Generator voltage

[kaffine]

Well I got a good deal on a 40kW 480V 3ph generator. It is a Kohler 45R72 propane powered. I pulled the cover off of it and of course no wiring diagram.

My plan is to use it to power some of my larger tools that I don't have enough power to run otherwise. I only have a 50amp single phase in my shop now and several tools that require more power. It will be on a separate panel although it will be tied into the same building ground.

Is it common for generators to be dual voltage like motors? I would rather run 208V instead of 480V. Looking at the wires coming out of the generator section it looks like the generator might be dual voltage. I am assuming I will also need to replace or adjust the voltage regulator. If it can't be changed I will probably try and find a step down transformer.

Anyone know of a source for manuals or wiring diagram for these generators? Anyone changed the voltage output of a generator?

Thank you.

 

[Stuart in MN]

If it's a 12 lead generator, the leads can be connected in various ways to get different output voltages: http://www.electrical-contractor.ne...cs/148753/12_Lead_Stator_Generators_Sche.html I'm not an expert on reconfiguring them so there may be other things you need to do.

You can also try calling your local Kohler dealer to see if they can help.

 

[east_tn_emc]

You might want to check over on smokstak.com. They have a generator section with one forum dedicated to the Kohler diesel generators. Often these heavy duty generator heads are reconnectable so as to generate different voltages, but you really have to understand how the generator head is wired, and the limits of the rest of the generator.

That looks like a nice unit. I guess that with propane that wet stacking with such a large unit will be a nonissue.

 

[kaffine]

Thanks for the links. Looks like someone might have already converted it to 208V. At least the connections don't match that shown for 480V will need to verify if it is 208V or another voltage.

The smokestak forum seems to have lots of info on them. It is a lot older than I would have thought.

Will need to see if I can get a power meter for it and see just how much power I use. Not sure what would be the largest load. I have a welder that can pull up to 108A at 208V and then the table saw and dust collector will be close to 18hp combined. Although I doubt I will ever have either running at full power.