How To Diagnose A Generator That Has No Power Output.

Below is a video of how to test a generac exl8000 generator to see why there is no power output.

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Here we have an EXL8000 generac generator. The owner went to hook it up after losing power during hurricane sandy and discovered that it runs fine but it has no power output. So we will be showing you how to test if it is the automatic voltage regulator also known as the AVR most likely the cause or if it’s the part that generates the electricity.

Next grab a 1/4-Inch ratchet, small 1/4-Inch extension and a 7mm socket with that remove the four 7mm bolts that hold the cover in place. Next wiggle the gourmet out of the cover so you can completely remove the cover.

At the top you will see your automatic voltage regulator also know as an A.V.R. That is what we will be testing. You also might see a black tube looking thing that is an inline booster the order generators will have it the newer ones they discontinued using it.

It might be a good idea to take a picture with a digital camera before disconnecting wires so in case you don’t remember where they go you have something to use as a reference. Next remove the two leads from the left side of the A.V.R bend them out so you can easily test them later.

Next we will remove the positive (red) and negative (black) leads off the bush set coming from the AVR. Keep in mind that the one closer to the bearing is the positive (red). Next you will want to use electrical tape and tape both leads separately so they can’t touch each other or the housing.

Next you will need a 12Volt DC power supply. You can use a car battery or a compact drill battery. You will also need two insulated alligator test leads. It’s a good idea to have two different color leads.

Next let’s hook up the two alligator clip leads to the brush set. The one near the shaft/ bearing is the positive (red one). The one in the back in the negative (black one). Next clip the other end of the positive (red one) lead to the positive of the 12volt DC power source. DO NOT hook up the negative at this time.

Next start the generator in a well vented area. Let the engine speed stabilize for 5-6 seconds and at that point connect the other end of the alligator clip to the negative of the 12 volt DC battery.

While its running and your negative lead hooked up take your electrical tester and set it to VAC and test the two exciter winding wires that we removed off the left side of the A.V.R. You should have a minimum of 60 volts. If you have around 60 volts that means your automatic voltage regulator or also known as AVR needs replacing. Part #20585GS. If you don’t have around 60 volts that’s mean the part that generates the electricity is bad. You might want to take it in for service or think about buying a new generator.

If the generator has been stored for a while you might have lost the Residual Magnetism. The testing method is also the way to restore the resista magnetism. So if your generator was stored for a while you might want to reconnect all the wires and retest for power output it might save you from having to buy and replace the AVR. It is recommended that you start and load a generator at least every 3 months to ensure the brushes stay clean and that it doesn’t loose it’s Residual Magnetism and be sure to use some fuel treatment to keep the gas from going bad.

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