Home » Public Forums » GMCnet » [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
| [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68594] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 07:17  |
gmc gmc
Messages: 69
Registered: May 2009
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Hello all, Mike and Steph here in Blytheville, Arkansas. All ok so far, last
night went into Walmart to buy elec space heater and electric blanket, great
ideas thanks guys. Then was to drive a hour more, and upon departing Walmart
GEN light came on, lights dim, etc... then I looked to exit freeway, after
mile or 2 GEN light went off, and lights brighter, then cam eon again. I
exited and parked at Best Western, and plugged in for free!
Anyways in am now. I looked at alternator belt it on, alternator turns
etc... Motor started but GEN light on. What am I to do???? can we drive to
Houston yet??? my cell is 608-242-7700 we wait here to hear I guess what to
do!
thanks so much, appreciate it.
Mike and Stephanie. saying prayers! :)
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68595 is a reply to message #68594] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 07:21  |
gmc gmc
Messages: 69
Registered: May 2009
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I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I could
drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive today.
thanks
Mike
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:17 AM, gmc gmc <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
> Hello all, Mike and Steph here in Blytheville, Arkansas. All ok so far,
> last night went into Walmart to buy elec space heater and electric blanket,
> great ideas thanks guys. Then was to drive a hour more, and upon departing
> Walmart GEN light came on, lights dim, etc... then I looked to exit
> freeway, after mile or 2 GEN light went off, and lights brighter, then cam
> eon again. I exited and parked at Best Western, and plugged in for free!
>
> Anyways in am now. I looked at alternator belt it on, alternator turns
> etc... Motor started but GEN light on. What am I to do???? can we drive to
> Houston yet??? my cell is 608-242-7700 we wait here to hear I guess what to
> do!
>
> thanks so much, appreciate it.
>
> Mike and Stephanie. saying prayers! :)
>
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68596 is a reply to message #68595] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 07:33 |
GMCWiperMan
Messages: 1248
Registered: December 2007
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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Mike,
It sounds very much as if your generator has/is failing. It would be best
to find and correct the problem now before any damage is compounded. A
voltmeter is almost mandatory to do that.
If you can't correct it now, you'll need to depend on the generator to keep
the engine battery charged. If you have a combiner that will be taken care
of automatically when the generator starts producing; with an isolator
you'll have to do it manually. If your battery selector switch is the
locking type, you can use it. Otherwise you'll have to either install a
jumper wire between the batteries or move an isolator wire.
If I HAD to continue without solving the problem, I'd get ready for battery
isolator bypassing but not implement it. I'd then drive on the engine
battery until the engine began to miss, indicating low battery voltage.
Then I'd crank the generator and bypass the isolator until the batteries
were fully charged again, then return to using the engine battery only. You
shouldn't need to run the generator more than a couple of hours during your
8 hour ride.
JMHO,
Ken H.
Americus, GA
'76 X-Birchaven
www.gmcwipersetc.com
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:21 AM, gmc gmc <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
> I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I could
> drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
>
> just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive today.
>
> thanks
>
> Mike
> ...
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68597 is a reply to message #68595] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 07:38 |
MikeT
Messages: 225
Registered: November 2009
Location: Marine City, Michigan
Karma: 0
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If you are not a member of the GMC Coop join. It is $40.00 per year and Jim Bounds will answer all your questions while at home or on the road. His number is 321-299-5707. Call him now and ask his advice.
Good luck.
Mike Thomas
Marine City, MI
77 ex Palm Beach
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68599 is a reply to message #68596] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 07:48 |
 |
USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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Ken,
What if:
1) Mike sends Stephanie outside to watch the headlights.
2) He starts the engine and turns them on.
3) He revs the engine.
4) If the headlights brighten when the engine is revved that would show the
alternator is working would it not?
I don't know what year coach he has but IIRC the A/C fan only works in the
HIGH position if the alternator is putting out voltage does it not?
