Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
The power went out today, as expected (it goes out in almost every good storm),
but, what was unexpected was that the Generac 8KW generator didn't kick in. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7488/1...ff47f371_b.jpg I had to manually flip the power switch a few times, from auto to manual to off and back (even though it was on auto all the time and the battery was charged as evidenced by a 3.8VDC check on the side panel) and there is plenty of propane in the 500 gallon propane tank. I flipped the breaker a few times. I pulled the fuse and it looked good. https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8679/1...86fb0b88_b.jpg Everything looked ok electrically, and, after a few flips of the switch, it turned on. Recently on its weekly charging cycle, it had been turning off and on after only a few seconds, so, that's probably related. While the Generac not starting is one problem, the other oddity was that, once started, and seemingly running full force, the transfer switch(s) inside the garage were clicking for about five or ten minutes and then stopped clicking. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7505/1...1ae182de_b.jpg I opened the panels, but by the time I opened them, the clicking had stopped. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7508/1...a2d214de_b.jpg I took a video of the clicking, but I'm not sure where to upload the movie (it's a 24MB MOV file from an iPad) if needed. Here is a closeup of each panel - which seems to have a big solenoid inside: Left: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7522/1...0301e7ec_c.jpg Right: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7525/1...e9eca41d_c.jpg I'm guessing that the propane generator wasn't up to speed at first, for whatever reason, and that the voltage wasn't as high as it needed to keep the solenoids down, so, they were clicking? But I never heard that clicking before, and, the lights were running as soon as the generator kicked in. Any debugging suggestions? |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
On Friday, December 12, 2014 2:12:39 AM UTC-5, Danny D. wrote:
The power went out today, as expected (it goes out in almost every good storm), but, what was unexpected was that the Generac 8KW generator didn't kick in. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7488/1...ff47f371_b.jpg I had to manually flip the power switch a few times, from auto to manual to off and back (even though it was on auto all the time and the battery was charged as evidenced by a 3.8VDC check on the side panel) and there is plenty of propane in the 500 gallon propane tank. I flipped the breaker a few times. I pulled the fuse and it looked good. https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8679/1...86fb0b88_b.jpg Everything looked ok electrically, and, after a few flips of the switch, it turned on. Recently on its weekly charging cycle, it had been turning off and on after only a few seconds, so, that's probably related. While the Generac not starting is one problem, the other oddity was that, once started, and seemingly running full force, the transfer switch(s) inside the garage were clicking for about five or ten minutes and then stopped clicking. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7505/1...1ae182de_b.jpg I opened the panels, but by the time I opened them, the clicking had stopped. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7508/1...a2d214de_b.jpg What was going on with the power to the house while this clicking was going on? Lights going on and off? I took a video of the clicking, but I'm not sure where to upload the movie (it's a 24MB MOV file from an iPad) if needed. Here is a closeup of each panel - which seems to have a big solenoid inside: Left: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7522/1...0301e7ec_c.jpg Right: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7525/1...e9eca41d_c.jpg I'm guessing that the propane generator wasn't up to speed at first, for whatever reason, and that the voltage wasn't as high as it needed to keep the solenoids down, so, they were clicking? It's possible it's RPM related. They have control electronics that presumably look for certain conditions to be present, eg correct voltage, before putting it online. But I never heard that clicking before, and, the lights were running as soon as the generator kicked in. Any debugging suggestions? I guess that answers the question about the lights, sounds like they were on the whole time. Any possibility the utility power was intermittent, coming back sporadically? If what you were hearing was the main power relay's moving, I don't see how you could have clicking and uninterrupted lights. For what it's worth, I did some digging into about a 5 year old Generac that I got for free, to try to resurrect it. The company that had sold/installed it said it was shot and not worth fixing. This was just used for house standby here where the power rarely goes out for more than 15 mins. After I read the many horror stories on reviews at Amazon, I concluded that I wouldn't buy one, wouldn't rely on one, and that it wasn't worth putting the money into the free one. At a minimum, the rotor was shot, possibly the stator too. So, if I had one that's going, I'd put some money into it, but before I put a lot into it, I'd go look at those reviews. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/12/2014 2:12 AM, Danny D. wrote:
Any debugging suggestions? 1) Start with the basics. Change the oil, make sure the unit is clean and free of dust and debris. 2) Look for online forums. And read any paper work you have with the machine. Might be able to get the manual from the web site in pdf. When my Mom's garage door opener didn't work right, I found the manual Dad had tucked in behind. Sure enough, that had the trouble shooting and helped me to fix the problem. - .. Christopher A. Young Learn about Jesus www.lds.org .. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
trader_4 wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 05:02:13 -0800:
What was going on with the power to the house while this clicking was going on? Lights going on and off? I was in the garage that whole time, and the fluorescent lights in the garage were not flickering. I guess that answers the question about the lights, sounds like they were on the whole time. What happened were three things: a) Power flickered on and off and then off and on and then off. b) Normally, by now, the generator would have kicked in, but it didn't. c) So the house was dark (which normally never happens) d) Opening the door, I could hear the neighbors' generators e) Looking about, I could tell it was a power outage by the pattern of which houses had generators & which didn't f) Going outside, I fiddled with the generator (hitting buttons) g) The generator kicked on and sounded good h) The lights went on in the house (and stayed on) i) But the control boxes in the garage were clicking j) They clicked for five or ten minutes and then stopped clicking k) The generator stayed on for hours (it's off now, so, PG&E must have fixed it) Any possibility the utility power was intermittent, coming back sporadically? If what you were hearing was the main power relay's moving, I don't see how you could have clicking and uninterrupted lights. The PG&E power "could" have been intermittent (how would I have known?). I concluded that I wouldn't buy one, wouldn't rely on one, and that it wasn't worth putting the money into the free one. I swear by that thing! You have to remember that, here in California, up in the hills, our power goes out five or six times a year. Interestingly, we *thought* it was getting better, in that, during the drought, the power stayed on for months before going out; but, it has gone out thrice in as many months. Sometimes we're out for days (the most I've seen is 3 days); but, most of the time it's only for a half dozen hours. In this case, the power came on during the night, as it's still dark outside, but I see lights on the neighbors' houses who don't have generators and I opened a window and I don't hear my generator. Normally, I can hear mine (but nobody elses' since mine is loud); and I can see which neighbors have lights and which don't (during the night). But last night, I could hear the neighbor's generator, because mine wasn't running. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 08:44:03 -0500:
1) Start with the basics. Change the oil, make sure the unit is clean and free of dust and debris. I've never changed the oil, but I doubt that's the problem, but it's a great idea nonetheless. I'll also take the battery down to Autozone to have load tested. It had 536.something hours on the clock when I snapped that picture of the front panel in the night. I'll look when it gets light to see how many hours it ran last night. 2) Look for online forums. And read any paper work you have with the machine. Might be able to get the manual from the web site in pdf. Googling for "Generac model 09067-9 series 8KW HSB" I didn't find the manual, so, I'm calling them as we type: http://www.generac.com/service-support 888-436-3722 |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/12/2014 9:44 AM, Danny D. wrote:
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 08:44:03 -0500: 1) Start with the basics. Change the oil, make sure the unit is clean and free of dust and debris. I've never changed the oil, but I doubt that's the problem, but it's a great idea nonetheless. I'll also take the battery down to Autozone to have load tested. It had 536.something hours on the clock when I snapped that picture of the front panel in the night. I'll look when it gets light to see how many hours it ran last night. 2) Look for online forums. And read any paper work you have with the machine. Might be able to get the manual from the web site in pdf. Googling for "Generac model 09067-9 series 8KW HSB" I didn't find the manual, so, I'm calling them as we type: http://www.generac.com/service-support 888-436-3722 I think small engines want an oil change every 25 hours or 50, so it's likely over due. I like Castrol GX, cause it's the one brand that quieted the rod knock in a truck, I used to have. Some engines have a low oil shut down DAMHIKT. That's how I got my first generator, relative ran one low oil. I'm trying not to let them know that was the only thing wrong with it. I added four ounces of oil, and it ran fine. Don't tell em, please. Best wishes on the manual. Hope they have good customer service. - .. Christopher A. Young Learn about Jesus www.lds.org .. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Danny D. wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 14:44:02 +0000:
It had 536.something hours on the clock when I snapped that picture of the front panel in the night. I'll look when it gets light to see how many hours it ran last night. It now has 540(point 0/10s) now, so, the power was out for four hours last night. I'm still on the line with Generac. They'll send me a manual by snail mail & email. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 09:52:25 -0500:
Some engines have a low oil shut down DAMHIKT. That's a good point. I never *added* oil either! I'm still on the line with Generac support (they couldn't find the model at first). They're sending me "the manual", but I asked them whether it's 1. Owners Manual & Maintenance 2. Parts Manual 3. Wiring Diagram 4. Troubleshooting Guide 5. Service Manual And, whether it contains the transfer switch information. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
can you describe the clicking in mor detail
click every second? once a minute? randomly spaced? Mark |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/12/2014 10:05 AM, Danny D. wrote:
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 09:52:25 -0500: Some engines have a low oil shut down DAMHIKT. That's a good point. I never *added* oil either! I'm still on the line with Generac support (they couldn't find the model at first). They're sending me "the manual", but I asked them whether it's 1. Owners Manual & Maintenance 2. Parts Manual 3. Wiring Diagram 4. Troubleshooting Guide 5. Service Manual And, whether it contains the transfer switch information. I like our different approaches. You're techie, and I'm nuts and bolts. Well, mostly bolts. - .. Christopher A. Young Learn about Jesus www.lds.org .. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
makolber wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 07:09:19 -0800:
can you describe the clicking in mor detail click every second? once a minute? randomly spaced? I just listened to the 13 second 24MB video that the iPad created. It's a fast click. Loud and fast. Maybe 3 or 4 clicks a second. Rapid, then skips a click or two, then rapid again. I'm trying to upload to flickr, but it's timing out. (need a good temporary no-registration video upload site) Note: I'm not sure why a puny 13 second video is 25 MB. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Danny D. wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 15:19:01 +0000:
I'm trying to upload to flickr, but it's timing out. (need a good temporary no-registration video upload site) Note: I'm not sure why a puny 13 second video is 25 MB. Since Flickr kept timing out on the 25MB 13-second iPad MOV, I converted it to a 500KB M4V using Handbrake on Linux. I wasn't sure what format to convert it to, but that seems to have uploaded to Flickr. I usually "view source" to find the URL to post for you, but this HTML source is different than for a photo, so, let me know if this URL works for you: https://www.flickr.com/photos/98287134@N02/15382730574 |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:18:51 -0500:
I like our different approaches. I like the advice. Reading the manual, I see that the leading zero is what threw off the customer support lady (Rachell). The file is "9067-9.pdf" and it's called "Manual No. 98374", titled "Generac II Emergency Power Systems Owner's Manual" "Revision 0 (11/22/95)". As you had accurately surmised, it has a low oil pressure switch cutoff at 8-12psi and and a high-oil temperature cutoff switch at 284 degrees F. It's a 570cc engine of 19HP at 3,600RPM with a solid-state ignition, and Champion R12YC plugs. The oil filter is a Fram PH-3614, and it takes 1.5 US quarts of 10W30 motor oil. You were right that the oil should be changed every 50 hours, so, I have some 'splaining to do since I have never changed it. Obviously that's my first task of the day, after I pick up the filter. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/12/2014 2:12 AM, Danny D. wrote:
