Log In | Register
Skip to main content
Topic: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine. (Read 409 times) previous topic - next topic
0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.
Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Hi everybody- just bought my first Lazy Daze MH a beautiful 1993 26.5 MB in great condition. . Looking for some insight on what might be the problem. The generator will start manually but not with the switch inside the Motor Home. It sounds like it is about to start but wont. Is there a safety or??. Any help would be great.  Thanks
1993 MB
2006 Honda CRV
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #1 –
Welcome to the LDO Neighborhood and congratulations on your "beautiful 1993" LD.   While I'm not able to help you with the generator problem, no doubt someone will in short order.  If you get some spare time, it would be a treat to see some pics of your Rig.   Best wishes on your LD Adventures.
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #2 –
Thanks for the welcome Ed and Margee-

We are excited to create some family memories. I hopefully attached a picture.



1993 MB
2006 Honda CRV
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #3 –
Welcome!  I am unclear about what is happening.  When you press and hold the switch inside, do you hear the generator cranking over?  is that what you mean by it sounds like it is about to start?  If it is cranking, while it cranks does it kind of cough as if it is almost but not starting?  When you start it manually, I assume you are using the starter switch mounted on the generator.  When you do that, is the cranking speed the same as when you use the inside switch?

Please tell us what you can about what is happening.  The more info you give us, the better are our chances of being able to offer some sound suggestions.

Ken F in OR
'08 MB
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #4 –
Thank you Kenneth-

It sounds just like it is going to start it sounds powerful no cough but wont kick over. When I started it manually- I am using the starter switch mounted to the generator and it starts right up. No issues at all. There doesnt seem to be any difference in the speed  it sounds the same to me.. I'm thinking it is some kind of switch that went bad or ??.  Thanks
1993 MB
2006 Honda CRV
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #5 –
Hi WEBEBAD;  Since this sounds more like a wiring problem, between the generator and the start switch inside, I would suspect a wiring problem outside at the generator (more exposure to moisture) and the connector going to the inside. I did a search and found this comment from about 2005. That should be about the Onan Emerald:
   "...he also repaired the corroded connections in the remote switch wire bundle inside the gen door on the right side and laying on the pan.
..... had the same problem and his advice was very helpful in quickly identifying the problem.  The Yellow to Red wires were disconnected [due to] corrosion.  There is also an orange wire that goes nowhere so disregard it.....
     Hope this might help..RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #6 –
I think Ron is on the right track.  You must have connectivity to the inside switch, else the generator would not crank.  Something electrical is not getting to the generator when using the inside switch.  So, take a look at the connection from the inside switch to the generator.  Look for a relay that may not be making a connection.  Two are needed - one to crank the generator and another to power the ignition circuit.  So, disconnect the batteries, then begin probing those connections, looking for a loose or corroded one.

Ken F in OR
'08 MB
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #7 –
Greetings!
We, too, also had this problem.
Paul would press on the accelerator to give the batteries a little more juice. Then it would turn over. Also, make sure you are adequately priming the genny.
I hope this helps.
Paul and Nancy
2008 TK
She's a redhead, alright. Wilmaaa!
 
Re: Generator wont start from inside the MH but manually starting it works fine.
Reply #8 –
Finally - got the generator to start.

I replaced the batteries and the Generator fired right up from the inside the coach.

No issues with the switch.  Miss diagnosis from the get go.

Thanks for all the replies and help.
1993 MB
2006 Honda CRV