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[GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131481] Wed, 22 June 2011 15:10 Go to next message
Glen And Rose is currently offline  Glen And Rose   United States
Messages: 36
Registered: June 2011
Karma: 0
Member
Hi Folks,

As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from inside the coach, but soon will.

But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs meter. From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also have an Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than likely. Will the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it. I also plan on pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off of the engine coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main question is do you folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to replace the 6KW at some point. Both are gas gen sets.

Glen
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Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131483 is a reply to message #131481] Wed, 22 June 2011 15:24 Go to previous messageGo to next message
tphipps is currently offline  tphipps   United States
Messages: 3005
Registered: August 2004
Location: Spanish Fort, AL
Karma: 9
Senior Member
The physical size of the 6.5 would be your major challenge. The gen compartment is very tight on the GMC. Onan had to do a few modifications to put the 6Kw in the hole. I would take a tape measure to the 6.5 and see if you can do it.
Please report your finding. Gen sets are always of interest.

Tom Phipps,
MS II


2012 Phoenix Cruiser model 2552 KA4CSG
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131484 is a reply to message #131481] Wed, 22 June 2011 15:29 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Carl S. is currently offline  Carl S.   United States
Messages: 4186
Registered: January 2009
Location: Tucson, AZ.
Karma: 13
Senior Member

Glen And Rose wrote on Wed, 22 June 2011 13:10

Hi Folks,

As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from inside the coach, but soon will.

But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs meter. From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also have an Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than likely. Will the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it. I also plan on pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off of the engine coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main question is do you folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to replace the 6KW at some point. Both are gas gen sets.

Glen
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Glen,

The 6.5 might work just fine if you can come up with a convenient way to mount it. However, I wouldn't worry about 1000 hrs on your 6.0. Mine has (probably) over 2,000 hrs on it and many here have put on way more hours than that. My local Onan service guy says they are a "5,000 hour machine". Because of the 1800 rpm and the pressurized oiling system, those engines seem to run forever. You may have to replace some gaskets and seals, and adjust the valves, etc. but the basic unit is likely to be very sound.


Carl Stouffer '75 ex Palm Beach Tucson, AZ. Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm Disc Brakes, Quadrabags, 3.70 LSD final drive, Lenzi knuckles/hubs, Dodge Truck 16" X 8" front wheels, Rear American Eagles, Solar battery charging. GMCSJ and GMCMI member
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131485 is a reply to message #131481] Wed, 22 June 2011 15:29 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Don A is currently offline  Don A   United States
Messages: 895
Registered: October 2008
Location: Dallas, TX
Karma: 0
Senior Member

Glen is that 6.5 a Emerald Plus?
If so Tom has a picture of one stiffed into a 26'. It is wider (fore to aft) than the 6000 so no room for batteries beside it.


Glen And Rose wrote on Wed, 22 June 2011 15:10

Hi Folks,

As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from inside the coach, but soon will.

But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs meter. From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also have an Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than likely. Will the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it. I also plan on pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off of the engine coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main question is do you folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to replace the 6KW at some point. Both are gas gen sets.

Glen
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Don Adams Dallas, TX
'76 26' Glenbrook, '90 Sidekick
rebuilt by R Archer, powered by J Bounds, Koba
[IMG]http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/data/6109/G2.jpg[/IMG]
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131493 is a reply to message #131485] Wed, 22 June 2011 16:36 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Glen And Rose is currently offline  Glen And Rose   United States
Messages: 36
Registered: June 2011
Karma: 0
Member
Don,

It is an Emrald III 6.5kw. I was concerned about the hours on the 6KW as
the maintenance manual suggested that 1,000 hours was about a rebuild point.
But, I am hearing that 1,000 is not that big of an issue. In which case I
may take the 6.5 Onan and wire it into my home system with a throw switch.
California is famous for it's rolling blackouts, that would allow me to keep
the fridge and freezer going and the evaporative cooler and basic lighting
at night perhaps more.

So I guess, I'll not worry about it for now.

