Problem Possible Causes Probable Solutions
Engine misfires 1. Spark plug cap loose.
2. Incorrect spark plug gap or
damaged spark plug.
3. Defective spark plug cap.
4. Old or low quality gasoline.
5. Incorrect compression.
1. Check wire connections.
2. Re-gap or replace spark plug.
3. Replace spark plug cap.
4. Use only fresh 87+ octane stabilizer-treated
unleaded gasoline.
Do not use gasoline with more than
10% ethanol (E15, E20, E85, etc.).
5. Diagnose and repair compression.
(Use Engine will not start:
COMPRESSION RELATED section.)
Engine stops
suddenly 1. Fuel tank empty or full of impure or low quality
gasoline.
2. Low oil shutdown.
3. Defective fuel tank cap creating vacuum,
preventing proper fuel flow.
4. Faulty magneto.
5. Disconnected or improperly
connected spark plug cap.
1. Fill fuel tank with fresh 87+ octane stabilizer-
treated unleaded gasoline.
Do not use gasoline with more than
10% ethanol (E15, E20, E85, etc.).
2. Fill engine oil to proper level.
Check engine oil before EVERY use.
3. Test/replace fuel tank cap.
4. Have qualified technician service magneto.
5. Secure spark plug cap.
Engine stops when
under heavy load 1. Dirty air filter
2. Engine running cold. 1. Clean or replace element.
2. Allow engine to warm up prior
to operating equipment.
Engine knocks 1. Old or low quality gasoline.
2. Engine overloaded.
3. Incorrect spark timing, deposit buildup,
worn engine, or other mechanical problems.
1. Fill fuel tank with fresh 87+ octane stabilizer-
treated unleaded gasoline.
Do not use gasoline with more than
10% ethanol (E15, E20, E85, etc.).
2. Do not exceed equipment’s load rating.
3. Have qualified technician diagnose and service
Engine backfires 1. Impure or low quality gasoline.
2. Engine too cold.
3. Intake valve stuck or overheated engine.
4. Incorrect timing.
1. Fill fuel tank with fresh 87+ octane stabilizer-
treated unleaded gasoline.
Do not use gasoline with more than
10% ethanol (E15, E20, E85, etc.).
2. Use cold weather fuel and oil additives
to prevent backfiring.
3. Have qualified technician diagnose
and service engine.
4. Check engine timing.
Generator shuts down
during operation
No AC output
Generator gallops
Repeated circuit
breaker tripping
Generator cannot
supply enough power
or overheating
1. Out of fuel.
2. Low oil level.
1. Generator is overloaded.
2. Insufficient ventilation.
1. Cable not properly connected.
2. Circuit breaker is open.
3. Faulty brush assembly.
4. Faulty AVR.
5. Loose wiring.
6. Other.
1. Engine governor defective.
1. Overload.
2. Faulty cords or device.
1. Fill fuel tank.
2. Fill crankcase to the proper level. Place
generator on a flat, level surface.
1. Review load and adjust, see“xx”.
2. Check for air restriction. Move to a well
ventilated area.
1. Check all connections.
2. Reset circuit breaker.
3. Replace brush assembly.
4. Replace AVR.
5. Inspect and tighten wiring connections.
6. Contact Customer Service at 1-855-888-3598.
1. Contact Customer Service at 1-855-888-3598.
1. Review load and adjust. See“Wattage Reference
Guide” on Page 10.
2. Check for damaged, bare or frayed wires.
Replace defective device.
engine.
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