Disconnect all devices and loads from the Predator 3500 generator. When the spark plugs get fouled, they lose the needed spark, and then the gas does not combust like it should robbing the engine of needed energy. The generator is low on fuel oil is right on. Oil provides the lubrication needed for the internal engine parts to move freely. On the other hand, if you had been running your generator recently and just turned it off briefly, the engine will still be warm. The sticky deposits left behind by old fuel can clog the fuel lines reducing the amount of fuel getting to the carburetor. i am currently unable to start my generator. When the engine doesnt get enough fuel, it will run sluggishly and possibly die. If the system is working fine, move on to the next possible option. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. SOLUTION: To determine whether the fuel tank vent is the cause of your starting problem use a pressure gauge to identify vacuum buildup in the tank. A quick check saves you on embarrassment at the repair shop. astrozombee 2 yr. ago Mine runs one 1500W unit. The reason why this generator has made such a name for itself in the market is that it offers quality efficiency and fantastic fuel consumption. With a fresh battery, new gas and plenty of oil, it still wont fire. Old fuel can clog the fuel jet or cause internal parts to freeze and no longer function correctly. This prevents fuel from getting to the carburetor and your generator will fail to start. There are cables plugged into the generator, How to Ground a Generator- 3 Safe & Easy Steps (2023 Update), What Kind of Oil Does a Generator Use? The closed position is often labeled as the start position on generator chokes for this reason. Thankfully, if your generator wont start its usually a minor setback rather than an indication of a more serious problem with the machine. Both manual pull start and with the optional 12 volt battery start. You may hear a clicking or humming sound when you press the ignition switch button or turn the key (depending on your model) and your generator wont start. Was surprised it would not run at all. If these methods still dont work, the reason your generator wont start probably isnt because of a dead battery. Always remove the spark plug wire and wait for the engine to cool. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Usually, the sensor will work if it is plugged in again after running the generator for a few minutes, although if this fails the sensor will need to be replaced which can be a time-consuming task that involves taking apart your engine. Sounds healthy but thats it. Another source would be a fouled spark plug. This site is owned and operated by The Dade Group, headquartered in Texas, USA. Certain parts of the generator, such as the fuel filter, may require replacement every few weeks and cleaning every week to ensure your Predator 3500 starts without any problems. 3 17 comments Best Add a Comment The main get was partially clogged. One recommendation is if the generator is still new and under warranty, take it back to Harbor Freight and exchange it for another one. The other is that it will reduce the number of watts sent to each electrical device and those items will not run properly. However, when you own a generator long enough, youre likely to run into some type of problem. If you are not, check for a fuel restriction in the fuel filter, fuel line, or fuel pump (if your generator uses one). Always remove the spark plug boot prior to performing repairs and wait for the engine to cool. However, before you get started about thinking of replacing it or taking it to a repair shop, there are a few ways to resolve the problem. Hard to say without knowing more details. Test the ignition coil using an ohmmeter. You can check if there is enough gas by shaking the generator. The carburetor can collect a buildup of substances remaining from old gas that can cause blockages or parts failures. How To Check The Oil On a Predator 2000 Generator? There are a number of ways that your generator can struggle to switch on. In this case, you can switch the generator on by using the manual method. Sometimes, the low oil level can be a false reading by the oil sensor. Its possible you might not have found your solution above. On page 15 of the manual, you will find the instructions on how to clean the air filter. Drain the fuel tank. Trouble shooting tips. Turn the 'ESC Throttle switch to the 'Off position. 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. Ethanol is not good fuel to use in a generator. [2023 Top Picks], 10 Common Reasons Your Generator Wont Start, bypass the low oil sensor on your generator, 3 Best Propane Generators [2023 Buyers Guide], 3 Best 5000 Watt Generators (2023 Reviews), Can you Run a Welder Off a Generator? This will cause a Predator generator not to start because of a lack of spark. That is about the extent of your maintenance duties. If it has a low charge, you can attempt to charge the battery. The most common source for this problem is that the carb is clogged. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. It was run for about 5-6 hours for 1 time only. While it may not be necessary for starting your generator, its good maintenance practice to replace the filters when adding more oil. Add up the wattage for the items that will be plugged in at one time to ensure it doesnt exceed the load limit. Thats why, in this article, we have gone through all of the possible checklist items you should go through to identify the issue. One of the most common reasons a generator won't start is because the gas is old. 