The power went out today, as expected (it goes out in almost every good storm), but, what was unexpected was that the Generac 8KW generator didn't kick in. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7488/1...ff47f371_b.jpg I had to manually flip the power switch a few times, from auto to manual to off and back (even though it was on auto all the time and the battery was charged as evidenced by a 3.8VDC check on the side panel) and there is plenty of propane in the 500 gallon propane tank. I flipped the breaker a few times. I pulled the fuse and it looked good. https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8679/1...86fb0b88_b.jpg Everything looked ok electrically, and, after a few flips of the switch, it turned on. Recently on its weekly charging cycle, it had been turning off and on after only a few seconds, so, that's probably related. While the Generac not starting is one problem, the other oddity was that, once started, and seemingly running full force, the transfer switch(s) inside the garage were clicking for about five or ten minutes and then stopped clicking. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7505/1...1ae182de_b.jpg I opened the panels, but by the time I opened them, the clicking had stopped. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7508/1...a2d214de_b.jpg I took a video of the clicking, but I'm not sure where to upload the movie (it's a 24MB MOV file from an iPad) if needed. Here is a closeup of each panel - which seems to have a big solenoid inside: Left: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7522/1...0301e7ec_c.jpg Right: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7525/1...e9eca41d_c.jpg I'm guessing that the propane generator wasn't up to speed at first, for whatever reason, and that the voltage wasn't as high as it needed to keep the solenoids down, so, they were clicking? But I never heard that clicking before, and, the lights were running as soon as the generator ki Danny, There is a forum devoted to Generac service and attended regularly by many Generac technicians. I am guessing you may have a leaking rubber bellows connecting the air filter chamber to the carburetor, a common problem, causing poor fuel/air ratio and rough starting and stalling, etc. Good luck! Smarty See the website: http://www.zillerelectric.com/forums...splay.php?f=15 |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/12/2014 10:43 AM, Danny D. wrote:
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:18:51 -0500: I like our different approaches. I like the advice. Reading the manual, I see that the leading zero is what threw off the customer support lady (Rachell). The file is "9067-9.pdf" and it's called "Manual No. 98374", titled "Generac II Emergency Power Systems Owner's Manual" "Revision 0 (11/22/95)". As you had accurately surmised, it has a low oil pressure switch cutoff at 8-12psi and and a high-oil temperature cutoff switch at 284 degrees F. It's a 570cc engine of 19HP at 3,600RPM with a solid-state ignition, and Champion R12YC plugs. The oil filter is a Fram PH-3614, and it takes 1.5 US quarts of 10W30 motor oil. You were right that the oil should be changed every 50 hours, so, I have some 'splaining to do since I have never changed it. Obviously that's my first task of the day, after I pick up the filter. we make a good team. Wish I lived closer to you, love to visit some time. Anyhow, sounds like the machine can use some "routine" (cough, cough) maint. I know that my equipment doesn't get maint on proper intervals. Sigh. Anyhow, be interesting if this helps. can't hurt, of course. I'd expect to find the oil drain plug on the side, about half way back. Way down low. I'm guessing you'll take pictures and post? - .. Christopher A. Young Learn about Jesus www.lds.org .. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
On Friday, December 12, 2014 9:44:25 AM UTC-5, Danny D. wrote:
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 08:44:03 -0500: 1) Start with the basics. Change the oil, make sure the unit is clean and free of dust and debris. I've never changed the oil, but I doubt that's the problem, but it's a great idea nonetheless. I would think the oil should be changed about once a year, but I agree an oil change isn't the issue. I'll also take the battery down to Autozone to have load tested. Or just replace it if it's 6+ years old. I think that's what I would do with a standby generator, as just normal PM. But again, since it starts and runs, that isn't the problem. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/12/2014 10:49 AM, Smarty wrote:
Danny, There is a forum devoted to Generac service and attended regularly by many Generac technicians. I am guessing you may have a leaking rubber bellows connecting the air filter chamber to the carburetor, a common problem, causing poor fuel/air ratio and rough starting and stalling, etc. Good luck! Smarty See the website: http://www.zillerelectric.com/forums...splay.php?f=15 Now, there's a nuts and bolts man. Much like the bad carb gaskets I've seen over the years. - .. Christopher A. Young Learn about Jesus www.lds.org .. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clicking sounds