Regards,
Rob Mueller
Sydney, Australia
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 Ken Henderson
Sent: Tuesday, 29 December 2009 12:34 AM
To: gmclist
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
Mike,
It sounds very much as if your generator has/is failing. It would be best
to find and correct the problem now before any damage is compounded. A
voltmeter is almost mandatory to do that.
If you can't correct it now, you'll need to depend on the generator to keep
the engine battery charged. If you have a combiner that will be taken care
of automatically when the generator starts producing; with an isolator
you'll have to do it manually. If your battery selector switch is the
locking type, you can use it. Otherwise you'll have to either install a
jumper wire between the batteries or move an isolator wire.
If I HAD to continue without solving the problem, I'd get ready for battery
isolator bypassing but not implement it. I'd then drive on the engine
battery until the engine began to miss, indicating low battery voltage.
Then I'd crank the generator and bypass the isolator until the batteries
were fully charged again, then return to using the engine battery only. You
shouldn't need to run the generator more than a couple of hours during your
8 hour ride.
JMHO,
Ken H.
Americus, GA
'76 X-Birchaven
www.gmcwipersetc.com
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:21 AM, gmc gmc <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
> I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I could
> drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
>
> just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive today.
>
> thanks
>
> Mike
> ...
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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
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68600 is a reply to message #68594] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 07:53 |
chip
Messages: 37
Registered: November 2009
Karma: -2
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Member |
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Rob:
I think you are right - would be a good test. I also like Ken's
idea regarding jumping over the isolator.
On one of our trips the power steering pump locked up - was boiling
the fluid over. Had to cut the two belts
on that side - lost the power steering and the alternator. Jumped
over the isolator and ran the generator.
Maintained 12 volts even with the headlights on until we could get
to the house. Would be even easier to do
driving during the day ...
Chip
BODY { font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px; }
Chip Chebuhar
1977 Clasco aka "Mater"
. ___________
. /_][__] [ ] [ ]|
. *O-------OO-----*
On Mon 28/12/09 5:48 AM , "Rob Mueller" robmueller@iinet.net.au
sent:
Ken,
What if:
1) Mike sends Stephanie outside to watch the headlights.
2) He starts the engine and turns them on.
3) He revs the engine.
4) If the headlights brighten when the engine is revved that would
show the
alternator is working would it not?
I don't know what year coach he has but IIRC the A/C fan only works
in the
HIGH position if the alternator is putting out voltage does it not?
Regards,
Rob Mueller
Sydney, Australia
AUS '75 Avion-The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
USA '75 Avion-Double Trouble TZE365V100426
-----Original Message-----
From:
[] On Behalf Of Ken Henderson
Sent: Tuesday, 29 December 2009 12:34 AM
To: gmclist
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
Mike,
It sounds very much as if your generator has/is failing. It would be
best
to find and correct the problem now before any damage is compounded.
A
voltmeter is almost mandatory to do that.
If you can't correct it now, you'll need to depend on the generator
to keep
the engine battery charged. If you have a combiner that will be
taken care
of automatically when the generator starts producing; with an
isolator
you'll have to do it manually. If your battery selector switch is
the
locking type, you can use it. Otherwise you'll have to either
install a
jumper wire between the batteries or move an isolator wire.
If I HAD to continue without solving the problem, I'd get ready for
battery
isolator bypassing but not implement it. I'd then drive on the
engine
battery until the engine began to miss, indicating low battery
voltage.
Then I'd crank the generator and bypass the isolator until the
batteries
were fully charged again, then return to using the engine battery
only. You
shouldn't need to run the generator more than a couple of hours
during your
8 hour ride.
JMHO,
Ken H.
Americus, GA
'76 X-Birchaven
www.gmcwipersetc.com [3]
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:21 AM, gmc gmc wrote:
> I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I
could
> drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
>
> just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive
today.
>
> thanks
>
> Mike
> ...
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68605 is a reply to message #68601] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 08:54 |
GMCWiperMan
Messages: 1248
Registered: December 2007
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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Bruce,
You're probably right about the intermittent failure of the isolator. I've
carefully un-potted several failed isolators. In every case, one of the
diodes was no longer welded to the heat sink to which they're both attached.
