Generator Produces LOW Voltage When Load Applied

GENERATOR PRODUCES LOW VOLTAGE WHEN LOAD APPLIED

CAUSE	CHECK AND REMEDY
Excessive load	Reduce load. The load on each leg should be evenly balanced, and rated current should
	not be exceeded on any leg.
Large motor starting or low load	Motor starting currents are too large for the generator. When starting multiple motors,
power factor	sequence the motors and start the largest motors first. Reduce lagging power factor load.
Driver speed droop or belt slip	Check driver. If belt driven, check belt tension. Check under frequency setting on
	regulator. Under frequency voltage roll-off may be activated.
Reactive droop	If the generator is equipped for parallel operation, some droop is normal as reactive load
	increases. When operating as a single unit, the parallel CT can be shorted to eliminate this
	effect. Refer to Regulator manual.
Line drop	If voltage is proper at generator terminals but low at load terminals, increase external wire
	size.
Defective diodes, suppressor, or	Test the generator using the 12 volt battery test as specified in the testing section. If the
windings	results indicate generator problems, perform insulation, continuity, and diode tests as
	specified in the testing section.

GENERATOR PRODUCES FLUCTUATING VOLTAGE

CAUSE

Fluctuating engine speed Regulator stability Regulator external rheostat Defective rectifier assembly Loose terminal or load connections Defective regulator

CHECK AND REMEDY

Check engine and governor systems for malfunctions. Check load for fluctuation.

Adjust Regulator stability. Refer to Regulator manual.

Replace defective or worn rheostat. Use shielded cable to minimize electrical noise.

Check assembly for loose connections. Test the diodes as specified in the test section.

Improve connections both mechanically and electrically.

Replace regulator.

GENERATOR PRODUCES HIGH VOLTAGE

CAUSE	CHECK AND REMEDY
Faulty metering	Check voltage with separate meter at generator terminals.
Incorrect connections	Verify generator connections. Refer to drawings supplied with the generator or connection
	diagrams in this manual.
Regulator adjustments	Adjust regulator. Consult regulator manual.
Leading power factor	Check the power factor of the load. If power factor is leading, change load configuration.
	Excessive leading power factor (capacitors) can cause voltage to climb out of control.
Incorrect regulator connection	Verify regulator voltage sensing is connected correctly. Consult regulator manual.
Defective regulator	Replace regulator.