Your not cheap, your practical. And that is what we all should be. Love the way you grow everyday in self sufficiency, I'm very proud of you and your family for raising you with such good qualities. Always looking forward to your videos.
I agree. Problem seems to be getting worse so likely some bad gas or sediment. Could be DIY clean but some of those carbs can be a pain. May be able to get a new one cheap on Amazon. I got tired of fiddling with a 50+ year old carb on my Deere, replaced it with a Chinese knockoff for $25 and it runs like a top again.
Hi Jenna, you have lots of good advice from people here about your generator ! I'm a mechanic and i have many small motors around i need to keep running. Our canadian fuel has so much ethanol and so many environmental additives that break down and cause sludge in the carb and fuel pump. I use seafoam fuel additive. It will keep fuel from breaking down, but more importantly it will help to clean out that carb and fuel pump without taking them apart. You don't have to use it with every tank, but i'd run a couple of tanks through with a good strong mix, then do it periodically. Doesn't hurt to replace the sparkplug (not your problem here) and fuel pumps are cheap and easy to replace as well, They have little diaphragms in them that can become gummed up with our fuel.
Good reply towee70. In upstate NY, we can buy non-ethanol gas at the Stewarts shops, which are pretty widespread. When I watch Mustie1's channel, though, he can't get non-ethanol in New Hampshire, where he lives. If it's banned in a state, that seems badly wrongheaded.
@ , it’s all ethanol and additives here in Canada. They don’t even mark it at the pumps anymore. Premium contains less. It’s unreal how fast our fuel breaks down.
@ me too. Keeps things clean. I use it in my premix too since those small carbs on chainsaws, weed eaters, etc are so small and easy to clog up with gunk and varnish from our fuel.
The pull starters are can usually be re-attached so that the pull handle faces in the most suitable direction. It helps if I can brace myself with my foot against the generator. I pull the cord until the engine is rotated into its compression stroke then allow the cord to go back into the starter so that the amount of rope sticking out is very short, that gives the longest pull.
Hey Girl i am a small engine mechanic and the starter runs for a few seconds then the bendix kicks out and stops turning you need to replace the bendix on the starter or replace the entire starter. A good shop should be able to help you out pretty cheap or try it yourself amazon is your friend Good Luck
how would you explain the fail start at the end when she tried to use the pull cord? from my point of view, the starter is working as intended and disengages when it sees enough RPMs(personally not familiar on how it sees that) to start the engine but its not starting. she also mentioned that it smelled like fuel so my though is that its getting too much fuel(float not sealing). she can try turning off the fuel feed and use the remote to run through like around 10 starting cycles to see if it will start. that process would basically be removing fuel from the float and eventually get the correct fuel mixture to start. diag process is lengthy but it might be cheaper than taking it to a shop. if anything she can use her drill to run the engine. th-cam.com/video/St3WTbBPywE/w-d-xo.html proceed with caution
@@MHawkeye a starter is not designed to stop turning the engine at any rpm it turns the engine until you release the switch (Manually like she tried with the button ) not remote The Bendix (gear ) engages with rpm and the way i see it the more info she has the better off she will be at figuring it out for herself
@@sklote1964 seems like youre explaining the mechanics of the starter in a similar way to what I mentioned earlier. can you answer my question? how would you explain the fail start when she used the pull cord at the end?
When a small engine won't start: Fuel filter, air filter, spark plug. 90% of the time, that will fix it. If not, drain the fuel and replace with fresh. I'm less than 5 min. into the video so I'm guessing you found the problem. 👍
Think these are based like motorcycles Fuel filter Spark Carb rebuild possibly gummed jets Stator is another that goes out Voltage regulator if it's still starter also could be the spark plug wires Sound of it though no spark it could be very simple or very very long teardown and rebuild
Good morning from Hants County. I think that you should change the oil in the generator. It looks well past due. The other relatively cheap items are to replace the spark plug and fuel filter . Regular maintenance before winter arrives is good peace of mind. Cheers .
starter solenoid is disengaging after approx. 2 seconds after you try to start. you can hear the solenoid kick out and all you hear is the starter motor but the gas engine is not turning over. Oh the oil below your comes as your filter has oil in it and it runs to the bottom where it mixes with rain water and you end up with the white stuff ! That is why it has 2 small openings at the bottom to drain out. 😃 Oh!! If you look at 6:07 when you check your oil you can see your solenoid it is the silver thing with the red and black wire. Clean the wires and look to see if mice have been chewing on them . Also if you take a screw driver and bridge the black and red wire it should start (you will see some sparks which is normal)
You beat me to the punch Just thinking the same thing. I just had the same issue with my generator. I’ve got a generac 8000 watt push button/ pull start
I garbage picked a snowblower last spring - the problem was the electric starter motor has a spring inside to pull back the gear that drives into the engine flywheel - and it has a very wimpy spring that pulls back the gear (disengage) - without that spring working - the gear does not 'throw' into the flywheel gear - so - cleaned it - now works - I wish we guys could go down and help a girl / women that is totally worth helping - for sure someone that would appreciate it
All of my engines I add 1oz sea foam per every gallon gas helps keep carb clean removes water from fuel and it is also a preservative for the gas and no more problems.
It is too bad that allot of us guys watching would LOVE to help Women that are so motivated to be independent - sort of an oxymoronic comment since you would NOT be as independent - we need better education on basic home tools for GIRLS and guys
@@TotalFreedomTTT-pk9st I agree with the needing more education on tools for home repair for girls. Maybe a school class for girls and guys could be put in place?
Agreeing with others, sounds like a fuel, fuel line, carburetor issue. The starter is turning the engine, sounds like fuel system. That gunk looks related to dirty fuel or poor spark. Good luck!❤❤😊😊😊
I would still take the generator to a trusted mechanic and have it tuned up and given a good full system check . My luck would be wait and see how things go and when there's a blizzard and I need power it wont crank at all . Boy scout motto "be prepared" . Winterize means check to see if all things are top notch , but it's up to you how you feel . A lot of good advice on here about the starter and also the carburetor needing a good cleaning . You are living cheaply but you don't necessarily need to go cheap on your equipment . Have a good day doll :)
As a small engine mechanic myself like others have suggested I would say it’s a starter issue. The starter is kicking out way too soon. Since when it does start, it runs really good with no surging, so that tells me it’s not a carburetter issue, like some have suggested incorrectly.
