Generator repair, 1000 watt

18 uF is a capacitor value, 220 VAC is its operating voltage. Other numbers are probably the manufacturer's part number. Best bet is a motor starting capacitor. Not sure what it would be used for on a generator, but capacitance value typically isn't real critical as long as the operating voltage is at least as high as what's marked, so if you can get close go ahead at try it.

If you're near a big city, try a place that re-winds electric motors. Otherwise, an industrial supply place, either local or mail order, is probably your only other option. An electrical supply house or an air conditioning repair place might have something similar.

Any idea why it fried? Capacitors have been known to self destruct, but it doesn't happen very often. Overvoltage condition, maybe?

Keith

I don't think a TV/VCR and a box fan would be any where near full load for a 1000 watt generator. In fact, consumer type generators often work better if they're loaded close to capacity; better quality power and better regulation.

If it were mine, I'd look carefully at the generator windings to see if maybe something shorted. Look for a spot that looks overheated. Too much current through the capacitor could cause it to overheat.

If you don't see anything, you could try replacing the capacitor & see if it works. Just don't plug in anything electronic like a TV until you're sure its working properly. An electric heater makes a great load for testing, otherwise plug in a couple of light bulbs. Bulbs are a lot cheaper to replace than a TV if it still doesnt' work right.

Good luck,

Keith