Glen

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Don Adams" <dj.adams@att.net>
Sent: Wednesday, June 22, 2011 1:29 PM
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set

>
>
>
> Glen is that 6.5 a Emerald Plus?
> If so Tom has a picture of one stiffed into a 26'. It is wider (fore to
> aft) than the 6000 so no room for batteries beside it.
>
>
> Glen And Rose wrote on Wed, 22 June 2011 15:10
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from
>> inside the coach, but soon will.
>>
>> But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs
>> meter. From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also
>> have an Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than
>> likely. Will the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it.
>> I also plan on pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off
>> of the engine coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main
>> question is do you folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to
>> replace the 6KW at some point. Both are gas gen sets.
>>
>> Glen
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
>
> --
> Don
> 67 Datsun 2000
> 78 Suzuki 400
>
> _______________________________________________
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>
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Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131513 is a reply to message #131481] Wed, 22 June 2011 18:11 Go to previous messageGo to next message
USAussie is currently offline  USAussie   United States
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
Senior Member
Glen,

A while back I met a guy that worked at Onan when they were building the 6KW
generators. He note that they built HEAPS of them. They were used at remote
locations and ran for YEARS constantly un-attended. I wouldn't worry about
the hours. However, I would suggest consider:

1) Get it running.
2) Take the float bowl off the carb and clean it out.
3) Change the fuel supply lines to ethanol compatible.
4) Install a METAL housing fuel filter in the fuel supply line.
5) Remove and disassemble the fuel pump and make sure it's clean.
6) Remove the heads and de-carbonize them (be careful with the head gaskets
they're rare as rockin' horse poo. Spray them with silver paint when you
re-install them.
7) Install the Pertronics ignition system.

Regards,
Rob M.
USAussie - Downunder
AUS '75 Avion - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
USA '75 Avion - Double Trouble TZE365V100426


-----Original Message-----
From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org
[mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Glen And Rose
Sent: Thursday, June 23, 2011 6:10 AM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: [GMCnet] Gen Set

Hi Folks,

As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from
inside the coach, but soon will.

But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs meter.
From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also have an
Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than likely. Will
the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it. I also plan on
pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off of the engine
coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main question is do you
folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to replace the 6KW at some
point. Both are gas gen sets.

Glen
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Regards, Rob M. (USAussie) The Pedantic Mechanic Sydney, Australia '75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428 '75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131518 is a reply to message #131513] Wed, 22 June 2011 18:38 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Glen And Rose is currently offline  Glen And Rose   United States
Messages: 36
Registered: June 2011
Karma: 0
Member
Rob,

Good advice. I'm delayed getting to the generator for a few more days. Our
20 year old Master Cool evaporative cooler announced that it has retired. I
picked up a new one last night and took it apart today so that I could get
it to the upstairs patio deck and then over the railing to the roof.
Tomorrow I'll pull the dead one and build up the new one in place. Then I
can get back to working on other things.

Glen

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Rob Mueller" <robmueller@iinet.net.au>
Sent: Wednesday, June 22, 2011 4:11 PM
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set

> Glen,
>
> A while back I met a guy that worked at Onan when they were building the
> 6KW
> generators. He note that they built HEAPS of them. They were used at
> remote
> locations and ran for YEARS constantly un-attended. I wouldn't worry about
> the hours. However, I would suggest consider:
>
> 1) Get it running.
> 2) Take the float bowl off the carb and clean it out.
> 3) Change the fuel supply lines to ethanol compatible.
> 4) Install a METAL housing fuel filter in the fuel supply line.
> 5) Remove and disassemble the fuel pump and make sure it's clean.
> 6) Remove the heads and de-carbonize them (be careful with the head
> gaskets
> they're rare as rockin' horse poo. Spray them with silver paint when you
> re-install them.
> 7) Install the Pertronics ignition system.
>
> Regards,
> Rob M.
> USAussie - Downunder
> AUS '75 Avion - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
> USA '75 Avion - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org
> [mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Glen And Rose
> Sent: Thursday, June 23, 2011 6:10 AM
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Subject: [GMCnet] Gen Set
>
> Hi Folks,
>
> As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from
> inside the coach, but soon will.
>
> But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs
> meter.
> From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also have an
> Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than likely.
> Will
> the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it. I also plan on
> pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off of the engine
> coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main question is do
> you
> folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to replace the 6KW at
> some
> point. Both are gas gen sets.
>
> Glen
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
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Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131555 is a reply to message #131481] Wed, 22 June 2011 22:00 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Craig Lechowicz is currently offline  Craig Lechowicz   United States
Messages: 541
Registered: October 2006
Location: Waterford, MI
Karma: 0
Senior Member
Rob,
Apparently, we have more rockin' horse poo in the Northern hemisphere than down under! I just got some Onan head gaskets last fall from Jack's Small
Engines. Looks like they still have them. Ignore the not found message, it said that when I ordered mine.