My opinion is that the thermal expansion and contraction of the potting
material eventually fractures the weld causing the open circuit. As you
know, the normal mode of failure for a silicon diode is to short (because of
overheating destroying the semiconductor characteristics); I personally have
never seen a shorted GMC isolator.
After an early production date, the alternators supposedly have an 18 VDC
output limit; yours obviously didn't work if you got 40 VDC. The GEN light
came on because it operates on the difference between the alternator output
voltage and the battery voltage -- the open isolator prevented the two from
being the same.
You must have corrected the problem quickly to have avoided collateral
damage from that high voltage.
This is an instance in which Gene's APC would not have prevented all damage,
but could have helped by preventing the 40 VDC from overheating the Nichrome
initial excitation wire.
Ken H.
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 9:00 AM, Bruce Hislop <bruce@perthcomm.com> wrote:
>
>
> When my battery isolator failed it had similar symptoms, gen light on and
> headlights dimming, then gen light out and headlights cam back bright. I
> believe the diode connections within the isolator became intermittent before
> failing altogether.
>
> You could try bypassing the isolator on the engine battery side to see if
> that fixed your problem.
>
> I never spent the time to troubleshoot the alternator circuit to understand
> why the Gen light came ON in this case as the alternator was outputting 40V
> at the isolator.
>
> I'm guessing most of the isolators today are made in China. If you saw the
> solder joints on some stuff you'd understand why it would fail.
> --
>
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68611 is a reply to message #68599] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 09:21 |
gmc gmc
Messages: 69
Registered: May 2009
Karma: 0
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Member |
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We got it. Was bad isolator switch. Took off wire to back the battery
shop guy did and all good now. Battery chargin. I tightened alt belt
also. I missed bolt on front side. HRd to see one.
More later
Mike
Sent from my iPhone
On Dec 28, 2009, at 7:48 AM, "Rob Mueller" <robmueller@iinet.net.au>
wrote:
> Ken,
>
> What if:
>
> 1) Mike sends Stephanie outside to watch the headlights.
> 2) He starts the engine and turns them on.
> 3) He revs the engine.
> 4) If the headlights brighten when the engine is revved that would
> show the
> alternator is working would it not?
>
> I don't know what year coach he has but IIRC the A/C fan only works
> in the
> HIGH position if the alternator is putting out voltage does it not?
>
> Regards,
> Rob Mueller
> Sydney, Australia
> 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 Ken Henderson
> Sent: Tuesday, 29 December 2009 12:34 AM
> To: gmclist
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
>
> Mike,
>
> It sounds very much as if your generator has/is failing. It would
> be best
> to find and correct the problem now before any damage is
> compounded. A
> voltmeter is almost mandatory to do that.
>
> If you can't correct it now, you'll need to depend on the generator
> to keep
> the engine battery charged. If you have a combiner that will be
> taken care
> of automatically when the generator starts producing; with an isolator
> you'll have to do it manually. If your battery selector switch is the
> locking type, you can use it. Otherwise you'll have to either
> install a
> jumper wire between the batteries or move an isolator wire.
>
> If I HAD to continue without solving the problem, I'd get ready for
> battery
> isolator bypassing but not implement it. I'd then drive on the engine
> battery until the engine began to miss, indicating low battery
> voltage.
> Then I'd crank the generator and bypass the isolator until the
> batteries
> were fully charged again, then return to using the engine battery
> only. You
> shouldn't need to run the generator more than a couple of hours
> during your
> 8 hour ride.
>
> JMHO,
>
> Ken H.
> Americus, GA
> '76 X-Birchaven
> www.gmcwipersetc.com
>
>
> On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:21 AM, gmc gmc <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
>
>> I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I
>> could
>> drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
>>
>> just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive today.
>>
>> thanks
>>
>> Mike
>> ...
> _______________________________________________
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68620 is a reply to message #68611] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 10:14 |
Dennis S
Messages: 3046
Registered: November 2005
Karma: 2
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Senior Member |
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Sent from my iPhone
On Dec 28, 2009, at 9:21 AM, GMC <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
> We got it. Was bad isolator switch. Took off wire to back the battery
> shop guy did and all good now. Battery chargin. I tightened alt belt
> also. I missed bolt on front side. HRd to see one.
>
> More later
>
> Mike
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Dec 28, 2009, at 7:48 AM, "Rob Mueller" <robmueller@iinet.net.au>
> wrote:
>
>> Ken,
>>
>> What if:
>>
>> 1) Mike sends Stephanie outside to watch the headlights.
>> 2) He starts the engine and turns them on.
>> 3) He revs the engine.
>> 4) If the headlights brighten when the engine is revved that would
>> show the
>> alternator is working would it not?
>>
>> I don't know what year coach he has but IIRC the A/C fan only works
>> in the
>> HIGH position if the alternator is putting out voltage does it not?
>>
>> Regards,
>> Rob Mueller
>> Sydney, Australia
>> 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 Ken Henderson
>> Sent: Tuesday, 29 December 2009 12:34 AM
>> To: gmclist
>> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
>>
>> Mike,
>>
>> It sounds very much as if your generator has/is failing. It would
>> be best
>> to find and correct the problem now before any damage is
>> compounded. A
>> voltmeter is almost mandatory to do that.
>>
>> If you can't correct it now, you'll need to depend on the generator
>> to keep
>> the engine battery charged. If you have a combiner that will be
>> taken care
>> of automatically when the generator starts producing; with an
>> isolator
>> you'll have to do it manually. If your battery selector switch is
>> the
>> locking type, you can use it. Otherwise you'll have to either
>> install a
>> jumper wire between the batteries or move an isolator wire.
>>
>> If I HAD to continue without solving the problem, I'd get ready for
>> battery
>> isolator bypassing but not implement it. I'd then drive on the
>> engine
>> battery until the engine began to miss, indicating low battery
>> voltage.
>> Then I'd crank the generator and bypass the isolator until the
>> batteries
>> were fully charged again, then return to using the engine battery
>> only. You
>> shouldn't need to run the generator more than a couple of hours
>> during your
>> 8 hour ride.
>>
>> JMHO,
>>
>> Ken H.
>> Americus, GA
>> '76 X-Birchaven
>> www.gmcwipersetc.com
>>
>>
>> On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:21 AM, gmc gmc <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
>>
>>> I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I
>>> could
>>> drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
>>>
>>> just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive today.
>>>
>>> thanks
>>>
>>> Mike
>>> ...
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> List Information and Subscription Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> List Information and Subscription Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
> _______________________________________________
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_______________________________________________
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Dennis S
73 Painted Desert 230
Memphis TN Metro
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68621 is a reply to message #68611] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 10:18 |
Dennis S
Messages: 3046
Registered: November 2005
Karma: 2
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Senior Member |
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Just realized my first reply was in JimK secret code which many of
you do not receive.
Mike
Great news!
Please keep us informed as you travel.
Dennis Sexton
73 GMC
Sent from my iPhone
On Dec 28, 2009, at 9:21 AM, GMC <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
> We got it. Was bad isolator switch. Took off wire to back the battery
> shop guy did and all good now. Battery chargin. I tightened alt belt
> also. I missed bolt on front side. HRd to see one.
>
> More later
>
> Mike
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Dec 28, 2009, at 7:48 AM, "Rob Mueller" <robmueller@iinet.net.au>
> wrote:
>
>> Ken,
>>
>> What if:
>>
>> 1) Mike sends Stephanie outside to watch the headlights.
>> 2) He starts the engine and turns them on.
>> 3) He revs the engine.
>> 4) If the headlights brighten when the engine is revved that would
>> show the
>> alternator is working would it not?
>>
>> I don't know what year coach he has but IIRC the A/C fan only works
>> in the
>> HIGH position if the alternator is putting out voltage does it not?
