Generator issue

[RJ Smith]

I usually try to run generator every couple of weeks, but it's been a month this time. All I'm getting is a click when I use any of the 3 switches. Any ideas where to start? It's a 2000 36L journey diesel. It has over 1/2 tank of fuel, so i don't think thats an issue.

Thanks

[wildtoad]

Sounds like the batteries are weak.

[RJ Smith]

I'll check it out. But it is plugged in to shore power most of the time.

[RickO]

Do you have a "battery boost" switch? If so, try holding it on while cranking the genset.

Rick

[jimbo16720]

Maybe cooked the batteries.

[ScottsJourney]

Hello, on my generator, you have to hold the start switch for a while. It will click until the glowplug is ready to fire. It could click 4 or more times. Hope this helps.
Scott

[W4MBG]

we have an onan 7500 watt diesel genny for the house. gotta hold the heat switch for 15 to 30 seconds prior to starting or it wont fire. and then it *always* takes two tries to get running.

[RJ Smith]

No matter how many times I try the switch and hold it only clicks once, even tried aux battery as well.

[RJ Smith]

I've tried holding switch for 30 sec. twice still only clicks once and won't start. According to gauge on "energy Management Console" batteries are up to full charge.

[FDchief]

Originally Posted by RJ Smith

No matter how many times I try the switch and hold it only clicks once, even tried aux battery as well.

Your generator requires charged house batteries, not chassis batteries. As mentioned, you could have bad batteries. I would try running the coach for a bit, probably 20-30 minutes, then try again. If still no go, check the voltage on the batteries, less that 12V after running for a lengthy time your batteries are probably shot. Good luck.

[Dirtbuster]

Originally Posted by W4MBG

we have an onan 7500 watt diesel genny for the house. gotta hold the heat switch for 15 to 30 seconds prior to starting or it wont fire. and then it *always* takes two tries to get running.

Where is the heat switch located? Mine is taking quite a while to start, in this cold weather. Similar problem!

[RJ Smith]

I'm in Florida it's 60 some degrees where are you? The house batteries are fully charged according to management panel.

[deandec]

Are you using the switch on the genset or a remote switch inside the coach?

If you have not tried the switch on the genset, you might find a switch or broken wire from the remote is not allowing full current to the genset.

[RJ Smith]

I've tried all switches. I get the same clicking noise as I depress either switch.

[deandec]

My generator manual indicates that you either have a power problem or a starter motor problem. You will need a voltmeter to test the current flow situation.

The trouble shooting flowchart in the manual says to test the battery for available current, then clean and tighten the cable connections.

If power is reaching the start switch, then:

Make sure the main generator switch is turned on.

Test the start switch for continuity.

If power reaches the starter terminals, then the starter is the problem.

If it were my genset, I would tap the starter with a hammer to see if it is hung up.

If that does not work, I would measure the voltage at the starter with the start switch engaged.

If no voltage at the starter, I would then test for power to the start switch.

If no voltage at the switch, but there is adequate voltage at the battery terminals, then there is a wire problem between the battery and the switch.



1. Is your house battery disconnect switch in the facilitate mode?
2. Do you have 12v lights in the coach now?

[Roadhawgs]

I would start by checking ground first, corrosion may be the problem.

[W4MBG]

dirtbuster: the home genny may be set up differently from an rv unit. its not set up for remote start. the heat switch is the other end of the start switch, IIRC.

[Dirtbuster]

Originally Posted by W4MBG

dirtbuster: the home genny may be set up differently from an rv unit. its not set up for remote start. the heat switch is the other end of the start switch, IIRC.

No mine is in the Motor Home. I just saw that someone noted that the opposite side of the switch activates the glow plug. I had noticed the little lightning type line, but I push the switch in that direction to turn it off!

Learn something new everyday.

Is there possibly a solenoid on the generator that can be jumped with a screwdriver? This would help indicate a problem with the solenoid, if it starts?

[RJ Smith]

Thanks for all the info. I'll be trying all the tests tomorrow. You guys are a wealth of info..

[Izzyblueye]

Start your coach engine then try the generator.