Onan 2500 Generator Dead Start Switch

[Moomba2002]

I was wondering if anyone knew if these generators have a fuse for the start switch. Both the inside switch and the one on the generator won't due a thing. It isn't a battery issue and the leads are hot at the generator. Do these generators have a circuit board and if so where is it located? I have pulled my hair out with this one so I am looking to the experts for some help! Thank you.

[Moomba2002]

Alright have been extremely busy and finally tried working on this problem again this weekend. I have looked for the solenoid to try to jump it but wondering if you have to remove the generator to see it? I wouldn't even mess with it as I always use my Honda but thinking of selling the camper and want everything working.

[rckound]

Realize this is kind of simple, and most likely you've already checked, but is your spark plug wire on tight? My AF 811 had an issue with the SP wire vibrating off. Just a thought. Good luck.

[zcookiemonstar]

there are a lot of videos on you tube troubleshooting Onan generators.

[ticki2]

It might have a low oil shutoff . Have you checked the oil level? Just a thought . When you find the solenoid connect across the two large terminals with an insulated screw driver , it should crank .

[Moomba2002]

Thanks for the replies the 5 amp fuse is good I haven't been able to check the solenoid yet but hopefully tonight. This one has me scratching my head that's why I am thinking the circuit board now I just need to locate it.

[AnEv942]

Really need to track down a service manual for your unit/model.
I only found this, its fairly old so dont know how simular or not.

http://leipper.org/manuals/rv/onan-kv-repair-manual-981-0506.pdf

Some of the schematics barely readable...section 7 outlines trouble shooting, what supposed to occur when pushing the button.

[Sam_Spade]

Moomba2002 wrote:
Back to the question do these have a circuit board that could have gone bad?

Yes the ignition is electronic with some safeties but nothing on there should stop it from cranking.....I don't think.

[bighatnohorse]

Press and hold the STOP side of the start switch for 15 seconds.
Now try.

[blueglide]

Moomba2002 wrote:
Yes battery switch is on battery voltage is 13.2 and voltage is 13.0 or so at the generator. I will try to locate the starter relay and narrow that down. Back to the question do these have a circuit board that could have gone bad?

Yes there is a circuit board somewhere inside them...mine was bad from the factory and I had it replaced last year under warranty.

[Bedlam]

The 5A fuse identified in the link included in the previous post is the safety for the control power to the start switch.

[jimh406]

I think there is a breaker. This would probably be better in the more generic tech forum. But, this seems to be pretty helpful.

http://roadtreking.com/help-generator-runs-dont-power/

[Bedlam]

I haven't torn into my Onan, but you may be able to short across the two large solenoid posts to see whether the starter cranks. If it does, check for power at the starter switch or replace the solenoid.

[Moomba2002]

Yes battery switch is on battery voltage is 13.2 and voltage is 13.0 or so at the generator. I will try to locate the starter relay and narrow that down. Back to the question do these have a circuit board that could have gone bad?

[Sam_Spade]

Moomba2002 wrote:
and the leads are hot at the generator.

What leads exactly are hot at the generator ?

You need to find the starter relay (solenoid) and see what happens on the small input wire when you push the start button.....much like a car. If that works, then you need to check the voltage on the fat wires.