I do dread Winter every year. Down here in West Virginny, we are hung-up in an Artic blast. It's been f-f-fr-frigid and flurries for days. It was 13° this morning 12-4-24. Good luck with the Jenny!😎👍
Hey Jenna! Another great video. Goldiesdaddy here. Before taking the generator to repair, check the hoses and gas filter around the carburetor to look for loose or split fittings. Should be easy, for you. You’re so handy!
If you are uncertain about the oil level sensor you can unplug that sensor wire and then try to start the generator. The oil level sensor is usually found on the side of the engine casting close to the bottom of the engine crankcase. On my generator it is a single blue wire going up to a silver cube about 1/2inch. NOTE: be sure to reconnect the oil level sensor otherwise your engine may get low on oil and destroy itself. I have been slightly overfilling the generator oil level for the last 20 years, as long as the oil drips out when you remove the dipstick it will be fine.
Jenna, from a 77 year old woman, you are an amazing young woman! I’m in aw at all you know how to do! I’m not mechanically inclined whatsoever! You absolutely blow me away🤗! Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished and all you know! Keep on keeping on!
Generator stuff: Carburetors have an electric solenoid on the bottom of the float bowl that shuts off the flow of gas when the ignition is turned off. Turn the key or switch to the run (not start) position and listen for a little click at the solenoid. If you’re not hearing that, it’s not opening. Quick fix? Take it off and cut the pin off that sticks straight up, then reassemble. Do you have a spark tester that clips on the spark plug and the plug wire attaches to the other end. Crank the engine and see if the spark indicator lights up. If not, could be a bad plug, bad oil pressure switch (if equipped), or an electrical short somewhere. Is it an overhead valve engine, indicated by having a valve cover(s) instead of a finned head? Probably is, and they’re prone to having the valve clearance get out of spec and causing tempers to flare when trying to start them. I doubt it’s a gummed up carburetor because you run this thing a lot, and that typically happens when an engine sits unused for long periods. Lots of good you tube videos on all these glitches, I recommend “Taryl Fixes All”! A bit zany, but good solid no BS repair info in his literally hundreds of repair videos! BTW the crud on your oil filter cover is the oil that was once in the filter, but gravity pulled it out, it mixed with rain water, and turned funky!
1- Unplug your electrical leads before starting! 2- Use Carb Cleaner spray.. in the carburetor 3- Use STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer .. 8 Oz. Protects Engine from Gum , Varnish , Rust , Corrosion. Treats 20 gallons of fuel.. especially if not using your generator for a while 4- Once started only THEN plug in your electrical leads.
Check Spark Plug = [ Clean & Re-Gap + Check & IF Needed, Replace Air Fulter & Fuel Filter ]. IF That's All Good Could Be Ur Fuel Valve OR Dirty Carburetor...
Hello Jenna. I had so many issues with the generators. Started adding fuel additive to all gas now. Has been a game changer! My solar is on the fritz .Always something but that’s ok…
What I am hearing is the starter Drive, we used to call it a Bendix, is disengaging from the flywheel that it is supposed to stay engaged with during the cranking process. You can hear it kick out while spinning and the engine stops cranking but the starter is still whirring. Sure sounds like a starter problem to me. If it'll start with a shot of carb clean, then it's a fuel issue. Probably should think about repairing The Recoil pull cord.
if the float in the carb gets stuck it floods out the engine while it sits, it wont start. should be 2 bolts that hold the carburator on, have the carb looked at or get a new one. im positive the floats the problem.
Small engine tech. here change the spark plug once a year keep one just in case.There is a carb drain screw, drain the carb let gas flow thru it catch the gas coming out see if there is stuff in it , go from there.If you need help get ahold of me
I also am a small engine mech. Only thing that you did not mention is collect gas in a see through jar so you can see if gas has water in it or other stuff.
Make sure you have a bit of starter fluid. You can spray into airfilter if it starts might be fuel related. So carb or fuel line or fuel shutoff( had pulled one that corroded from inside)
Try putting a jumper pack on the battery and see if that helps. When these small engines start with the pull cord they are getting full voltage to the coil. When they won't start off the battery it's usually because the starter is drawing off full voltage from the coil. If that doesn't help you may have a grounding issue.
Change the spark plug ( cheap fix ) and try 93 octane to clean out the carb . Small engines do not like the ethanol they put in regular . Also some tests show some water present in low grade gas . Try using high test gas in Winter -worth the extra cost -all I use year round and seldom have issues .
In case you don't know it's this simple . You know when you pulled that black filter off, right behind there is where you spray all that stuff in their spray it heavy and let all the junk run out and then wipe it down on the outside area
Fuel generated power stations require maintenance on a regular basis. Plug - Oil & Filter - Clean "electrical contacts". Clean fuel. Might have a worn gasket on a head and fuel is foiling the charge to start. Check/clean electric connectors.
The oily milkshake stuff inside the air cleaner is just oil and water mixed together. A little oil comes out of the sponge filter, a little rainwater gets blown in and then it gets churned up by the vibration when it's running. Not a biggie.
great to see u again take on the challenges. Lots of advise for generator coming in . Keep the vids coming and how about a quick update on the generator problem
I agree with bulletproof. If you have access to ethenol free gas, use it. Ethenol and high humidity adds water to your fuel. That was the yellow/white oil in your air cleaner. If you dont have access, keep fuel tank full so you minimize the high humidity air in fuel tank. And yes, replace spark plug.
I work in a rental shop here in n.s., most starting problems are due to water or dirt in the carburetor bowl..turn off the fuel first, remove the bowl, dump the remaining fuel out of the bowl, reinstall it. Turn the fuel valve back on.
