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8k gen set mod fail update

July 08, 2017, 07:20:05 am

I posted our gen set mod designed to avoid vibration issues with the radiator.  Gen set redux MAZ method We used the method that you can find on Beamalarm EXCEPT for the strap across the front of the set.  The control arm was substituted instead.  Both Robert and Mark, MAZ had done successful mods and indicated the arm with its rubber fittings was not necessary.  It may also be an issue.

Stationary, the set runs nicely and is quieter inside with new insulation.  The vibration has been isolated as hoped.  However, the issue may be running it underway.  I use it to cool our coach in lieu of dash air.  Running on the I10 between Lake Charles and Covington we hit, literally, some significant road issues.  What I think happened is the additional play created by the rubber on the control arm going to a motor mount and the rough hit allowed the fan to strike the shroud and throw the belt resulting in overheating.  At first I thought it might be a burping issue but on closer inspection, the fan hit and thrown belt were discovered.

I can not rule out anything else at this point but would encourage anyone contemplating doing this to stay with the solid strap and no motor mount.  It was a modification of the original design done by the tech as an improvement and sounded reasonable so I own it.  We will replace the arm with a strap and the fan before running with it again. 

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Re: 8k gen set mod fail update

Reply #1 – July 08, 2017, 12:16:25 pm

There are three bolts on mine at the top of the radiator that I was able to loosen and lean the top of the radiator away from the fan blade to get the proper spacing for clearance. I don't know if you have any adjustment available in that regard. Just a thought.

Mark

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Re: 8k gen set mod fail update

Reply #2 – July 08, 2017, 12:39:17 pm

The main reason for 8kw gen radiator failures is from the way the radiator is mounted.  We decided to improve the radiator mounting instead of completely separating the radiator assembly from the vibrating engine.

We only came to this idea after our radiator failed on day-one of our Quartzsite 2-week dry camping trip.  Without a working generator, we would have had to leave the Lemon Gathering, except for other Foretravelers coming to our rescue allowing us to plug our shore cable into their coaches.

We mentioned this on a previous posting:
Odd Gen Tray

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Re: 8k gen set mod fail update

Reply #3 – July 08, 2017, 02:04:12 pm

Yes you did mention it Barry and I appreciated your post.  I elected to use Marks method which originated with Powertech and was so nicely documented on your site.  Unfortunately the arm idea we used was not the right way to provide the additional isolation anticipated.

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