[Milsurplus] milsurplus M5 Genset...

[Mike Durff]

I recently acquired a military genset designation, M5. This is a 3 phase 3KVA Hobart generator powered by a ZXB Hercules 4 cyl gasoline engine. It is in fairly original condition.... i.e. not butchered. It does  show "normal" wear & tear of the past 73 years,  being manufactured in 1942. The only obvious part missing is the hand crank. There are some parts still in the original bags in the spares cabinet. The outer housing shows age and the effects of sitting unprotected. The housing and control panel, while intact, suffered some minor damage during the recent move. Meters and controls are present, no broken glass, etc... control panel frame bracket is bent, but looks to be easily repairable. Outer hood housing was bent slightly during the move. Some rivets were loosened as the unit was picked up with a wrecker service using a chain. ( I was not present during this operation ).  The recent damage was mostly cosmetic and easily repairable. The cabinet needs to be sand blasted, and re-painted. I have not and will not try to turn the engine over, using the electric starter,  until I know that everything is moving freely. It is now located in Arkansas, but could be transported to my new QTH in  Maine. Please note that  this is not your "normal" 3 Phase setup,  it cannot be used to power your home. It does however, have three separate 120VAC outputs. I believe this was made specifically to power some sort of 40mm anti aircraft gun . Bottom line is, it will give you 120 VAC @ 13 +/- amps,  IF it runs and IF the generator works.  The previous owner said he used it to run floodlights 15 years ago.  IMHO, I would give it a better than 50/50 chance of starting and running with minor TLC. ( carb rebuild, new gas tank, belts, etc... ) 
I have located and am currently having printed and bound the Operator's manual and the Depot maintenance manual. 
Ant interest, info, or suggestions appreciated. 
Thanks, Mike
PS: I resurrected a similar unit, in similar condition, 50 years ago. The  difference being that unit was 10KVA & had a 4cyl Continental engine.