Have a 41 year old Honda generator that I use 93 octane gas in ( little or no ethanol ) . Use synthetic oil . Never used stabilizer and seldom use it . Just start it every month or two so the gas may be years old - just add . Honda uses a very expensive gas cap oxygen is the culprit( paid $2,000 for it in 1983 ) . Have a Honda snow blower too . They just seem to be the best . Cry once not twice .
Poor Jenna needs a hug! ❤ Your starter is working because the engine is cranking fine. If you replace the spark plug, make sure you set the gap correctly. These little engines are famous for gummy carburetors. Spray some carb cleaner to remove the deposits.
Always put fuel stabilizer in gas tank (scooter) over winter storeage time but you might know and or do that. Keeps your carbuerator from gumming up. The peice in your air filter looked like a blown gasket and Jennirator prob gonna need service , one day it wont start no more. I think it a internal issue. If they gonna charge to much to repair just buy a new one.
You don’t have to pull that cord. You have a drill and you can simply take off that cord casing and get the right bolt size and turn everything with the drill. Condensation is your enemy and those black hoses need to be checked and cleaned at times. That generator needs to be enclosed with sheet metal and loosely stacked cinder blocks . Hopefully this doesn’t block your remote signal
Many folks with a Car remote start in a really cold climate....often they tweak how long the starting process lasts...as the default start-attempt-duration is not long enough.
You are very competent so I am suggesting that you try to check the valve clearances yourself if you continue to have problems with the generator not starting. Lots of YT videos on generator maintenance including checking and adjusting valve clearances. Not something I would try to do outside in the cold. If you remove the fuel tank you should be able to bring the generator into your camper with your 2 wheel cart or take it to some other more suitable place. After you have checked spark, fuel and oil level that only leaves compression and valve clearances. You can easily check the engine compression by pulling slowly on the pull starter cord. You should feel a definite resistance every second revolution of the engine. Good luck, i hope that you can get your generator problems fixed.
I garbage picked a snowblower last spring - the problem was the electric starter motor has a spring inside to pull back the gear the drives into the engine flywheel - and it has a very wimpy spring that pulls back the gear (disengage) - without that spring working - the gear does not 'throw' into the flywheel gear - so - cleaned it - now works
I ENJOY YOUR VIDEOS FOR SURE, IAM A 73-YEAR-OLD RETIRED SINGLE MAN, LIVING IN KEY WEST FLORIDA, LIVING LARGE. ITS INTERESTING TO SEE HOW OTHERS LIVE. RUSSELL WAYNE BOYD, MAN,MYTH, LEGEND.
Well now, aren’t you something? 73 and single in Florida living high 🤩 You must have more to do than just watching TH-cam videos for such an incredible guy such as yourself. Best wishes, time flies as we get older. I know bc I myself being 68 now. Enjoy 😉
Gypsy, it looks like the pull rope turns the generator motor in the clock wise direction. If you have a strong enough drill and socket you can put the socket on the nut on the shaft and use the drill to turn start the motor. just a thought. I saw the nut when you had the rope starter off.
It's pretty rare for spark to be intermittent . The usual cause of starting problems like this is a fouled carburetor, not unusual at all now that everyone uses ethanol based fuel. This fuel separates after a short period of about 3 months and allows water into your fuel fouling the carburetor. Usually this is not a big issue to take the carb off and have it cleaned.
Great job, I was always told to shut off fuel and burn off gas in the carburetor when storing an engine as far as generator I would look into getting a float/needle valve assembly ($10) and a new spark plug if needed. All the best from the east coast Canada 🇨🇦 NB province.
I'd like to help, In winter I use starter fluid, I open up the air cleaner, open the choke and spray some into the carburetor, close it back up and start. It will usually start.
There’s the sun. Behind the clouds! Sounds about right same here been cloudy for 7 weeks. Sorry you had issues I don’t like issues 😢. Good video! Good seeing you! Stay safe ❤
Sorry for your troubles with the genny. I can't offer any advice but love your videos and now I'm learning a lot. Sticks and bricks have all these PIA type issues as well. Seems like every week there is something else that needs time or money. Thanks Jenna! PS-Your SnS chicken over rice looks amazing, I'm gonna try it.
If you’ve owned it since new. It’s common on those clone engines to need to have the valve lash reset. Improper valve lash will cause a hard to start and as it gets farther out of adjustment it gets harder to start
not sure if your generator runs on gas or what but if it does and uses a spark plug you might want to clean or change the spark plugs. That would help it start better. They get dirty and lose performance when they get used alot.. Good Luck and love and enjoy watching your videos.. keep up the good work.
Check/Replace? spark plug and air filter, keep fuel tank full to prevent condensation creating water droplets from forming in the air space that end up in the bottom of fuel tank then possibly in carb bowl.
This is why in yor previous video I suggested setting up both wind and other alternative energy production like the peltier batteries that can make electricity from the heat produced by your wood stove. As for the genny, sounded like the solenoid on the starter motor is failing and if there is not enough amps, then the starter will spin and then lose connection due to the solenoid failing.
I feel your pain with the generator. I'm on my second one. I hope it was just being grumpy. I need to make your sweet and sour chicken balls! Thank you for sharing the recipe! Your lunches look amazing! All the best to you Jenna! 💐
My genny has been acting up for sure so it's not looking good. Has lasted at least 7 years though so I guess I can't complain lol. I hope you enjoy it if you make it!
Possibly, the colder climate you live in could actually accumulate moister in your gas, then tank & carburator. Adding a small tad of Heet/with carburator fuel line cleaner mixer to gas. Buying gas, filling cans, storing gas and filling tanks in generator, etc., moisture condisation can cause issues.
Check your oil level.get a can of carb cleaner take air filter off and spray you a couple of squirts in breather port while trying to start.next change spark plug.during winter months add stabilizers to fuel.
I found a video on TH-cam about firewood on the AmericanOutdoors channel. It's titled, "So you think you know your firewood? Take a quiz!" I got only 3 questions right. Lol. Obviously, I have a lot to learn before deciding to use woodburning appliances in my home. I really like your setup.
