[PennJersey]

I got a portable generator to use when power goes out and I was hoping someone could let me know what a 3 prong circular 120v21a outlet would be used for? The generator also has a dc 12v 8a posts...any ideas what they would be used for? I can post pictures if needed. Thanks!

 

[oh'mike]

Post that picture----I think half of our members are off shopping--so be patient---

 

[Arnold Ziffel]

Try posting the manufacturer and model number, and a link to a picture of it.

If the 12 volt, 8 amp posts are what I think they are, they are for charging a storage battery. Hard to tell without more information.

 

[micromind]

20 amp 120 volt twistlocks are very common on large construction sites. Some contractors do not allow straight blade (household) cords.

The 12 volt posts are for charging 12 volt batteries. Be careful, the typical output is usually somewhere between 15 and 18 volts, and the voltage is not regulated. If you're not careful, you can boil a battery dry.

 

[PennJersey]

Hope this picture helps I had to take it on my cellphone. Thanks for the replies!

 

[Thurman]

By golly the poster was correct, the twist-locks are 21 amp outlets. But note: The third one is a four (4) pole connector with two (2) circuit breakers and the poles are split in a way I have never seen. Interesting.

 

[PennJersey]

By golly the poster was correct, the twist-locks are 21 amp outlets. But note: The third one is a four (4) pole connector with two (2) circuit breakers and the poles are split in a way I have never seen. Interesting.

I know, had to get this generator when Sandy hit, not the one I wanted at all but I guess need to be thankful that I got one.

 

[TTW]

The main reason for using a 120v twist lock is to prevent the cord from inadvertently being pulled out of the receptacle.
It also absolutely ensures that the cord is plugged into a 20 amp outlet.

 

[AandPDan]

There is no such thing as a 21 amp outlet. It might be fused at that but they come in standard 20 and 30 amp ratings.
It looks like an L5-20, 120 volt 3 wire. You could make up an adapter to use it to power an RV.

The third outlet is an L6-20 or 30. The tab at the top is the ground, the ones on each side are the two hot legs, the botton is the "neutral."

It should say on it, somewhere.

 

[joed]

The 12 volt terminals are just that 12 volts DC. Use them to power 12 volt equipment like might be found in an RV or to charge 12 volt batteries.

 

[mpoulton]

The 12V output on generators is often very poorly regulated and is intended only for charging batteries, not directly powering DC loads. If you want to use it for 12V equipment, connect a 12V lead acid battery to it (motorcycle size would be convenient) and run your 12V equipment from that.