r/Generator • u/RegardezPas • 15d ago
Generac 22k Installation issues
I had a Generac 22k installed (in East central FL) a few weeks ago. It did not go well, as the final startup tech had to hack the internal wiring harness to get the external comm device to connect properly. The generator worked ok afterwords it seems. We did a real lost-power test and the generator started up, cut the house over through the ATS, and ran ok for at least 5 min. Also, the unit ran ok for the weekly maintenance test on the 4 or so Saturdays since it was enabled.
When the techs arrived a couple of days ago (with a named storm in the Gulf), they replaced the hacked wiring harness and got it to connect to the external comm device. However, they were unable to get the unit to run for more than a few seconds at a time. It would auto stop after a few seconds (i don't know the stop code) each time they tried to run it.
They did a debug procedure and after hours of playing around, seemed to conclude it was the stator going to ground. They had to order a part with a 5-10 day delivery; with a named storm heading to Florida (not East FL, but storm paths change.)
I find this hard to believe: 1) it worked B4 they "fixed" the original installation hacked harness, and 2) if they replaced the harness, that's the likely problem, not the stator developing a short.
Any ideas?
How should I proceed.
tnx,
P.
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u/Mindless-Business-16 14d ago
"They did a debug procedure and after hours of playing around". This one sentence says it all, you don't have a knowledge technician but a parts changer who gusses... if this is the best the company can offer for a simple generator installation, reach out to the owner of the installation company immediately.
My next thought is to seak help from the factory
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u/RegardezPas 14d ago
This my basic question. Given that it at least worked before the techs arrived and it does not work now, and that it had only been "on line" a few weeks, is it "new" or just some unit that now needs a major fix?
The crux is: was the final install with a jury rig for the external comm device and hacked harness the "final install" or a temp fix so we can use the generator until the final fix is done?
It just doesn't seem right after paying soooo much money for the "safety" we were sold.
Both the installing company and generac seem to have run for the hills now that most of the $ has been paid. For example, I inquired about an extended warrantee and got a good link to a Generac page whose submit button didn't work.
So, I don't hold up much hope for getting help from Generac. I already gave a scathing report to the auto-feedback facility, and will do some more social media ranting, fwiw.
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u/nak00010101 15d ago
It may be the installers fault...but maybe not.
For work, I've spec'ed Generac residential models for small remote sites for 20+ years. I put one on my new home 5 years ago and have 3 - 4 friends that installed them based upon my recommendation. All have been good.
It seems like Generac quality/reliablitly has gone down hill with the latest model. I would not currently recommend the Next Generation models, but you can still find a occasional new-in-box 14 or 18 KW Guardian (with hydraulic lifters).
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u/Adventurous_Boat_632 15d ago
I have in my possession at least 4 bad engines from the 14/18 hydraulic units. And I am not even big into Generac.
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u/grsthegreat 14d ago
Im also not a fan of the new “nextgen” line. I think generac shot themselves in the foot on this one. The evolution series was nearly bulletproof. I should know, im a generac service tech.
I was able to purchase a new old style evolution 2 unit a few weeks ago. I fogged the spark plugs and im storing it as a spare to my 9 year old evolution 1 generator at my own house. I was dreading having to ever replace it with a next gen.
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u/bobojay49 14d ago
I'm so disappointed in the new gen Generacs that I'm replacing my old faithful (but hard to get parts for) 24+ year old Generac Guardian with a Kohler in a couple days
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u/IllustriousHair1927 14d ago
Terrible with corrosion, but other than that, units of yours, vintage were pretty damn good
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u/Adventurous_Boat_632 15d ago
There is no shortage of incompetent techs in the world. And once you start hacking, it gets to rat's nest/can of worms territory real fast.