How to Start a Generator That Has Been Sitting
If you have a generator that has been sitting for a while, it’s important to take the necessary steps to start it up correctly. It is important to know how to properly start a generator that has been sitting. If you do not follow the proper procedure, you could damage the engine or cause an accident.
Here’s what you need to do:
1. Check the oil level and add oil if necessary.
The first thing you need to do is check the oil level. If the oil is low, add more until it reaches the full line on the dipstick.
To check the oil level in your generator, remove the dipstick from the oil fill cap & wipe-clean it with a piece of cloth or rag.
Put back the dipstick into the cap, then take it out again and check the level. If it’s below the “low” mark on the dipstick, top-up more oil till it gets to that level.
If your generator has an oil pressure gauge, you can also use that to check the oil level. If it’s below the “low” mark, top up more engine oil till it gets to that level.
2. Check the fuel level and add fuel if necessary.
To check the fuel level in your generator, remove the fuel cap and insert a clean stick or ruler into the tank. The fuel level should be at least halfway up the stick for the generator to run properly.
If it’s not, then you’ll need to add more fuel before continuing. And if the tank is empty, fill it up with fresh gasoline.
3. Inspect the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary.
If your generator’s air filter is dirty, it can decrease the efficiency of the engine and shorten the lifespan of your generator.
First, locate the air filter. The air filter is usually located near the carburetor, and it may be attached to the carburetor with a clip or screws.
Next, remove the air filter. If it’s attached with a clip, simply squeeze the clip and pull the filter off. If it’s screwed on, use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
Once the filter is removed, inspect it for dirt or debris. If it’s excessively dirty or damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Otherwise, you can clean it and put it back in.
To clean the air filter, remove it and gently tap it against a hard surface to remove any loose dirt or debris. Then, use a brush or compressed air to remove any remaining dirt.
Once the filter is dry, re-attach it to the carburetor and make sure that it’s secure. When reinstalling the air filter, make sure it’s properly seated and secure.
Check the air filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed to keep your generator running efficiently.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for starting the generator.
Now you are ready to start the generator. Make sure that all of the switches are in the “off” position. Then, open the choke all of the ways and pull the starter cord slowly until you feel resistance. At this point, give the cord a sharp pull to start the engine.
5. Let the generator run for a few minutes to warm up before using it.
Once the engine is running, you can close the choke. Let the generator run for a few minutes to warm up before turning on any appliances or tools.
FAQ
How do you start a generator that won’t start?
If your generator won’t start, there are a few things you can do to try and get it going.
First, check the fuel supply. Make sure there is enough gasoline in the tank and that the engine oil is at the correct level.
Next, check the spark plugs and spark plug wires to make sure they are clean and in good condition. If all of these things look good, then it’s time to move on to more troubleshooting.
First, check for any loose connections. Make sure all of the wirings are tight and secure. Next, check the carburetor to see if it is clean and free of debris. Finally, if you still can’t get the generator to start, you may need to take it to a professional for further diagnosis and repair.
How long can you leave gas sitting in a generator?
If you’re using a generator, it’s important to know how long you can leave the gas sitting in it. Gasoline can start to break down after just a few months, so it’s not recommended that you keep it in your generator for more than 3-6 months.
After all, gas can go bad over time and you don’t want your generator to malfunction when you need it most.
However, it’s important to note that this timeframe can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of gasoline and the conditions under which it is stored.
If you do need to keep the gas for longer than that, you can add a fuel stabilizer to help extend its life. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the stabilizer packaging.
To be on the safe side, we recommend checking your generator’s owner manual for specific guidance on how long you can store gasoline.
You should also try to use up any gas that has been sitting in the tank for more than 3 months, if possible.
If you need to store gasoline for longer periods, there are a few things you can do to help extend its shelf life.
First, make sure to store the gas in a cool, dark place. And second, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas before you put it in the generator’s tank. This will help prevent the gas from going bad as quickly.
Will a generator start with old fuel?
If you’re using an older generator, it’s important to make sure that the fuel isn’t too old. Fuel can go bad over time, and this can cause your generator to have problems starting. If you’re not sure how old the fuel is, it’s best to err on the side of caution and get fresh fuel before trying to start your generator.
If you do have old fuel in your generator, there are a few things you can do to try and get it started.
First, make sure that the fuel is fresh by adding some new fuel to the tank. This will help to dilute the old fuel and make it easier for the generator to start.
Next, check the spark plugs and make sure they’re clean. Dirty or fouled spark plugs can prevent a generator from starting. Finally, if all else fails, you may need to drain the fuel tank and start fresh with new fuel.
Bottom line: If you’re not sure how old the fuel is in your generator, play it safe and get fresh fuel before trying to start it up. And if you do have old fuel in your generator, try adding some fresh fuel, checking the spark plugs, and/or draining the fuel tank before giving up.
Conclusion
Follow these steps and you will be able to safely start your generator after it has been sitting for a while.
If you have a generator that has been sitting for a while, it’s important to take the necessary steps to start it up correctly.
It is important to know how to properly start a generator that has been sitting. If you do not follow the proper procedure, you could damage the engine or cause an accident.
Follow these steps and you’ll be able to start your generator and get it running properly.
