Exercising the Generator

[Johnsrt]

Is it ok to run the generator while on shore power or do I need to unplug?

[OTRA15]

Originally Posted by Johnsrt

Is it ok to run the generator while on shore power or do I need to unplug?

You might want to post this in the B-Van sub-forum:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f240/

as trailer users might not know the nuances of your Interstate electrical and generator setup.

Good luck!

Peter

[Kevin245]

<<Mod Mode>>

Thread moved.

[UKDUDE]

The short answer is no! To correctly exercise the generator, it needs to run loaded by about 50-75%. So since it's capable of generating 20Amps, you need to be using 10-15Amps while it's running. Connected up to shore power will take precedence over the generator.
So, unplug from shore power, and in the winter run a 1500Watt heater from an inside socket; and in the summer run the air conditioning.


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[Boxster1971]

Originally Posted by Johnsrt

Is it ok to run the generator while on shore power or do I need to unplug?

There is a transfer switch built into your Interstate that switches between 120VAC Line and the Generator. But I think UKDUDE has the priorities backwards. According to the manual for the Parallax ATS301 used in Interstates the Generator has priority. Copy of manual and info flyer attached.

That means the generator can be loaded while plugged into 120VAC power. You can run the generator while plugged in with no ill effects.

[UKDUDE]

Originally Posted by Boxster1971

There is a transfer switch built into your Interstate that switches between 120VAC Line and the Generator. But I think UKDUDE has the priorities backwards. According to the manual for the Parallax ATS301 used in Interstates the Generator has priority. Copy of manual and info flyer attached.

That means the generator can be loaded while plugged into 120VAC power. You can run the generator while plugged in with no ill effects.

Well I stand to be corrected, and to your knowledge, Boxster, but how can you be certain the load as displayed on the Precision Circuits Control panel is coming from the mains or generator? (Other than the change of exhaust note from the generator).


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[73shark]

With shore power connected, generator running, and no load, apply a load such as the aforementioned 1500 watt heater and you'll hear the generator pickup the load.

[amirm]

Originally Posted by UKDUDE

Well I stand to be corrected, and to your knowledge, Boxster, but how can you be certain the load as displayed on the Precision Circuits Control panel is coming from the mains or generator? (Other than the change of exhaust note from the generator).

From what I recall there is a dot that shows up on the display when the generator is supplying power to the EMS.

Alternatively you can just listen to the sound of the generator. Turn on a heavy load and the tone of the generator should change.