Generator Behavior

[gator67]

We have had a problem ever since we got the coach. When the generator runs, our low wattage bulbs (over the breakfast table, over the bed, and in the refrigerator) flicker. I have been to 5 Onan places, and worked extensively with Onan in Minnesota, but, although they admit there is a problem with the generator, they say they have neither the time nor the resources to attack the problem.

That said, I noticed something recently that I wanted to share to see if anyone else noticed this.

I have one of those voltage meters you plug into an outlet. I plugged it into the outlet next to the stove. When I was on shore power, it read 120. When I was on the inverter, it read 120. When I kicked on the generator, the voltage dropped to 116 and the needle continuously wavers a bit. What's also baffling, is that the Surge-Guard shows 119 volts coming in. Also, when the A/C is on, it kind of "throbs" a bit... something it doesn't do on shore power.

From what I understand, once the power reaches the transfer switch, the coach doesn't know the difference between shore power and generator power, yet there is obviously a difference.

Any thoughts for discussion?

[gator67]

We have had a problem ever since we got the coach. When the generator runs, our low wattage bulbs (over the breakfast table, over the bed, and in the refrigerator) flicker. I have been to 5 Onan places, and worked extensively with Onan in Minnesota, but, although they admit there is a problem with the generator, they say they have neither the time nor the resources to attack the problem.

That said, I noticed something recently that I wanted to share to see if anyone else noticed this.

I have one of those voltage meters you plug into an outlet. I plugged it into the outlet next to the stove. When I was on shore power, it read 120. When I was on the inverter, it read 120. When I kicked on the generator, the voltage dropped to 116 and the needle continuously wavers a bit. What's also baffling, is that the Surge-Guard shows 119 volts coming in. Also, when the A/C is on, it kind of "throbs" a bit... something it doesn't do on shore power.

From what I understand, once the power reaches the transfer switch, the coach doesn't know the difference between shore power and generator power, yet there is obviously a difference.

Any thoughts for discussion?

[Retiredfields]

Have you checked the junction box mounted to the rear and above the generator? Have you checked the generator connection at the transfer switch?

This sounds like one of the hot wires from the generator is making marginal contact and may be arcing, which causes the pulsating you mentioned.

Ken


Ken