Community Forums

jimbrickett · 05-12-2015, 03:39 PM

I have a Journey Winnebago 2007 with Diesel Gen Set - Onan.

The generator started by itself while I was hooked to RV Park power.

What could cause this and how can I prevent it?

Thanks

(New Full timer - 8 months on the road).

Jim Brickett

lowejug · 05-12-2015, 04:44 PM

I have had the same issue. In a Rv park once we showed up and generator was running and we were plugged in, It is common as I read about others.
They say it has has something to do with lighting storm in the air makes it start. As far as a prevention I never got one so maybe some one else will chime in and say
A remedy

Redridge · 05-12-2015, 04:52 PM

do you have an AGS? Auto Generator Start have a few options... starting the gen if: low battery voltage, high cabin temperature, low amperage detected (ie: to use microwave), loss of shore power... or to cycle it on a schedule. It depends on how it was programmed to turn on...

britcon · 05-12-2015, 05:17 PM

As Redridge said, sounds like Auto Generator Start is set to come on with either AC or low battery voltage

Bigd9 · 05-12-2015, 05:26 PM

There have been reports of moisture from the dash air conditioner dropping on the control board causing the board to short out and starting. On my coach the discharge for the air conditioner has been extended to direct the water away from the generator.

Qwert66 · 05-12-2015, 05:26 PM

if you don't have auto gen start the 2 most likely causes are;

1.Critter climbed up on the genny control panel and stepped on the start button. This can be fixed by taping something under the start side of toggle switch and start from inside the coach.

2.Humidity on/in the gennny main wiring harness connector above and outside the generator. This can be fixed by opening the harness connector, cleaning/drying and applying a SAMLL amount of dielectric grease on the contacts.

big katuna · 05-12-2015, 05:47 PM

Agree. Moisture in the connector from the start button. Known problem. Near the firewall outside.

jacwjames · 05-12-2015, 06:16 PM

There is also a multi wire connector on the side of the generator, in some cases this connector will get moisture/water in it. This could cause the generator to start on it's own. Take the connector apart, spray with a electrical cleaner, and put back together.