MEP-005A lessons learned

[admiralking]

As I problem solve my recently purchased MEP-005A, I wanted to use this thread to show everyone issues I've encountered which the Tech Manual didn't address. First, the fuel selector switch. The plate for this switch should be above the main tank fuel cap. If it is painted over or missing, here is the proper selection choices:

 

[admiralking]

I had a leaking fuel line that needed replacement. I couldn't find the proper size of the AN fittings so I mistakenly ordered AN-6 hose & fittings from Summit Racing. The proper size of these fuel lines is AN-5. Here is a photo of the replacement hose my local auto parts store made for me:

 

[admiralking]

If you run into the issue of no fuel exiting the day tank towards the 2nd fuel filter, remove the fitting which connects the day tank to the hose. This one was rusted shut. It is currently soaking in CLR.

 

[johnray13]

A guy on Smok-Stak turned me on to Berryman's B-12 Chemtool (it's a carb cleaner). Once you use it you'll swear by it. If you've got some gummy fuel fittings and parts, this stuff is amazing. I highly recommend it.

 

[admiralking]

This is a photograph of the fuel injector pump. The injector lines exit towards the rear and the front points towards the radiator. Notice the circular dial which looks like the speed control on a lawn mower (it's rust colored in this photo). It is supposed to be wired in place to the rear (counter clockwise). Your set will not start if it is turned clockwise (as shown in the photo).

 

[admiralking]

The MEP-005a (30kw) & MEP-004a (15kw) have one oil filter and two fuel filters. The Napa part number for the oil filter is 1004 and the two fuel filters are 3540.

 

[admiralking]

If you haven't watched Matt Verley's YouTube videos on these gen sets you are missing out on very valuable information. His YouTube username is sewerzuk. He brings the tech manuals to life and will definitely give you the confidence to refurbish one of these "great pieces of military history".

http://m.youtube.com/user/sewerzuk?gl=US&client=mv-google&hl=en

 

[M35A2-AZ]

Thanks for all the info.

 

[RayK]

Do you happen to know the PN for the small primary filter?

 

[admiralking]

See TM 5-6115-465-12. The small canister is the water separator. Oil and water don't mix and water is naturally heavier so it sinks to the bottom and can be drained. Inside it contains the "fuel strainer". On page 3-10, section 3-26. "Fuel filter and strainer assembly" gives the procedure to service these items. The fuel strainer should be removed and cleaned but not discarded like the filters. I don't have a part number.

 

[admiralking]

When preparing to start the generator for the first time, flush the radiator several times first to remove any sediment in the bottom hose and radiator. I tried to drain the radiator with the petcock but it was completely clogged with rust colored sludge. I had to remove the nearby drain plug and flush the radiator several times.

 

[armyrino]

Good evening. I have just picked up another mel-005a. Ive worked on a few of these units. Ive got everything all fluids filters etch replaced. All parts and wiring are in tact and no broken that I can see. The problem I'm having is that I have no power at the control panel. I don't get anything when I turn the start switch to on and even the battle switch doesn't do anything. I wanted to see if anyone had any tips before I start tracing down wires and testing with meter. Thanks

 

[Guyfang]

Everything starts with the special relay box. The cannon plug on the back of the control panel goes there. So unscrew both, and screw them back together. Check that the ammeter shunt is not burnt through. Then check ALL the canon plugs on the special relay box. If nothing works, pull the special relay box out, open it up and have a look.

 

[armyrino]

Electrical issues.

Everything starts with the special relay box. The cannon plug on the back of the control panel goes there. So unscrew both, and screw them back together. Check that the ammeter shunt is not burnt through. Then check ALL the canon plugs on the special relay box. If nothing works, pull the special relay box out, open it up and have a look.

Thanks good idea. Ill start there. Ive messed with so many its good to get a fresh idea sometimes. Lol. Ill keep everyone posted

 

[Guyfang]

Do the panel lights work? Or the S-7 battle short light, when you turn it on?

 

[armyrino]

No they do not. Nothing works. I havr 24v to the starter.

 

[Guyfang]

Measure at the MT4 ammeter shunt, in the control panel. If you have no power ther, then start with the plugs and SP-Relay box (Special Relay Box). Does it look like the SP-Relay box has been removed? Or fiddled with?

 

[armyrino]

Going to look into this now. Ill report back asap