Danny D. wrote:
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:18:51 -0500: I like our different approaches. I like the advice. Reading the manual, I see that the leading zero is what threw off the customer support lady (Rachell). The file is "9067-9.pdf" and it's called "Manual No. 98374", titled "Generac II Emergency Power Systems Owner's Manual" "Revision 0 (11/22/95)". As you had accurately surmised, it has a low oil pressure switch cutoff at 8-12psi and and a high-oil temperature cutoff switch at 284 degrees F. It's a 570cc engine of 19HP at 3,600RPM with a solid-state ignition, and Champion R12YC plugs. The oil filter is a Fram PH-3614, and it takes 1.5 US quarts of 10W30 motor oil. You were right that the oil should be changed every 50 hours, so, I have some 'splaining to do since I have never changed it. Obviously that's my first task of the day, after I pick up the filter. Get a Wix filter , they're the best in the business - Fram is crap . A bunch of the guys on the Sportster email list cut a bunch of filters up and analyzed the type/quantity/quality of the components . Wix came out on top , and I've never used anything else since . FWIW , NAPA Gold filters are made by Wix . -- Snag |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:51:42 -0500:
I'm guessing you'll take pictures and post? Yes, we'd make a good team (I was always on sports as a kid and always a good team member). As for the pictures, the clicking of the transfer switch caught me offguard (i.e., sans camera), so I was only able to get a 15 second video of the sound: https://www.flickr.com/photos/98287134@N02/15382730574/ I sent the video to Generac support, but they (predictably) said they couldn't diagnose over email and offered to send me to an authorized dealer. Their manual is pretty bad, and must contain errors, as the spark plug they suggest doesn't even exist: Champion R12YC (there is no asterisk explanation either) https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7555/1...f881a281_b.jpg Same with the oil, as the SAE340 grade doesn't exist either. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7487/1...7f552489_b.jpg Similarly, what the heck is an "oil makeup tank"? https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7487/1...7f552489_b.jpg I suspect all three are mistakes - but - it's a bummer having to guess (I'm guessing RC12YC, SAE30, and that there is no such thing as an "oil makeup tank", which doesn't show on any of the exploded diagrams). |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Terry Coombs wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 11:40:24 -0600:
Get a Wix filter , they're the best in the business - Fram is crap . A bunch of the guys on the Sportster email list cut a bunch of filters up and analyzed the type/quantity/quality of the components . Wix came out on top , and I've never used anything else since . FWIW , NAPA Gold filters are made by Wix . I'm sorry didn't see this until I came back from the store. I bought the Bosch 3330 filter instead: https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8583/1...9dc07783_b.jpg And I had to guess which spark plug to use, so I guessed that they didn't mean R12YC but perhaps they had meant RC12YC? |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
trader_4 wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 08:10:22 -0800:
I would think the oil should be changed about once a year, but I agree an oil change isn't the issue. The manual says 50 hours in one place and every 100 hours in another. The generator has over 500 hours, but, I didn't put it all on (I don't remember how much I put on). So, my plan is to give it a "tuneup", whatever that means to a propane generator: 1. Battery tested at Autzone for voltage under load, 2. New spark plug (Champion RC12YC I think) 3. Oil change & oil filter https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8583/1...9dc07783_b.jpg |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clicking sounds
Danny D. wrote:
Terry Coombs wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 11:40:24 -0600: Get a Wix filter , they're the best in the business - Fram is crap . A bunch of the guys on the Sportster email list cut a bunch of filters up and analyzed the type/quantity/quality of the components . Wix came out on top , and I've never used anything else since . FWIW , NAPA Gold filters are made by Wix . I'm sorry didn't see this until I came back from the store. I bought the Bosch 3330 filter instead: https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8583/1...9dc07783_b.jpg And I had to guess which spark plug to use, so I guessed that they didn't mean R12YC but perhaps they had meant RC12YC? Bosch are good too , I'd run one if Wix were unavailable . I'm not sure about your spark plug , but i know my Harley runs an RN12YC . There are charts online of what all the numbers and letters mean ... -- Snag |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Terry Coombs wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 17:57:34 -0600:
