Generator - no output

[peasea]

I use an old Honda EC1500E generator for power while fitting out in the boatyard. It failed while using it at the weekend. The engine starts and runs at full speed o.k. but there is no electrical output. Carbon brushes (2) are not sticking, springs and holders o.k. all connections sound no nasty burning smells. Information on further fault finding and source of old Honda spares please.

 

[Cliveshep]

Generators are notoriously expensive to repair, if yours is old you may find it is just too expensive. In worst case, try these people, I've got one of theirs, 2800watt, dirt cheap, long running, reliable.
http://www.wolf.tv/view.asp?id=168&section=Leisure%20&%20Semi-Professional%20Generators

 

[Heckler]

Hmmm, for it to work you need voltage going to the brushes, you need the commutator clean ( my two hondas need regular, yearly, sanding of the comm before they put out) was it putting out when it stopped?
Stu
PS one of mine is a 1500kw side valve honda, think its the same as yours, its in Llangollen, if you fail to fix yours make me an offer!

 

[savageseadog]

Small generators often have capacitor excitation. The capacitors are performance/price sensitive so often fail. You can test the capacitor by connecting to a battery and discharging through a voltmeter.

 

[steve28]

could just need re-exciting

locate brushes and identify (+) brush and (-) brush.

2) using a dc power source (springy top batt. is recommended, I have used a battery charger) connect the negative lead to the (-) brush

3) monentarity (Bump) the positive lead the the (+) brush.

the generator should immediately begin producing AC power.


Obvious precautions



steve