Generator Help

The most common generator problem we come across is the symptom of "Generator starts but stops after I let go of the start button." This ususally is caused by a loss of AC output.

• Do you have AC output during the few seconds it is running?
  YES - Good, next is to find out if you have 12 volts DC at the Ignition coil positive terminal and check to see if you have 12 volts DC at your electric fuel pump. If you loose voltage to the pump or coil it could be a few things: Check your oil and oil pressure switch, Check your fuel pump relay if your model has one (it would be located behind the air filter or carburetor on most models), Check your Printed Circuit Board. Checking the PCB is not so simple, but removing it and visually looking at the condition of the components can usually tell you alot. There should be no burns on it anywhere. If there are any signs of corrosion at all it is likely that the integrated relays on the board are sticking or stuck open.
  NO - No AC output at this point could mean a few things: 1. Major component failure (Stator, Rotor, Voltage Regulator) Call for help if you suspect any major component failure. A major failure usually occurs when it was working fine and shut down or it was working yesterday and not today. 2. Loss of residual magnatizm. This would result in usually getting a AC voltage reading of 3 to 10 Volts AC. This is caused by lack of generator use, sitting unused for a period of a few months, shutting down the generator with a heavy load on it, or a voltage regulator failure. This is easily fixed by anyone with mechanical ability but also familiar with electrical work, it is not a procedure for a novice or timid person. See "Field Flash" below for more information. 3. Brush or slip ring problem - The brushes and slip rings carry DC voltage to the rotor to create the magnetic field to excite the generator and produce electricity. If the brushes wear or can not make contact with the rotor you will not have enough DC voltage going through the rotor to produce electicity.

Generator hunts or surges Coming Soon!

Field Flash Coming Soon!

Rotor check Coming Soon!

Voltage regulator function check Coming Soon!

Electric chock setting Coming Soon!

Older generators Coming Soon!