Fuel for Thought

Generator Journey

For those who followed my generator installation, I left off with the need for an AGS module or Automatic Generator Start module. That was about a month ago, May has been a busy month. I have since researched, sourced, purchased and installed an AGS in the past few weeks.
After extensive research and a trial unit (which did not suit my application), I decided to go with the Magnum Energy AGS. I have to do some searching for the one I wanted. I was looking for the standalone version instead of the network version. The standalone model will work on just about any generator with electric start - gas, diesel or propane, installed or portable. The network version requires an additional control panel where the standalone version can be adjusted right on the control box.
Installation is pretty straightforward. The unit has eight (8) wire terminals (depending on your application, you may not use them all), I only needed to use 6 terminals for my installation. The instruction manual is very detailed for each application. Make sure to select the proper voltage for your generator (the standalone version works for 12v, 24v or 48v systems) and also set the dip switches to match your generator type. Connect the battery power and generator wires, plug in the cable for the switch that goes in the sleeper, test the unit and mount the switch and AGS module in your desired locations.
The module can be mounted out of the way, since you may not need to make constant adjustments to it, however, if you intend to use the temperature start feature (it can be set to start the generator when a certain temperature is reached to run the air conditioner and cool off the sleeper), make sure to mount the AGS switch in a location to detect the temperature of the sleeper. The switch has an internal thermometer to tell the module when the set temperature is reached.

Personally, I wanted this unit to monitor battery levels, not for temperature control. If my battery voltage drops below 12v (my setting), the generator will start and charge the batteries for 1 hour (my setting is 1 hour but you can adjust the length of time for this from 1 to 5 hours).

There are also a Quiet Time and clock settings for use in campgrounds or areas where you do not want the generator to start during certain hours.

I have had this AGS module installed now for 2-3 weeks. It has performed flawlessly. I think for now, my generator journey is complete. Well, I am considering adding a Fumoto valve to the generator for easier servicing, but that is just a simple part swap during an oil change.

Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn't really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while. That's because they were able to connect experiences they've had and synthesize new things.
-  Steve Jobs

See you down the road,
Greg