Buying a used generator-What to do so you don't get burned!?

[rocktot]

Ok,this was just pulled out of the camper. It was a clown show. Just 3 wires sticking out.

So, what do I need to bring to hook up the electrical. On this model (Onan 6.5) it was straight 220. How/what do I need to bring with to split it down to 2x 120? How to I set this test outlet up so I can tote it around? What components? Aligator clips or should I really wire it up and tape it for safety? (if it happens again.)

[SideShow Bob]

Ok,this was just pulled out of the camper. It was a clown show. Just 3 wires sticking out.

So, what do I need to bring to hook up the electrical. On this model (Onan 6.5) it was straight 220. How/what do I need to bring with to split it down to 2x 120? How to I set this test outlet up so I can tote it around? What components? Aligator clips or should I really wire it up and tape it for safety? (if it happens again.)

Don't walk away from something like this one, RUN ! Look for something to fit your needs, not something you will need to work on to get what you want.

Most generators made within the last 15 - 20 years will have GFI outlets on the 120 V side and a GFI breaker on the 240 V side. Go to Home Despot and pick up a GFI outlet tester ($15 - $20) cheap insurance when looking at used generators.
If a generator has been modified or Afro-engineered keep looking.

[rocktot]

Ok, thanks- Not sure if you know about Onan, you have to add the outlets yourself because they are installed in RV's and such, so you get 3 wires or so. There are a few youtubes on how to do this. Yea, I would love to ad a GFI to this, I keep calling the place in Denver but cant get a call back or a pick up. The good American ones are made in USA and are from the 80's. They can last a long time if taken care of.

The RV this came out of had a blown something in the engine indicating probably did NOT keep up with the oil, which was a red-alert for me in the first place, but I ignored my own good advice. The guy turned out to be a real idiot, but it would have been great to get this on Youtube, on how NOT to buy and Onan generator. Pay me some $$ and I'll tell you the story, its worth a few bucks. If you can hear the 'flop flop flop' of giant clown shoes, run run run away.- Afro-engineered? Pagan-engineered on this one. Total goof. He was literally sucking on the fuel line, like he was giving it head when it wouldn't start. Should be on Youtube. He actually called back and said he was going to get a fuel pump for it. Flop flop flop...LoL I guess it was almost worth the drive.

Here is some redneck engineering. Sometimes the best kind!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQ0QybxOAaQ

I need to run about 20 amps minimum, so I need a 6.5 Owens, -I am calling around I need to speak to their service dept or something. The one I looked at only had 3 wires on it, he said it was 240, so Im not sure what it was, or what is going on with these models, or if you can even spit the 240 on them to 2x 120. I think I need an electrician for this because it may need a new circut breaker etc, I don't need any more big ugly surprises in my life.