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Topic: Generator Voltage Adjustment (Read 796 times) previous topic - next topic

Generator Voltage Adjustment

I have an 8KW Power Tech brushes generator in this 97. Without a load it's putting out 128-130 volts. It hasn't reached the EMS cutout voltage of 132 volts. With a load it drops down to 125-127. Is there an adjustment I can make on the regulator or would it be best to replace the regulator? Thanks.
jor
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Re: Generator Voltage Adjustment

Reply #1 –
Replace it.
The selected media item is not currently available.Bill&Doris 97 U270 36'
University of Parris Island Class of 66
Semper Fi  Build# 5174 MC#17094

Re: Generator Voltage Adjustment

Reply #2 –
Check the voltage regulator connections and any ground connections. High resistance connections can develop of the years and could effect performance.
You may get lucky.
John Duld
1995 U320C SE 40'

Re: Generator Voltage Adjustment

Reply #3 –
Thanks, guys. I'll check those connections and price a new regulator. I forgot to add that the freq is not a constant 60. Sometimes it is 61 and right now, for example, at 37 amps the freq is 59 Hz.
jor
93 225
95 300
97 270
99 320

Re: Generator Voltage Adjustment

Reply #4 –
John, We have not tweaked the voltage adjustment screw(s) on voltage regulator, but if you note the original position so you can return, probably ok to tweak.
Mechanical governor attempts to keep gen running at a constant RPM, which is mainly to control 60 cycles per second AC frequency, but it could also affect voltage.
Nice to know AC frequency which is displayed on EMS to be sure governor is correct.
And maybe your 128-130 is ok for now.  I would assume a failing voltage regulator would allow much wider swings of voltage, and since under load it corrects, your voltage regulator may be ok.  Is this higher voltage a new finding?

Re: Generator Voltage Adjustment

Reply #5 –
59 - 61 cycles per second is probably ok.  Don't think the mechanical governor will keep at exact 60, like an electronic inverter generator can do.

Re: Generator Voltage Adjustment

Reply #6 –
Sounds in range for me.  122 or more, 60hz +-2

Re: Generator Voltage Adjustment

Reply #7 –
In light of these comments I think I'll just leave it alone. It starts and runs well. Thanks to all.
jor
93 225
95 300
97 270
99 320