Need generator help on the road, please

[SC_RVer]

I have a 2023 Fleetwood Fortis 34MB gasser on a Ford Chasis with an Onan QG 5500 generator.

Twice this has happened...

Ran the generator at home for about 30 minutes to run AC to cool down the back for the dogs in kennels and it ran fine. Got on the road and at some point (not sure when) the generator shut down and we only noticed because it started getting hot up front (the green generator light is tough to see in daylight). Stopped at a rest area and tried to restart it but it would only run for a few seconds before shutting down.

Now I've gone through the manuals, both paper and pdf. The generator fault code is 36 which means uncommanded engine stop.

There's a touch screen panel in the camper that controls practically everything and under AGS (auto generator start), it says: RVIA lockout, press OFF to reset.

We never got below 1/2 tank of fuel yesterday. The oil on the dipstick is above the fill line, probably showing 3/4 quart low but still above fill (or add or whatever it says).

Anything I can check with basic tools? We have a hot drive home to South Carolina tomorrow.

Thanks

PS, the generator has only about 20 hours on it.

 

[DonTom]

Onan Code 36.

Anything that can shut down the engine, IOW, it's an engine issue, not the genny section.

Best to check the genny when the gas tank is near full, especially when not on level ground.

I have found it is best to NOT use Champion Spark plugs in Onan gennies.

-Don- Auburn, CA

 

[SC_RVer]

Onan Code 36.

Anything that can shut down the engine, IOW, it's an engine issue, not the genny section.

Best to check the genny when the gas tank is near full, especially when not on level ground.

I have found it is best to NOT use Champion Spark plugs in Onan gennies.

-Don- Auburn, CA

Thanks for that link, I will get started on that...

Any ideas about the RVIA LOCKOUT part?

 

[DonTom]

Any ideas about the RVIA LOCKOUT part?

First time I heard of such, so I did a search and received this:

"RVIA lockout" refers to the "Generator Locked Out" status on a generator's control panel. It indicates that the generator is not functioning properly. To address this issue, you can try resetting the AGS (AGS module) or checking for power to the controller"


"The AGS (Automatic Generator Start) module is designed to automatically start a generator based on specific conditions, such as low battery levels or temperature. Here are some key points:

Xanbus AGS: Automatically activates a generator to recharge batteries or assist with heavy loads.

Magnum AGS: Compatible with various generators and can automatically start them based on low battery conditions.

Magnum Energy AGS Module: Starts the generator when battery levels are low or based on room temperature.

Advanced Generator Start: A programming option for off-grid users to set conditions for generator activation.

ME-AGS-S: A standalone version of the Magnum Energy AGS controllers that starts most diesel or gas generators.

These modules enhance the efficiency and reliability of generator systems, especially in off-grid applications.

-Don- Auburn, CA

 

[Kirk]

I believe that you will see that any time that the generator shuts off no matter what the generator fault code is. The "RVIA lockout, press OFF to reset" message likely refers to a safety lockout feature on an RV's electrical system or appliances. The reset is probably to reset the control panel and not the item that triggered it.

 

[mrschwarz]

Which model generator is it? Mine is an OG5500 and I have a similar problem.

On a reasonably warm day, my generator runs without a problem. Driving when it's extremely hot, it will run for about 30 minutes and stall with the same code. If it starts again, it will only run for a few seconds.

If you have fixed it, what was the repair?

 

[DonTom]

. Driving when it's extremely hot, it will run for about 30 minutes and stall with the same code.

Probably vapor lock. Genny fuel pump getting too hot.

-Don- Redcrest, CA

 

[mrschwarz]

Could this be the OPs problem, too? What's the solution. Mine is still under warranty.

 

[DonTom]

Could this be the OPs problem, too? What's the solution. Mine is still under warranty.

It's a design issue. Onans are of an ancient design for many reasons, but vapor lock is very common on hot days unless the fuel pump is located in the fuel tank where the gasoline keeps it cool. Onan fuel pumps are out in the open where heat from the genny can get to them on a hot day.

You will have to find a way to keep the fuel pump and perhaps the gas line into the pump cooler. Vapor doesn't pump very well.

If you want to read about a very stupid designed RV for hot weather, read about his one here. I was coming here last year in record hot weather.

But what can we expect for only $165,000.00 these days?

-Don- Redcrest, CA

 

[ferfer]

Your mileage will likely vary and I do not claim to know cause of traveling generator shutdown. This is just our experience.

Our AZ coach also experienced periodic generator shutdown and hard or no restart when traveling in heat (most if the year). Service/repair centers opinions favors cause as insufficient air flow and recommended creating a scoop to direct air flow into generator bay. However, they first suggested changing driving speed as speed can significantly effect air flow.

To date, the solution for us is reduce speed to 55 mph (from 60 mph normal) while traveling with generator on. We have not installed a direct air flow scoop, just reduced speed.