<http://www.jackssmallengines.com/searchresults.cfm?cx=008737122150761418589%3Ac24nnqwh7co&cof=FORID%3A11&q=110-2987>


Craig Lechowicz
'77 Kingsley, Waterford, MI
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131569 is a reply to message #131485] Wed, 22 June 2011 23:49 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Glen And Rose is currently offline  Glen And Rose   United States
Messages: 36
Registered: June 2011
Karma: 0
Member
Don,

It is an Emrald III, I'm not sure about the plus.

More important, I don't have any batteries next to the genset just an open
shelf. My batteries are under the Driver Side twin in the back. Which may
be the source of some of the smell in the coach on the trip home as they are
uncovered and barely fit under the twin. As I think about this, I'm more
concerned about the build up of explosive gases during charging that could
be ignited by the water heater, also under the same twin bed. having the
house batteries on the outside would be a much better arrangement.

While were talking about batteries, I have room for two in the left engine
compartment hatch, but only have one on the tray. Are most of you using
dual batteries in the engine compartment?

Glen
75 Avion 26'

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Don Adams" <dj.adams@att.net>
Sent: Wednesday, June 22, 2011 1:29 PM
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set

>
>
>
> Glen is that 6.5 a Emerald Plus?
> If so Tom has a picture of one stiffed into a 26'. It is wider (fore to
> aft) than the 6000 so no room for batteries beside it.
>
>
> Glen And Rose wrote on Wed, 22 June 2011 15:10
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from
>> inside the coach, but soon will.
>>
>> But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs
>> meter. From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also
>> have an Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than
>> likely. Will the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it.
>> I also plan on pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off
>> of the engine coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main
>> question is do you folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to
>> replace the 6KW at some point. Both are gas gen sets.
>>
>> Glen
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
>
> --
> Don
> 67 Datsun 2000
> 78 Suzuki 400
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
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Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131576 is a reply to message #131569] Thu, 23 June 2011 02:32 Go to previous messageGo to next message
mike miller   United States
Messages: 3576
Registered: February 2004
Location: Hillsboro, Oregon
Karma: 0
Senior Member
Glen And Rose wrote on Wed, 22 June 2011 21:49

It is an Emrald III, I'm not sure about the plus. ...

...
While were talking about batteries, I have room for two in the left engine
compartment hatch, but only have one on the tray. Are most of you using
dual batteries in the engine compartment?


1. The engine used in the power drawer is an INDUSTRIAL engine. They are expected to run... a lot. They really do not like NOT running. They are 1960's (or earlier) tech, not that efficient (compared to todays engines) but 1000 hours isn't anything for these engines.

2. I wouldn't install the Emerald unless the 6k can not be made reliable. What ever generator isn't installed should be set up as a back-up for your house.

Batteries:

On 1973/1974 26 foot (and most newer 23 foot coaches) had both the chassis and house batteries under the curb side front hatch. These early coaches (73/74) had an additional 12 volt battery in the back, dedicated to starting the Onan. (23 foot coaches this battery was accessed from inside the coach.)

With the 1975 model year, GM moved the house battery to the rear and used it to start the Onan. Eliminating the Onan battery that never seemed to stay charged. (It was charged ONLY from the alternator under the Onan flywheel.) The house bank was connected to the boost switch with a pair of circuit breakers and two solenoids.

This doesn't apply to transmodes (like your Avion) But this GM layout meets the needs of MOST GMC'ers (at an acceptable cost) when the single 12v house battery is replaced with two 6 volt golf cart batteries. For the most part I would suggest it be used as a starting point of any house battery bank design. (Long term Boondockers and solar set-ups will need something more. People who NEVER camp without hook-ups could do well with the stock GM set-up.)

Royales came with an odd-ball set-up with a house bank of two 12volt batteries... one in front and one in the back. (Not the best set-up.)

If you have batteries in the living space, they should be sealed batteries. (Note Optima batteries are NOT truly sealed... but should work.)

Other notes:

You can get (or make) a battery tray that will hold two golf cart 6v and a single 12v battery up front under the curb side hatch. Some move the batteries forward for weight distribution. I like the extra storage that you get by putting a "floor" in this area.

Some have:
-- Put the chassis battery on the driver's side.
-- Put batteries behind an all electric refrigerator.

What ever your set up. If you have battery cables running from to rear, check the cable for insulation, chaffing and routing.


Mike Miller -- Hillsboro, OR -- on the Black list
(#2)`78 23' Birchaven Rear Bath -- (#3)`77 23' Birchaven Side Bath
More Sidekicks than GMC's and a late model Malibu called 'Boo' http://m000035.blogspot.com

[Updated on: Thu, 23 June 2011 02:44]

Report message to a moderator

Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131579 is a reply to message #131576] Thu, 23 June 2011 03:47 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Glen And Rose is currently offline  Glen And Rose   United States
Messages: 36
Registered: June 2011
Karma: 0
Member
Mike,

I have the two 6V golf cart batteries in the rear which is also my genset
starter. Moving the batteries forward would be great actually. We live on
a steep hill...our driveway is about 500' long and quite steep. when I
brought it up the first time my traction wheels started to slip. Having
extra weight up front would be good in that regard.

I had asked about the 1,000 hours as I read in the manual that 1,000 was the
TBO for the 6KW genset. But that does not seem to be the case. When I
salvage the Winne, I'll move the 6.5KW to backup the house.

The 6KW runs well, if you want to pull the drawer out and jumper it to get
it started. once I finish the clean up after I pull the flywheel, I'm sure
that it will run fine. After I chase down why it won't start from inside
the coach. I'm pretty sure I know where the culprit is, I just need to
meter the components and R&R the lazy one. I build my own CNC chopper and
controller boards, so I don't see a problem.

I can CNC plasma cut steel up to about 3/8" and bend plate sections to
roughly 1/4". Making an engine compartment tray is not a problem. Moving
the engine battery to the DS might be, that is where the air compressor is
for the bag system is located. If there are photos of the engine
compartment battery mounting I'd like to take a look at how it was done.

Glen

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Mike Miller" <m000035@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, June 23, 2011 12:32 AM
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set

