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Old 03-22-2014, 08:34 AM   #1
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Battery voltage while running generator

Can anyone tell me what their voltage reading is while driving with generator running. I'm experiencing a voltage spike issue. I believe it is a ground issue. Have solved part of it but not completely. While driving last weekend wife decided to fix lunch. Started generator she warmed up her lunch. A little later I stopped and happened to check tank levels and battery voltage. Reading was 15 volts. Is this common or do I have a voltage regulator issue with my onan.
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Old 03-22-2014, 10:03 AM   #2
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I don't think battery voltage would be related to your Onan.
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Old 03-22-2014, 10:15 AM   #3
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When you run the generator it is the same as plugging into shore power. The generator does not have a 12 volt output to charge the batteries. I would check the connections at your house batteries. Also test the batteries as they may be weak and the system is sensing they need more charge.
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Old 03-22-2014, 11:06 AM   #4
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Your converter /inverter is what charges your batteries unless you have the coach engine also running controlled by your Bird system.
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Old 03-22-2014, 11:07 AM   #5
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It reads as if you checked voltage with the "idiot" lights (they can be inaccurate). I would check with a digital meter to confirm voltage of 15 volts. If you have 15 or greater, that is too high. Probably a voltage regulator issue with alternator if reading taken when engine operating. If generator is running, then it probably is a converter/charger problem. Keep an eye on water level in batts until you get the issue resolved.
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Old 03-22-2014, 12:59 PM   #6
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Did you make sure the charger wasn't trying to equalize the batteries?

It will run the voltage up to 15 volts during equalizing. Might need to check your manual.
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Old 03-22-2014, 01:27 PM   #7
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You say you 'stopped.' Was engine off (no alternator charging) and generator on? 15 v is high, unless charger was in equalizer mode. Suggest to take a reading with a multimeter. Also, it never hurts to clean battery connections and grounds.
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Old 03-22-2014, 10:21 PM   #8
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15 V is not necessarily too high for normal charging of a 12 V battery. To get the most out of mine I looked up the battery charging specs for mine on the battery manufacturers website (Interstate for me) Interstate Batteries FAQ :: How do I charge certain deep cycle 6-volt and 12-volt batteries? and configured the converter/inverter accordingly.
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Old 03-23-2014, 12:33 AM   #9
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I am amazed, as I have never read or heard of a battery charge (not equalization) voltage of 15.5v. It reads that Interstate batts with part number beginning with "U" are to absorb that high. Trojan specifies 14.8v charge voltage. see table 2 in link below

Battery Maintenance | Trojan Battery Company
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