Onan Generator True Sine Wave

[Timmy]

Onan Generator

[Timmy]

Onan Generator

[Route 66]

Timmy, welcome to iRV2.

I thought all generators in RVs put out pure AC, but I may be wrong (as usual).

It also could be the generator is not putting out 60Hz.

I suggest a call to Onan on the sine wave question.

The frequency can be checked with a meter.

I don't believe the are any cost effective filters or converters, to answer your question.

[Bill Davis]

There is a Home Brew test for generator frequency (60Hz) that you can do at home that will get you close. I've never used it, it seems to make sense. Someone will chip in with the information.

[John Hilley]

Onan generators do put out a pure sine wave, however the frequency could be off. You need to take it to someone that has the proper equipment to test and correct it.

[John66]

I got a meter from camping world, shows voltage and frequency when you plug it into an outlet.

[Route 66]

THIS is a good meter to have plugged in all of the time.

[Timmy]

Thanks guy's think I'll go to Camping World and buy a meter. I would be interested in trying out the Home Brew method what ever that is .

[Clay L]

The only homebrew method I recall seeing is the one you are already using - checking the microwave timer against an accurate stop watch.

The rpm of the generator determines the frequency. If it's off, it needs to set properly. As John said the generator needs to be serviced.

[travel]

Most Onan generators (5KW) run 118 volts no load, 122 volts with loads and the frequency is 58 hrtz no load and 60-61 with load.Preset at factory that way as explained to me from factory rep.

[JoeT]

You might want to consider a P4400 Kill a Watt meter. It will measure frequency, volts, amps, watts and more.

http://www.supermediastore.com/kilwateldet1.html?WT.mc_...Da-ZICFQGsGgodhAerFw

[Hillbilly2]

Yes, the generator does put out a true sine wave, but as previous posters have said, the frequency does vary with rpm's of the motor. Frequency control with small generators is harder due to loads cutting on and off and the small displacement of the generator motor. You can use a UPC (uninteruptable power conditioner) which will keep the frequency stable, but would probally not be feasible for running a microwave. The magnetron in the microwave is turning off and on during cooking to regulate the cooking power, this causes surges that keep the generator from running steady.

[Timmy]

O k I BOUGHT A meter like the one pictured below, from Camping World. With the microwave on, the a/c on plus some lights volts show 118. hz show 59-60.The timer still runs slow, any body got any more ideas?

[John Hilley]

Does the microwave clock keep accurate time?