The batteries are brand new. I have meters on the dash that tells me the voltage for the house batteries and the battery that starts the motor. Before I start the motor the house batteries read zero. After I start the motor the house batteries read 14.2. After I turn the motor off the motor the house batteries stay on for a short period of time and then everything shuts down. I have not tried using the generator or the house current yet. I am going to check the terminals for corrosion and looseness this weekend. If I find that they are clean and tight does anyone have any other suggestions? Thanks for all of your responses.