Well I just bought a used Homelite 5600 watt generator with 8 hours run time on it. It starts right up, but the GFCI trips every time without a hint of light from my test light. The volt meter shows voltage. I replaced the GFCI with a known good one, same problem.

Anyone have any idea what to check next?

I need this thing. We are going to be full up over new years at our little motel and, and can't have a power outage ruining our guest's stay.

Thanks, John www.ghiaspecialties.com

Have you tried the unit on a non GFCI circuit to eliminate the generator being at fault?

I am not much of an electrician, but wouldn't the gfci circuit see that incoming power/spike and trip by design?

It could be that the stater is fryed.....I bought a Coleman 5000 Powermate from Costco, took it up to the farm to use and it started doing the same thing. Took it in to the local authorised repair shop and they said $800..... covered under warrentee

Arrghh! OK, thanks guys!

John www.ghiaspecialties.com

GFI's trip because there is an problem with the load. Try plugging something else in (like a desk light or radio) and see if it holds. GFI's do go bad and some are bad from the factory, but it sounds like it is just doing it's job and the load you are plugging in is bad. Eddy

John....

I just noticed where you live. I am sure you are feeling like a drowned rat in Moclips. One thing to note, GFI's will nuciance (sp?) trip in rainy weather. Eddy

Well, after trying another GFCI and failing, I replaced it with a standard outlet, and the thing works! I got the generator and an interface module to hook it into my regular service box for $600 which I think is pretty good deal, especially since it actually works.

Eddy, We have had some rain, but the weather for December has been nice most of the month. I've been pleasantly surprised at how often the weather changes. It can be cloudy, and then nice an hour later. I absolutely love this place...

Thanks all!

John www.ghiaspecialties.com

hey john,

great to hear things are going well up there.

when you mentioned that y'all were moving out to the coast i thought, "wow, that's got to be great". specially having hy. 1 right there. =-)

cheers,
roger

Hi Roger,

101 is a ways inland from us, but 109 is two blocks away...talk about twisties!

John www.ghiaspecialties.com

QUOTE

Well, after trying another GFCI and failing, I replaced it with a standard outlet, and the thing works

John.....the down side is now you have eliminated the life safety features of a GFI outlet . Eddy

I think he's running it into his main service box. Not much need for a GFI there as your "wet" areas will/should have them.

Glad to hear it's working.