Replace the recoil assembly if needed. One of the most common reasons a generator won't start is because the gas is old. Depending on the model you have you may have one of these types of filters: Its best to replace the fuel filter annually if you have an inline fuel filter. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. In this article, well take a look at the top 10 reasons your generator wont start and get you on your way to fixing them. Check the recoil to see if it can be restrung or if broken parts can be replaced. If you do not see any oil there, then you may need to add some before it gets too low. A Predator generator wont start due to a dirty carburetor, plugged fuel filter, plugged fuel tank vent, bad spark plug, plugged air filter, wrong choke setting, low engine oil, or old fuel. It has to be just right for the generator to work smoothly. Clean out the passageways of your generator using a fuel additive. This is because the carburetor bowl gasket may fail to seal properly or internal parts will stick allowing too much fuel into the bowl and causing it to overflow. A buildup of material in the spark arrestor screen will prevent air from moving through the exhaust. However, if the spark arrestor seems to be damaged, replace it. To learn more about this generator, just continue to read our article. Take out the outlet hose from the side of the fuel valve. Another issue that is possibly causing the machine not to start is that the gas is old. Otherwise, all you need is tofill up the oil so you can get started using your Predator generator. Then there is our go-to manual source. Like most other products you can buy today, you can go directly to the company and get your manual off their website. If that works, you can simply charge up the electric starter battery via the 12-volt DC outlet on your generator once its running. To clean out the carburetor, close the fuel valve and then remove the bowl at the bottom of the carburetor. Drain the fuel tank. Get ahold of the right gasoline- 87+ octane or higher unleaded gasoline treated by a stabilizer such as Sta-bil or Seafoam. Ensure that you do not use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol content (E10); that includes E15, E20, or E85 gasoline. This post may include affiliate links. Depending on the price difference, it may be better to replace the recoil assembly over tearing it down and replacing broken components. I would reach out to Champion unfortunately. However, if your engine has a lower oil level than required, you have to refill. If you have an older generator, you may need to replace the starter. Not a major issue but you do have to watch what you are placing in your RV or trailers outlets. Keep reading to learn more about switching on your Predator generator! Replace an ignition coil when you find a break in the continuity. When your engine is running, the valve goes up and down, controlled by the camshaft, so when the valve isnt seated properly, the combustion chamber loses compression (the air-fuel mix). Soak the filter in lightweight oil. This happens when the generator is not level and is instead in a tilt. Also, the oil may be too low. Check the spark plug and clean it if necessary. Use a fuel additive like Sea Foam to stabilize the fuel and assist with cleaning the fuel system. My inverter generator will no longer start ( turn over) when pressing the electric start button. Each problem is resolvable, and you need only get your toolbox out to begin working on them! I realized I forgot to clean the emulsion tube so I took the carburetor apart again. Replace a screen that is damaged. This prevents fuel from getting to the carburetor and your generator will fail to start. (Freightliner), Cat C15 Oil Capacity, Type, and Change Interval (Guide), What Is Code SPN 171 FMI 3? Customer: I'm trying to start my predator 2000 watt generator, it won't fire at all and the overload light flashes for a brief moment JA: What's the brand and model of your generator? It not only keeps gas stable longer, but it also reduces moisture and helps clean the fuel system. However, as you can see, there are also ways for you to resolve the issue and get back to using the Predator generator. It should be .008" - .010" from the flywheel magnet. How to start the Predator 7000 8750 Generator. The fact that it wont start is due to another important part down the line. If it has a low charge, you can attempt to charge the battery. Disconnect all devices and loads from the Predator 3500 generator. Push and hold the Starter Engine Button for three seconds. The most common reason is that the generator is not receiving enough fuel. (Answered). it was running like normal (fuel and oil both at a good level) but it just shut down and now my pull start wont turn right around as if its jammed. When you move it to the run position, it dies almost immediately. My fireman sumec refuse to turn over (fuel and oil ) good levels..When I tried turning it over it will just kick off a bit then go down..I have checked and charged the spark plug. Use a fuel stabilizer to keep gas stable longer. It's best to start with the simplest explanations first and progressively dig into the generator further as needed. Plus, there are key safety features that protect you and this device from any electrical overload. Predator 3500 generator will not start. 