Found my generator problem

[belfert]

I found the problem with my generator.  I got the brushes out and they were definitely arcing.  Last year I had a motor shop replace the brushes inside the brush assembly.  This time I am just going to get a new brush assembly from Powertech.  I'll probably get two in fact for a spare and a bearing while I have the generator apart.  I also figured out a way to relocate the generator back about six inches so I can get at the end easily in case of future issues.

I'm going to be doing some things differently in the future to hopefully avoid generator issues down the road.  The generator will get the dust blown out once or twice a day and some other changes.

[bansil]

Wow one year?were the springs just weak and crappy?

[belfert]

I think I still have plenty of spring, but I really don't know.  The original problem was desert dust/dirt clogging up the brush holder and making the brushes stick.  The one brush was worn really short last year.  The brushes the motor shop put in the assembly were really long.  He told me I would probably have to cut them.  I did cut them back a little bit as they wouldn't fit.

I am ordering a new brush assembly from Powertech tomorrow.

[Acausey]

If you have problems getting brushes from Powertech, you can try Helwig Carbon. 
http://www.helwigcarbon.com/
I don't know if they have exact replacements, but they do lots of specialized brushes.  We use them a lot in the elevator industry. 

~ Andy

[belfert]

I have two brush assemblies on the way from Powertech to be delivered Friday.  I'll check with Helwig Carbon if I have brush needs in the future.

I'm just glad the problem is simply the brushes and not something more serious.