I suspect the answer to this but want to throw it out anyway.
Attached are picture of the voltage readings in camper with my propane powered generator with one AC unit. The generator doesn't run smooth and "surges" under load- so probably a tune up in order.
My question is shouldn't the voltage read higher than the 110V minimum with no load? This leads me to think the generator itself is needing attention- anyone else experienced it and how much coach $ to fix?
Thanks,
Dan,
First, it quite common for those old analog voltmeters to be off.
So, I would start by verifying with a digital voltmeter.
And, yes, if your propane generator is surging, it needs attention. First suspect (if it is a liquid LP generator) is the propane regulator. So, is your generator a liquid LP generator, or do you have a regulator external to the generator itself?
Another quick way to check generator output is with a Kill-A-Watt meter. Plug it into any duplex outlet, read volts and frequency (Hz). It is a very handy tool - commonly available for under $20.
Kill A Watt Meter - Electricity Usage Monitor | P3 (http://www.p3international.com/products/p4400.html)
Thanks for the quick replies!
Brett- yes, liquid propane with external regulator. I will start with checking the voltage with another meter (good suggestion above and I have other uses for this!) and then to the regulator.
I don't think it is so much a meter issue as when on shore power the meter runs about 116
Generators run at 1800 rpm. That allows a 4 pole generator to produce 60Hz. Output voltage is a function of field voltage. These are generally rotating field generators, that keeps brush current low. Check your output cycles to insure the generator is actually oscillating. Oscillating at low power can indicate a loose stator. Oscillating at high power likely an engine performance issue. Low voltage is usually a regulator problem as long as you are not at max output.
My power watch meter is about 5 volts lower than the generator or shore power actual voltage.
yep, not saying the meter is accurate, but the generator is running about 8 volts lower under load than the shore power under same load (one AC), thus the generator issue.
Have an IMPCO model J regulator currently- going to address that first and see if it fixes.
Thanks to all for the help!