Voltage Regulator Retrofit for Onan Genset 1

[IBRCAN]

I have an old Onan genset with a failed voltage regulator board. External SCRs driven by regulator are also defective. Rest of excitation system tests ok.

The existing regulator is a VR21, which is still available from the mfg however is very expensive relative to the value of the genset.

Am looking at retrofitting a different, more cost effective AVR. Have contacted our local Basler dealer, however I am having difficulty getting any help.

This unit is self excited and rated 60 kw, 600V, stand-by (used for prime power in a sand and gravel pit). Exciter field resistance is 20 ohms. I do not have full load excitation data unfortunately. It is not listed in the service manual nor on the gen data plate.

Looking at Basler's AVR selector chart (attached), I am thinking the AVC63-4 would be suitable. The only thing I am unsure about is the rated excitation voltage and current, which I do not know. Advice?

 

[ScottyUK]

I've had some great results from a small British company called Roper Electronics building simple, maintainable, repairable AVRs. They sell some copies of mass-market AVRs and also make their own. If you value the ability to repair your AVR in the middle of the night with basic tools, simple components and without any support then their in-house designs are the ones to go for.

The Kutai types are ok too, but they're repair-proof just like the big-name designs they copy.

 

[dpc]

Well the rated excitation current is fairly important. You might see if there is any data on the generator nameplate. Basler should be able to help you. If you are not getting help from the local sales group, I'd try e-mailing Basler factory directly.

 

[catserveng]

Try these guys,

http://www.flightsystems.com/standby-generator-ats-controls/onan-regulators-and-controls.html

I have used their products in the past to repair Onan and other generators.

Mike L.

 

[IBRCAN]

Thanks gents. I will try Flight Systems, since they sell an exact replacement.

 

[mikekilroy]

Flight Systems is great solution; it also replaces all those other components. I repaired my 1973 GMC motor home 6kw Onan generator pcb, seems yearly, for about 10 years thru the 1980's. This relay, that diode, etc...

Then I bought the Flight System replacement pcb and have had zero problems since (about 1995). My vote: Go for it.

http://www.KilroyWasHere<dot>com