And I had to guess which spark plug to use, so I guessed that they didn't mean R12YC but perhaps they had meant RC12YC? about your spark plug , but i know my Harley runs an RN12YC . There are charts online of what all the numbers and letters mean ... Oh, we spent more than 45 minutes trying to find a RC12YC. The auto parts guy looked in every cross reference he had. We googled it on my iPad. And we even called Generac from the store (which is what took most of the 45 minutes). Generac has no clue but they said it 'could' be a typo. All we know is that the R12YC doesn't exist. The one good thing that came of the multiple calls to Generac support was that each person told us something different, which allowed us to figure out that there is no such thing as the "oil makeup tank" and that the "SAE340" was a typo. We now have "revision 1" of the manual, which still says to use the spark plug which doesn't exist though. Anyway, I'll pull and compare spark plugs (not that this will be an exact test but if it's way off, I should be able to see that as long as it's not off internally). |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clicking sounds
"Danny D." wrote in news:m6f115$e8o$5@dont-
email.me: makolber wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 07:09:19 -0800: can you describe the clicking in mor detail click every second? once a minute? randomly spaced? I just listened to the 13 second 24MB video that the iPad created. It's a fast click. Loud and fast. Maybe 3 or 4 clicks a second. Rapid, then skips a click or two, then rapid again. I'm trying to upload to flickr, but it's timing out. (need a good temporary no-registration video upload site) Note: I'm not sure why a puny 13 second video is 25 MB. Can you describe the "click" itself? Was it like metal tapping metal; or more like a "thumping"? |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
On Friday, December 12, 2014 4:43:45 PM UTC-5, Danny D. wrote:
trader_4 wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 08:10:22 -0800: I would think the oil should be changed about once a year, but I agree an oil change isn't the issue. The manual says 50 hours in one place and every 100 hours in another. The generator has over 500 hours, but, I didn't put it all on (I don't remember how much I put on). 100 hours sounds about right. When I said once a year, I was thinking that few of these home generators are going to run enough in a year to reach an hour based number. It should probably be changed once a year anyway, regardless of usage. It starts up once a week as a test and runs for like 10 mins, right? Doing that, sitting outdoors, probably gets condensation into the oil, so changing it once a year or so is probably a good idea. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
On Friday, December 12, 2014 4:27:35 PM UTC-5, Danny D. wrote:
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:51:42 -0500: I'm guessing you'll take pictures and post? Yes, we'd make a good team (I was always on sports as a kid and always a good team member). As for the pictures, the clicking of the transfer switch caught me offguard (i.e., sans camera), so I was only able to get a 15 second video of the sound: https://www.flickr.com/photos/98287134@N02/15382730574/ I sent the video to Generac support, but they (predictably) said they couldn't diagnose over email and offered to send me to an authorized dealer. Their manual is pretty bad, and must contain errors, as the spark plug they suggest doesn't even exist: Champion R12YC (there is no asterisk explanation either) https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7555/1...f881a281_b.jpg Same with the oil, as the SAE340 grade doesn't exist either. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7487/1...7f552489_b.jpg Similarly, what the heck is an "oil makeup tank"? https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7487/1...7f552489_b.jpg That would be an oil holding tank that is in addition to whatever oil is in the engine crankcase. Some cars use that system, Harley's, etc. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
trader_4 wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 03:56:58 -0800:
It starts up once a week as a test and runs for like 10 mins, right? Yes. Ostensibly that's to charge the battery. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Zak W wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 11:16:52 +0000:
Can you describe the "click" itself? Was it like metal tapping metal; or more like a "thumping"? Here is a video of the clicking sounds: https://www.flickr.com/photos/98287134@N02/15382730574/ Here's what is inside the transfer cases: Left: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7522/1...0301e7ec_c.jpg Right: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7525/1...e9eca41d_c.jpg |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/12/2014 7:42 PM, Danny D. wrote:
