MULTIQUIP GA-Series Service Manual page 7

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2. Carbon flash deposits around the 120V AC and 240V AC receptacles. This will
indicate whether the device that was plugged into the generator shorted out the
receptacle. The device may have shorted the generator to ground and caused a
carbon flash when the plug prongs touched the receptacle.
3. Signs of overheating. Discoloration and a burnt smell should be noticeable inside
the generator. Look to see if the windings turned black. The insulative sprays that
manufacturers use to insulate the windings may vary in color from shades of
reddish brown to light brown to dark brown, so try to compare the color to that of
a new unit.
4. Wire insulation that is heat-hardened. Fabric and plastic insulation hardens over
time due to heat exposure and overheating. Long-term heating should be more
uniform. A short, excessive heat cycle may have less hardening and burning at
the unit's outer perimeters and excessive heat signs toward the center or heat
source.
5. Insects that have developed a community inside the generator. Their nests and
debris can cause electrical shorts. Generators left out in the elements, such as
for running water wells, provide a nice home for critters such as spiders, wasps,
and mice.
6. Loose bolts, screws, and fasteners. This condition will either prevent full-time
service or give intermittent service depending on the situation.
7. Problems in quick disconnect connectors. These are often overlooked. A quick
disconnect could have one to a dozen male-female connections. These are often
inside some plastic or rubber cover that prevents you from seeing any possible
corrosion. In electrical troubleshooting, always unplug and plug in all connectors
three times to produce a freshly scraped metallic surface for good electrical
contact. If the unit works after that, soak the connectors first in vinegar for a few
minutes, then in a baking soda solution. Rinse the unit thoroughly, with distilled
water. This acid/base wash will remove corrosion, but not oil or grease. Blow dry
thoroughly. If you know how to use an ohm meter, check for zero ohms on all
connections. Spray the contacts with an electrical insulative spray before
reassembling them.
Multiquip Inc. ◦ GA Series Generators ◦ Manual No. GAGENSM
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