The Generator "DUH" Factor

If you read our "Boondocking" blog, you'll know that for years we've been strict proponents of alternative energy for RVing. Solar panels, wind, that's been the hardline from our camp. And then (gasp) we bought an RV with ("Mama! Cover the kid's ears!") a generator.

It's been an experience. We haven't fore sworn solar, and when we'll soon be transferring our wind generator system to the new research rig, but we've actually grown slightly fond of the generator. But as things go, there has been a bit of a break in period.

For starters, there wasn't much time on the clock on our little Onan LP generator when we first got it. Unless they turn back engine time clocks like odometers on old cars. We had the most cussed time trying to get the thing to run. We finally replaced the spark plug, which is a bit of story in itself. (Built-in generator, little tiny hole to maneuver the plug wrench on a swivel, up from under the rig, and finally get the thing out). The new plug was all she needed.

We hit the road a few weeks ago from our normal stomping grounds, and half the party got sick on the road. Las Vegas, hot August days, nobody likes lying around feeling yucky in sticky heat. Turn on the genny! A quick run up, a few turns of the engine, and "silence." Not the time for a dead generator. I nearly expected the buzzards to start circling.

Happily, the problem was a quick fix. An inspection of the oil level dipstick proved us way down, and a few ounces of the precious petroleum product restored Onan's good humor, and air conditioning was ours.

So generator newbies, keep close in mind the simple fixes first. Check that oil level. Check out that sparky plug. Air cleaner clean? Sufficient voltage to turn over the starter? Is the fuel supply sufficient? (Gasoline or diesel in the tank, or LP in the cylinder?) RV generators are, for the most part, pretty happy little creatures if you keep up on the ordinary care and feeding.