Generac has no clue but they said it 'could' be a typo. All we know is that the R12YC doesn't exist. Oddly, I have an old Champion catalog. No such plug that I could find. Wish I was more help. -- .. Christopher A. Young Learn about Jesus www.lds.org .. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 09:22:12 -0500:
Oddly, I have an old Champion catalog. No such plug that I could find. Wish I was more help. Thanks for checking that out. I have the newer manual from Generac (rev 1 instead of rev 0), which corrects two of the three errors - but still specifies the non-existent spark plug. I'm pretty sure that the plug designation is a typo, but, when I pull the old one, I'll know for sure so I'll let you know. Thanks for looking it up for me. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/13/2014 10:48 AM, Danny D. wrote:
Stormin Mormon wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 09:22:12 -0500: Oddly, I have an old Champion catalog. No such plug that I could find. Wish I was more help. Thanks for checking that out. I have the newer manual from Generac (rev 1 instead of rev 0), which corrects two of the three errors - but still specifies the non-existent spark plug. I'm pretty sure that the plug designation is a typo, but, when I pull the old one, I'll know for sure so I'll let you know. Thanks for looking it up for me. "Oh, that one? I threw away four of them last week...." I do have some old plugs. My guess, it's fairly close to some thing that's for sale near you. -- .. Christopher A. Young Learn about Jesus www.lds.org .. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/13/2014 9:22 AM, Stormin Mormon wrote:
On 12/12/2014 7:42 PM, Danny D. wrote: Generac has no clue but they said it 'could' be a typo. All we know is that the R12YC doesn't exist. Oddly, I have an old Champion catalog. No such plug that I could find. Wish I was more help. Generac sells a service kit for each generator including spark plug, oil filter, and air filter. Just buy it and save yourself (and everybody else) a lot of confusion. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Smarty wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 11:09:46 -0500:
Generac sells a service kit for each generator including spark plug, oil filter, and air filter. Just buy it and save yourself (and everybody else) a lot of confusion. I didn't know about that, and, certainly Generac support didn't volunteer that information, particularly when I asked about the oil and the plug. But, at this point, I think I'm fine: a) The oil filter appears to be correct, b) The spark plug will be compared to the old one c) The oil is just plain old motor oil (SAE & API notwithstanding) d) The air filter appears to be a serviceable filter (cleanable) I'll snap pictures, hopefully later today, as it's not currently raining. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clicking sounds
On Sat, 13 Dec 2014 09:22:12 -0500, Stormin Mormon
wrote: On 12/12/2014 7:42 PM, Danny D. wrote: Generac has no clue but they said it 'could' be a typo. All we know is that the R12YC doesn't exist. Oddly, I have an old Champion catalog. No such plug that I could find. Wish I was more help. It will in lall likelyhood be an RJ12yc - or perhaps an RN12c The R means resistor, the N is 14mm 3/4" long thread, while a J is 14mm 3/8 in long thread, both with 13/16" hex head. An N can be replaced with a C or R, with 5/8, 3/4, or 5/8 inch hex. So yes, an R12Yc plug DOES exist (or has in the past). It is a non reisistor 14mmX3/4" thread projected nose copper core plug. with a 3/4 or 11/16" hex head. - which in MOST cases can be replaced with either an N12yc or RN12yc plug assuming there is a big enough "plug well" to get a 13/16" plug socket onto the plug. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clicking sounds
In article ,
"Danny D." wrote: The file is "9067-9.pdf" and it's called "Manual No. 98374", titled "Generac II Emergency Power Systems Owner's Manual" "Revision 0 (11/22/95)". Danny D.- I happen to have a pdf copy of that manual. the spark plug is illustrated on page 24, item 52. According to the parts list on page 27, it is part number 72347, "D" Spark Plug. Searching for 72347GS, it is apparently no longer available. I found two sites that crossed it to part number 491055S. Sears PartsDirect crosses that to RC12YC. With regard to the oil change interval, many generators have a short "break in" interval for the first oil change, then a longer interval after that. Once you get it running, consider running it on fresh oil for 24 hours under some load like a couple electric heaters. Then change oil and observe a 100 hour interval after that. I hope your clicking was just a reaction to low oil. If not, you may also find help at http://www.smokstak.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=90. Fred |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/13/2014 11:17 AM, Danny D. wrote:
Smarty wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 11:09:46 -0500: Generac sells a service kit for each generator including spark plug, oil filter, and air filter. Just buy it and save yourself (and everybody else) a lot of confusion. I didn't know about that, and, certainly Generac support didn't volunteer that information, particularly when I asked about the oil and the plug. But, at this point, I think I'm fine: a) The oil filter appears to be correct, b) The spark plug will be compared to the old one c) The oil is just plain old motor oil (SAE & API notwithstanding) d) The air filter appears to be a serviceable filter (cleanable) The Generac technicians on the forum I previously cited recommended synthetic oil, and I therefore have been using Mobil 1 for annual oil changes since I installed my Generac in 2007. Also I am not aware that the air filter can be cleaned and re-used as you state above. Suggest you check both of these items carefully. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makes clickingsounds
On 12/13/2014 11:17 AM, Danny D. wrote:
Smarty wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 11:09:46 -0500: Generac sells a service kit for each generator including spark plug, oil filter, and air filter. Just buy it and save yourself (and everybody else) a lot of confusion. I didn't know about that, and, certainly Generac support didn't volunteer that information, particularly when I asked about the oil and the plug. Here is Generac's web pages where the maintenance kits I previously referred to are sold. Although the kits are individually priced at around $50, I bought 10 of them for $260 online to avoid the annual hassle. The plugs come pre-gapped, the air and oil filters are exact Generac parts, the kit also contains a funnel and cleaning cloth for oil clean up, and they even throw in a small spark plug wrench. Do yourself a favor if you intend to do the proper annual maintenance yourself and just buy a batch of these kits. It makes the whole process much simpler. http://www.generac.com/all-products/...es/home-backup Hope this helps! Smarty |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Fred McKenzie wrote, on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 15:00:15 -0500:
Searching for 72347GS, it is apparently no longer available. I found two sites that crossed it to part number 491055S. Sears PartsDirect crosses that to RC12YC. Thanks for going the extra mile to help a fellow homeowner! I wasn't able to get to it today due to a personal issue, but, hopefully soon. |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
I replaced the oil and oil filter of the Generac today, and
much to my chagrin, I found out that the engine is a v-twin which means it needs two sparkplugs! https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7475/1...5119c4c1_b.jpg Worse yet, I was totally unable to pull out the spark plug wire. It's either bolted in, or extremely tightly on. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7538/1...4571e38b_c.jpg I was pulling with all my strength on the spark plug boots. It has some spring mechanism, but I was pulling so hard, that I was afraid I was going to break the wires. https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8675/1...72312917_b.jpg As an aside, some animal has chewed on the high-voltage cables. https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7533/1...95eab7a2_b.jpg But, the big deal is that I can't get the spark plug cables off, and I don't want to use super-human force, for obvious reasons. There must be a trick of some sort ... |
Generac 8Kw generator balky start and transfer switch makesclicking sounds
Terry Coombs wrote, on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 11:40:24 -0600:
Get a Wix filter , they're the best in the business - Fram is crap . Interestingly, the filter that was on there was Wix. https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8570/1...a4e2fb07_b.jpg I'm still confused why there are TWO oil filler caps, one of which is seemingly on the head on top of one of the cylinders: https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8681/1...0ab1d788_b.jpg It took me a while to realize there was an oil-drain hose, tucked away *behind* the filter: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7544/1...1057e677_b.jpg The really bad news is that nowhere near 1.5 quarts came out: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7514/1...82feb6ba_c.jpg So, from the start, the generator was very low on oil: https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7514/1...9fb6228e_b.jpg Does anyone know why there are *two* oil filler caps? https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8569/1...105db40a_c.jpg |
All times are GMT +1. The time now is 03:15 AM. |
Powered by vBulletin® Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Copyright ©2004 - 2014 DIYbanter