A diesel-generator governor is hunting. After changing the oil, the governor is flushed and the compensation needle valve is adjusted, but the hunting persists. You should NOW __________.

Correct Answer: Option D — carefully check for binding in the governor linkage

When governor hunting persists despite oil changes, flushing, and needle valve adjustments, external control linkages must be inspected for physical binding, friction, or slop that prevents the hydraulic feedback system from stabilizing.