Changing the spark plug will be a good idea ,The starter will turn over slower when getting worn out and can cause issues starting , if you take it to the shop you should have the valves adjusted too , usually the exhaust valve gets out of spec and the valve hangs open which can causes hard starting and other issues. As mentioned the starter is only catching for a few sec could be the culprit.
Three suggestions, a lot of honda Motors and Clones oil dip sticks are only supposed to be put in the hole till the threads on the stick hit the hole then check the stick , your owners manual should tell you . Some have a sticker somewhere around the fill hole . When you pulled the stick, it was about halfway up, and if your generator is tilted, you wouldn't be getting a correct reading, and if it's that low, it probably won't start . Check your spark plug to . Also, if you put oil on the foam air filter, it should be a very, very light amount . Try starting it without the filter on to , that will tell you if it's oil soaked too much . Other than that , drain the fuel bowl andmay have ethanol water build up in it . That's all I got, except you can unhook the low oil indicator, and if it starts, it's probably a bad low oil switch. Got any doubts, take it to a good mechanic. 😊
Water in the fuel. Put some dry gas in it. I would suggest using non-ethanol gas it will eliminate the water issue. Plus it is better for the rubber lines and gaskets. Once you get it running without a problem I would also add some Sea Form Motor Treatment to the fuel. This will clean the carburetor really good.
Low oil pressure shutdown switch...starter works...colder weather = thicker oil. Needs a few more spins to get the oil pressure up. 🤷♂ Just a thought.
See you heard all this guy saying to check the spark plug lol. I have no idea if that was the issue, but I know this is something that I would check. But you’re already on that. Great vlog.
Depending on how many hours are on the Generator you will need to adjust the valves back to spec. A fuel filter change would not be a bad thing. new spark plug and some premium fuel would do it well, but most likely needs carburetor.cleaned.
Odd...... and a bummer. Def a elec gremlin. Maybe the starter solenoid is going bad. Solenoids do that, disengage and stop turning the motor when they are toast. Be blessed GypsyGirl🎄🎄💙💚🙏🙏
The carburetor needs a cleaning. There are two fuel circuits in the carburetor - low speed and high spped. The low speed works to deliver the fuel at low RPMs as when cranking the engine over. That's where your starting issue lies. The high speed circuit takes over after the engine starts. Starting issues usually involve deposits in the low speed ciurcuit. Running issues involve deposits in the high speed circuit. These deposits plug the fuel delivery passages in the carbuiretor. I'm not a fan of "cures in a can" but you might try a 16oz can of carburetor cleaner mixed in the fuel. Run the generator for a hour to see if it works. If not, nothing lost. Just get the carburetor cleaned.
Friend suggested to me about using Sea Foam in gasoline to help with water or ethanol in small engines. Helps clean the Carburetor as well. Also suppested buying pure gasoline to us in small engines. Hope this helps
Might be a moisture issue wen it is not raining and it won’t start try hair dryer near all electrical parts . Then try to start if it works and is found to be the issue buy some wire dryer and apply as needed . Have used it on mud boggens to keep the motor dry and running while submerged .
Battery should be 13.5 or better on the gen set and please try cleaning out the carburetor bowl. Wash the air filter in the kitchen sink with Dawn then let it air dry, no need to put oil on the filter. Take care and stay warm girlie girl.
Suggest you clean the battery posts -- corrosion can cause additional resistance and reduce the starter current. You might use a wire brush. This connections should then be coated with Vaseline once they're clean keep the moisture out.
Your not cheap, your practical. And that is what we all should be. Love the way you grow everyday in self sufficiency, I'm very proud of you and your family for raising you with such good qualities. Always looking forward to your videos.
Thank you so much. I appreciate that!
This channel kicks ass. Cheers from Pennsylvania
First thing I thought of (my Dad's voice in my head) 'check the spark plugs'.
I agree and drain the fuel bowel in the carb there is likely a little water in it
Sounds like the starter isnt engaging the flywheel enough. Thats why sometimes it wont start. Your not cheap your smart😊
Probably needs a carburetor cleanout. Gas these days tends to gum up the jets and carb needs to be torn down and cleaned.
Doubt it's a carb clean out it's either a float or something with the electric start that's a FACT
Does it have an inline fuel filter?
I doubt it has anything to do with your electric start, your carburetor either needs to be cleaned or you need a new spark plug
I agree. Problem seems to be getting worse so likely some bad gas or sediment. Could be DIY clean but some of those carbs can be a pain. May be able to get a new one cheap on Amazon. I got tired of fiddling with a 50+ year old carb on my Deere, replaced it with a Chinese knockoff for $25 and it runs like a top again.
Dirty carb or water in the fuel.
Hi Jenna, you have lots of good advice from people here about your generator ! I'm a mechanic and i have many small motors around i need to keep running. Our canadian fuel has so much ethanol and so many environmental additives that break down and cause sludge in the carb and fuel pump. I use seafoam fuel additive. It will keep fuel from breaking down, but more importantly it will help to clean out that carb and fuel pump without taking them apart. You don't have to use it with every tank, but i'd run a couple of tanks through with a good strong mix, then do it periodically. Doesn't hurt to replace the sparkplug (not your problem here) and fuel pumps are cheap and easy to replace as well, They have little diaphragms in them that can become gummed up with our fuel.
Thanks, I have used seafoam in my scooter before
Good reply towee70. In upstate NY, we can buy non-ethanol gas at the Stewarts shops, which are pretty widespread. When I watch Mustie1's channel, though, he can't get non-ethanol in New Hampshire, where he lives. If it's banned in a state, that seems badly wrongheaded.
@ , it’s all ethanol and additives here in Canada. They don’t even mark it at the pumps anymore. Premium contains less. It’s unreal how fast our fuel breaks down.
@ me too. Keeps things clean. I use it in my premix too since those small carbs on chainsaws, weed eaters, etc are so small and easy to clog up with gunk and varnish from our fuel.
