RV Generator Basics
Fri Jun 11, 2010
Author: Joe McNamara
Is your generator generating?
It was the best of trips; it was the worst of trips… All too often this is the conversation around generators. Although they are a very dependable piece of machinery, they like a pet require attention.
How long has it been since you took your generator for a walk? What I mean by this is when was the last time you ran that generator? Like our pet a generator needs its exercise to keep it running in top shape. It is a good practice to start your generator once a month and let it run under a load for an hour. This is mainly to burn the aging fuel in the system and replace it with fresh fuel, but it also lubricates the internal engine components, keeps the oil seals working, and gives the electrical components a workout. Most of the generator repairs brought into our shop is due to lack of use and or proper maintenance.
Is your pet in a safe environment? You should make sure the area around your genset is free of debris and obstructions. This will allow proper airflow in and around your generator to help it to run cool. Most RV generators are air cooled so ventilation is critical to the lifespan of the unit. Also be sure no combustibles are stored in the same compartment to prevent the possibility of a fire. If your generator has an enclosure, make sure it is not operated without the applicable covers in place as these are also critical for the airflow and cooling of the engine.
Can your pet breath? Just like a living creature, engines need air to breath. Every generator has an air filter that should be free and free of lubricants. You can check this by removing the filter, holding it up to a bright light or the sun, and you should see the glow of light through the paper filter. If you can’t it is time for a new one. A clean unclogged filter will give you the best performance and fuel economy from your generators engine. Also on most generators there is an altitude adjustment on the carburetor that will change the air/fuel mixture for the altitude you are operating it in.
Does your pet get enough food? Your RV generator has a dirty little secret, it has oil in it. Like any other engine, the oil level is important. Most generators have an oil level switch that will shut the genset down if it reaches the critical low level to protect the engine from damage. This is a safety feature and does not negate the need to check the oil level. The oil level should be checked daily during use. It should also be checked before that trip to insure it will work when you need it. The oil and filter should be changed every 250 hours or annually whichever comes first.
These few simple things will decide weather your generator is dog tired or will purr like a kitten when you need it. Remember like your pet, your generator needs loving too, so take it out for some exercise.
Additional Information: http://www.grwrv.com/pages/rveducationandtraining.htm