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. Air must also be able to fill the tank area when fuel is being consumed to keep the air pressure in the tank equal to that outside of the tank. Also, the oil may be too low. (Answered). - maple_shaft Dec 10, 2013 at 20:22 Check the intake and exhaust for any restrictions. Another good option is STA-BIL. Replace it if it has any of those issues. The choke is used to restrict air to start a cold engine. Clean the filter using mild detergent and water. Dirt and grass can plug the air filter preventing airflow. NOTE: If a warm engine will not start- turn the combination switch to the Run position before reattempting to start the engine. The first would be the drain plug. So, how can you fix this issue? The tube did have a couple clogged holes and some green copper corrosion.I use Harbor Freight Super Heavy Duty Degreaser in my ultrasonic cleaner https://www.harborfreight.com/1-gallon-heavy-duty-degreaser-42998.htmlVisit My Amazon Store:https://www.amazon.com/shop/jamescondonIf you want to donate to the channel, you can use the YouTube \"Super Thanks\" feature or via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/jamescondonYT#GeneratorRepair #SmallEngineRepair #SmallEngine #DIY #Fixed #Troubleshooting #HowTo briefly, then squeeze out the excess oil. In some cases, though, the generator may not be able to switch back on. Running your generator at low oil levels can severely damage the engine and pose a significant hazard. Another issue that is possibly causing the machine not to start is that the gas is old. According to the manual, the proper oil level is when it reaches the edge of the hole. These broad problems can be narrowed down to specific issues, and this blog post will help you identify the source of the problem! Chad and Rick are the father son team behind Generator Hero. Once clean, reinsert the screen. Fixing a new Predator 3,500W Generator that WON'T START after 13 HOURS. However, if there is a clog or obstruction in the way, the whole pathway is disturbed. Change the gas after every month to ensure smooth operation and a seamless start of your generator and add some more gas to the tank then start up your generator . By the way, the battery was dead and wouldnt take a charge, so I replaced it. (Skip past this section if this isnt the first time youre using a Generator!). Most generators switch on using a similar mechanism. OR, can I replace it with a portable generator. Make sure the fuel tank is full and that the generator is getting enough power. This Predator generator was not running. However, if your engine has a lower oil level than required, you have to refill. Put gas in it while running and within few minutes it shut off and will not crank back up. Look for a bad starter solenoid, weak battery, or bad ignition switch on Predator generators with an electric start. Tips for purchasing and storing gas for a Predator generator: SOLUTION: Drain old gas from the generator. Other times you will have to replace broken parts in your recoil. If the battery fails to hold a charge, replace the battery. Most modern generators are equipped with a sensor that will automatically shut down your generator when oil levels are low to protect the engine. The plastic on the filter can degrade causing it to leak at the seams. Remove the access panel on the right side of the generator. Rick is an engineer and manager, hes used generators his whole life and specializes in fact checking our articles. Replace if needed. Got a key start generator . The sensors disable this in an effort to minimize possible damage. Replace a dead battery or one that wont hold a charge. Reinsert the dipstick into the oil-fill tube, but dont screw on the cap. 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. The fuel valves are clogged and cannot disperse fuel to the motor. It is a discount generator. It can be worrying when you take your Predator generator out for a spin, and when you turn it on, the machine doesnt respond. Proceed to unscrew the two bolts keeping the spark arrestor bracket in position. It will however start up with no problem with the pull cord. You will find that the battery drains at a much faster rate. It can be fixed in a matter of minutes. Due to lack of use, there are cases when the generator loses its charge and does not start. This usually takes place in the jets and it is not a serious problem. Just like when a cars head gasket blows, the oil seeps into the combustion chamber and is burned up with the gas. I know there are several sources that say you can clean it while installed, but you cant get it truly clean without disassembling it to remove as much buildup as possible. There are several reasons the Predator 3500 generator may not start. Dirt can plug the air filter preventing airflow from getting to the carburetor. Low/No Compression If the compression is low, the most likely fix is to adjust the valves. Just keep in mind that its maximum wattage output is 2000 watts. Replace with a new spark plug, secure connections, and ensure it is gapped to manufacturer specifications. 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