Generator Alternator Threw-Up

[Fred and Bonnie]

Well *&^%$%*)*^ I was running the gen and doing routine housekeeping when I heard this thrashing sound and gen stopped. Went outside and opened the compartment, some smoke and a not too good odor. Oil level was good, so I attempted to restart, it will start, however when I release the "start" switch, the unit stops.

I am presuming the alternator has self destructed, darn only 708 hrs on the unit.

If anyone has gone through this repair, what kind of dollar damage am I looking at. The unit is Onan Gold 7000K.

fred

[rewaters49]

Fred - I'm not a mechanic, but I've found a ton of good generator information and help at this website: Antique Engines Antique Tractors Steam Engines and Old Iron

Like the IRV2 site, you can browse without registering, but if you want to search and ask questions you'll need to register (it's free).

I think I've seen discussions of the symptoms you're having. Good luck.

[TXiceman]

Uhhhh-ohhhhh, it runs on smoke and you let the smoke out.



Seriously, you need to take it to an Onan shop and get it checked out. Hopefully just some of the controls burned and not the windings.

Ken

[Fred and Bonnie]

Yes Ken, got the local shop listing from the Onan site, I'll have to wait til Monday. It just sounds like money leaving my bank account.

fred

[TXiceman]

With an RV (or a boat) money has a way of sliding out of the bank account.

Ken

[RVhauler]

If it is a gas Onan then remove the brushs and check for servicabilty. Look for carbon residue build up around the brush holders and remove. Tape a piece of Brillo pad to a long handle screwdriver and hold it against the commantater and turn over the engine until area where the brushs contact is clean. Reinstall brushs and check operations. Cost me a $100 dollars to learn that from onan repair.

[Fred and Bonnie]

Well preliminary investigation reveals the alternator is not turning, trashed drive unit suspected.

I'll keep you posted.

fred

[4Knights]

What year and type Onan? I have the service manual& trouble shooting guide in PDF format that I can email you
Ron

[Fred and Bonnie]

Thanks Ron, I sent a PM to you.

fred

[4Knights]

Welcome! I sent you the service manual and a service bulletin and a short rundown on an issue I had and how it was fixed.
Good luck
Ron

[4Knights]

I sent it to the new address and also added it to the files section of the IRV2 website. It's currently in the moderation section, I think that means the moderators have to look at it and check to make sure it's ok before they post it?
Ron

[Fred and Bonnie]

Thanks Ron, sure slow email today, must be routed thru Libya.

fred

[Fred and Bonnie]

Well the drive belt shredded, wrapped itself around the drive shaft, dislodging a oil seal and spraying oil over the coil.

Should be done this week, along with a lighter wallet.

fred