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randybobandy's avatar
randybobandy
Explorer
Oct 19, 2023

Generator bogging when A/C is turned on

We like to camp on the beach in Port Aransas and have used our Champion 4500 generator with two previous small RVs, AC unit ran fine. Got a Gulfstream Vintage Cruiser 19R and it also has a single 13,500 BTU AC (same as our previous ones) but when the AC is turned on, it bogs down real slow and eventually shuts the generator down. Only had the generator 3 years but I changed the brushes and voltage regulator anyway, same result. This rooftop AC appears to have a heating mode as well but have never used it. I have made sure the electric water heater nor any other heavy draw components were on. Does anyone out there have suggestions?
  • QCMan's avatar
    QCMan
    Nomad III
    Oct 19, 2023
    Is it possible more is on the 110 feed than you think? If the reefer is a two way it will default to electric and if the water heater electric is on you now have three items getting fed by your generator along with the converter making 12 volts to power lights and other items like propane and CO detectors and other items.
    This may add up to more than your generator is comfortable with.
  • haste_maker's avatar
    haste_maker
    Explorer II
    Oct 19, 2023
    You may have to use a larger cord from the camper to the generator than in the past.
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Oct 19, 2023
    Buy this Clampon Meter and measure the amps.

    Never leave home without it and you'll be a happy camper.

    Your A/C should draw about 15A and it's input voltage should be 108V+ when running.
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Oct 19, 2023
    NOW you can track down the problem which can be the gen, A/C, wiring or other appliances. Observe all safety precautions or get help.
  • valhalla360's avatar
    valhalla360
    Navigator
    Oct 20, 2023
    Something is wrong. We have the same generator and it has no issue getting the air/con going. In fact when we bought it, I was testing and ran a 1500w space heater while starting the air/con.

    One test would be to kill all the breakers except the air/con. That way, you know nothing else is drawing 120v AC.
    - If it starts fine, you had something else drawing a lot of power.
    - If it still struggles, it's either the air/con or the generator.

    You might try starting a friends air/con with your generator.
    - If it starts fine, the problem is likely in your RV.
    - If it struggles, the problem is likely in the generator.
  • MrWizard's avatar
    MrWizard
    Moderator
    Oct 21, 2023
    Is this fresh gas?
    Stale fuel can do this..
    It's also possible the A/C unit needs a new start/tun capacitor, this is a low vost part and easy to replace, try running just the Fan Mode , what happens, how does it sound,
    3 things in the a/c can cause this problem, bad capacitor, bad compressor, bad fan motor.
    8
  • LouLawrence's avatar
    LouLawrence
    Explorer
    Oct 21, 2023
    With a 4500W generator you are going to have around 35 amps available for the coach. The A/C should only be drawing around 12-14 amps except at startup and that only lasts a few seconds. I would go with the first step of shutting off all 120V breakers and seeing what happens when you turn only the A/C breaker on. Let us know what you find.
  • RLS7201's avatar
    RLS7201
    Explorer II
    Oct 21, 2023
    What you describe, I believe is a lean run issue. I.E. carb or fuel filter.

    Richard
  • jimh406's avatar
    jimh406
    Explorer III
    Oct 22, 2023
    I agree a 4500 W generator should run everything with a single AC. I agree it's more likely the fuel for the generator or air. I'd change the air filter if you haven't, fuel filter, and clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner.

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