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jaymowa · 06-10-2015, 08:53 AM

While the engine was running I started the generator and ran it for a few minutes. Then engine and generator both shut down. Now the starter does not work. Solenoid clicks but starter does not engage. Panel lights, radio, headlights etc work. Anyone got any ideas what is wrong?

BFlinn181 · 06-10-2015, 07:38 PM

It would help to know what engine, chassis, generator you have. Usually the two engines are independent of each other except for fuel and 12 v electric, but you say the dash and lights still work.

theboss1 · 06-10-2015, 08:00 PM

What is your fuel level in the tank? Less than a quarter could have caused the generator to shut down...if you have a Chevy 454 you could just be suffering a hot starter...maybe when it cools off it will start...keep us posted and we will try to help.

jaymowa · 06-11-2015, 04:27 PM

Thanks for the reply.It is a Ford F350 super duty chassis with 460 V8. Fuel tank is near full. The generator is an Onan.

oran42348 · 06-12-2015, 01:13 PM

If your battery is known to be good and the solenoid and starter is good possibly the battery connections are corroded. I once had a starter that had grounding problem where the engine was grounded to the chassis frame. It was a grounding strap corroded where it connects the engine to the frame.

theboss1 · 06-13-2015, 08:32 AM

Oran just hit on a common denominator....both the Onan and the engine starter use a common grounding...through the frame...check all the ground locations to be sure they are clean and tight...that may be your answer to why both acted up at the same time.

wa8yxm · 06-13-2015, 08:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oran42348

If your battery is known to be good and the solenoid and starter is good possibly the battery connections are corroded. I once had a starter that had grounding problem where the engine was grounded to the chassis frame. It was a grounding strap corroded where it connects the engine to the frame.

I drive a Workhorse with Chevy engine but batteries are batteries.

In the 9 years it took my chassis battery to go bad I had to clean the terminals at least 3 times.

jaymowa · 06-13-2015, 05:35 PM

Thanks for the ideas. I will check out the starter and ground and let you know the results.

jaymowa · 06-25-2015, 06:10 AM

Finally found the answer to the problem. It was a loose connection on a solenoid on the wheel well at the drivers side. Very hard to get at it but managed to crimp the connection up tight and everything now works. Thanks for all the help and suggestions.