propane generator won't stay running propane generator won't stay running

The propane generator wont stay running. The generator should also go off when it runs out of fuel or is turned off. Having lived through multiple hurricanes, I realize how critical it is to have a reliable generator. Other times, the generator starts but won't stay running for more than a few minutes. Here are the potential culprits: Sticky switches Defective control board Flawed regulator Damaged wiring Short or ground in the rotor 1. Posts: 22. The oil sensor is ignored until the engine has a chance to come up to speed. It can lead to your generator stopping after a few minutes, or even engine failure. American Home Shield provides warranty coverage for your essential home appliances and systems. Remove the wires on the backside of the switch and touch them together. Dear Gary, I have an Onan RV Marquis generator in my Airstream Land Yacht. But if the load is too big, it might not go back to its normal speed. The drawback to this newer system is that every other adjustment you could have made on older models is not possible anymore. Find the right portable source of energy for all your crafts, Generator Wont Stay Running: Causes & Quick Fixes. Industry experts always say good things about generators such as this because of their ability to save any individual who may be stuck someplace away from home without access to power. Can You Put Vinyl Siding Over Stucco? In the case that the smoke created isnt eliminated from the engine, the engine will shut down since it cant burn any more fuel. While the generator is running, engine vacuum closes a switch that causes the solenoid valve to be energized and hence to open. Barbara K. Barbara, there are many reasons why the generator might shut down when the start/stop switch is released. However, you will still need to clean the carburetor, fuel filter, and other affected components at some point. It can also result in increased fuel consumption or leaking fuel (source). To solve this, you need to regularly check if the fuel level is optimal. Spark plugs can wear out even if they visibly look fine. It's important to consider the availability and cost of the fuel, the location of the generator, and the specific requirements of the generator before choosing which fuel to use. Bad oil can stick on the jets to the carburetor making the engine to stop running. You can clean off any varnish or residue by treating your carburetors with a carburetor cleaning product. After these two areas check out or are fixed and you still have the problem, check the air filter and the spark plug. One time only, never again should the engine need priming as fuel is always applied under pressure. While the valve should be in the OFF or CLOSED position when the engine is off, you should have it in the ON or OPEN position when running the engine. If this doesnt work, check the spark plug by pulling the recoil starter while holding the spark plugs end on the crankcase of the generator. It is only a problem starting if it has sat idle for a day or more. If the generator shuts down due to the fuel gauge being closed, simply open it then run the engine again. If the reading is above 28, then there is a ground problem in the same part. It may also occur as soon as you plug in your home appliances. 2. If the generator doesnt shut off by itself like before. With time, the impurities it catches in the air clog up its spongy element. In some cases, however, the generator may start well but shuts itself off after running for a few minutes. But if the gas tank is full and your generator still stalls and stops, here are some of the things you can do. Another reason why the generator will not stay running is the lowering of the oil levels. You should also remove the carburetor and float bowl, clean them and dry them before reinstalling them on the generator. You can replace the fuel valve by following the steps on this video: Fuel injectorscan clog up and block fuel from moving through the combustion system, causing several problems such as having difficulty when starting or when running on load. Propane generators are a popular electricity backup for many businesses and homes. Generac Generator Fault Codes List (1902, 1904, 2800, P2601), Kohler Generator Fault Code List (Troubleshooting Manual), Download Onan Marquis 7000 Service Manual and Wiring Diagram, Onan 4000 Generator Wont Stay Running (Why and How To Fix), 4L60e Transmission Fluid Capacity, Type, and Change Interval. That you should be able to remove that vacuum hose completely without having any more issues with oxidized gas fumes flooding back into your vehicle as well as preventing your vehicles engine from starting due to vapor lock which has now been greatly reduced. The other issue would be that the spark plug is malfunctioning. Make sure that you do regular maintenance on your generator regularly. If this correct volume is not met, the generator will automatically shut itself off to prevent damage to the delicate electronics. Also, add fresh fuel each time youre running the generator. They are ideal for people with variable power needs. Ive checked the fuel filter and it was fine. In the case that you left your generator without running for at least 2 months, simply drain the fuel and replace it with fresh petrol or diesel before starting it again. Just a simple question are you by any chance turning off the main tank valve every time you quit running the genie? Multiple starts and stops should be able to loosen up the sticky situation and get the generator working again. If you are sure there is enough oil, disconnect the wire to the oil sensor and see if the engine keeps running. They are relatively inexpensive and personally I would rather just replace a generator carburetor than take one apart, clean and rebuild. Mislabeled is more logical than a conversion. You might as well just replace it with a new one because dealing with a clapped-out old piece of kit will always prove either useless or costly. This sticky fuel can clog up the small jets and ports in . Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2, "onan 6500 won't start from inside so went to generator compartment pushed start button it would start until I released button then die. Fill the oil tank to remedy this problem. The goal of this website is to share with you all of the helpful tips and solutions that I have found so that you can ensure an energy efficient home for you and your family. Using products like these can help if the problem is old and gummy fuel. During the procedure, high amounts of heat are produced that increases the temperatures of the mixture of water and propane gases. What can you Run on a 2000-Watt Generator? Some of the reasons your generator wont stay running include the following: The safest way to start and use a generator for power generation or other task is to start it, let the roar become smooth then connect the load. Join Date: Aug 2019. Driving with Donna: How to Prepare for Full-Time RV Living, Understanding the Parts of a Trailer & Why They Matter, A Call to Camping with RV Travelers Voice | Lippert Scout Spotlight, However, since the evolution of electronics, it can now be caused by. This air flows through a hole in the fuel cap. That IS something you can do before contacting a reputable repair shop. At all times, make sure the little vent on the fuel cap is always open. Some fuel components will evaporate over time and what remains is a sticky and thick fuel that can clog up the ports and jets inside the carburetor. I can't find any work orders or receipts for any work that has ever been done on it. Fuel valve or line is clogged. If you try starting the generator without the load connected, itll likely not start. Hope this information helps and good luck! Some of the reasons why your generator isn't running smoothly include the following: 1. If you didnt check the fuel level or didnt just refuel before starting it, this is likely one of the reasons. Most generators have a temperature gauge calibrated to a certain level above which the generator will shut down by itself. Like a bad fuel filter, dirty air filters can cause your generator to stall. To be on the safe side, always check the amount of fuel in the generator before starting it. If there is too much oil in it, the circulation may not be smooth enough to properly lubricate the parts of the generators engine. If the spark plug has dirt on the end needed to ignite the air/fuel mixture, itll not produce the spark and the whole combustion process will fail. If there is no current, there will be no ignition and the generator will simply shut itself down. On Friday, May 29, 2020 at 7:49:38 PM UTC-4. When buying a generator for your home or other activity, always calculate the amount of power youll be needing then buy about 1.5 times the output. If your generator starts but won't keep running, here are two likely issues to check: make sure that it's not overloaded check for fuel or air delivery obstructions A clogged air filter, vapor lock, or dirty carburetor often cause this issue. Space wont allow us to present every issue that will create this situation. Its important to ensure you can always see the smoke that your generator is releasing as it means that it isnt running properly. The solution to this is to wait until the generator has cooled down then check the level of oil in the engine. The more modern the device the harder it is for DIY mechanics to fix the problems. Remove the spark plug from the generator then observe for dirt and any debris. A propane generator cannot run on natural gas, and while there are conversion kits available, they are not recommended and may void the manufacturer's warranty. If, however, you already have experience with the generator, youre good to go. Propane is not as clean as people think!! These dual fuel generators are most often portable generators that can run on gasoline or propane. All good. Vapor lock can also happen if the air intake and cooling fins are dirty, or when its too hot outside. This ensures that even when you increase the power use, your needs will still fall within the generators load. This ensures that any problem noticed will be handled. To learn more reasons why your generator wont run all the tie, just continue to read our article. Fuel flows from the tank to the carburetor and the other parts of the generator engine by gravity. If you notice a spark thats blue in color, it means the plug is in good working condition. This could happen either immediately after you start the generator or after running it for 20 minutes. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The generator should also go off when it runs out of fuel or is turned off. Firstly, remove the spark plug from the generator. It does it 4 or 5 times then, You do not have permission to delete messages in this group. Their power strength usually lasts for some days. JavaScript is disabled. These parts are interconnected with narrow pipes and small valves which can get damaged or clogged with time. All effort is made to ensure the correctness of Garys responses; however, not all responses will apply in every instance. So.. A propane generator can not possibly loose prime. If its not opened when running the generator, the engine will run out of fuel and shut down. Generac same model, http://www.homeownershub.com/maintenance/generac-generator-natural-gas-starts-but-won-t-stay-runnin-762399-.htm, https://www.homeownershub.com/maintenance/generac-generator-natural-gas-starts-but-won-t-stay-runnin-762399-.htm, https://ctlsys.com/support/two-phase_electrical_service/, https://forums.mikeholt.com/threads/two-phase-power.125644/, https://www.lifebynumbers.ca/history/the-rise-and-fall-of-25-cycle-hz-electricity-in-ontario/. This occurs in a looping series with the piston moving up to compress the air and fuel mixture followed by an ignition by the spark plug. Depending on the scenario in which the generator shuts itself off, the causes can be different with some quite easy to fix. Disconnect some electronics from the power then try again. Fixing a Generator That Won't Stay Running - YouTube 0:00 / 3:33 Fixing a Generator That Won't Stay Running Traplines and Inlines 64.5K subscribers Subscribe 49K views 4 years ago. There should be an altitude adjustment knob on the newer models. 1. Remember, the advice, recommendations and procedures offered by The RV Doctor are solely those of Gary. Other than these solutions, here are somemore thingsthat you can try: Its possible that your generator wont keep running due to a fuel or air delivery system issue. Videos (Generators Zone Videos & YouTube Channel). This YouTube video explains some of the issues that the carb may be causing and how you can clean it. The amount of fuel needed to start the generator is quite low compared to that needed to run it. Normally, your generator will slow down when you load something, but it usually goes back up. This clogging prevents the engine from running correctly. If this problem persists, you should get your battery charged with an external source then reattach it to the generator. If you are in doubt or do not feel comfortable about a procedure, do not continue. In other times, the battery may be dead and the generators trials at charging it may be causing an electric issue. It does it 4 or 5 times then shuts down. If youve checked the fuel supply and its in good working, check the air filter next. If it is Model No. Open the generators air filter housing then check the element of the air filter (the spongy part) for clogs. replying to Cyndi Jacobs, trader 0 wrote: In article , If you choke out the throttle body it will run. A propane generator can not possibly loose prime. A propane generator is capable of producing high watt electricity at a go. This can occur whether the oil is too high or too low. Check your owner's manual for the location of the air filter, which is typically at the front of the generator near the choke. You should also ensure that you use the right grade oil and clean the fuel filter. Gain access to the exciter wires, 2 and 6. Just turning it will adjust the air to fuel ratio and keep your generator running like a clock. This is a problem with starting. Change the viscosity of the oil. Depending on the scenario in which the generator shuts itself off, the causes can be different with some quite easy to fix. If it looks dirty, use carb cleaner to clean the plug and spray the cylinder. Here's a quick list Unfortunately, its best for a certified RV technician to troubleshoot and diagnose most of these situations. on a propane onan 6.3kw genny in a 1994 safari sahara 34'. Heres a video on how to clean your generators air filter: Vapor lockhappens when the fuel you use in your generator overheats and vaporizes too quickly (source). I have become very fond of this product and tend to use it in all of my small engines. This can occur after the generator has run for a while and is usually an issue with the generators charging system. CLICK THIS https://amzn.to/32J4ml2Check out these other informative videos: Best Way To Clean a Honda Style Carburetor https://youtu.be/uAHdhuDpeKwHow To Fix a Broken Starter Rope https://youtu.be/loN8rvShIXkHow To Fix a Generator That Won't Put Out Power https://youtu.be/z2_iYufvXcAHow To NOT Emergency Start Your Generator https://youtu.be/qUPlS__HuSAPlease SUBSCRIBE to my channel here https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpqca7L2YYDN-BIHUQ2TfAA/?sub_confirmation=1 and dont forget to click the to turn on Video Notifications for more money saving videos, featuring all the top brands like Stihl, Husky, Husqvarna, Echo, Honda, Briggs and Stratton, John Deere, Craftsman, MTD, AYP, etc. It should be a minimum of 60 volts. If these easy fixes do not do the trick and get your generator running continuously, then call a technician. Make sure to check out the Saloon