Community Forums

OpaRon · 05-17-2009, 05:32 AM

I have an 05 DSDP (4009) with a Cat genset. Have never had problems with it, but now, when I turn on the genset for power to run micro, etc, it will not switch and give me internal 120 power. Nothing happens at the EMS panel. No lights, no nothing at the EMS panel. The generator seems to run OK, and I've let it run long enough to switch (5-6 minutes.) Where do I start to check and what do I check? Or, since I'm "not an electrician nor the son of one" where should I take it for service? I'm on the road (NM, CO, WY, UT, ID) and headed for the McMinnville area of Oregon. I don't really need it right now, but would love to use the micro at rest stops for meals, etc. Thanks for your help!

Chickadee · 05-17-2009, 06:19 AM

OpaRon: Can't help with GenSet problem, BUT, if in Denver area, take er in to ALL STAR RV located in Louvier on Hwy. 85 just South of the 470 beltline around Denver. This is a great NEWMAR service center although a little .... "rustic." They'll get the job done.
Steve & Lynette

Already gone · 05-17-2009, 06:20 AM

Check the breaker on the gen-set to be sure it is not trip-out. This would be the first thing you should check.

Norm4015 · 05-17-2009, 10:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Already gone

Check the breaker on the gen-set to be sure it is not trip-out. This would be the first thing you should check.

I agree the generator breaker may be tripped. Flip it off and back on and then fire up the generator and get it a try.

I was not aware the 2005 Dutch Star could have a CAT generator. When I bought my 2005 DS the PowerTech generator was standard and the Onan was an optional upgrade.

"007" · 05-17-2009, 10:26 AM

If you have a transfer switch, IOTA markings black box, gently give it a few taps may have some dirty contacts on relay, would allow you if handy to run dollar bill through contacts to clean, but if nervous have it checked out by someone.

wa8yxm · 05-17-2009, 03:00 PM

First you SHOULD locate your auto-transfer switch

However even before that check the breakers on the gen-set. They shut off for no reason at all (Mine do not show "Tripped" just on/off, tripped = off)

If the breakers are set, then open the ATS and exercising great care (There are lethal voltages/currents there) meter the GENERATOR leads. Meter with reference to the NEUTRAL wire. should see 120 volt. if you do it's the switch, I did, it was

OpaRon · 05-17-2009, 04:40 PM

I appreciate ALL the responses to my dilemma. I know just enough to NOT get into the wires and TOUCH any connection. I've flipped the GenSet breakers a couple of times to make sure they are "on." Since I am the "use a bigger hammer" kind of mechanic, I think I'll try the "tap the switch box" solution next - to see if something is just stuck. If that doesn't work, I'll wait till someone who knows what to touch and what not to touch take a look at the inside of the switch box. Thanks to all!

tmitchell · 05-17-2009, 04:49 PM

Tapping the cover on the ATS may do the trick. That is what the tech did to get mine to get it working. After you tap it a few times, the generator has a set in delay so it will still take a few minutes to start putting electricity to the MH.
Good luck,
Tom

wa8yxm · 05-17-2009, 05:39 PM

I remember a British TV show (Dr. Who) Where the male lead (The Doctor) is in a US made space ship, he flips a few switches, pushes a couple buttons, nothing.

Finally he gives the counsel a good swift kick, IT comes live and begins to work properly

"Good old American Technology" says The Doctor

Your ATS was, in fact, designed, if not made, in the USA