Too Much Time Spent in the Choke Position (Portable Generators) Change it to half after a few minutes, and then to run after a few more. If the choke is left in the fully choked position for an extended period of time, generators may stop running after a few minutes of operation.
In This Article...
Why does my generator keep going out?
In case of an emergency, generators are frequently employed as power sources. During a blackout, they often act as a backup power supply. Some issues are not discovered because they are not used frequently. Additionally, if generators are not frequently maintained, there is a higher chance of mechanical failure as they get older.
The majority of issues can be found during monthly inspections, which should also involve running the generator for at least 30 minutes and testing the transfer switch. However, not all businesses place a high priority on routine maintenance, which means that if a problem arises, it may restrict or completely halt a generator’s ability to produce electricity. An emergency inspection, which can take six times as long to complete as regular maintenance, is sent out with a professional.
Emergency checks typically turn up one of the following seven issues:
Lack of a battery. The most frequent reason for generator failure is battery failure. Most often, weak connections or sulfation buildup—a condition in which lead sulfates gather on cell plates—are to blame for battery failure.
inadequate coolant. When they get too hot, generators are made to shut off. A generator that doesn’t have enough coolant isn’t ready to run for a long period, which could cause it to fail just when a facility needs it most.
Energy Leak. Fuel leaks are typically discoverable during routine maintenance because of the stench that is released. It may be a damaged fuel line or a defective fuel pump if they are found while a generator is running.
Oil Spill. Wet stacking, a problem where oil, fuel, and other liquids accumulate in a generator’s exhaust pipes as a result of carbonized fuel injection tips and defective crankcase breathers that release excessive amounts of oil as the generator vents, is what causes oil leaks.
Errors in control setting. Because controls were left in the wrong position after repair or testing, many generators have trouble starting. After a fault shutdown, a control error could potentially happen if the correct resetting method is not used.
bleed back fuel Air in the injection system or damaged check valves may be to blame when fuel leaks back into a generator’s fuel tank instead of getting to the engine. In either scenario, the generator acts as though it is running low on fuel.
Unfilled fuel tank. Empty fuel tanks are frequently the result of stuck fuel gauges or fuel gauges that display incorrect amounts. Empty tanks can also occur when a generator is tested on a regular basis without the fuel being checked.
Why does my generator start, but it does not continue to run?
Gasoline injectors can become clogged and prevent fuel from flowing through the combustion system, leading to a number of issues like difficulties starting or operating under load. Additionally, it might lead to higher fuel use or gasoline leaks (source).
To test, access, and replace a fuel injector in a diesel generator, follow these steps:
Get some cleaner, like the Gunk PCD14T Instant Parts Cleaner & Degreaser (link to Amazon), and some inexpensive plastic tubing, and then follow the instructions in this video if you want to try cleaning the fuel injector:
Clean the Carburetor if It Is Clogged
One of the most likely reasons why your generator stops working after a few minutes is a blocked carburetor. The fuel in the float bowl of the carburetor may be gummy and sticky or it may become clogged. Leaving fuel in the engine for an extended period of time frequently results in this.
Over time, some fuel additives will evaporate, leaving behind a thick, sticky fuel that might clog the carburetor’s ports and jets. This will then cause issues with the engine’s performance.
Draining the float bowl and cleaning the carburetor with something like Berryman Products Chem Dip Carburetor Parts Cleaner are both necessary steps (link to Amazon). You can get rid of sticky fuel, grease, sludge, and hard carbon by using carburetor cleaners. As a result, it can quickly clear a clogged carburetor.
To replace gaskets and other components, you might require a carburetor repair kit, which is available on Amazon or in local shops.
You might need to replace your carburetor if cleaning it isn’t enough to keep your generator working.
The performance of an engine can be enhanced by buying and installing a new carburetor (link to Amazon). They are reasonably priced, but I personally prefer to simply replace a generator’s carburetor rather than disassemble, clean, and rebuild it.
Cleaning is still a more affordable choice, and even if nothing else, it’s a useful step in the troubleshooting process to make sure that you have actually located the problem’s root.
In this YouTube video, some of the problems that the carb may be causing are explained, along with tips for cleaning it.
A Quick, but Temporary Fix
You might be able to get your generator operating using Sea Foam if it breaks down when you need it and you think it has to do with the fuel system (link to Amazon).
I now frequently use this stuff in all of my little engines because I have grown to love it.
If the issue is old, sticky fuel, using these things can be helpful. Nevertheless, you will eventually need to clean the carburetor, fuel filter, and other involved parts.
Why does my generator operate for twenty minutes before turning off?
Be aware that occasionally, a problem with the oil levels may cause the generator to shut off after a brief period. It’s possible that the engine’s oil level is either too high or too low.
The generator will start if the oil level is too low but stop after a short while. The oil temperature rising too quickly is usually what triggers the cutoff. The engine is alerted to stop running as a result of this.
On the other side, if the oil level is too high, the sensor will signal that the engine needs to be shut off.
Solution:
Examine the oil level. Simply maintaining proper oil levels will take care of this issue. Additionally, doing this will address issues beyond the initial query. Additionally, it will ensure that your generator runs efficiently.
What are the typical reasons for generator malfunction?
The majority of gasoline tanks are left unused for long periods of time, which can result in serious fuel issues, the most frequent cause of generator failure. Neglected fuel tanks can result in silt buildup and tainted fuel, which can seriously harm your generator and degrade newly added fuel.
You have two choices if your generator has been sitting idle for a long time between power outages: spend a lot of time and money draining and refilling your generator’s fuel tank, or seek the assistance of a professional for trustworthy fuel cleansing services.
Additionally, it’s essential to regularly check your fuel levels. When fuel is left to sit for a long time, mechanical gauges may not always be completely accurate. Your generator may experience problems if its fuel tank is either empty or overfilled. Regular fuel testing will notify you when levels are low so you can prevent system failure caused by low fuel.
Is there a reason why my generator cuts off after 30 minutes?
The fuel tank could pressurize or even turn into a vacuum seal when the temperature outside rises if the gas cap doesn’t monitor the pressure or vacuum. As the tank warms up, the gas expands and needs more air space to breathe and maintain a balance between the pressure inside the tank and the atmosphere outside.
It’s possible for a vacuum to form while the fuel is gravity-drained to the carburetor if the gas cap doesn’t allow air to balance. If a vacuum occurs, the fuel will stop flowing until the vacuum can be let to equalize with the outside air. If this occurs, you will hear a burst of air entering the tank when you open the gas cap. Fuel cap has to be replaced because it is broken. It is advised to call our tech line for evaluation and/or replacement if you believe you have these symptoms.
Call 1-877-338-0999, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to access our tech support line.
What occurs if a generator is not loaded enough?
If left unchecked, underloading can seriously harm a diesel generator because the tiny wear and tear it produces will mount up quickly. A diesel generator must work much harder to reach its operating temperature when it is underloaded. Your glowplug will be put under stress, as will the diesel engine. Low cylinder pressure caused by underloading forces your diesel generator to work harder to maintain efficiency and promotes the buildup of soot that can soon clog your cylinders. When these problems come together, your generator will shut down very quickly.
Glazing is by far the most severe and horrifyingly frequent problem that can result from operating your diesel generator underload. Glazing happens when the generator’s operational temperatures aren’t met because to underloading. Your piston rings gradually become clogged by the viscous, syrup-like substance produced by the unburned fuel. The obstruction damages the piston rings’ ability to produce a seal, allowing combustion exhaust gases to pass through the piston rings of your generator. Your diesel generator will swiftly be destroyed by the hard, ceramic-like covering that is produced by the hot gasses that flash bake the substance.
What causes underspeed in a generator?
A 10kW (ESP rating) generator can only produce 10kW of power using the fuel it uses (plus a little bit for speed governing usually.) Applying 12 kW will result in insufficient gasoline being burned, which may cause the speed to decline and perhaps cause the engine to stall. We refer to this as overloading the generator.
How can I tell if my generator needs repair?
Start-up delays are one of the most important generator warning indications. When this happens, it will take some time for your generator to start. This typically indicates that there is a problem on the inside.
Even though the generator might function flawlessly once it starts, this is still a warning that you need some sort of maintenance. The problem that’s delaying startup will only worsen until it eventually prevents startup altogether.
Visible Signs of Damage
Many issues with generators are apparent. Simply giving your generator a periodic glance might help you spot concerns like frayed or damaged wires caused by bug damage or other difficulties. Another thing you can notice in this is corrosion.
These types of typical generator issues should be covered by semi-annual inspections in order to keep you from losing dependable electricity when you need it most.
No Electricity Production
If your generator isn’t producing any electricity, something is obviously wrong with it. There is an issue if your generator starts up and operates but doesn’t actually produce any electricity. To solve the problem, you’ll probably require some generator maintenance and repair.
In fact, there may be an issue with the connection between the generator and the electrical system in your home. To get it operating again, you might only need to turn the breakers, but any further generator troubleshooting and repair should be left to the experts.
Strange Smells
There shouldn’t be any scent coming from backup generators at all. If you do begin to smell something odd, it probably implies that some electrical parts are burning, there is a leak in the exhaust system, or there is a leak of gas (if that is the fuel your generator uses). Shut off your generator and get in touch with reputable generator mechanics straight away because they are all potential safety risks. Leaving problems like these unaddressed might have disastrous consequences.