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• Induction-type motors (such as, those that run the
vehicle's furnace fan, refrigerator, air conditioner,
etc.) need about 2-1/2 time more watts of power
for starting than for running (for a few seconds
during motor starting). Be sure to allow for this
when connecting electrical loads to the generator.
First, calculate the watts needed to start electric
motors in the system. To that figure, add the run-
ning wattages of other items that will be operated
by the generator.
• For the first two or three hours of operation, do not
apply electrical loads over 75 percent of the unit's
rating.
2.7
PROTECTION SYSTEMS
The engine has several safety switches that cause
it to automatically shut down, under the following
conditions: low oil pressure, high coolant tempera-
ture, and engine overspeed. See Figure 2.2 for the
location of these devices. If automatic shutdown does
occur, refer to "Troubleshooting Guide".
2.7.1
LOW OIL PRESSURE SWITCH
This switch is normally closed (N.C.) but is held open
by engine oil pressure during engine running. Should
operating oil pressure drop below approximately 10
psi, the switch contacts close, and the engine shuts
down automatically.
2.7.2
HIGH COOLANT TEMPERATURE
SWITCH
This normally-open (N.O.) thermostatic switch has
a sensing tip that is immersed in captive coolant.
Should the coolant temperature exceed approximate-
ly 115° C (240° F), the switch contacts close, and the
engine shuts down automatically.
Figure 2.2 – Engine Protective Devices
10
Section 2 – Operation
Recreational Vehicle Generator
2.7.3
OVERSPEED SHUTDOWN
A DC control circuit board senses engine speed from
the frequency of the alternator AC output. Should the
alternator output frequency exceed approximately 72
Hertz (4,320 alternator rpm), circuit board action
initiates an automatic engine shutdown.
2.7.4
OVERVOLTAGE PROTECTION
A solid-state voltage regulator (Figure 2.3) controls
the generator's AC output voltage. This regulator sup-
plies an excitation current to the rotor. By regulating
the rotor's excitation current, the strength of its mag-
netic field is regulated and, in turn, the voltage deliv-
ered to connected electrical loads is controlled. When
the AC frequency is 60 Hertz, voltage is regulated at
120 volts (voltage-to-frequency ratio is 2-to-1).
Figure 2.3 – Solid-state Voltage Regulator
The voltage regulator also incorporates a "volt-
age surge protection circuit." This circuit prevents
troublesome surges in the generator AC output volt-
age. Voltage surge is a common cause of damage to
electronic equipment.
2.8
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
2.8.1
ATTENTION REQUIRED
AFTER SUBMERSION
If the recreational vehicle generator has been sub-
merged in water, it MUST NOT be started and oper-
ated. Following any submersion in water, have an
Authorized Service Dealer thoroughly clean and dry
the generator.
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