[RE-wrenches] Trace Change out

[Phil Undercuffler]

Bill,

If reducing the input and charging amps allow the inverter to stay
connected to the generator, then I don't think you have an inverter
problem, you more likely have a generator tuning problem.  Inverters
rarely "half" break -- for the most part they either work, or they
don't.

Do a simple tune-up, plugs and wires, change the filters.  Check the
fuel supply to the generator -- use a manometer to check the pressure
while under full load.  Isolate and test the system one step at a time
-- generator to simple resistive loads, then add inverter for charging
but with the house loads disconnected, then bring the whole system
online together.  I've seen cases where the appliances in the house
caused just enough surge to make the generator stumble, which caused
the inverter to drop the generator.

BTW, one of the best tools to have on a
troubleshooting-a-generator-charging call is an oscilloscope -- I
can't begin to tell you how much trouble and grief it can save.  I
picked up a Picoscope a couple years ago, it's a USB connected device
which uses a laptop computer for power, memory and display.  Best
thing since sliced bread, highly recommended.

Good luck with it,

Phil



On Sat, Apr 14, 2012 at 6:21 PM, frenergy <frenergy at psln.com> wrote:
> Wrenches,
>
>         I have a customer that may be having some issues with the
> reliability of his 11 year old Trace4024.  If my current fix doesn't solve
> the problem, I have suggested having the unit fixed, which I think still
> happens on these puppies. I have also suggested replacing it with either an
> Outback 3524 or a Magnum MS 4024.  He is now running a 1 HP Submersible pump
> ala autoformer along with the usual array of  house loads.
>
>         The issue is the inverter accepting and then rejecting the generator
> power, which I have been watching recent comments here regarding this
> issue.  I have not thoroughly checked out pump wiring (was apparently
> already done by the well/pump guy, whom is reputable), but have checked the
> output of the Kohler 8.5 genny and Hz and voltage appear stable with and
> without load.  So far I've gone the route of programming in a few less amps
> on the "battery charging" and "AC2 IN" functions.   The inverter seems to
> be happy with new settings, this new programming was just done a few hours
> ago.
>
>         So this may be a more generic question for those with more
> experience than I: Are both the OB and Magnum inverters considered equally
> capable of replacing the Trace? I guess I'm thinking mainly of that pump,
> but are there other considerations?
>
>         Thanks Folks
>
> Bill
> Feather River Solar Electric
> 4291 Nelson St.
> Taylorsville, CA  95983
> 530-284-7849/6544 fax
> solar powered since 1982
>
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