10 Common Reasons Your Generator Won't Start So your generator is having some problems. Customer: Checking fuel oil, fuel shut off valve JA: Anything else we should know to help you best? If you have stale gasoline in the tank, youll need to empty out the fuel tank and the carburetor, then refill with fresh gas. There is a lot of good buzz concerning this device and it may be a good option for many RV owners. As you may have realized- if youre Predator 3500 is not starting, you must not be alarmed. Manage Settings These include a plugged air filter, plugged spark arrestor, dirty spark plug, or faulty ignition coil. Do you know what the problem could be?. If your carburetor needle is stuck, you only need a tap of effort to solve it! Make sure that you use the correct oil that Predator recommends for use with the generator. That is an interesting one. Download The Predator 2000 Generator Manual. Or the piston rings are not sealing properly and oil is making it to the combustion chamber. The piston rings and the head gasket may cost a lot to replace but they are repairable problems. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Removed the bad fuel and cleaned up the carb. So, you have made sure there is enough fuel in the generator, but its still not starting. Not sure what to do next. Make sure the choke setting is correct. This could be just about anything that went wrong with the unit. That is a good deal especially since the Predator model is said to be very quiet and performs beyond expectations. Trouble shooting tips. Replace the line if necessary. Wipe the fuel cap and the area around it. It may be too low or out of fuel. The low oil sensor is designed to keep your generator from starting when the oil is low but if it malfunctions, it can keep your generator from starting no matter how much oil you have. Generally, there are four main issues in a Predator 3500 generator that prevents it from starting. A dirty spark plug may provide an intermittent spark. How To Fix My Predator 3500 Generator Display Screen That Isnt Working? Show more It's cable reimagined No DVR. Ethanol is not good fuel to use in a generator. Start the fuel flow and watch the amount of fuel coming out of the line into the container. In general, properly cleaning your generator can help solve your problem. Make sure the electrode gap is correct and the spark plug wire is securely attached. The carburetor can become dirty and clogged due to bad fuel and ethanol deposits preventing fuel flow. Mix fresh gas with a fuel additive in a fuel can. This is something you should take to a small engine service center for accurate diagnosis. Tighten the spark plug, cylinder head, and head gasket. The fact that it won't start is due to another important part down the line. Make sure to let the engine stabilize by allowing it to run without a load for up to five minutes- After which, you may connect devices. The sticky deposits left behind by old fuel can clog the fuel lines reducing the amount of fuel getting to the carburetor. Posted on Published: June 2, 2022- Last updated: June 3, 2022, How To Fix Canon Printer Printing Black Pages. The easiest way to troubleshoot this is to try starting with the auxiliary recoil starter if your generator has one. When the ignition coil fails it wont provide voltage to the spark plug. Make sure the battery is charged. 4. If the oil is low, check your manufacturers guidelines on what type of engine oil is suitable for your generator. To prime your carburetor, grab the starter handle and gently pull it a few times to allow the fuel to flow into the carburetor. There is a lot of bad fuel going around these days and there can be a build-up in your generators carb if you use a lot of it. If its setting is correct, check that the choke linkage is working properly and the choke is not sticking. The generator will start up when the knob is in the start position. Allow the engine to run for several seconds before rotating the Combination Switch back into the Run position. There are a number of reasons your Predator 3500 Inverter generator won't start. The switch can go bad on a generator with an electric start preventing it from starting. Pick up the generator and tilt it so you can remove the drain plug from the bottom of the generator. Bypass the solenoid to isolate it as the reason for failure. Another source would be a fouled spark plug. Ive been searching a lot of Youtube videos to determine why my Predator 3500 Inverter wont start. The generator is low on fuel If you find any damaged parts, you must replace them using a carburetor rebuild kit or a replacement carburetor. Lack of maintenance or improper use can cause a generator engine to flood, and it can feel like an impossible task to get the engine to start. You could also rain the gas and oil and refill if you keep having issues. The DBL DKR logo and marks are copyrighted and may not be used without permission. May have run if I had realized sooner. Most generators switch on using a similar mechanism. Alternatively, you can use jumper cables to jump-start your generator battery using your car battery. Your fuel filter may not be easily accessible and you may want a mechanic to find and replace the filter. There's not enough gas, or the gas has not been changed in a while. A metal tank can develop a rust hole. Drain the fuel tank and fill it with fresh fuel. All generators I know of are fitted with a low-level oil switch. Add oil if the level is low. The link to the instructions at Harbor Freight is found at this link. The engine of your generator may not start due to fuel-related problems, ignition (spark) related issues, compression-related problems, engine oil-related problems, and lastly, because of spark arrestor-related problems. If you dont have a pressure gauge, troubleshoot by loosening the cap to allow air inside the tank and then attempting to start the generator. With a fresh battery, new gas and plenty of oil, it still wont fire. Dade Group LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking toAmazon.com. It will however start up with no problem with the pull cord. On the other hand, if you had been running your generator recently and just turned it off briefly, the engine will still be warm. My. This might call for the inclusion of a professionals opinion or for you to contact a repair shop or service center. It must then be adjusted to off once the engine is warm. I use this product in every tank of gas to help reduce the issues that can result from using fuel with ethanol. When you find you have the correct engine oil level and the low oil sensor stays on, you may have a faulty sensor. Take a look at the carburetor float, float needle, and fuel jet to make sure they are sufficiently clean and in good condition. Otherwise, proceed with cleaning. It has only been ran one time for about 4 hours then gassed up getting ready for bed and it shut off. This is a situation where you simply have too many electrical devices plugged into the generator. (Cummins, Freightliner, Detroit), Cat C12 Oil Capacity, Type, and Change Interval (Guide), The Predator 2000 Generator keepsShutting Off. Test the ignition coil using an ohmmeter. Ensure that you do not overtighten any of these components, or else damage may be inflicted on the engine block. Because I am completely dumbfounded at this point. 1) It's low on oil Check the oil level in the crankcase. The sensors disable this in an effort to minimize possible damage. Sometimes, the low oil level can be a false reading by the oil sensor. Use a brush and towels to clean out any fuel debris and use a sewing needle or safety pin to clean out the brass jet nozzle. Replace if it is faulty. If the system is working fine, move on to the next possible option. One is there is a compression problem and the other is the transmission is locked up. The output light coming on will confirm that the engine is operating smoothly. We really just want to use it with propane only. Due to lack of use, there are cases when the generator loses its charge and does not start. Predator generators use a variety of air filters. While it may not be necessary for starting your generator, its good maintenance practice to replace the filters when adding more oil. BE2000 or Predator 2000 Generator Won't Start Bruce's Shop 43.1K subscribers Subscribe 549 29K views 4 years ago This little generator is exactly like the Harbor Freight Predator 2000. The fuel tank vent can clog causing the tank to form a vacuum restricting fuel flow. Another website you can use is found at this link. Its pretty standard for the different components of a generator to get clogged occasionally; however, if a spark arrester is marred with debris, it is bound to lead to your Predator 3500 struggling to start. This problem is not much of a performance issue. If you find the choke is stuck, use carburetor cleaner to help free it up so it moves without sticking. Replace the filter if it is in bad condition. Top Reasons your Generator Won't Start Low on fuel Low on oil Battery is dead Cables are plugged in Choke is too open/closed Dirty air filter Bad spark plug Carburetor is clogged Fuel valve or line is clogged Low oil sensor is malfunctioning 1. If your generator is trying to startup but the engine cant seem to turn over, the problem may be too much or too little air mixing with your fuel during combustion. Tried jumping battery. Chad and Rick are the father son team behind Generator Hero. Check the fuel filter on the generator. Oil provides the lubrication needed for the internal engine parts to move freely. Its best to take the generator to a service center to be repaired. If that still doesnt work, you can unplug the hose from the inlet side of the fuel valve to check whether gasoline is able to flow freely through your fuel line make sure you have a bucket handy to collect any flowing fuel when you do this. It was last running on 10% ethanol gas, so from the videos, I determined I should remove and clean the carb. Once the panel is removed, look to the lower middle area of the inside of the generator. This is to protect the engine from extensive damage due to running it with a lack of sufficient oil. You should also add enough oil that the level is suitable for use. Spark ignites the fuel and air mixture to start the engine. Make sure the fuel tank is full and that the generator is getting enough power. Dirt and grass can plug the air filter preventing airflow. Just making clicking sound and pull cord stuck too. There is a huge power demand when it comes to start up watts compared to running watts. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. SOLUTION: Remove the spark arrestor screen from the muffler. If your spark plug tip is very dark in color or damaged, you must replace it with a new one. Low oil levels in the crankcase. Learn about our team here. It can be worrying when you take your Predator generator out for a spin, and when you turn it on, the machine doesnt respond. Ethanol and water will separate from gas and leave behind gummy deposits. SOLUTION: If you find a restriction in the fuel line, turn off the fuel flow, and remove the line from the generator. - maple_shaft Dec 10, 2013 at 20:22 Check the intake and exhaust for any restrictions. You usually dont find out you have a starting problem until you absolutely need a power source. A filter is installed at the bottom of the fuel tank. Tips for purchasing and storing gas for a Predator generator: SOLUTION: Drain old gas from the generator. Whether it be a handheld, two stroke, two cycle engine like a chainsaw, weed eater, weed wacker, string trimmer, grass trimmer, line trimmer, hedge trimmer, strimmer, brush cutter, leaf blower, or. 8. astrozombee 2 yr. ago Mine runs one 1500W unit. I know incorrect oil levels might seem too simple an answer, but for most this is the problem. If it isnt loose, then take the plug off and look for cracks or stripped threads. Whenever starting the generator, you shouldnt have anything plugged in even extension cords that dont have any appliances attached at the other end. Not all starting failures will be the fault of the device. These include: There is too little oil to start running as expected. Finally, another problem that you can run into is that your generator is not starting. You will find that the battery drains at a much faster rate. Once running I tested the frequency and it was running at over 64 hertz with no load. Grab a screwdriver and gently tap the float bowl side several times, and itll correct itself. Was surprised it would not run at all. Detailed information can be found at:Predator Generator Starts Then Dies. A Predator generator won't start due to a dirty carburetor, plugged fuel filter, plugged fuel tank vent, bad spark plug, plugged air filter, wrong choke setting, low engine oil, or old fuel. The choke must be on to restrict airflow when starting a cold engine. 1 Incorrect Oil Level Will Prevent Start. Or, you may find the wiring is getting hot and beginning to smoke. 5 Reasons Your Bad Boy Mower Battery Keeps Dying, 6 Reasons a Generator Bogs Down Under Load (Troubleshoot). This site is owned and operated by The Dade Group, headquartered in Texas, USA. Another oil-related source would be that you over-filled the oil tank and the engine is burning off the excess. If this is too low, the engine is unable to start working. Reasons a Predator Generator Wont Start: Solved! Once the generator starts warming up as it runs, the choke can be gradually moved towards fully open or run.. Ensure the engine runs for five minutes without load so that it may stabilize. A predator generator switches on in one of two ways. Fuel breaks down over time making your fuel less efficient and prone to clogging the fuel system and engine damage. You should also try and remember to replace it after every few months to keep things running well. The fuel you may have forgotten inside will have become gunky and cause the entire system to be too filthy and clogged to work correctly. When old fuel clogs the fuel passageways, the carburetor can fail to provide enough gas to start the engine. Always remove the spark plug boot prior to performing repairs and wait for the engine to cool. Generac Generator Fault Codes List (1902, 1904, 2800, P2601), Kohler Generator Fault Code List (Troubleshooting Manual), Download Onan Marquis 7000 Service Manual and Wiring Diagram, Troubleshooting Predator 2000 Generator Problems (Wont Start), What Is The Diagnostic Code SPN 4357 FMI 5? The spark plug electrode may be wet or dirty. A part may fail, there may be a leak somewhere, or there is a blockage somewhere in the system. Take a look at it to ensure it isnt torn and doesnt have any holes in the screen. The final spot to check would be the valve cover gasket. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. fuel is full. Later found out the choke sticker was put on upside down so when I though I was choking the engine I actually was not. This may be a symptom of a carb that has been fed bad fuel. 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