I recently resolved a situation where the onboard generator stopped supplying power to my coach. I thought'd I'd post my experience here and IRV2.com for others that may experience similar issues.
Background: This occurred on a 2021 Winnebago Adventurer 29B that I've owned since June, 2021.
In prep for a recent trip, I started up the generator to make sure that it was working and would supply power to the coach. We were planning to boondock in a cold part of the US and knew that we would need the generator to keep the batteries going.
Symptoms: After stopping the generator normally, the Onan 5500 control panel stated it received error code 36. A quick Internet search for that error code found that it means that the generator received an shutdown signal from somewhere other than the control panel. This was odd - I had shutdown the generator myself from the control panel.
I restarted the generator, and after spooling up and hearing the "thunk" of the automatic transfer switch, the power to the coach "flashed" on the control panels and then went dark. The generator was running, but no power was getting to the coach.
Diagnosis: A couple of YouTube searches led me to check the usual suspects. I confirmed that the breakers had not tripped in the coach or at the generator itself. I followed the lines from the generator into the coach and into the automatic transfer switch, looking for any loose connections (everything appeared to be secure). I plugged the coach into shore power and confirmed it was receiving power (it was). Finally, I started the generator, waited for it to spool up, and watched the automatic transfer switch. The connector for the generator power side of the switch engaged and then immediately disengaged. I had found the culprit.
Resolution: I contacted a
local mobile RV tech, described the situation and diagnosis, and sent pictures and videos. The tech agreed with my assessment and suggested I order a new transfer switch from Amazon. I located the exact model, placed an order, and received it the next day. The following day, the mobile tech arrived and performed the replacement. We've tested the system and all is well.
All told, I'm out US$377. $165 for the
replacement switch, and $212 for the labor to do the install. I probably could have done it myself, but the cost for a professional to do it was worth it in my view. Your mileage may vary.
Here are some links that I found helpful:
Happy travels!
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