>>
>> Regards,
>> Rob Mueller
>> Sydney, Australia
>> 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 Ken Henderson
>> Sent: Tuesday, 29 December 2009 12:34 AM
>> To: gmclist
>> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
>>
>> Mike,
>>
>> It sounds very much as if your generator has/is failing. It would
>> be best
>> to find and correct the problem now before any damage is
>> compounded. A
>> voltmeter is almost mandatory to do that.
>>
>> If you can't correct it now, you'll need to depend on the generator
>> to keep
>> the engine battery charged. If you have a combiner that will be
>> taken care
>> of automatically when the generator starts producing; with an
>> isolator
>> you'll have to do it manually. If your battery selector switch is
>> the
>> locking type, you can use it. Otherwise you'll have to either
>> install a
>> jumper wire between the batteries or move an isolator wire.
>>
>> If I HAD to continue without solving the problem, I'd get ready for
>> battery
>> isolator bypassing but not implement it. I'd then drive on the
>> engine
>> battery until the engine began to miss, indicating low battery
>> voltage.
>> Then I'd crank the generator and bypass the isolator until the
>> batteries
>> were fully charged again, then return to using the engine battery
>> only. You
>> shouldn't need to run the generator more than a couple of hours
>> during your
>> 8 hour ride.
>>
>> JMHO,
>>
>> Ken H.
>> Americus, GA
>> '76 X-Birchaven
>> www.gmcwipersetc.com
>>
>>
>> On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:21 AM, gmc gmc <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
>>
>>> I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I
>>> could
>>> drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
>>>
>>> just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive today.
>>>
>>> thanks
>>>
>>> Mike
>>> ...
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> List Information and Subscription Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> List Information and Subscription Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> List Information and Subscription Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
_______________________________________________
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Dennis S
73 Painted Desert 230
Memphis TN Metro
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68627 is a reply to message #68611] |
Mon, 28 December 2009 11:48 |
Mr ERFisher
Messages: 7117
Registered: August 2005
Karma: 2
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Senior Member |
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not sure this is the fix, the alternator light comes on when the battery
voltage is higher than the alternator output voltage. So I am not sure what
battery cable you removed.
You might have just done a boost switch sort of thing.
you can always connect the batteries together (jumper) and run the Onan to
charge the batteries.
but good luck,
gene
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 7:21 AM, GMC <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
> We got it. Was bad isolator switch. Took off wire to back the battery
> shop guy did and all good now. Battery chargin. I tightened alt belt
> also. I missed bolt on front side. HRd to see one.
>
> More later
>
> Mike
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Dec 28, 2009, at 7:48 AM, "Rob Mueller" <robmueller@iinet.net.au>
> wrote:
>
> > Ken,
> >
> > What if:
> >
> > 1) Mike sends Stephanie outside to watch the headlights.
> > 2) He starts the engine and turns them on.
> > 3) He revs the engine.
> > 4) If the headlights brighten when the engine is revved that would
> > show the
> > alternator is working would it not?
> >
> > I don't know what year coach he has but IIRC the A/C fan only works
> > in the
> > HIGH position if the alternator is putting out voltage does it not?
> >
> > Regards,
> > Rob Mueller
> > Sydney, Australia
> > 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 Ken Henderson
> > Sent: Tuesday, 29 December 2009 12:34 AM
> > To: gmclist
> > Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
> >
> > Mike,
> >
> > It sounds very much as if your generator has/is failing. It would
> > be best
> > to find and correct the problem now before any damage is
> > compounded. A
> > voltmeter is almost mandatory to do that.
> >
> > If you can't correct it now, you'll need to depend on the generator
> > to keep
> > the engine battery charged. If you have a combiner that will be
> > taken care
> > of automatically when the generator starts producing; with an isolator
> > you'll have to do it manually. If your battery selector switch is the
> > locking type, you can use it. Otherwise you'll have to either
> > install a
> > jumper wire between the batteries or move an isolator wire.
> >
> > If I HAD to continue without solving the problem, I'd get ready for
> > battery
> > isolator bypassing but not implement it. I'd then drive on the engine
> > battery until the engine began to miss, indicating low battery
> > voltage.
