Portable Generator Connection

[gibsojn]

I acquired an older a 4KW portable generator with two 240V 2 pole 3 wire grounding 6-15R output receptacles. Unlike my newer generator with one 240V 3 pole 4 wire grounding L14-30R output receptacle, the older unit does not have a neutral conductor output.
Can someone explain the significance the neutral conductor output or lack thereof?

 

[waross]

The older set with the 6-15R is intended to supply only 240 Volt loads. Max 15 Amps. The maximum load that this receptacle may supply is 3.6 kW.
The set with the L14-30R may supply both 120 Volt loads and 240Volt loads. Max 30 Amps. The maximum load that this receptacle may supply is 7.2 kW or 7.2 KVA, subject to the maximum rating of the set.

Bill
--------------------
"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter

 

[gibsojn]

Thanks Bill.
If I were to connect this older set to my house panel via a transfer switch that does not switch the neutral should the ground terminal of the set be connected to the neutral or the ground in the panel?
Jim

 

[itsmoked]

You should [!]NOT[/!] hook the older set to your house AT ALL unless you have absolutely no 120V loads what-so-ever.

Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com

 

[wayne440]

I have used a transformer for cases like this. It isn't particularly handy, but it usually satisfies those who have concerns regarding absolute separation of N/G.

 

[waross]

You have to determine whether the generator has only a 240 Volt winding or two 120 Volt windings. If you determine that there are two 120 Volt windings in series then you may have an expert bring out your neutral and change the receptacle to either a 14-15R, a 14-20R or an L14-20R.

Bill
--------------------
"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter