3 Responses to “my onan generator runs but not generating power in the RV?”

1. DM on August 5th, 2009 5:51 pm
   

   Generators Feedback: The generator runs, but does it produce power? Buy a Honda, you’ll never have a problem. More expensive but worth it.
2. wildmanny2 on August 8th, 2009 3:14 pm
   

   Generators Feedback: The first thing to check,after no voltage is verified,is the 2 diodes in the generator.They are the weak link.They can be tested while installed by connecting an ohm meter across their terminals .Look for continuity in one direction and no continuity in the opposite direction.A blown diode will either conduct in both directions or not at all.
3. warren914 on August 11th, 2009 2:51 pm
   

   Generators Feedback: I’ll assume you checked the obvious things first; fuses, circuit breakers, cords, etc.
   Use an ohm meter to confirm the windings are actually connected to the outlets. With the engine shut off (!) measure the resistance between the live and neutral lines. It should appear as a short circuit.

   Here is something from my generator web page which you may want to try…
   If the engine is working fine, but there is no output voltage try this trick. It may work on standard alternator type generators, but not on those which use an inverter. It worked for me in the past, but try at your own risk. First check to ensure that all circuit breakers and fuses are ok. Shut off the engine and remove any cords from the generator. Plug in a cord with bare wires on the other end to one of the 120VAC outlets. Connect one end of the cord to a car battery. Very quickly touch the other wire to the other battery terminal. Do not leave it there longer than to create a few sparks or you may destroy the windings. If the residual magnetism in the alternator had weakened, this may be enough to get it started again.

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