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Topic: Onan Genset--error 32; help appreciated (Read 5 times) previous topic - next topic
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Onan Genset--error 32; help appreciated
Yahoo Message Number: 142316
Note:  This is crossposted from Techsnoz because of the Yahoo Group chaos today, with attendant communication problems.
 Searched database and found Andy's tale of woe (http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/lifewithalazydazerv/message/93251), but another cause that has been reported (Techsnoz reply today) refers to a stuck fan.  Wiggling it frees it up and the gen starts.  I will look into this (and hope I do not have Andy's problem).  Based on the following, are there any other thoughts?  (I'd like to collect all thoughts before going out to the coach in storage 8 miles from home.)
 Onan Model KY genset in a 2004 RB.  Tried to exercise it today (routine periodic maintenance).  Always start it with chassis engine running.  Would not start.  Flashing error code 32--"Low cranking speed fault (Cranking speed less than 180rpm for more than 2 seconds)."
 Checked Onan recommendations, except battery cables at genset.  Results:  engine battery health normal (chassis engine started immediately, connections tight and clean, cell water level normal, voltage normal); oil level normal; ambient temp moderate (70F).  Coach is always stored indoors.  Coach batteries:  12.6V.  Interior lights (12V):  normal illumination.
 Note I did not have easy access to inspect chassis battery cable connections at genset, so that remains a possible culprit.
 Never had this error code before.  Never, ever been unable to start genset.  Difficulty in starting in the past dependent on length of interval since last operation--but it always started after several attempts (drawing fuel?).  (Note:  did learn today about priming function.  Feel stupid.)

Thanks--Ted.
Re: Onan Genset--error 32; help appreciated
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142322
Quote
Checked Onan recommendations, except battery cables at genset.  Results:  engine battery health normal (chassis engine started immediately, connections tight and clean, cell water level normal, voltage normal); oil level normal; ambient temp moderate (70F).  Coach is always stored indoors.  Coach batteries:  12.6V.  Interior lights (12V):  normal illumination.
Genset starts with the coach battery, so unrelated to chassis engine electrics. You MUST check the connections at the coach battery AND the genset to solve the issue. Start with the coach battery, since it's easier to access, and the acidic vapors are more likely to cause problems than genset heat.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Onan Genset--error 32; help appreciated
Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142332
Quick note: Mine would not turn over at all.  If yours is cranking over then this is NOT your issue.
Re: Onan Genset--error 32; help appreciated
Reply #4 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142334
Thanks a lot Scott. Now I have more confidence that this is the problem. It makes a lot of sense
Re: Onan Genset--error 32; help appreciated
Reply #5 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142335
Now that you said it turned over first then would not, it seems you have the issue I described.  Mine had been run for an hour then stopped for 20 mins when it happened to me.  I was pretty sure it was not an electrical issue.
 I also read the Techsnoz thread and Rich's info.  Seems like the same issue.  Removing the spark plug will make it easier to turn over for sure.  I did not remove mine and just used my hands to turn the fan, but either way once you get past the top of that stroke I bet it starts right up.

Good luck.

Scott in Texas
Re: Onan Genset--error 32; help appreciated
Reply #6 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142380
Success.  Thanks to all for great diagnosis, especially Rich and Scott.  It was the stuck fan problem.  The nut