Community Forums

Bigd9 · 08-16-2012, 06:55 PM

If the generator has been unused for a while, it could be the slip rings. These will tarnish and prevent the generator from producing anything. It will run just fine, but no 120 volts.

Here is a quote from Cummins when someone asked about exercising the generator on a regular basis.

Quote:

Yes, it helps lubricate the seals and engine components and keeps carbon
from building up. Regular exercise also heats up the generator windings and
removes or expels excess moisture. In sets equipped with brushes, exercising
helps prevent corrosion build up on the slip rings.

These slip rings can be burnished. I used an eraser on mine, or you can use something like this:
Slick Stick Polishing Tool for Onan & other Slip Rings : A.S.A.P.

cronin069 · 08-18-2012, 09:21 AM

does on onan gennie have to produce power to stay running mine just starts and then shuts down can any one help

Bigd9 · 08-18-2012, 01:34 PM

I'll give a general answer to the question. Most gasoline engines use a starting solenoid to send current from a battery to the starter motor, then when the key or button is released the solenoid switches to a run condition to supply power to the coils for the spark plugs. If your Onan is starting but as soon as you release the start button the Onan dies, I would first check out the solenoid.

cronin069 · 08-19-2012, 09:06 AM

can this type of solenoid be purchased at an auto parts store or do i have to get it from onan??

subford · 08-19-2012, 10:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cronin069

does on onan gennie have to produce power to stay running mine just starts and then shuts down can any one help

No it does not.
Sounds like you have low oil pressure.
The starter solenoid does not provide power to keep it running.
I do not know of any gas engine that a starter solenoid provides power to keep it running.
If it cranks OK the starter solenoid is OK.

cronin069 · 08-19-2012, 06:58 PM

checked the solenoid today. it is bad. i did get the gennie to run by jumping wires together. can i get this type of solenoid at an auto parts store or do i have to find an onan dealer near me to get one???