> > Then I'd crank the generator and bypass the isolator until the
> > batteries
> > were fully charged again, then return to using the engine battery
> > only. You
> > shouldn't need to run the generator more than a couple of hours
> > during your
> > 8 hour ride.
> >
> > JMHO,
> >
> > Ken H.
> > Americus, GA
> > '76 X-Birchaven
> > www.gmcwipersetc.com
> >
> >
> > On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 8:21 AM, gmc gmc <gmc@derr.ws> wrote:
> >
> >> I forgot to mention, I think I do NOT have a voltmeter with us. I
> >> could
> >> drive back to 24hr walmart maybe 5 miles and get one though.
> >>
> >> just want to get to houston is all really, about 8 hour drive today.
> >>
> >> thanks
> >>
> >> Mike
> >> ...
> > _______________________________________________
> > GMCnet mailing list
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> >
> > _______________________________________________
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--
Gene Fisher -- 74-23,77PB/ore/ca
“Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today --- give him a URL and
-------
http://gmcmotorhome.info/
Alternator Protection Cable
http://gmcmotorhome.info/APC.html
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68727 is a reply to message #68708] |
Tue, 29 December 2009 08:05 |
gmc gmc
Messages: 69
Registered: May 2009
Karma: 0
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Member |
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Hi all. Thanks for all the good advices. yes I will get and have on had
voltmeter. We made it to Houston ok. Did have alternator belt break in
Arkansas, had to go back 5 minutes is all to parts store to get Gates belt.
I got one 1/2 inch shorter as alternator was near end of that slide to
tighten it. New belt did make that squealing sound over 55 mph. I have
mechanical type friend here so tomorrow we might look at alternator. might
even get new one. I looked at NAPA store yesterday for that 4505 part number
I recall and he saw it in book but there was 2 with letters after number D
and H I recall. Has to do with location of plug I guess. Wonder which I
need?
Also, I feel little silly, but we never traveled much before besides in
town... but 1. house batteries are out as that wood there has rotted, tray
was rusty, but when i get home I will order best new tray I can. what ever
you all are using is best. and 2. generator does not really start. I took
it to shop few years ago, and I guess I did not use it enough so it might be
gummed up now, but I tried and it does not fire, it tires or turns over! so
need to get that working this year also!
So now we enjoy Houston, visit Texas A&M University and such, then head back
North bound I think Thursday,
Mike
ps I will get you all the Gates part number I used fwiw.
lol need to wash white salt stuff of GMC this am also! :)
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 11:50 PM, Dan Gregg <gregg_dan@hotmail.com> wrote:
>
>
> Yea Gene, he is not real clear in his responses to us. If it had been last
> week I would have taken off down there to see what his problem was, only 80
> miles. But, this week I am a snowbird.
> Maybe he will let us know how far he made it today.
> Dan
> Duncan, Az.
> --
> Dan & Teri Gregg
>
> danandteri.blogspot.com
>
>
>
> ///Halon Automatic Fire Extinguishers
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> List Information and Subscription Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68798 is a reply to message #68727] |
Tue, 29 December 2009 16:51 |
|
USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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Senior Member |
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Mike,
There is a Harbor Freight Store on I-45 (Gulf Freeway). It is on the access
road on the north bound side just south of the junction of Beltway 8 and
I-45. The address is:
10826 North Freeway (I-45)
Houston, TX 77037
Phone: 281-405-0887
Take the West Road exit.
There is a Northern Tool on the same side of I-45 further north. The address
is:
14950 North Freeway
Houston, TX 77090
Phone: 281-821-8000
Take the Airtex Drive exit.
In case you're wondering how in the hell does a guy that lives in Australia
know where the HF and NT stores are in Houston it's because Double Trouble
is stored in Humble, TX!
