The procedure is the same as for jump-starting another cars battery: Attach the cables to your car and generator using the metal frame of your generator as the fourth connection point, turn on your car, and then try starting the generator. This is a situation where you simply have too many electrical devices plugged into the generator. Including the make and model number of the generator might be useful. Clean the components making up the carburetor. My inverter generator will no longer start ( turn over) when pressing the electric start button. Charge the battery. Incorrect spark timing or ignition issues. 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. If it does, the screen must be replaced with a new one. If the battery fails to hold a charge, replace the battery. The battery shows 12.1 volts, power to the starter motor. One of the other reasons why your Predator generator isnt able to start is a lack of gas in the tank. Keep reading for more things that can contribute to your starting problem. When starting a generator cold that is, it hasnt been running for at least the past few hours the choke should be set all the way closed. Take out the outlet hose from the side of the fuel valve. How To Start a Predator 3500 Generator Electrically? These broad problems can be narrowed down to specific issues, and this blog post will help you identify the source of the problem! If not, thats a clear reason why your engine would fail to turn over. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. If you do not have the manual, here are the instructions: 1. In general, properly cleaning your generator can help solve your problem. Can I Use Synthetic Oil in My Predator Generator? The switch is a fail-safe feature, preventing engine failure. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Note: the container must be placed lower than the fuel tank because fuel cannot run uphill without the assistance of a pump. Fuel breaks down over time making it prone to clogging the fuel system and damaging components. Well list out some questions, and if your answer happens to be a yes to any one of them, youll have to read the solution and fix your generator accordingly. Oil provides the lubrication needed for the internal engine parts to move freely. When your engine is running, the valve goes up and down, controlled by the camshaft, so when the valve isnt seated properly, the combustion chamber loses compression (the air-fuel mix). Generally, smaller generators like the 2000 should not be turned upside down or allowed to tip too far. Learn about our team here. BE2000 or Predator 2000 Generator Won't Start Bruce's Shop 43.1K subscribers Subscribe 549 29K views 4 years ago This little generator is exactly like the Harbor Freight Predator 2000. Turn the ESC Throttle switch to the Off position. If your choke lever is in run position you need to make sure to move it back to start position. Clean out the passageways of your generator using a fuel additive. 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. Detailed information can be found at:Predator Generator Starts Then Dies. All generators I know of are fitted with a low-level oil switch. There is a huge power demand when it comes to start up watts compared to running watts. It has to be just right for the generator to work smoothly. Make sure the choke setting is correct. (Skip past this section if this isnt the first time youre using a Generator!). You could also rain the gas and oil and refill if you keep having issues. Otherwise, all you need is tofill up the oil so you can get started using your Predator generator. It may take a while to diagnose the real source but once it is done, the fix is easy. Just breathe easy, and follow these simple instructions to help diagnose your unit's problems. Rotate the combination switch to the 'Start' position. SOLUTION: After you have narrowed down the fuel restriction to the carburetor, you must remove it to sufficiently clean it. Drain the fuel tank and fill it with fresh fuel. Inside the carb was a mess, so I cleaned it out, drained out the gas tank and replenished, and checked the oil level. Look for a bad starter solenoid, weak battery, or bad ignition switch on Predator generators with an electric start. I like a product called Sea Foam Motor Treatment. The choke must be on to restrict airflow when starting a cold engine. The engine of your generator may not start due to fuel-related problems, ignition (spark) related issues, compression-related problems, engine oil-related problems, and lastly, because of spark arrestor-related problems. Just like in a car, if your generators battery has run out the electric starter cant work. This is something you should take to a small engine service center for accurate diagnosis. Dirt can plug the air filter preventing airflow from getting to the carburetor. A more important source would be the carburetor. It helps to use fuel that is high-quality and recommended by the manufacturer. Never remove the low oil sensor to mask a problem with low oil. A narrow filter is inserted in the fuel line or fuel component. If you try and troubleshoot, you can get to the bottom of the problem and resolve it beforehand. Customer: Predator 2000 watt JA: What have you tried so far with your generator? . Sometimes, a rust hole can be repaired if you can no longer find a replacement tank. Replacement is not out of the question with this warranty. If you can't find recoil starter then use some other method. 4. This might call for the inclusion of a professionals opinion or for you to contact a repair shop or service center. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Customer: I'm trying to start my predator 2000 watt generator, it won't fire at all and the overload light flashes for a brief moment JA: What's the brand and model of your generator? You may also have a faulty fuel gauge or simply forgotten the last time you added fuel. 5 Reasons Your Bad Boy Mower Battery Keeps Dying, 6 Reasons a Generator Bogs Down Under Load (Troubleshoot). If your carburetor needle is stuck, you only need a tap of effort to solve it! Cleaning the spark plug may help and replace the coil are two solutions. 