Service Questions with Mark & James: Generators Not Working and Changing Blow Bars

Service technicians are the unsung heroes of all industrial and construction equipment, crushers included. Wielding a unique blend of technical expertise and problem-solving prowess and armed with extensive training and hands-on experience, our service technicians play a crucial role in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining crushing equipment. Their dedication to excellence and commitment to resolving issues swiftly make them indispensable assets in an increasingly technology-driven world. Today, Mark and James will cover the important topics of generators not working properly and how to remove your impactor blow bars.

Question: Why is my diesel-powered crusher’s onboard generator not working properly?

Service: First, let’s confirm your output voltage first. With your multimeter, check the power at the main breaker in your panel and set your meter to 600 Volts AC. Please note that your meter should be capable of no less than 600 Volts AC.

Now check the voltage from “leg to leg to leg”, meaning you take one of your meter prongs on each leg. This should read roughly 485 Volts AC. Now leaving the first prong on the number one lead take the second prong and touch the third leg. Again, it should read roughly 485 Volts AC. Now, take the first prong and put it on the second leg and the second prong and touch the third leg. Just like the others, it should read roughly 485 Volts AC.

Q: What happens if the results are below 485 Volts AC?

S: If the results are less than what we want to see, we must check inside the generator. Shut the unit down, making sure to lock out, tag out. Open the top of the generator dust cover. It is about 15” by 15” and will be held on with four screws. Inside you will find a 10-amp blade fuse on one of the lines coming up from inside the generator. Then, just replace the fuse with another 10-amp fuse and close the housing up.

Q: This didn’t fix my problem.

S: Then let’s check the voltage regulator that is located inside of generator housing. These are replaceable and Eagle Crusher’s parts department, or your local Eagle dealer should have them in stock (part #50A3778-MTS). Get one of these and install and check incoming voltage.

Q: This still did not fix my voltage issue.

S: If none of the above steps helped fix the issues, the next step would be to have a local electrician come and check the windings on your generator. This will be done by performing a megger test. It will determine if your internal windings have broken apart.

Q: What should I do if I still have issues?

S: Give us a call! We’re always available to help walk you through the steps and, if needed, the proper further actions.

Question: How Do I Remove My Blow Bars?

Service: Follow the following step-by-step guide to removing your blow bars:

Step 1: Lock out and tag out the energy source.

Step 2: Loosen the impactor lid locks and swing them out of the way.

Step 3: Start the hydraulic unit and use the proper levers to open the impactor lid.

Once it is open, insert the impactor lid safety lock. DO NOT CONTINUE until you have inserted the safety lock.

Step 4: Manually move the rotor so that the blow bar you are going to change is on the top. Once it is in the correct position, insert the rotor lock.

Step 5: Locate the blow bar removal tool on the side of the impactor and place it on the blow bar.

There are two sets of holes in the blow bar. Place the blow bar removal tool in the top holes. Using a crane, lift the blow bar removal tool up slightly to apply slight tension.

Step 6: Remove the wedges by first removing the glue that protects the Allen screws then removing the screws. Finally, using a punch and a hammer, drive the wedges down so that it can be removed.

Step 7: Remove the locking bar that runs through the blow bar.

Once the bar is removed, you can lift the blow bar out to flip or replace.

Q: What if I have more questions or concerns about removing my blow bars?

S: Reach out! We’re available to call or email to help you with any questions or concerns you might have.

By recognizing the invaluable expertise our professionals bring to the table, you and your organization can tap into a wealth of insights that drive continuous improvement and ensure long-term success. If you have any more questions for Mark and James, Eagle’s service department is always available to take your call. Don’t forget to check out Mark and James’ July 2023 Service Questions: Feeders Shutting Off and Flipping Blow Bars.