generator weirdness

[mrkane1952]

Greetings:

This is similar to a fault I experienced with my '85 PT40. My fix
required first replacing the solenoid under the entry step, then the
second solenoid mounted in the rear under the battery charger
compartment, and finally the 30 Amp circuit breaker mounted near the
rear solenoid.

The forward solenoid was apparently constantly drawing current, as it
was warm to the touch. I replaced it and the rear one as a
preventative measure. ($20 each from O'Reilly's.) I think the main
problem was the failed circuit breaker, which was open.

The diode, if good, should show a voltage drop of around 0.7 volts in
the conducting direction. Common failure mode is shorting to ground.

Ralph performed the main troubleshooting that helped me resolve this
problem. BTW, I think the root cause of the failure was boiling the
gen battery dry, leading to excess current in the charging circuit.

I have schematics and can provide a copy via email if needed.
Otherwise, I'm in the Sanger, TX area for the next week or so.

--M.R.Kane
'85 PT40


> > > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ernest Ekberg"
> > > wrote:
> > > >
> > > > dave Hardy- 84 PT40, his generator, while running will not
> charge
> > his
> > > > generator battery. The inverter on the coach is no help. He can
> > put
> > > an
> > > > aux battery charger on the generator battery and the generator
> > will
> > > run
> > > > from now on- without that the voltage drops and she dies.
> Anyone
> > have
> > > > ever have the same problem? How about a fix? Thanks, Ernie-
> 83PT40
> > in
> > > > Texas- my generator just leaks diesel- no problem there
> > > >
> > >
> >
>