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Topic: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup (Read 545 times) previous topic - next topic

HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

I am still not sure I have the wires correctly hooked up going from my 1989 Onan Emerald III NHE generator. I want to verify connections and I am not equipped to test anything. (both equipment & smarts)
When I disconnected the wires in the junction box I had three black and one red wire wired together.
It runs now, but output (at the Powermate gage) it only reads 115V. When hooked up to 30A shore power it reads 117V. Used to read 120V before I started messing with the generator. Now I also see, from the electrical schematics in my manuals that this Onan can be wired for 50H or 60H merely by changing wiring connections. Weird huh??!
So, I need someone with the same year & gen to open their junction box & see what they have for connections.

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #1
I don't know if you have these already, but...

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #2
Here is what I have that pertains to the wiring for the NHE model, but doesn't show me what color wire to what color wire.

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #3
Screwed up---here is the manual cover

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #4
Just went out and checked the Powerwatch meter---While plugged into house: 118V
While unplugged from house and with generator running:First 123V then settled down to 122V.

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #5
Do you have  a digital volt meter check the power in your house at a 120 volt outlet. at 118 volts you are within spec you are allowed a 5% drop in a feeder or branch circuit which would be 6 volts. which would be 114 volts minimum.

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #6
It sounds like the generator is doing its thing just right

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #7
But, is it doing the right thing on 50 HZ or 60 HZ? If 50 HZ what damage could occur?


Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #9
Unless you have a newer type "inverter style generator" the older and larger "stator / rotor" generators will require a decrease in governor speed  to produce 50hz current. As long as you have not connected the windings in series (230/240v) on a system designed for 120v you should be OK.
Sounds like your generator is working as it should.

Re: HELP, Need wiring confirmation on my 1989 GV generator hookup

Reply #10
Ya, everything iv'e read said the frequency was determined by the governor on the engine.