Generator has me smoking’ crack

AlmostRetired · 10-21-2021, 03:08 AM

2016 ES PS3. 2800W invertor, Power Mgt System, 4 Lifeline AGMs, 5500W Onan gas generator w/14 gal onboard tank.
The generator will not keep running UNLESS I have a load pulling from it. If I have the fireplace/heater on - all is fine. If an AC is on - all is fine. If batteries are bulk/absorb charging - all is fine. If they drop to float or I turn the charger off and have no other draw, the genset shuts down. The generator will shut off right after starting unless I have a power request waiting. I took it to Onan and they replaced the board but that didn’t fix the problem. I haven’t returned to that service area in the past year. My wife and I do a lot of dry camping at music festivals. I’ve learned to “work around” the issue but it’s not foolproof. Any ideas before I genuinely become a crackhead? Is it the generator or a power management system causing the problem?

Campnjoe · 10-21-2021, 03:15 AM

Do you have the ags setup? It is wired to turn off the generator if certain conditions are met.

AlmostRetired · 10-21-2021, 03:18 AM

Yes, I have AGS but it is turned off. It confused the hell out of me when I first got it so I dug in the manual and made it inop. I’m not too proud to confess I am usually the lowest common denominator in any gathering.

AlmostRetired · 10-21-2021, 03:23 AM

But I like how you think CampnJoe. If I have something set screwy with the AGS, would it shut down the genset within 5 sec of power being available?

Campnjoe · 10-21-2021, 03:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AlmostRetired

But I like how you think CampnJoe. If I have something set screwy with the AGS, would it shut down the genset within 5 sec of power being available?

From my understanding, yes it would, but I am sure one of the way more experienced guys will hop on here and direct you on what to check. This place is fantastic for that.

pneumatics · 10-21-2021, 03:04 PM

Sounds like the EMS may be creating a genset shutdown.... when it does that and you start up the AC or other heavy loads will the genset restart? Typically the AGS will control this....

AlmostRetired · 10-21-2021, 04:21 PM

Yes. I must have something turned on to draw power and start the generator under load for it to stay running.

AlmostRetired · 10-21-2021, 04:40 PM

I misread your question. No, the generator never starts on its own.

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