXICOWANDERER
Explorer
Nov 08, 2018
Outside of specification volts per hertz is DEATH to an AC generator voltage regulator. So today's voltage regulators established 55 Hz is a minimum generator speed at which the regulator will force field a generator to maintain voltage.

The problem with timer based protection is that it does nothing to protect against underspeed. It is assumption based protection and assumption based protection is as hazardous as assumption based battery state of charge. Configuring a voltage regulator for a larger generator should include the Volts per Hz inherent protection of a voltage regulator design.
MrWizard
Moderator
Nov 08, 2018
the champion has a time delay on
And a disconnect before off
Built in
But it is still a good idea to turn off the A/C before stopping and starting the generator

Your coffee pot and other resistance loads do not have the same effect as motors like compressors starting and stopping
dougrainer
Nomad
Nov 08, 2018
Gensets should NEVER have a load when starting. The easiest way to prevent this is to get a 30 amp auto transfer box and have that between the genset and your shore power connection. Granted, Transfer boxes should not be closed under load, but it is better to use a transfer box to prevent the load when starting the genset. Doug
Sandia_Man
Explorer II
Nov 08, 2018
As stated above, our Champion also has no issues having a load when using remote start function as there is a slight delay while ramping up to full power. I have a AC voltmeter continuously plugged into the genny and it takes a few seconds before power is delivered to the outlets. Having an onboard Onan as well nothing beats the convenience of hitting the Champion remote while still snuggled in bed, a few more winks and fresh coffee and a warm main living area awaits.