I run Chevron premium no ethanol 94 octane in all my small engines and never have fuel problems. Seafoam works great.
The pull starters are can usually be re-attached so that the pull handle faces in the most suitable direction.
It helps if I can brace myself with my foot against the generator.
I pull the cord until the engine is rotated into its compression stroke then allow the cord to go back into the starter so that the amount of rope sticking out is very short, that gives the longest pull.
Hey Girl i am a small engine mechanic and the starter runs for a few seconds then the bendix kicks out and stops turning you need to replace the bendix on the starter or replace the entire starter. A good shop should be able to help you out pretty cheap or try it yourself amazon is your friend Good Luck
how would you explain the fail start at the end when she tried to use the pull cord?
from my point of view, the starter is working as intended and disengages when it sees enough RPMs(personally not familiar on how it sees that) to start the engine but its not starting. she also mentioned that it smelled like fuel so my though is that its getting too much fuel(float not sealing). she can try turning off the fuel feed and use the remote to run through like around 10 starting cycles to see if it will start. that process would basically be removing fuel from the float and eventually get the correct fuel mixture to start. diag process is lengthy but it might be cheaper than taking it to a shop. if anything she can use her drill to run the engine.
th-cam.com/video/St3WTbBPywE/w-d-xo.html
proceed with caution
@@MHawkeye a starter is not designed to stop turning the engine at any rpm it turns the engine until you release the switch (Manually like she tried with the button ) not remote The Bendix (gear ) engages with rpm and the way i see it the more info she has the better off she will be at figuring it out for herself
@@sklote1964
seems like youre explaining the mechanics of the starter in a similar way to what I mentioned earlier. can you answer my question? how would you explain the fail start when she used the pull cord at the end?
@@MHawkeye Go Away Troll
@@sklote1964
Thats unproductive, I was genuinely trying to have a discussion about the issue. All good, have a good one!
Carb is where I would start as a maintenance project. Spark plug is another easy one. Good job with the pull rope.
Repairs cost these days are high. You are right about using the pull cord. You are very resourceful
When a small engine won't start: Fuel filter, air filter, spark plug. 90% of the time, that will fix it. If not, drain the fuel and replace with fresh. I'm less than 5 min. into the video so I'm guessing you found the problem. 👍
Try carb cleaner, and if you can, run the engine for a little while. Then, change the spark plug .
A can of starting either will usually start the engine if its a fouled plug or tainted fuel or carboration issue,
Think these are based like motorcycles
Fuel filter
Spark
Carb rebuild possibly gummed jets
Stator is another that goes out
Voltage regulator if it's still starter also could be the spark plug wires
Sound of it though no spark it could be very simple or very very long teardown and rebuild
@@NO-GAMESyessssss
@@codiclimenhaga7234low compression, kept getting weaker over time ..
Good morning from Hants County. I think that you should change the oil in the generator. It looks well past due. The other relatively cheap items are to replace the spark plug and fuel filter . Regular maintenance before winter arrives is good peace of mind. Cheers .
starter solenoid is disengaging after approx. 2 seconds after you try to start. you can hear the solenoid kick out and all you hear is the starter motor but the gas engine is not turning over. Oh the oil below your comes as your filter has oil in it and it runs to the bottom where it mixes with rain water and you end up with the white stuff ! That is why it has 2 small openings at the bottom to drain out. 😃 Oh!! If you look at 6:07 when you check your oil you can see your solenoid it is the silver thing with the red and black wire. Clean the wires and look to see if mice have been chewing on them . Also if you take a screw driver and bridge the black and red wire it should start (you will see some sparks which is normal)
Yes, exactly right. How many hours are on it, Jenna? Might be time to get working correctly, sell it, and buy a new one.😎
That's correct!! I was about to type the same thing!
You beat me to the punch
Just thinking the same thing. I just had the same issue with my generator. I’ve got a generac 8000 watt push button/ pull start
😉👌
I garbage picked a snowblower last spring - the problem was the electric starter motor has a spring inside to pull back the gear that drives into the engine flywheel - and it has a very wimpy spring that pulls back the gear (disengage) - without that spring working - the gear does not 'throw' into the flywheel gear - so - cleaned it - now works - I wish we guys could go down and help a girl / women that is totally worth helping - for sure someone that would appreciate it
All of my engines I add 1oz sea foam per every gallon gas helps keep carb clean removes water from fuel and it is also a preservative for the gas and no more problems.
You’re so knowledgeable about all your mechanical stuff. I would be lost but then I’m 73 years old!😂
Oh girl, I'm just learning as I go. I feel pretty clueless with it all most days lol
It is too bad that allot of us guys watching would LOVE to help Women that are so motivated to be independent - sort of an oxymoronic comment since you would NOT be as independent - we need better education on basic home tools for GIRLS and guys
@@TotalFreedomTTT-pk9st I agree with the needing more education on tools for home repair for girls. Maybe a school class for girls and guys could be put in place?
Agreeing with others, sounds like a fuel, fuel line, carburetor issue. The starter is turning the engine, sounds like fuel system. That gunk looks related to dirty fuel or poor spark. Good luck!❤❤😊😊😊
Thanks Rod, I do have a fuel filter still in package that may need to be put on.
Starter is disengaging too soon. It just needs a new starter or the old one rebuilt. It's not a fuel issue.
Low compression
Starter bad
I would still take the generator to a trusted mechanic and have it tuned up and given a good full system check . My luck would be wait and see how things go and when there's a blizzard and I need power it wont crank at all . Boy scout motto "be prepared" . Winterize means check to see if all things are top notch , but it's up to you how you feel . A lot of good advice on here about the starter and also the carburetor needing a good cleaning . You are living cheaply but you don't necessarily need to go cheap on your equipment . Have a good day doll :)
Shot of starter fluid is a quick way to determine if its a fuel or fire issue. Cheap quick way to pin point a no start issue.
Girl! I've got all the same crap right now. It's always something,every *'#$ day.
