Have an '86 vintage Coleman Powermate I/C Series 4000W / 4500W Peak generator which stopped putting out 220VAC while running but still puts out 110VAC. Generator had been running fairly constantly for almost 8 days during our recent ice-storm power outage with no problems for first 7 days. Then started making occasional intermittent very short duration electrical whine-like noises (only 2 or 3 times that I noted) and ceased working while under approximate 85% load. I am almost certain that it should be a relatively simple electrical component replacement but not sure how to trouble shoot and can't locate a manual on line.
If you haven't seen it yet, here is a page that may help with a manual or parts list.
This problem sounds kind of bad, generators don't do well when the engine stops under load.
Start by checking the circuit breakers in the distribution box (outlet panel) - you need ot do this with an ohm meter. After that check the power windings of the stator with the ohm meter, be sure to check between the 2 windings (should be open), and from each one to ground with the winding isolated.
Whining, a burning varnish smell, and breakers that trip all the time are indicators of long term overload problems. This could happen if you had most of the load on one winding for a significant amount of time, or if the one winding mostly powered motor-like loads with high startup currents.
You may want to look at this answer I posted some time ago.
Regards,
Carl
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