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. Various spark arrestor problems may occur and prevent the Predator 3500 from starting: If you suspect any of the above spark plug-related issues are preventing your Predator 3500 from starting, we highly suggest you hop onto this (add hyperlink) blog post as it addresses all these issues in-depth. A dirty fuel filter will restrict fuel to the carburetor. This diagram is listed as being for the 2000 model but we cannot guarantee that it is accurate or not. Wait for the engine to cool down before refilling the engine oil, or you may suffer burns. Never use gas with more than a 10% ethanol content. Another common reason is that the spark plug is not working. Purchase fresh fuel with a minimum 87 octane rating (91 RON). Otherwise, proceed with cleaning. 15 Items to troubleshoot when looking for a Predator generator starting problem: This post may include affiliate links. Another easy to solve problem that can get in the way of your generator starting is simply having cords plugged into the outlets on your generator. Dade Group LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking toAmazon.com. If the drain plug cant be tightened, then you would need to replace it. In between replacements, you must check the filter and clean it regularly. Metal and plastic shut-off valves are prone to leaking. The generator needs to be broken in before it is sent to do regular duty. I realized I forgot to clean the emulsion tube so I took the carburetor apart again. Always remove the spark plug boot prior to performing repairs and wait for the engine to cool. Use a fuel additive like. During this break-in period, you will have to change the oil several times. The link to the instructions at Harbor Freight is found at this link. Dade Group LLC is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. It is essential for you to understand why the generator isnt switching on, so you can try and resolve the problem at hand. Check the cables and wiring to make sure you have good continuity and making good connections. 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. Generator turns over one time. What is the actual model number of the genset? I haven't started troubleshooting yet, but figured I'd ask . If all checks out, replace the spark plug in the engine and try starting the generator again. Remove the engine cover and check the coil gap. The output light coming on will confirm that the engine is operating smoothly. I know incorrect oil levels might seem too simple an answer, but for most this is the problem. Tips for purchasing and storing gas for a Predator generator: SOLUTION: Drain old gas from the generator. Just keep in mind that its maximum wattage output is 2000 watts. Another source would be a fouled spark plug. A low charge on a battery will prevent the generator from starting. Fuel breaks down over time making your fuel less efficient and prone to clogging the fuel system and damaging components. It was last running on 10% ethanol gas, so from the videos, I determined I should remove and clean the carb. Low ethanol and ethanol-free fuel are best. Its best to take the generator to a service center to be repaired. Open up the vacuum relief valve. The engine cannot use any of the fuel, and so the generator cannot start. If you do not see any oil there, then you may need to add some before it gets too low. If that works, you can simply charge up the electric starter battery via the 12-volt DC outlet on your generator once its running. 10 Common Reasons Your Generator Won't Start So your generator is having some problems. 8. Remove the spark arrestor screen and clean it with solvent or a small metal brush. If your generator is trying to startup but the engine cant seem to turn over, the problem may be too much or too little air mixing with your fuel during combustion. In a well-ventilated, area away from bystanders, use pressurized, Squeeze out excess water and allow it to dry, completely. It has several options for you to look over and select. If your generator backfires and won't start, chances are it has been sitting unused for some time. It was run for about 5-6 hours for 1 time only. May have run if I had realized sooner. Set down an oil drain pan directly under the drain plug opening. Detailed information can be found at:This is Where Your Predator Generator is Leaking Gas. 2. It is possible that through constant use, the nuts and bolts on the engine case have worked themselves loose. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. Secure the fuel cap to the generator and turn the fuel valve to the Open position. According to the manual, the proper oil level is when it reaches the edge of the hole. The final spot to check would be the valve cover gasket. However, you have to check each and every single possible cause in order to find out exactly what is wrong with the generator. This feature is what makes this discount model so popular. Test the switch using a multimeter. The generator wont start in these two situations. The first would be the drain plug. However, the previously stuck carburetor needle may have created other obstacles, such as too much fuel gathering in the carburetor. Clean a Predator generator FOAM air filter: Clean a Predator generator PAPER air filter: The fuel tank must be able to vent. These are items that can cause the solenoid to not work correctly. It will however start up with no problem with the pull cord. If the engine does not start within three seconds, release the button and wait for 10 seconds before attempting to start the engine again. Customer: Checking fuel oil, fuel shut off valve JA: Anything else we should know to help you best? Excessively dirty or broken spark plug; bad connection; not gapped correctly. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. If you find any damaged parts, you must replace them using a carburetor rebuild kit or a replacement carburetor. If it does start, a plugged filter can cause the engine to overheat and cause permanent engine damage. When fuel sits for a long period of time, it degrades. Check your setting to make sure you placed it in the right position. 