Sending love and light and positive vibes from Northern Arizona 😘
As a small engine mechanic myself like others have suggested I would say it’s a starter issue.
The starter is kicking out way too soon.
Since when it does start, it runs really good with no surging, so that tells me it’s not a carburetter issue, like some have suggested incorrectly.
how do you explain at the end when she tried using the pull start and it wouldnt fire?
I do dread Winter every year. Down here in West Virginny, we are hung-up in an Artic blast. It's been f-f-fr-frigid and flurries for days. It was 13° this morning 12-4-24.
Good luck with the Jenny!😎👍
Check the spark Jenna
Or get new spark. Change fuel filter spray carb cleaner in carburetor
Hey Jenna! Another great video. Goldiesdaddy here. Before taking the generator to repair, check the hoses and gas filter around the carburetor to look for loose or split fittings. Should be easy, for you. You’re so handy!
That damn squirrel probably
If you are uncertain about the oil level sensor you can unplug that sensor wire and then try to start the generator.
The oil level sensor is usually found on the side of the engine casting close to the bottom of the engine crankcase.
On my generator it is a single blue wire going up to a silver cube about 1/2inch.
NOTE: be sure to reconnect the oil level sensor otherwise your engine may get low on oil and destroy itself.
I have been slightly overfilling the generator oil level for the last 20 years, as long as the oil drips out when you remove the dipstick it will be fine.
Jenna, from a 77 year old woman, you are an amazing young woman! I’m in aw at all you know how to do! I’m not mechanically inclined whatsoever! You absolutely blow me away🤗! Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished and all you know! Keep on keeping on!
Awee thank you so much!
Generator stuff: Carburetors have an electric solenoid on the bottom of the float bowl that shuts off the flow of gas when the ignition is turned off. Turn the key or switch to the run (not start) position and listen for a little click at the solenoid. If you’re not hearing that, it’s not opening. Quick fix? Take it off and cut the pin off that sticks straight up, then reassemble. Do you have a spark tester that clips on the spark plug and the plug wire attaches to the other end. Crank the engine and see if the spark indicator lights up. If not, could be a bad plug, bad oil pressure switch (if equipped), or an electrical short somewhere. Is it an overhead valve engine, indicated by having a valve cover(s) instead of a finned head? Probably is, and they’re prone to having the valve clearance get out of spec and causing tempers to flare when trying to start them. I doubt it’s a gummed up carburetor because you run this thing a lot, and that typically happens when an engine sits unused for long periods. Lots of good you tube videos on all these glitches, I recommend “Taryl Fixes All”! A bit zany, but good solid no BS repair info in his literally hundreds of repair videos! BTW the crud on your oil filter cover is the oil that was once in the filter, but gravity pulled it out, it mixed with rain water, and turned funky!
Spark plug!...check it, check oil , clean the carb.
1- Unplug your electrical leads before starting!
2- Use Carb Cleaner spray.. in the carburetor
3- Use STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer .. 8 Oz. Protects Engine from Gum , Varnish , Rust , Corrosion. Treats 20 gallons of fuel.. especially if not using your generator for a while
4- Once started only THEN plug in your electrical leads.
Check Spark Plug = [ Clean & Re-Gap + Check & IF Needed, Replace Air Fulter & Fuel Filter ].
IF That's All Good Could Be Ur Fuel Valve OR Dirty Carburetor...
Hello Jenna. I had so many issues with the generators. Started adding fuel additive to all gas now. Has been a game changer! My solar is on the fritz .Always something but that’s ok…
What I am hearing is the starter Drive, we used to call it a Bendix, is disengaging from the flywheel that it is supposed to stay engaged with during the cranking process.
You can hear it kick out while spinning and the engine stops cranking but the starter is still whirring.
Sure sounds like a starter problem to me.
If it'll start with a shot of carb clean, then it's a fuel issue.
Probably should think about repairing The Recoil pull cord.
Yes , yes. OMG how obvious is it!!
if the float in the carb gets stuck it floods out the engine while it sits, it wont start. should be 2 bolts that hold the carburator on, have the carb looked at or get a new one. im positive the floats the problem.
Small engine tech. here change the spark plug once a year keep one just in case.There is a carb drain screw, drain the carb let gas flow thru it catch the gas coming out see if there is stuff in it , go from there.If you need help get ahold of me
I also am a small engine mech. Only thing that you did not mention is collect gas in a see through jar so you can see if gas has water in it or other stuff.
Make sure you have a bit of starter fluid. You can spray into airfilter if it starts might be fuel related. So carb or fuel line or fuel shutoff( had pulled one that corroded from inside)
Spark plug take out and scratch clean the tip
Try putting a jumper pack on the battery and see if that helps. When these small engines start with the pull cord they are getting full voltage to the coil. When they won't start off the battery it's usually because the starter is drawing off full voltage from the coil. If that doesn't help you may have a grounding issue.
Change the spark plug ( cheap fix ) and try 93 octane to clean out the carb . Small engines do not like the ethanol they put in regular . Also some tests show some water present in low grade gas . Try using high test gas in Winter -worth the extra cost -all I use year round and seldom have issues .
check the oil by just sticking the rod in the hole, but do not screw it down. the level is low by your checking.
if it fired up maybe the starter itself is going bad
s0len0id
In case you don't know it's this simple . You know when you pulled that black filter off, right behind there is where you spray all that stuff in their spray it heavy and let all the junk run out and then wipe it down on the outside area
Its almost always a fuel issue
Fuel generated power stations require maintenance on a regular basis. Plug - Oil & Filter - Clean "electrical contacts". Clean fuel. Might have a worn gasket on a head and fuel is foiling the charge to start. Check/clean electric connectors.
Fuel. Spark. Air. Either carb is gummed up or the plug is fouled.
The oily milkshake stuff inside the air cleaner is just oil and water mixed together. A little oil comes out of the sponge filter, a little rainwater gets blown in and then it gets churned up by the vibration when it's running. Not a biggie.
Phew! Glad to hear it's nothing overly concerning!