here tooClick here for my website http://www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/Click here for my Parts and Tools Store https://www.amazon.com/shop/stevessmallenginesaloon Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/stevessmallenginesaloon Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stevessmallenginesaloon/ Follow me on Twitter https://twitter.com/SteveSaloon Thank you for watching!! During this process, there is the presence of ammonia gas and water inside the generator. If you experience this then the best solution is to call in an expert from your generators manufacturer because these are the folks who made your generator after all. If this doesnt work well enough, you will have to replace them entirely to put an end to that sticky problem. Is the CHP pulling RVs over to weigh and measure them? Once youve calculated the faulty sensor and removed it from the circuit board, your generator should work correctly once more. If it doesnt, it runs the risk of overheating and might be a fire hazard because gasoline is flammable. The first and most important step is to make sure that you are using a propane tank that has been refilled multiple times. For this reason, it is good to read carefully your manual and set the generator correctly. Key Considerations, Generator Dies Under Load: Likely Cause and How to Fix It. To make up for this, the fuel cap uses a small vent to allow air to enter the tank. It may seem obvious, but it's worth checking whether your generator has gasoline in the fuel tank. The generator fires up and then immediately shuts down. Propane generator problems and solutions Overview, Troubleshoot propane generator and solution. Carburetor cleaners can help you get rid of gummy fuel, grease, sludge, and hard carbon. As fuel is being sucked up by the engine, its being replaced by air coming in through a small vent on the fuel tank. Follow this wire until you locate the green quick connect. When your Champion generator runs then shuts off after a while, it could an issue with the oil level in the engine. If so, buy a new one. If below the MAX reading, add some oil to the engine. Your generator will exhibit the same symptoms. If it is dirty or in need of rebuilding, then you will have trouble keeping the generator running all the time. Some standby models also behave this way. I am presently traveling in California and need to fix the problem ASAP. If any one of them fails due to an electric shock, the generator may only run for a short while then stop. Try loosening the cap to remove clogging. It is after this process that the gas-ammonia flows from the propane generator. Okay. Contact Us. In such a case, a vapor lock (vacuum) forms in the tank and prevents the flow of fuel out of it. what are the other possible causes? The wire connecting to the end of the plug should still be intact to provide the needed electric charge. ISO 46 vs AW 46 Hydraulic Oil: Are ISO And AW Oil The Same? While you are at it, check the fuel line to see if it has sprung a leak. The only thing that can be done in this situation is to replace the control board. The solution is thoroughly cleaning the carburetor with the appropriate cleaners. Always make sure that the sensors are in good condition and providing accurate indications before starting the generator. This can occur either immediately you start the generator or after running it for a while; like 20 minutes. Open up your generators air filter housing and check to see if there are any clogged bits on your spongy element within your air filter. How is propane converted into electric energy? If youve checked the fuel supply and its still functioning properly, check the air filter next. Your generator might be low on fuel, which is why it stopped midway. In the case of a weak or non-existent, simply buy a new plug and install it. The fuel valve controls the amount of fuel from the tank into the combustion chamber for combustion. From the combustion of propane, the motorized power is then converted into electric power or energy. The following instructions will help you fix the Generator when it doesnt stay running. You can unclog it with a needle. The carburetor can get clogged or it may have sticky and gummy fuel in the float bowl. The trick is to be able to get to the actual issue as quickly as possible. Low oil sensor is malfunctioning. If the old gas was left in the small engine for a long period of time, some of the more volatile ingredients may have evaporated and left behind a thicker, stickier substance that could clog up the small jets and ports of the carburetor. If you can't run it while stored, consider disconnecting the fuel line and with no load on the generator, running it out of fuel. But if your generator stops running after a while, it might be due to a clogged fuel valve that might be preventing enough fuel from getting into the engine. Sometimes the oil alert system in your engine is actually doing what it should. It will then run fine. This helps discharge and recharge the battery thus keeping its parts in good condition. it will start and run for about 2-3 seconds then die, but if i hold the starter on is will keep running. Here are some of the things you can do toremedy overloading: If its a one-time thing, you might want to fill up the gas tank. It