[K3PZN-List] Generator Problems

[Rob Heath]

I just got back from checking out the club's generator.  The engine appears 
to be in great shape.  I had no trouble getting it to fire right up and it 
ran nice and smooth.  Unfortunately, the generator part of the generator 
isn't.  I was only reading about 10 volts!  The voltage dropped when I 
turned the load switch off, so it doesn't appear to be something as easy as 
a bad switch.  I am not a generator person and desperately try to avoid 
things with coils and brushes.  However, I am speculating that the brushes 
might be the first thing to look at.  Letting it run for an extended period 
might wear some of the oxidation/corrosion off and get it running again.  
Then again, it may have a more serious problem.  Hopefully, we have someone 
more comfortable with tinkering with generators who can take a look at it 
before Field Day.

Rob, K1RH