Generators

[Bouch70]

Got another question for you. The onboard generator comes on no problem but we don't always have power. Anyone have a clue why? While in storage during the winter, we did start it up and each time we'd have power. We had our batteries changed from a 12 volt to 2 6 v golf cart batteries, brought it home and there was no power with the generator on. Tried again later in the day and there's power (microwave, outlets) tried again a day later, no power and a few hours later, we have power. What's going on?

 

[Back2PA]

I would guess your transfer switch is failing. If so it?s only a matter of time until you can't get power from the genset. Usually a fairly easy fix, part is a couple hundred. Mine did exactly what yours did

 

[John From Detroit]

I will second a failing transfer.. Also do follow the proper transfer procedure.

MOTORS, including the blowers in the A/C. the compressors and if you have a residential fridge the compressor there.  are what are called INDUCIVE loads.
The transfer switch is what is called a "Break before make" switch meaning first it moves from SHORE to OFF then from OFF to GENERATOR (it does it in one move but the shore power is turned OFF before the genny is connected)  Inductors can kick the voltage from 120 to several hundred or even a few thousand this much voltage jumps the gap on the solenoids and damages them.

SO shut down FIRST. then transfer.

Compressors need 3 minutes of down time before they re-start. so keep it off 3 minutes.

There is one ohter possible issue. but ONAN generators and likely others as well if that was the problem (Generator failing) they will shut down since they won't run if they are not making with the 120 volts.

 

[Utclmjmpr]

You don't use a signature line so we don't know what type generator you have,,but all generators have overvoltage relay's that occasionally need to be checked. Just reset the relay switch and see if that will cure your problem.>>>Dan

 

[Bouch70]

Wow, thank you!
The generator is a Guardian by Generac power systems inc. 3600 watts.
We are checking the owner's manual for where the relay switch might be and is that the same at the transfer switch. We are total newbies btw. lol
Thanks or the tip about proper shutting down. At the time, we didn't have anything going, no fridge or A/C. But we did have the Maxx fan on. And we were not plugged into shore.

 

[Utclmjmpr]

It's a simple "breaker switch",,should be on the face of the unit somewhere.>>>Dan

 

[Lou Schneider]

There will be a circuit breaker on the generator, if it tripped the generator power will stay off until you reset it.  Not come and go like you described.

The transfer switch is internal to the RV, it's usually located close to the AC breaker panel.  If you have a Magnetek load panel it will be physically attached to the rear of the box.

One option is to repair or replace the transfer switch.  Or, if your shore power cord is permanently attached to the RV (i.e. it's not removable) you can put a generator outlet that matches the power cord plug inside the storage compartment, remove the bad transfer switch and connect the shore power cord directly to the load center.

When you put away the shore power cord, just plug it into the generator outlet and you're good to go.

 

[Bouch70]

We are still having issues with the generator. We've had it checked and unfortunately, each time the techs would start it up, it would work. But each time we try it at home, it doesn't. They checked the transfer switch and said it's newish and in working fine.
We are getting really frustrated since the techs keep telling us nothing is wrong but we wouldn't want to be stuck somewhere and not have the generator working. We primarily would want it for AC.

What would you all do in this case? Change the generator? Get a second opinion at another RV shop?