Here's a link to the Ragusa battery tray I've installed in Double Trouble. I
used this one as you can put a start battery AND a house battery up front
and have room for storing "stuff."
http://www.appliedgmc.com/prod.itml/icOid/460
On a final note; if you don't have an Alternator Protection Cable installed
in your GMC you need to get one, NOW!
http://www.appliedgmc.com/prod.itml/icOid/557
Regards,
Rob Mueller
Sydney, Australia
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 gmc gmc
Sent: Wednesday, 30 December 2009 1:06 AM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
Hi all. Thanks for all the good advices. yes I will get and have on had
voltmeter. We made it to Houston ok. Did have alternator belt break in
Arkansas, had to go back 5 minutes is all to parts store to get Gates belt.
I got one 1/2 inch shorter as alternator was near end of that slide to
tighten it. New belt did make that squealing sound over 55 mph. I have
mechanical type friend here so tomorrow we might look at alternator. might
even get new one. I looked at NAPA store yesterday for that 4505 part number
I recall and he saw it in book but there was 2 with letters after number D
and H I recall. Has to do with location of plug I guess. Wonder which I
need?
Also, I feel little silly, but we never traveled much before besides in
town... but 1. house batteries are out as that wood there has rotted, tray
was rusty, but when i get home I will order best new tray I can. what ever
you all are using is best. and 2. generator does not really start. I took
it to shop few years ago, and I guess I did not use it enough so it might be
gummed up now, but I tried and it does not fire, it tires or turns over! so
need to get that working this year also!
So now we enjoy Houston, visit Texas A&M University and such, then head back
North bound I think Thursday,
Mike
ps I will get you all the Gates part number I used fwiw.
lol need to wash white salt stuff of GMC this am also! :)
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 11:50 PM, Dan Gregg <gregg_dan@hotmail.com> wrote:
>
>
> Yea Gene, he is not real clear in his responses to us. If it had been last
> week I would have taken off down there to see what his problem was, only
80
> miles. But, this week I am a snowbird.
> Maybe he will let us know how far he made it today.
> Dan
> Duncan, Az.
> --
> Dan & Teri Gregg
>
> danandteri.blogspot.com
>
>
>
> ///Halon Automatic Fire Extinguishers
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> List Information and Subscription Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
List Information and Subscription Options:
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_______________________________________________
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List Information and Subscription Options:
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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
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68810 is a reply to message #68708] |
Tue, 29 December 2009 17:38 |
Steven Ferguson
Messages: 3447
Registered: May 2006
Karma: 0
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Senior Member |
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Dan,
If you have those remanned A arms with you, you might want to zip up
to SpecTrac and have them installed and a follow up wheel alignment.
They will be doing the same for another GMCer. I have great faith in
that facility.
On Mon, Dec 28, 2009 at 9:50 PM, Dan Gregg <gregg_dan@hotmail.com> wrote:
>
>
> Yea Gene, he is not real clear in his responses to us. If it had been last week I would have taken off down there to see what his problem was, only 80 miles. But, this week I am a snowbird.
> Maybe he will let us know how far he made it today.
> Dan
> Duncan, Az.
> --
> Dan & Teri Gregg
>
> danandteri.blogspot.com
>
>
>
> ///Halon Automatic Fire Extinguishers
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> List Information and Subscription Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
--
Steve Ferguson
'76 EII
Sierra Vista, AZ
Urethane bushing source
www.bdub.net/ferguson/
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| Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please... [message #68814 is a reply to message #68812] |
Tue, 29 December 2009 17:59 |
|
USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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Senior Member |
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Gene,
I got a new one from Jim K to carry as a spare in Double Trouble.
Regards,
Rob Mueller
Sydney, Australia
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 Mr.erf ERFisher
Sent: Wednesday, 30 December 2009 10:53 AM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] GEN Light on! help please...
I would recommend getting yours rebuilt at a local rebuilder. Most of the
ones from NAPA and other parts stores, do not replace the STATOR windings,
and therefor have a real good chance of not being any good. Some GMCers
have put on 3 or 4 rebuilt alternators trying to get a good one.
good luck.
gene
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GMCnet mailing list
List Information and Subscription Options:
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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
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