Generator

[zipp]

I turned off the generator while both AC were running, now the Generator runs crappy, like it has no guts, even if I remove the plug that feeds from the Generator to the RV. PS The AC's still work fine I ran ac ext. cord to test everything and all works thank goodness. The generator is an other story.

[Lynnmor]

zipp wrote:
The generator starts and I can measure aprox. 79 volts AC. like I said the engine runs like if the choke is stuck or something. This sounds like it's going to be really expensive any Idea what this might cost.

That low voltage is probably from the engine not reaching full speed. Check it with all loads turned off.

Again, check the compression first, it's a simple procedure and will give you an idea if the engine is healthy. Then proceed to fuel, ignition and electrical issues.

When you turn off the ignition, to an engine running at a high load, the gas no longer burns but instead rapidly cools internal parts. If a generator stops from lack of fuel, that cooling is only air cooling.

[zipp]

The generator starts and I can measure aprox. 79 volts AC. like I said the engine runs like if the choke is stuck or something. This sounds like it's going to be really expensive any Idea what this might cost.

[MrWizard]

no it Does Not, just remove power
its not like flipping the CB or the off switch
the power off is NOT instant
you shut off the engine
the engine and generator head are still spinning, voltage and current is being produced, but it is rapidly reducing, meanwhile the A/Cs try to draw more amps to keep the compressors going, this creates a strain on the windings and the regulation circuits aka control boards
the transfer switch does not release until voltage from the generator gets below the TS threshold latching voltage
BAD NEWS all the way around

the back EMF probably took out the main control board and ignition control circuits, thats why its running so poorly

[Joe417]

zipp,

Turning off the generator with a load shouldn't matter. That just removes power from the load. I've done it many times.

Not sure what "the Generator runs crappy, like it has no guts" is describing.

Does it run without a load?
Does it run without a load and produce power?
Does it run with a load but not supply power?

If it's just running rough, I'd look at the carb or ignition first. I've also heard several on the forum talk about carbon build up in the cylinder with gas burners.

Good luck.

[zipp]

Ugh! Lynnmor! That is not good news. I can see where a elect problem. but the engine being that damaged?
ouch! but the way it's running he could very well be.It seems every time we get ready to go some where something always happens.

[Lynnmor]

It's a bad idea to shut down an engine while running at full load. I would check the compression to see if you warped a valve or caused other internal damage. While this isn't a common problem, troubleshooting starts with checking the patients vital signs.

[gbopp]

I would try a new fuel filter. Hopefully you just sucked up some dirt.

[zipp]

It's a Generac It's a 50 amp built in. could be a gas filter because the Ford V10 runs off the same gas. and runs great. Everything was running great until I did that stupid stunt.

[gbopp]

What type generator, built in or portable?

[the_bear_II]

I would suspect a fuel problem.