>
>
> Glen And Rose wrote on Wed, 22 June 2011 21:49
>> It is an Emrald III, I'm not sure about the plus. ...
>>
>> ...
>> While were talking about batteries, I have room for two in the left
>> engine
>> compartment hatch, but only have one on the tray. Are most of you using
>> dual batteries in the engine compartment?
>
>
> 1. The engine used in the power drawer is an INDUSTRIAL engine. They are
> expected to run... a lot. They really do not like NOT running. They are
> 1960's (or earlier) tech, not that efficient (compared to todays engines)
> but 1000 hours isn't anything for these engines.
>
> 2. I wouldn't install the Emerald unless the 6k can not be made reliable.
> What ever generator isn't installed should be set up as a back-up for your
> house.
>
> Batteries:
>
> On 1973/1974 26 foot (and most newer 23 foot coaches) had both the chassis
> and house batteries under the curb side front hatch. These early coaches
> (73/74) had an additional 12 volt battery in the back, dedicated to
> starting the Onan. (23 foot coaches this battery was accessed from inside
> the coach.)
>
> With the 1975 model year, GM moved the house battery to the rear and used
> it to start the Onan. Eliminating the Onan battery that never seemed to
> stay charged. (It was charged ONLY from the alternator under the Onan
> flywheel.) The house bank was connected to the boost switch with a pair
> of circuit breakers and two solenoids.
>
> This doesn't apply to trasmodes (like your Avion) But this GM layout meets
> the needs of MOST GMC'ers (at an acceptable cost) when the single 12v
> house battery is replaced with two 6 volt golf cart batteries. For the
> most part I would suggest it be used as a starting point of any house
> battery bank design. (Long term Boondockers and solar set-ups will need
> something more. People who NEVER camp without hook-ups could do well with
> the stock GM set-up.)
>
> Royales came with an odd-ball set-up with a house bank of two 12volt
> batteries... one in front and one in the back. (Not the best set-up.)
>
> If you have batteries in the living space, they should be sealed
> batteries. (Note Optima batteries are NOT truly sealed... but should
> work.)
>
> Other notes:
>
> You can get (or make) a battery tray that will hold two golf cart 6v and a
> single 12v battery up front under the curb side hatch. Some move the
> batteries forward for weight distribution. I like the extra storage that
> you get by putting a "floor" in this area.
>
> Some have:
> -- Put the chassis battery on the driver's side.
> -- Put batteries behind an all electric refrigerator.
>
> What ever your set up. If you have battery cables running from to rear,
> check the cable for insulation, chaffing and routing.
> --
> Mike Miller -- Hillsboro, OR -- on the Black list
> (#1)'73 26' exPainted D. -- (#2)`78 23' Birchaven Rear Bath -- (#3)`77 23'
> Birchaven Side Bath
> http://m000035.blogspot.com
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
_______________________________________________
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Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131581 is a reply to message #131569] Thu, 23 June 2011 05:51 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Ken Henderson is currently offline  Ken Henderson   United States
Messages: 8726
Registered: March 2004
Location: Americus, GA
Karma: 9
Senior Member
Glen,

Ragusa makes a nice aluminum 3 battery tray to fit beneath the
passenger's feet. Not very expensive, but you can make your own. I
made one for my son's 26' from some fiberglass covered 3/4" plywood I
had on hand. Here's a set of 6 each 8.5" x 11" templates you can tape
together. A cardboard pattern made from those taped together will
enable you to trim to suit yourself & coach.

http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=4280

That's not the most convenient location in the world for checking
battery water, but probably a lot better than on the driver's side.

I wouldn't sleep before I got those batteries out of the living area.
I can't imagine living with the noxious fumes, nor with the corrosion
of the area they're in. Having had a just-charged battery explode in
front of my face, I'm well aware of how dangerous the gaseous
discharge is.

Ken H.
Americus, GA
'76 X-Birchaven w/Cad500/Howell EFI+ & EBL
www.gmcwipersetc.com



On Thu, Jun 23, 2011 at 12:49 AM, Glen And Rose wrote:

> While were talking about batteries, I have room for two in the left engine
> compartment hatch, but only have one on the tray.  Are most of you using
> dual batteries in the engine compartment?
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Ken Henderson
Americus, GA
www.gmcwipersetc.com
Large Wiring Diagrams
76 X-Birchaven
76 X-Palm Beach
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131602 is a reply to message #131481] Thu, 23 June 2011 07:18 Go to previous messageGo to next message
jhbridges is currently offline  jhbridges   United States
Messages: 8412
Registered: May 2011
Location: Braselton ga
Karma: -74
Senior Member
We used to run them 6 - 8 hours at a time every weekend for years without problems.  Change the oil and filters every hundred hours or so, plugs and [points now and again, this in broadcast remote service.  The 1800 RPM gensets don't break much.  I don't care for the newer 2400 boxes at all, and the 3600 in our service are a joke.
 
--johnny


--- On Wed, 6/22/11, Glen And Rose <longez102@earthlink.net> wrote:


From: Glen And Rose <longez102@earthlink.net>
Subject: [GMCnet] Gen Set
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2011, 8:10 PM


Hi Folks,

As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life.  Would not start from inside the coach, but soon will.

But a different question.  My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs meter.  From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life.  I also have an Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than likely.  Will the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it.  I also plan on pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off of the engine coolant and a few other nice to keep things.  But my main question is do you folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to replace the 6KW at some point.  Both are gas gen sets.