takes a while to start, even when I hold the primer button down for an extended period of time. Generators can burn the available propane to produce some power. If old fuel was left in the small engine for a long time, some of the volatile ingredients may have evaporated, leaving a thicker, stickier product that is more like varnish or shellac. A loose spark plug. If the element is torn, buy a new air filter. This problem can occur at any time during the period the engine is running. On older models, you will need to remove the bowl, clean it and then put it back in place. For this system to work properly, this vent must be unobstructed. The problem i have with it is when it starts it runs for about 7 seconds then it dies each time i start it and i wondering what's the problem can you guys help me out here. Every week we take a look back at the RV Doctor Gary Bunzer's answers to your tough questions. This video provides information on how to troubleshoot a generator and the most likely defective parts associated with this pro. If yourgeneratorhas a circuit breaker, it will stop working when you work your generator above capacity (source). 2.) When you have had your generator for a very long time, you will be familiar with how it sounds and immediately know if it doesnt sound right. The solution is thoroughly cleaning the carburetor with the appropriate cleaners. Sometimes it is faulty. Before the generator's engine starts, there is no oil pressure. Home Efficiency Guide is an affiliate for companies including Amazon Associates and earns a commission on qualifying purchases. Bad oil can stick on the jets to the carburetor making the engine to stop running. Bending can also block the pipes cutting of the supply if fuel. The solution to this is simply calling in an expert especially from your generators manufacturer. Faulty carburetor. So your generator is not only working doubly hard, but its also working more for lower power output. The spark plug has the role of igniting the mixture of fuel and air to produce an explosion which then pushes the piston downwards. If your small engine wont start, or dies after a few seconds, try this quick tip first. But check the oil level first. This is very frustrating, to say the least because your house/outdoor appliances are going to lose power without warning. Posts: 19. generator only runs when i hold the start button on. This is a common problem, it occurs when the devices connected to the generator draw more power than the generator is providing leading to short. A generator should start up quickly and run smoothly. Locate the yellow wire on the crankcase. Harvest Host Bad Reviews and Complaints (Is It Worth It? There are a lot of options that pop up if you use the subsection title as your search words. I was going by the nomenclature at the Generac web site. Some situations may mandate a visual inspection and further hands-on testing. It is a highly flammable gas with high content energy production power. We had one in a propane forklift. Generator won't stay running? If the battery still doesnt work, itll mean that it is dead and needs a replacement. Keeping the generator aerated also helps it keep cool as air flowing through it carries away the excessive heat. Generators do best when you clear out the exhaust on a regular basis to avoid having any blockage issues to worry about throughout the course of your day. This is a complex issue which must be addressed by a qualified professional since it can be quite hard to detect. Cummins is the company that makes Onan generators and they have placed a PDF version of the manual online. Every connection should be done keenly. The engines failure and inability to continue running is a more serious problem. On the other hand, if the generator shuts itself off when you connect the load, it means that your overloading it. As it flows out of the tank, it leaves space which is taken up by air from outside. if its a complex one which costs almost the price of a new generator, youre better off getting a new generator. Not everyone has the right tools for this task either. Sometimes the oil alert system in your engine is actually doing what it should. Check out the Champion 4375/3500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator - RV Ready! The good news is that there are experts on the matter who can help out when it comes to the complex issues. During starting, the engine governor will keep the throttle wide open, and this combined with the relatively low RPMs while starting will prevent enough vacuum from being developed to operate the the vacuum switch reliably. It catches impurities in the air before directing them to the carburetor where they mix with fuel for ignition in the combustion chamber. In order to fix this problem, you should simply drain out all of the leftover fuel from your cars float bowls. If its still hot from running, wait till it cools down first. 03 - Generac Generator Fuel Cap. I'll check the manuals and original invoice and report the model later when I find more information. Until the air in the fuel system is eliminated, the diesel generator will not run or even start. Fuse blowing. No information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any kind. Or do some light tapping in the right place to help loosen the sticky oil.