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tenpin300
Sep 1, 2009, 04:07 AM
I have purchased a 2004 Colemane powermate 5500 generator to replace a 4000w generator which had expired during the northeast ice storm of 2008. I have a 6 circuit Geran transfer box connected to my main panel. My question concerns the hhokup/plugin to the generator. The line from the house is a 4 prong connector which does not mate up with the generator since it has 2 120v outlets and 2 240v outlets.
How do I connect the genertaor to the house to utilize full output of the gennie?
I'm hoping there is an adaptor of some kind but haven't located anything close to what I think would work.

Thank you
Bob

crigby
Sep 1, 2009, 09:15 AM
Hi,
It always helps if model numbers are given. In this case the design inside the head and panel are important. Manuals available here:
Powermate - Product Manuals (http://www.powermate.com/productmanuals.php?cat_id=3)
Peace,
Clarke
Addition: Correct name for transfer box also important and mode of operation. I gather it is GenTran and connectors are at:
http://www.gen-tran.com/eshop/10Browse.asp?Category=PAC

medic-dan
Sep 2, 2009, 09:20 AM
On most portable generators you'll find a single 240 volt outlet large enough to handle the full output of the generator. You "probably" have an L14-30 outlet on the generator. Your older generator "probably" used only a 20 amp outlet, hopefully an L14-20. Your transfer switch should have a 4 prong connector too.

Check the cord to your transfer switch. It needs to be at least 10 gauge.

Like Crigby says, model numbers are important here.