Glen
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Foolish Carriage, 76 26' Eleganza(?) with beaucoup mods and add - ons. Braselton, Ga. I forgive them all, save those who hurt the dogs. They must answer to me in hell
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131618 is a reply to message #131581] Thu, 23 June 2011 08:07 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Dennis S is currently offline  Dennis S   United States
Messages: 3046
Registered: November 2005
Karma: 2
Senior Member
Glen,

Another photo album, this one is Kelvin's, showing a battery tray install in the front..

http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=3063

Ken Henderson wrote on Thu, 23 June 2011 05:51

Glen,

Ragusa makes a nice aluminum 3 battery tray to fit beneath the
passenger's feet. Not very expensive, but you can make your own. I
made one for my son's 26' from some fiberglass covered 3/4" plywood I
had on hand. Here's a set of 6 each 8.5" x 11" templates you can tape
together. A cardboard pattern made from those taped together will
enable you to trim to suit yourself & coach.

http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=4280

That's not the most convenient location in the world for checking
battery water, but probably a lot better than on the driver's side.

I wouldn't sleep before I got those batteries out of the living area.
I can't imagine living with the noxious fumes, nor with the corrosion
of the area they're in. Having had a just-charged battery explode in
front of my face, I'm well aware of how dangerous the gaseous
discharge is.

Ken H.
Americus, GA

On Thu, Jun 23, 2011 at 12:49 AM, Glen And Rose wrote:

> While were talking about batteries, I have room for two in the left engine
> compartment hatch, but only have one on the tray.  Are most of you using
> dual batteries in the engine compartment?
_______________________________________________





Dennis S
73 Painted Desert 230
Memphis TN Metro
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131629 is a reply to message #131602] Thu, 23 June 2011 08:39 Go to previous messageGo to next message
James Hupy is currently offline  James Hupy   United States
Messages: 6806
Registered: May 2010
Karma: -62
Senior Member
Before the days of Solar equipment and low demand electronics, Pacific
Northwest Bell used Onan Plants specifically designed for the task at remote
mountaintop sites accessable only by helicopter or snow cats. They would
sling lift big propane tanks with the choppers, and change them out on site.
The Onans job was to keep large battery banks charged. They automatically
started themselves and ran until the batteries were charged, and then shut
themselves down. They had remote surplus oil minders and level tenders that
would add oil when required. Some of those plants were in those remote
locations for over 20 years, and only routine maintence. A friend of mine
used to maintain them and he remarked that some of those plants had over
10,000 hours of run time and were still great. Propane is a cleaner burning
fuel, so the carbon buildup in the combustion chambers is minimal. They are
all gone now as the solar banks and low electrical demand plus the use of
communication sattelites have replaced them. Don't throw away your onan, it
will probably outlast you.<Grin>
Jim Hupy
Salem, OR
78 GMC Royale 403

On Thu, Jun 23, 2011 at 5:18 AM, Johnny Bridges <jhbridges@ymail.com> wrote:

> We used to run them 6 - 8 hours at a time every weekend for years without
> problems. Change the oil and filters every hundred hours or so, plugs and
> [points now and again, this in broadcast remote service. The 1800 RPM
> gensets don't break much. I don't care for the newer 2400 boxes at all, and
> the 3600 in our service are a joke.
>
> --johnny
>
>
> --- On Wed, 6/22/11, Glen And Rose <longez102@earthlink.net> wrote:
>
>
> From: Glen And Rose <longez102@earthlink.net>
> Subject: [GMCnet] Gen Set
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2011, 8:10 PM
>
>
> Hi Folks,
>
> As many know I'm bringing my Onan 6KW back to life. Would not start from
> inside the coach, but soon will.
>
> But a different question. My 6KW has nearly 1,000 hours on the hobbs
> meter. From the manual that's about the end of it's useful life. I also
> have an Onan 6.5KW in my 86 Winnie which is going to salvage more than
> likely. Will the 6.5KW work as a replacement for the 6KW if I save it. I
> also plan on pulling the 3 way frige, heater, aux heater that works off of
> the engine coolant and a few other nice to keep things. But my main
> question is do you folks think the 6.5 with only 180 hours will work to
> replace the 6KW at some point. Both are gas gen sets.
>
> Glen
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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>
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Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131634 is a reply to message #131555] Thu, 23 June 2011 08:59 Go to previous messageGo to next message
USAussie is currently offline  USAussie   United States
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
Senior Member
Craig,

