8 Most Common Generator Problems

  • Leaks. The first generator problem that can arise are leaks. …
  • Low Coolant. The second problem that can cause generator problems are the generator being low on coolant. …
  • No Fuel. …
  • Generator Failure. …
  • Fuel Leaking Into the Tank. …
  • Dead Battery. …
  • Control Malfunction. …
  • Block Heater Wear.

What is the common problem of generator?

The single most common generator problem is neglected maintenance. Think of the engine on an industrial generator the same as you would the engine in your car. It is well known that there are going to be problems if you don’t check the engine’s components for wear and tear in addition to preventative maintenance.

What would cause my generator to stop working?





Oil levels that are too low can cause generator shutoff. Generators will still start with low oil, but newer models have a “low oil shutoff sensor” that will automatically kill the engine when oil levels are too low in order to prevent running of the generator with no oil.

What causes a generator to run but no power?

Loss of residual magnetism may be caused by the generation being out of use for a while, having a connected load when the generator is shut off, running your generator for too long with no load, or if your generator is new, it could have lost residual magnetism from long distance transportation vibration.

How do you reset a generator?

The Most Ideal Way to Reset Generator Circuit Breakers

  1. Reduce the load by unplugging most, if not all, of the appliances in the circuit.
  2. Power down the generator then perform the toggle cycle.
  3. Start the generator again.


How do I get my generator to power again?





Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Started again is hold the trigger wide open. And then I'm going to grab the Chuck. And turn it into the reverse. Position.

Do generators have a reset button?

The overload reset button is available for a maximum of five times for each full start of the generator. Shut down the generator and restart using the power switch in order to refresh the number of resets.

How do you fix a generator that will not produce electricity?

Plug in a light, turn on the generator breaker or switch and start the motor. Connect the battery +12 volts (red cable) to the red wire on the terminals you removed for three seconds. Remove your wires and replace the plug. The generator should now be producing power again.

How do I stop my generator from tripping?

To fix this, you should properly clean the switch and get rid of any moisture or dust. Make sure the switch is properly in place. In some cases, the generator will trip as soon as you connect the load to it. This is usually because either the load is too heavy or there is an external short circuit.

How would you get a generator to work after it has lost all of its residual magnetism?



All Answers (6)



If a generator lost its residual magnetism, it should be excited separately i. e. from an external power source up to gaining the essential magnetism. This is also done for the first time operation of a new generator.

How do you fix a generator that won’t start?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Oil that's flammable make sure you have a straw at the end and if your generator won't start just go in the carb. And spray it in there.

Do generators have fuses?

Replace Fuses and Circuit Breakers



If your portable generator is running but not generating power, it may have blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker. Resetting the breaker and replacing blown fuses will easily solve this.

How do you troubleshoot a portable generator?



If fuel stale fuel is the suspected problem, the tank should be drained and fresh fuel added. You should also check that the fuel shutoff valve is not engaged. If this does not resolve the problem, it is possible that the stale fuel has clogged the fuel lines, engine, or fuel pump.

What causes generator to stall?

Prevent Vapor Lock



Vapor lock happens when the fuel you use in your generator overheats and vaporizes too quickly (source). It produces gas bubbles that can block the fuel delivery. This, in turn, stalls your generator and it will not restart until the engine has cooled off.

Why generator stops after a few minutes?

For the successful startup of your generator, the choke needs to be in full choke position. After a few minutes, it must be moved to half choke and then into run position. Not making these changes will result in an imbalance between air and fuel, causing the generator to shut down.

How do you fix a generator that won’t stay running?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: You can try cleaning the carburetor with carburetor cleaner to eliminate the clog. If cleaning is not effective you can often purchase a carburetor repair kit to replace some of the components.