Tool Talk

General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: oldtools on August 17, 2014, 02:35:51 AM

Title: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: oldtools on August 17, 2014, 02:35:51 AM
Bulk pick-up time again, Just picked free stuff people dumped.. Old Sears Roebuck 900W alternator 115V 7.8A, 16-1 oil mix.
Spark & compression OK. checking carburetor tomorrow, then try to start...  anyone know about this model?  Age, parts? etc..
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: eddie hudson on August 17, 2014, 07:35:37 AM
580 = GENERAC CORP
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: bonneyman on August 17, 2014, 11:37:26 AM
I picked up a lawn mower for free, owner said it stopped running a few years ago. Cleaned out the gas tank, and the carb, filled and it started right up.

It just baffles me what people throw away. That little unit you got there would be just perfect for a power outtage situation, at least keep the reefer going.
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: rusty on August 17, 2014, 09:56:19 PM

I would expect goo in the carb, but won't be surprised if that's all that is wrong with it, it is a fairly simple machine. Just be carefull about plugging electronics into it, the older small generators with permenant magnet rotors have no voltage regulation and are a little hard on newer electronics...

(Probably too small for the fridge, won't be able to start it)
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: Bill Houghton on August 18, 2014, 10:25:45 AM

I would expect goo in the carb, but won't be surprised if that's all that is wrong with it, it is a fairly simple machine. Just be carefull about plugging electronics into it, the older small generators with permenant magnet rotors have no voltage regulation and are a little hard on newer electronics...

(Probably too small for the fridge, won't be able to start it)
Which is a problem with modern appliances, many of which have electronic components.  Our refrigerator, for instance, is run entirely by a circuit board that the manufacturer cleverly put in the fridge compartment, where it could get affected by moisture.
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: EVILDR235 on August 18, 2014, 12:52:52 PM
I am glad someone like you found it. It could have wound being scrapped for the copper in it. I have started buying up small old engines Like Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Clinton, lauson, Tecumseh and so on. These little engines from the 40s, 50s, 60s are little gems and worth saving.


EvilDr235
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: oldtools on August 18, 2014, 03:47:21 PM
Yep! 900W is OK for lights, etc. maybe small frig. but only rated Max 7.8A,  didn't get a chance to check the carburetor yet, but sounds like it wants to start, but no gas. will let you know when I get it started... 
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: turnnut on August 18, 2014, 08:05:39 PM
SHOULD BE ABLE TO RUN A FAN WITH IT.
Title: Re: Bulk pick-up time, free stuff dumped..
Post by: Chillylulu on August 19, 2014, 12:36:46 PM
Yep! 900W is OK for lights, etc. maybe small frig. but only rated Max 7.8A,  didn't get a chance to check the carburetor yet, but sounds like it wants to start, but no gas. will let you know when I get it started...

Not an electrician, but here goes...

900 w /115 volts = 7.82608  amps 

The problem is the rated voltage is produced at a certain RPM. If the engine speeds up or down your voltage changes too.  Older engines would rarely have governor's for protecting against higher voltage / current. 

When you adjust it - check the output voltage.  Better yet - use it as one of many power sources for charging batteries. Use them to provide your clean power.

Chilly