Thanks! I do remember someone saying that they couldn't find the gaskets and
what could he do to re-use the copper gaskets and someone mentioned to spray
them with silver paint.

Regards,
Rob M.
USAussie - Downunder
AUS '75 Avion - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
USA '75 Avion - Double Trouble TZE365V100426


-----Original Message-----
From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org
[mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Craig Lechowicz
Sent: Thursday, June 23, 2011 1:01 PM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set

Rob,
Apparently, we have more rockin' horse poo in the Northern hemisphere than
down under! I just got some Onan head gaskets last fall from Jack's Small
Engines. Looks like they still have them. Ignore the not found message, it
said that when I ordered mine.

<http://www.jackssmallengines.com/searchresults.cfm?cx=008737122150761418589
%3Ac24nnqwh7co&cof=FORID%3A11&q=110-2987>
--
Craig Lechowicz
'77 Kingsley, Waterford, MI


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Regards, Rob M. (USAussie) The Pedantic Mechanic Sydney, Australia '75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428 '75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131636 is a reply to message #131579] Thu, 23 June 2011 09:07 Go to previous messageGo to next message
USAussie is currently offline  USAussie   United States
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
Senior Member
Glen,

In both my Avions there are two 6 volt batteries in a galvanized box under
the passenger side bed behind the galvanized Onan compartment. I assume
yours is the same or were they moved?

http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showphoto.php?photo=31263

There is one 12 volt house battery up front under the front hood on the
passenger side. The 12 volt start battery is also there.

Regards,
Rob M.
USAussie - Downunder
AUS '75 Avion - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
USA '75 Avion - Double Trouble TZE365V100426


-----Original Message-----
From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org
[mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Glen And Rose
Sent: Thursday, June 23, 2011 6:48 PM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set

Mike,

I have the two 6V golf cart batteries in the rear which is also my genset
starter. Moving the batteries forward would be great actually. We live on
a steep hill...our driveway is about 500' long and quite steep. when I
brought it up the first time my traction wheels started to slip. Having
extra weight up front would be good in that regard.

I had asked about the 1,000 hours as I read in the manual that 1,000 was the

TBO for the 6KW genset. But that does not seem to be the case. When I
salvage the Winne, I'll move the 6.5KW to backup the house.

The 6KW runs well, if you want to pull the drawer out and jumper it to get
it started. once I finish the clean up after I pull the flywheel, I'm sure
that it will run fine. After I chase down why it won't start from inside
the coach. I'm pretty sure I know where the culprit is, I just need to
meter the components and R&R the lazy one. I build my own CNC chopper and
controller boards, so I don't see a problem.

I can CNC plasma cut steel up to about 3/8" and bend plate sections to
roughly 1/4". Making an engine compartment tray is not a problem. Moving
the engine battery to the DS might be, that is where the air compressor is
for the bag system is located. If there are photos of the engine
compartment battery mounting I'd like to take a look at how it was done.

Glen

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Regards, Rob M. (USAussie) The Pedantic Mechanic Sydney, Australia '75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428 '75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131658 is a reply to message #131579] Thu, 23 June 2011 11:09 Go to previous messageGo to next message
mike miller   United States
Messages: 3576
Registered: February 2004
Location: Hillsboro, Oregon
Karma: 0
Senior Member
Glen And Rose wrote on Thu, 23 June 2011 01:47

... I can CNC plasma cut steel up to about 3/8" and bend plate sections to
roughly 1/4". Making an engine compartment tray is not a problem. Moving
the engine battery to the DS might be, that is where the air compressor is
for the bag system is located. If there are photos of the engine
compartment battery mounting I'd like to take a look at how it was done. ...


