So who's rebuilt their genny?
My original (1987) 345 Onan Emerald 1 GenSet Gas Generator
is this Model 6.5 NHE 1R/26100A 6500W
I disconnected my generator last year, unbolted then lowered the steel tray using a jack, then left it with a small engine repair shop to go over the mechanical/engine side. For the electrical side, I've called several generator repair places around me but none will service an RV generator, even brought in to them, so it looks like I'm going to need to do it myself if it's going to be done right.
The hour meter stopped functioning at 65 hours but I know it had actually seen a fair bit of use which as I understand for generators is a good thing. Still, it was hard to start, keep running, or run smoothly. After a decent tuneup, carb cleaning and with good fresh gas, other than some thrashing around on the old mounts during startup, it does start well and runs nicely and consistently - so the mechanical side seems good.
Over the next few weeks my plans are to refinish the cosmetic, open up and go over the electrical side (which was untouched) checking on the condition of slip rings, commutator, etc plus ensure all the wiring is in top condition and connections are clean and sound. I have straps suspending it from an engine hoist so I can remove it's own base, paint and refinish everything and install new isolator mounts that will hopefully reduce the thrashing.
Mounting it back up into a fresh new dynamatted bay (lined 1x from inside the rig and 2x more inside the bay) fed from a fresh new fuel hose and filter, I'll also replace the full exhaust with a custom new and hopefully quieter resonator. We expect to do lots of no-service dry camping so will depend on the generator to be reliable and enjoyable in use.
Inside the bus I bought a new digital display for it showing output voltage, current (amps) and watts plus an overload alarm.
I know very little about electrical or generators so delving into the slip rings and testing parameters will be all new to me. My starting goal is really ensure all that is there looks good, and to use good instruments and resources to ensure the output is the best it can be.
I'd greatly appreciate any tips and experience from those of you who have tackled a rebuild of their generator.
Linear Mode
