Generator dies

[driftpro]

I recently bought a used RV and have been using the generator off and on for a few weeks. The other night, the lights inside the coach began to dim and then the generator stopped running unexpectedly. It would not start again, of course. After some shut eye, I decided to connect a battery jump power pack and the generator started right up. I disconnected the jumper and in 10-15 minutes, the generator died. I re-jumped another time and it died another time.

What's going on, in basic terms?

Clearly, the batteries are drained but why would the cause the generator to quit after 10-15 minutes?

I had expected the generator would just keep on running, even if there was a battery problem. Car engines keep running, for example. So, I am keen to learn why the generator behaves differently.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

Fuel pump? Converter not powering 12 system?

 

[B52Bombardier1]

Needs a valve adjustment? Low engine oil precautionary shutoff? Vented fuel cap clogged thus trapping a vacuum in the tank - thus, no fuel drains?

Rick

 

[TheLooks]

Or a bad fuel pump or plugged fuel filter.

 

[Joe Hogan]

Sounds like an annual service kit would address most suggestions

 

[Kevin D Pem]

Or a bad fuel pump or plugged fuel filter.

So the fuel pump is electric on most built in generator. If the charging system has failed, then the generator may not run. Pumping up the battery enough to crank over would power the pump but that charge would only last for a short while. My guess could be tested using a portable charger.

 

[driftpro]

So the fuel pump is electric on most built in generator. If the charging system has failed, then the generator may not run. Pumping up the battery enough to crank over would power the pump but that charge would only last for a short while. My guess could be tested using a portable charger.

Every time I connect the power bank, I can start up the generator no problem. Starts like a champ. But then I disconnect the power bank, and the generator stops after 10-15 minutes. Every time.

 

[TheLooks]

There is also an overheating issue with some generators also. Not sure which models are affected. Have not come across one like that yet. There is some sort of kit to install to prevent it.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

Every time I connect the power bank, I can start up the generator no problem. Starts like a champ. But then I disconnect the power bank, and the generator stops after 10-15 minutes. Every time.

Yup! Try the charger like I said!

 

[driftpro]

Yup! Try the charger like I said!

Pardon my ignorance. I think maybe I don't understand the difference.

I thought that the portable power source was the charger. I'm starting to think perhaps it's not the same thing. Do you mean some completely other external device, such as something the connects 110 house plug to spend several hours charging the battery? I just figured those were essentially two versions of the same thing, but if there's a functional difference then it's my ignorance about such a distinction.

Thanks again for any clarification.