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, Troubleshooting Predator 2000 Generator Problems (Wont Start), What Is The Diagnostic Code SPN 4357 FMI 5? It should have been able to run 3200 watts continuously and even handle 4000 watts for a short time. However, if your engine has a lower oil level than required, you have to refill. One of the main jets may be clogged stopping the engine from receiving enough fuel. This will help to start it in no time. The information on the oil, what type to use, and how to change the oil is on page 14 of the manual. After cleaning, just reverse your steps and put everything back the way you found it. On page 15 of the manual, you will find the instructions on how to clean the air filter. I also checked and replaced the little fuse that on the positive lower cable to battery bit still no luck with the electric start. Most modern generators are equipped with a sensor that will automatically shut down your generator when oil levels are low to protect the engine. I check the battery and it's fine. Rotate the choke to the Start position. Check with Harbor Freight to see if there are other acceptable models you can use if you cant find these options in your area. I used a spark plug adapter between cap and plug, and am getting spark. Disconnect all devices and loads from the Predator 3500 generator. Clean all of the components making up the carburetor. The warning light telling you the oil is low should be enough of a warning to have you fill the tank to the proper level. Not sure what to do next. Overloading the device makes it overheat and once that happens it will shut down on you. Always remove the spark plug wire and wait for the engine to cool. Thats why, in this article, we have gone through all of the possible checklist items you should go through to identify the issue. The main get was partially. One is that the generator will shut down and not start till you unplug most of those electrical devices. Follow all safety precautions found in the Predator operator's manual. Sounds like a fuel flow problem.Pull the fuel line off at the carb and see if fuel flows well when you turn the gas on.If the fuel is flowing to the carb,you will have to remove the float bowl off the bottom of the carb and check for fuel flow through the needle and seat which the float controls in the carb.If fuel flows well . Add fresh gas to the fuel tank. One of the first places to check for an issue is the oil level. Then unscrew the fuel cap and remove it. Remove the filter and clean it. Add this mixture to the fuel tank. briefly, then squeeze out the excess oil. With a fresh battery, new gas and plenty of oil, it still wont fire. You usually dont find out you have a starting problem until you absolutely need a power source. This site is owned and operated by The Dade Group, headquartered in Texas, USA. If you dont have a recoil starter on your generator, youll need to charge the battery. How to start the Predator 7000 8750 Generator. It not only keeps gas stable longer, but it also reduces moisture and helps clean the fuel system. Not only does it begin to break down, but it also leaves behind a varnish causing fuel restrictions. Moreover, if heavy deposits are present, you may need to clean further using a carburetor cleaner or spray. 3 17 comments Best Add a Comment You may also use Facebook groups and forums dedicated specifically to Predator 3500 to get a more personalized answer. That problem may be that the cylinder was scored and oil is getting through to the combustion chamber. Use a carburetor cleaner and compressed air to remove the clog from the fuel line. Anyone have an idea or a thoughts on what could cause this? A dirty spark plug may provide an intermittent spark. Routine maintenance is required to keep your generator performing at its best and minimize issues. When it becomes plugged, the generator will have a hard time starting and running due to the clogged exhaust. Chad is a writer and webmaster helping to keep things running smoothly on the site. If the engine turns over with the solenoid bypassed, it is likely the starter solenoid is bad. nothing. The most common Predator generator problems are: Take caution when performing repairs. If the air filter is clogged with dust and debris, your carburetor wont receive enough air for combustion. With a stuck cord, I would contact the manufacturer. Click here to get to it. This generator may be a discount model and cheaper than other brands but it is not a cheaply assembled product. You can simply use a pull starter and add juice back into the battery. Perhaps youre a new Predator 3500 generator owner and are not entirely sure if youre starting the engine correctly- Dont worry; weve got you covered! The fuel valves are clogged and cannot disperse fuel to the motor. Once the generator starts warming up as it runs, the choke can be gradually moved towards fully open or run.. fuel is full. The generator is low on fuel Ethanol is not good fuel to use in a generator. However, when you own a generator long enough, youre likely to run into some type of problem. Ensure it is in the full range on the dipstick. Check for sticking valves, or blockages. Predator generators either build the fuel tank vent into the fuel cap or it will be a part installed on the top of the fuel tank. Do you know what the problem could be?. Anyone else have any ideas? There is a lot of good buzz concerning this device and it may be a good option for many RV owners. If your generator has an in-line filter between the fuel valve and the carburetor, its a good idea to pull that out and visually check it for clogs as well. A pull start generator may have a damaged or broken recoil preventing the recoil to initiate starting your engine. This screen is required to prevent injuries and fires. To help you quickly find the cause of your problem so you can fix it, I have put together tables to troubleshoot common Predator generator problems. Grab and gently pull the starter handle several times to air out the chamber. Rotate the Combination Start button to the Start position. When a Predator generator doesn't start, it can be because of one of four reasons. The switch can go bad on a generator with an electric start preventing it from starting. SOLUTION: Check for a fuel leak or fuel gauge failure. Fuel lines become dry and cracked causing gas to leak. However, if the spark arrestor seems to be damaged, replace it. It will however start up with no problem with the pull cord. This filter is installed to keep dirt from passing through the fuel system and causing wear on the engine. Predator recommends that you change the fuel inside the tank every few months. PO Box 2200131704 N Milwaukee Ave.Ste DChicago, IL 60647, 4. Chad and Rick are the father son team behind Generator Hero. I've got a predator 3500 ran fine yesterday, today doesn't do any thing. Disconnect all load devices from the generator. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. , and am getting spark on to restrict airflow when starting a cold engine every single possible cause order. A spark plug wire and wait for the engine oil, what to! Preventing airflow from getting to the clogged exhaust not guarantee that it is essential you... Checking fuel oil, or you may need to clean the carb causing gas to leak to... 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