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Topic: Onan 4000 generator with fault code 32...HELP!! (Read 234 times) previous topic - next topic
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Onan 4000 generator with fault code 32...HELP!!
My genset stopped working a while back and with winter coming, I've gotten serious about getting it running again.  The fault code is 32..."rpm <180 for greater than 2 sec".  The engine starts right up without a problem, but shuts off after 2 seconds with a fault code of 32.  I have disconnected power to reset the fault code (which was in a post I read).  I have held the "prime" button for 30 seconds to reset the fault code (which is how the operators manual says to do it).  Every time I start the engine, it shuts down and gives fault code 32.  After reading several posts, both on this forum and others, these are the steps I've taken thus far:
1.  Checked the battery output and found it excellent.
2.  Disconnected and cleaned all electrical connections to eliminate corrosion or connectivity problems.
3.  Changed the oil and made sure the level and viscosity were correct.
4.  Replaced the air filter.
5.  Replaced the spark plug.
6.  Made sure the fan is turning freely by hand and felt for good compression when turning the engine by hand.
7.  Checked for 12 volt output during that 2 seconds that it runs, and it is producing electricity, although it's too fast for me to get an accurate reading before it shuts down.
8.  Started the main RV engine and left it running while trying to start the generator.

Anyone out there have any further suggestions or ideas?  I'm about ready to give up and take it to an Onan service center, but just hate to pay the prices they charge. 

Thanks in advance for any advice and for your time and consideration.

Doug M
Re: Onan 4000 generator with fault code 32...HELP!!
Reply #1 –
Hi Doug and welcome to the Lazy Daze Owners Forum. You must have the Microquiet generator. My old Emerald II doesn't read out any error codes.  Precise control of engine speed is what produces 60 Hertz power. The error 'too high a engine speed' is to protect all of your 110 VAC appliances. There is a direct connection between engine speed and frequency.  It should be 3600 RPM.   It would help if 'we' knew what year and model your Lazy Daze is.
     Speed is controlled by a mechanical linkage governor. It can get a bit dirty and crusty, and will benefit from being cleaned and 'lubed' periodically.  If the engine seems to not be over-reving, then it probably is just a bit off of frequency.   Hope this helps.  RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Onan 4000 generator with fault code 32...HELP!!
Reply #2 –
Sorry...in #7 above, I meant to say that I checked for 120 VAC output, not 12v output.  And it's a 2003 Onan Microquiet 4000.
Re: Onan 4000 generator with fault code 32...HELP!!
Reply #3 –
A couple of years ago the Onan generator in my 2004 would stall shortly after starting like your 2003 is doing.  The problem turned out to be the fuel line had started to rot out where it came out of the gas tank and was sucking air. This is a common problem of LD's of that era.  I took my LD to a shop that was able to replace the old fuel line without dropping the tank. I don't recall if my generator was throwing any codes.

Roger
2004 FL
Re: Onan 4000 generator with fault code 32...HELP!!
Reply #4 –
Hi Doug; I looked up 'error code 32' with google and came up with a few responses.  The 180 you referred to was the RPM of the engine while starting. An error generated usually by a 'low' starter battery, or the sensing of it. Also connected to a 'low oil' condition.
    On iRV2 a person with this problem, pulled the generator and replaced the rotor, lots of complications but didn't fix the problem. Then he found a loose pin, or pins in a wiring connector that did fix it.   Now I've had issues with Molex type connectors in the past, and the female receptacle pins open up and get loose.  Carefully, I poke a machinists scribe inside and push each socket pin a little more closed up. That might be your problem, and might work for you.  Follow this thread on iRV2:   Onan genset issue, code 32, 00 repair? - iRV2 Forums   member Shadow520.   Worth a try I guess.     RonB  
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
 
Re: Onan 4000 generator with fault code 32...HELP!!
Reply #5 –
Thanks so much for the ideas.  I'll try tightening any pin connectors and see if that helps.