Fuel filter, water in gas or spark plug
great to see u again take on the challenges. Lots of advise for generator coming in . Keep the vids coming and how about a quick update on the generator problem
The bendix drive on your starter seems to be disengaging prematurely. Take the starter off and have a mechanic put a new bendix on it.
For sure, going through these comments frustrates me no end!!
Agreed! Bad starter!
Yep I was going to say the same thing. Needs to spin longer to start. Sometimes It probably would start but in the cold no go.
@@123hoffie
how do you people explain the ending where she tried the pull starter many times and it failed?
Food looks great
I agree with bulletproof. If you have access to ethenol free gas, use it. Ethenol and high humidity adds water to your fuel. That was the yellow/white oil in your air cleaner. If you dont have access, keep fuel tank full so you minimize the high humidity air in fuel tank. And yes, replace spark plug.
I agree more than likely fuel filter.
I work in a rental shop here in n.s., most starting problems are due to water or dirt in the carburetor bowl..turn off the fuel first, remove the bowl, dump the remaining fuel out of the bowl, reinstall it. Turn the fuel valve back on.
Have a 41 year old Honda generator that I use 93 octane gas in ( little or no ethanol ) . Use synthetic oil . Never used stabilizer and seldom use it . Just start it every month or two so the gas may be years old - just add . Honda uses a very expensive gas cap oxygen is the culprit( paid $2,000 for it in 1983 ) . Have a Honda snow blower too . They just seem to be the best . Cry once not twice .
It's the starter. It cranks for a couple revolutions, and then let's go. If it were the carburetor, it wouldn't run correctly when it finally starts.
Poor Jenna needs a hug! ❤ Your starter is working because the engine is cranking fine.
If you replace the spark plug, make sure you set the gap correctly.
These little engines are famous for gummy carburetors. Spray some carb cleaner to remove the deposits.
Always put fuel stabilizer in gas tank (scooter) over winter storeage time but you might know and or do that. Keeps your carbuerator from gumming up. The peice in your air filter looked like a blown gasket and Jennirator prob gonna need service , one day it wont start no more. I think it a internal issue. If they gonna charge to much to repair just buy a new one.
The bendix in your starter is not staying engaged, remove starter and make sure there is no oil on it. If not get a new starter.
😉👌
You don’t have to pull that cord. You have a drill and you can simply take off that cord casing and get the right bolt size and turn everything with the drill.
Condensation is your enemy and those black hoses need to be checked and cleaned at times.
That generator needs to be enclosed with sheet metal and loosely stacked cinder blocks . Hopefully this doesn’t block your remote signal
You are the super model of off grid every man's dream
You got the right !
For Sure! Gorgeous Jenna
What U Need Is A Partner > OR < Train The Cats 2 Help Out 🙃😂🤣😉
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Many folks with a Car remote start in a really cold climate....often they tweak how long the starting process lasts...as the default start-attempt-duration is not long enough.
You are very competent so I am suggesting that you try to check the valve clearances yourself if you continue to have problems with the generator not starting.
Lots of YT videos on generator maintenance including checking and adjusting valve clearances.
Not something I would try to do outside in the cold.
If you remove the fuel tank you should be able to bring the generator into your camper with your 2 wheel cart or take it to some other more suitable place.
After you have checked spark, fuel and oil level that only leaves compression and valve clearances.
You can easily check the engine compression by pulling slowly on the pull starter cord. You should feel a definite resistance every second revolution of the engine.
Good luck, i hope that you can get your generator problems fixed.
I garbage picked a snowblower last spring - the problem was the electric starter motor has a spring inside to pull back the gear the drives into the engine flywheel - and it has a very wimpy spring that pulls back the gear (disengage) - without that spring working - the gear does not 'throw' into the flywheel gear - so - cleaned it - now works
I ENJOY YOUR VIDEOS FOR SURE, IAM A 73-YEAR-OLD RETIRED SINGLE MAN, LIVING IN KEY WEST FLORIDA, LIVING LARGE. ITS INTERESTING TO SEE HOW OTHERS LIVE. RUSSELL WAYNE BOYD, MAN,MYTH, LEGEND.
Well now, aren’t you something? 73 and single in Florida living high 🤩 You must have more to do than just watching TH-cam videos for such an incredible guy such as yourself. Best wishes, time flies as we get older. I know bc I myself being 68 now. Enjoy 😉
😆@@denisekenney6436
Gypsy, it looks like the pull rope turns the generator motor in the clock wise direction.
If you have a strong enough drill and socket you can put the socket on the nut on the shaft and use the drill
to turn start the motor. just a thought.
I saw the nut when you had the rope starter off.
Good morning Jenna!
Good morning!
It's pretty rare for spark to be intermittent . The usual cause of starting problems like this is a fouled carburetor, not unusual at all now that everyone uses ethanol based fuel. This fuel separates after a short period of about 3 months and allows water into your fuel fouling the carburetor. Usually this is not a big issue to take the carb off and have it cleaned.
Grand dad always said save yourself a trip to town always keep spare spark plugs, fuel filters and some cans of carb cleaner in the shed.
Your Generator maintenance was spot on 😊👏🏾...Your ahead of me 😂🏕✌🏿
Great job, I was always told to shut off fuel and burn off gas in the carburetor when storing an engine as far as generator I would look into getting a float/needle valve assembly ($10) and a new spark plug if needed.
All the best from the east coast Canada 🇨🇦 NB province.
I'd like to help, In winter I use starter fluid, I open up the air cleaner, open the choke and spray some into the carburetor, close it back up and start. It will usually start.
Hi Jenna, new sub from northern Michigan. Love the channel I enjoy your sense of trouble shooting and getting it done off-grid fashion! 👍
There’s the sun. Behind the clouds! Sounds about right same here been cloudy for 7 weeks. Sorry you had issues I don’t like issues 😢. Good video! Good seeing you! Stay safe ❤
Sorry for your troubles with the genny. I can't offer any advice but love your videos and now I'm learning a lot. Sticks and bricks have all these PIA type issues as well. Seems like every week there is something else that needs time or money. Thanks Jenna! PS-Your SnS chicken over rice looks amazing, I'm gonna try it.
I hope it turns out well!
If you’ve owned it since new. It’s common on those clone engines to need to have the valve lash reset. Improper valve lash will cause a hard to start and as it gets farther out of adjustment it gets harder to start
not sure if your generator runs on gas or what but if it does and uses a spark plug you might want to clean or change the spark plugs. That would help it start better. They get dirty and lose performance when they get used alot.. Good Luck and love and enjoy watching your videos.. keep up the good work.
Check/Replace? spark plug and air filter, keep fuel tank full to prevent condensation creating water droplets from forming in the air space that end up in the bottom of fuel tank then possibly in carb bowl.
This is why in yor previous video I suggested setting up both wind and other alternative energy production like the peltier batteries that can make electricity from the heat produced by your wood stove.
As for the genny, sounded like the solenoid on the starter motor is failing and if there is not enough amps, then the starter will spin and then lose connection due to the solenoid failing.
Easy test if it won’t start is to spray a little carb spray in the carb. If it starts on carb spray you have a fuel issue.
I feel your pain with the generator. I'm on my second one. I hope it was just being grumpy. I need to make your sweet and sour chicken balls! Thank you for sharing the recipe! Your lunches look amazing! All the best to you Jenna! 💐
My genny has been acting up for sure so it's not looking good. Has lasted at least 7 years though so I guess I can't complain lol. I hope you enjoy it if you make it!
Possibly, the colder climate you live in could actually accumulate moister in your gas, then tank & carburator. Adding a small tad of Heet/with carburator fuel line cleaner mixer to gas.
Buying gas, filling cans, storing gas and filling tanks in generator, etc., moisture condisation can cause issues.
Check your oil level.get a can of carb cleaner take air filter off and spray you a couple of squirts in breather port while trying to start.next change spark plug.during winter months add stabilizers to fuel.
You crack me up with this problem and your journey on its resolution thanks for the video
I found a video on TH-cam about firewood on the AmericanOutdoors channel. It's titled, "So you think you know your firewood? Take a quiz!" I got only 3 questions right. Lol. Obviously, I have a lot to learn before deciding to use woodburning appliances in my home. I really like your setup.
drain the water out of the carb and fuel system. The water logged oil on the intake was the main clue there is water in the fuel
Changing the spark plug will be a good idea ,The starter will turn over slower when getting worn out and can cause issues starting , if you take it to the shop you should have the valves adjusted too , usually the exhaust valve gets out of spec and the valve hangs open which can causes hard starting and other issues. As mentioned the starter is only catching for a few sec could be the culprit.
Three suggestions, a lot of honda Motors and Clones oil dip sticks are only supposed to be put in the hole till the threads on the stick hit the hole then check the stick , your owners manual should tell you . Some have a sticker somewhere around the fill hole . When you pulled the stick, it was about halfway up, and if your generator is tilted, you wouldn't be getting a correct reading, and if it's that low, it probably won't start . Check your spark plug to . Also, if you put oil on the foam air filter, it should be a very, very light amount . Try starting it without the filter on to , that will tell you if it's oil soaked too much . Other than that , drain the fuel bowl andmay have ethanol water build up in it . That's all I got, except you can unhook the low oil indicator, and if it starts, it's probably a bad low oil switch. Got any doubts, take it to a good mechanic. 😊
Water in the fuel. Put some dry gas in it. I would suggest using non-ethanol gas it will eliminate the water issue. Plus it is better for the rubber lines and gaskets. Once you get it running without a problem I would also add some Sea Form Motor Treatment to the fuel. This will clean the carburetor really good.
Low oil pressure shutdown switch...starter works...colder weather = thicker oil. Needs a few more spins to get the oil pressure up.
🤷♂ Just a thought.
See you heard all this guy saying to check the spark plug lol. I have no idea if that was the issue, but I know this is something that I would check. But you’re already on that. Great vlog.
Depending on how many hours are on the Generator you will need to adjust the valves back to spec. A fuel filter change would not be a bad thing. new spark plug and some premium fuel would do it well, but most likely needs carburetor.cleaned.
Odd...... and a bummer. Def a elec gremlin. Maybe the starter solenoid is going bad. Solenoids do that, disengage and stop turning the motor when they are toast. Be blessed GypsyGirl🎄🎄💙💚🙏🙏
Always make sure oil is topped off as they have a low oil shut off. It will turn over but not start if oil is too low.
The carburetor needs a cleaning. There are two fuel circuits in the carburetor - low speed and high spped. The low speed works to deliver the fuel at low RPMs as when cranking the engine over. That's where your starting issue lies. The high speed circuit takes over after the engine starts. Starting issues usually involve deposits in the low speed ciurcuit. Running issues involve deposits in the high speed circuit. These deposits plug the fuel delivery passages in the carbuiretor. I'm not a fan of "cures in a can" but you might try a 16oz can of carburetor cleaner mixed in the fuel. Run the generator for a hour to see if it works. If not, nothing lost. Just get the carburetor cleaned.
Friend suggested to me about using Sea Foam in gasoline to help with water or ethanol in small engines. Helps clean the Carburetor as well. Also suppested buying pure gasoline to us in small engines. Hope this helps
Might be a moisture issue wen it is not raining and it won’t start try hair dryer near all electrical parts . Then try to start if it works and is found to be the issue buy some wire dryer and apply as needed . Have used it on mud boggens to keep the motor dry and running while submerged .
Battery should be 13.5 or better on the gen set and please try cleaning out the carburetor bowl. Wash the air filter in the kitchen sink with Dawn then let it air dry, no need to put oil on the filter. Take care and stay warm girlie girl.
Suggest you clean the battery posts -- corrosion can cause additional resistance and reduce the starter current. You might use a wire brush. This connections should then be coated with Vaseline once they're clean keep the moisture out.
Pull the plug - clean Check fuel filter- Air cleaner should be oiled with light oil