Basic Generator question for Redhawk 26XD

[jdux999]

Hello all. I posted this question in the Jayco Owners forum as well as here. Another basic newbe question: I just picked up a 2018 redhawk 26xd and I'm not sure how to use the generator. Do I need to plug the shore power cable into the generator in order to charge the battery or will it charge without being plugged in (is the connection between generator and battery a direct connection)? Also, I'm parked in my driveway on a 10 - 15 degree incline. Does that affect how the generator performs? It's fun learning all the new stuff but I'll be happier in a few months! Thanks again, John

[BFlinn181]

Do you have an automatic transfer switch? (ATS) If so, the ATS will switch to the generator from shore power. I'd unplug the shore cord and start the generator. In a short interval, the ATS should connect to the generator. Have a 120v light on or view the clock display on the microwave to see when power connects. If you don't see a connection in about a minute or so, then you'll have to plug the shore cord into the generator outlet. (If you have a 30 amp generator outlet, likely you don't have an ATS.)

Running the generator on a 10-15º slope shouldn't harm it, if the slope is keeping oil from being picked up, the generator will shut itself down. Just make sure your RV absorption refrigerator is turned off, it will be harmed by that much tilt.

[twinboat]

Part of you question is if the generator will charge your batteries if not plugged in to it.

Not likely, most RV generators do not have charging systems. They depend on the RVs converter/charger, that runs from 120 volts, to charge the batteries.

If you need to plug your shore cord into a generator outlet, to power things, you need to have it plugged in and running to charge your batteries.

[jdux999]

Thanks all. I do have an ATS so I'm thinking it will charge from my house power. I'll give it a shot and keep an eye on it.

[BFlinn181]

Whenever there is 120v present, the converter/charger (or inverter/charger) will charge your batteries and provide 12v DC to all items that require it. If you want to verify the charging, take voltage readings of the batteries after they have been at rest for 30 minutes or more for any surface charge to be absorbed. Use a multimeter to read directly at the battery posts, house and chassis batteries. Then either plug in your shore cord or start the generator. Take readings again and you should see a voltage increase. (12.7v is a full battery, 13.4v or more is charging voltage)

You could repeat these readings again with the shore cord unplugged and the engine running. With all these readings, you'll now have a baseline to later determine if your charging system isn't doing what it should.