I do not doubt that you could make all the battery trays you need. I made a "temporary" 3 battery tray out of 1/2 inch plywood for my 1973. It has been 6 years with no issues. (Granted the coach hasn't been used much for the last 2 years.) I made a cardboard template from 4 pieces of cardboard... one in each corner overlapping to make a complete pattern. I am sure you have a better method... Very Happy

Here are some links to look at... Not bad prices for us without metal shops:

Front curb side battery tray:
<http://www.appliedgmc.com/prod.itml/icOid/460>
Notice how it follows the shape of the body. even if you do not put three batteries on this tray, you'll like the space for oil bottles and the like.

For the driver's side:
<http://www.ragusarv.com/> Then look at:
Interior Items --> Drivers Side Double Battery Tray

My '77 Birchaven (23 foot) has an angle iron battery tray welded to the frame on the driver's side. I am not sure if it was ever used as there isn't any wiring.

For info: during the first part of model year '76, they changed the air system and moved the air pump to inside the coach. Freeing up the area on the driver's side.


Mike Miller -- Hillsboro, OR -- on the Black list
(#2)`78 23' Birchaven Rear Bath -- (#3)`77 23' Birchaven Side Bath
More Sidekicks than GMC's and a late model Malibu called 'Boo' http://m000035.blogspot.com
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131661 is a reply to message #131581] Thu, 23 June 2011 11:16 Go to previous messageGo to next message
idrob is currently offline  idrob   United States
Messages: 645
Registered: January 2005
Location: Central Idaho
Karma: 0
Senior Member
Ken Henderson wrote on Thu, 23 June 2011 03:51



That's not the most convenient location in the world for checking
battery water, but probably a lot better than on the driver's side.


Ken H.
Americus, GA




If anyone has not seen these battery fill systems, they are great. I had one on my GMC, and have one in my Travel Trailer, where the batteries are very hard to access.

http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=4180

Makes filling the batteries an easy job, and essentially eliminates the need to access them for other than corrosion issues around the terminals.


Rob Allen
former owner of '76 x-PB
Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set [message #131707 is a reply to message #131581] Thu, 23 June 2011 14:15 Go to previous messageGo to previous message
Glen And Rose is currently offline  Glen And Rose   United States
Messages: 36
Registered: June 2011
Karma: 0
Member
Ken,

You are a most insightful guy, thank you. When I drove the MH home I had a
terrible smell inside the coach. I thought it was exhaust fumes finding
their way into the coach. So I opened every window and turned on the three
vent fans which did the trick for the ride home, 550 miles in one day. But
the more I think about it, I think it is fumes from the batteries charging
instead. I'll still check for exhaust and engine fumes as well.

Glen
--------------------------------------------------
From: "Ken Henderson" <hend4800@bellsouth.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 23, 2011 3:51 AM
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Gen Set

> Glen,
>
> Ragusa makes a nice aluminum 3 battery tray to fit beneath the
> passenger's feet. Not very expensive, but you can make your own. I
> made one for my son's 26' from some fiberglass covered 3/4" plywood I
> had on hand. Here's a set of 6 each 8.5" x 11" templates you can tape
> together. A cardboard pattern made from those taped together will
> enable you to trim to suit yourself & coach.
>
> http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=4280
>
> That's not the most convenient location in the world for checking
> battery water, but probably a lot better than on the driver's side.
>
> I wouldn't sleep before I got those batteries out of the living area.
> I can't imagine living with the noxious fumes, nor with the corrosion
> of the area they're in. Having had a just-charged battery explode in
> front of my face, I'm well aware of how dangerous the gaseous
> discharge is.
>
> Ken H.
> Americus, GA
> '76 X-Birchaven w/Cad500/Howell EFI+ & EBL
> www.gmcwipersetc.com
>
>
>
> On Thu, Jun 23, 2011 at 12:49 AM, Glen And Rose wrote:
>
>> While were talking about batteries, I have room for two in the left
>> engine
>> compartment hatch, but only have one on the tray. Are most of you using
>> dual batteries in the engine compartment?
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
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