A time-stepping coupled finite element-state space approach was developed for synchronous machine unbalanced impedance load and balanced/unbalanced rectifier load operation, in the natural time-domain ABC frame of reference. Synergism between the space and time harmonics was inherently included in the simulated results by use of this approach. It offers an effective and powerful tool for synchronous machine design before prototype construction. A time-stepping coupled finite element-state space (CFE-SS) algorithm is applied to the modeling and analysis of the time-domain steady-state performance of high speed salient-pole synchronous generators when feeding unbalanced loads under sustained durations. This includes the effects of such unbalances on individual damper bar time-domain current profiles and losses, iron core losses, machine parameters (inductances) and other performance characteristics. For practical types of ac aircraft generator unbalances detailed in this work, it was found that such losses can increase by as much as 33.80% of their values under balanced steady-state rated load condition for an example 2-pole, 120 kVA, 24000 r/min salient-pole synchronous generator.