Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Home generator problem, new tripoli pa, michael regan

Question
Hello!


I have an Arctic Cat home generator, model AC7500GD2E. It had worked fine during the winter, but when I started it up last evening, the ac power switch on the generator tripped every time I tried to turn it on. I have the unit in an outdoor shelter, grounded to a copper ground rod, and I have a plug coming from a manual transfer switch in a circuit breaker panel which I plug into the unit.

Any idea what could be causing my problem? I cannot turn the ac power switch to the “on” position when the unit is running, only when it is off – and I have tried to turn it on with and without the plug from the circuit breaker panel plugged in.

We bought the unit in 1999.

Thanks for any help or advice you can give me.

Michael Regan
New Tripoli, PA  

Answer
Hi Michael,

Since the problem continues when you isolate the generator from the circuit breaker panel, the issue is in the generator itself.   First, look behind any easily removed panels for signs of rodent damaged wires, causing a short.  If all looks fine, I would replace the AC power switch.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael