Starting a generator with a recoil start is a three-step process:
- Step 1 – Partial pull. Pull recoil handle slowly until you start feeling resistance
- Step 2 – Complete pull. After that, pull it quickly all the way (until fully extended)
- Step 3 – Letting it go. The handle should be released ONLY after the cord has been retracted!
How to start a generator with a pull cord?
The steps are as follows:
- Start by checking whether the water tank is filled with water. ...
- Next, check the oil, fuel and radiator water levels. ...
- As in the above steps, check all the switches and turn them to the required directions. ...
- You should then check whether the diesel emergency stop genset is in the correct position. ...
Why is my Generator hard to pull start?
Why is My Generator Hard to Pull Start?
- Hydrolock. ...
- Recoil Start Assembly (Pull Cord Itself) If hydrolock was not your problem, I would then check to see if it’s just the recoil starter cord itself.
- Damaged/Cracked Flywheel or Flywheel Key. ...
- Piston Seized-Up. ...
How to start or turn on a generator?
Preparation
- Consult your owner’s manual. We all hate reading owner’s manuals. ...
- Check for damage or gas leak. If your building was struck by a storm, it’s a good idea to check for damage. ...
- Move your generator outside, away from the house. ...
- Don’t operate your generator (unprotected) in a storm. ...
- Check fuel levels for oil and gas. ...
How do I start the generator?
Part 1 of 2: Running a Generator
- Read the manufacturer's instructions. If you have never used your generator before, or if you haven’t used it in a long time, it is critical to read all instructions ...
- Set the generator in a proper place. Generators can get hot and noisy, and produce dangerous fumes. ...
- Check the fuel level. ...
- Check the generator’s oil level. ...
How do you start a pull start?
2:525:53How To Easily Pull Your Starter Rope From The Other Side - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll that's doing is rubbing. The side of the starter cord like that on a grommet where it comes out.MoreAll that's doing is rubbing. The side of the starter cord like that on a grommet where it comes out. You're gonna where you start record fray your starter cord way faster than it should be.
Why can't I pull start my generator?
If there is no spark or if the spark appears weak, remove the spark plug and cap. Put the end of the spark plug wire near the engine's body and pull the recoil starter to check the ignition coil. If there are now sparks appearing between the spark plug boot and engine, then the spark plug needs to be replaced.
How does a pull start work?
The operator pulls the rope's handle or grip. This causes the rope to unwind around the crankshaft and spin it. The spinning motion of the crankshaft cranks the engine. The crankshaft's motion engages the flywheel, enabling the engine to start.
How do you start a generator that has been sitting?
0:001:11how to START a generator that's been “sitting too long” - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf your generator. Won't start because it's been sitting i'll show you a few easy things you can doMoreIf your generator. Won't start because it's been sitting i'll show you a few easy things you can do to get it fixed. Make sure the gas valve is turned on make sure the choke is on start.
What makes a generator hard to start?
A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the generator for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and prevent the engine from starting.
How do you rewind a pull start?
1:172:51How-To: Fix a Broken Recoil Rope - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe can go ahead and take a paper clip open up the paper clip the paper clip is used just to assistMoreWe can go ahead and take a paper clip open up the paper clip the paper clip is used just to assist in pulling the Rope up through between the cage and the pulley.
How do you use a pull cord?
0:407:18How to Use a Pull Cord/Rap Line - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUp the uh clove hitch on the spine. Okay and i notice i'm leaving you know about two feet of tail.MoreUp the uh clove hitch on the spine. Okay and i notice i'm leaving you know about two feet of tail. There and the purpose of that tail is for me to attach. My pull cord okay.
How do you start an engine without pull start?
0:001:02How to start a mower without a pull start - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis circular piece in and the flywheel is and just keep wrapping it. Make sure to keep it tight andMoreThis circular piece in and the flywheel is and just keep wrapping it. Make sure to keep it tight and then wrap it to where you have enough cord to start pulling. Then you want to pull the handle.
How does pull string starter work?
When the rope's grip is pulled, the rope uncoils, tensions the spring, engages the clutch and turns the crankshaft, spinning it to crank or start the engine before the end of the pull stroke. The running of the engine then disengages the clutch.
How does a pull start engine get spark?
Whether you start the engine with a pull rope or the turn of a key on an electric start motor, you're relying on the ignition system to produce a spark inside the combustion chamber. When you start your lawn mower or small engine, you turn the flywheel and its magnets pass the coil (or armature). This creates a spark.
How do you wind a pull start spring?
0:275:03How to rewind a pullstart spring - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou need to good quality tape cable ties decent width and nail. And a hammer start. Get that nail inMoreYou need to good quality tape cable ties decent width and nail. And a hammer start. Get that nail in there good and firm not to hit your spring.
How do you fix a pull start spring?
2:0710:26Best 3 Ways To Install A Recoil Starter Spring On A Small Engine - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first thing you want to do here is cut the zip tie. Again make sure you're wearing your safetyMoreThe first thing you want to do here is cut the zip tie. Again make sure you're wearing your safety glasses. So now I have to remove it from the casing grab a good pair of pliers.
How to start a generator when a storm strikes?
How to Start a Generator. When a storm strikes and your power is knocked out, you want to get your portable generator up and running—fast. You may have bought your generator a few years ago and don't remember how it starts. But when a blackout takes down the neighborhood, you just want your power back as soon as possible.
How to refuel a generator?
Refueling. When you need to refuel, unplug the cords from your generator, let the generator run for a few minutes to stabilize. Then, turn it off and let it cool before adding more fuel. You can repeat the process described above to turn the generator back on.
What cord to use to plug in multiple appliances?
Convenience cords. Another option is a simple convenience cord, which allows you to plug in multiple items at once. Instead of plugging in individual appliances to the generator, you plug in this cord, extend it out to wherever most of your appliances reside, and plug in multiple appliances from there. 3.
What happens if the starter doesn't work?
If the electric starter doesn't work, your battery may be dead.
Can you fill a generator with gasoline?
Always make sure you fill up your generator with FRESH gasoline. Ethanol in the gas will absorb water over time. Stale gasoline not only makes it harder or impossible to start, but can damage the engine. Also, check the oil level of your generator to make sure the engine gets proper lubrication.
Can you use a generator in a garage?
NEVER operate a generator inside of your home, garage, or shed. If you use a generator inside your garage you could be killed by carbon monoxide poisoning within minutes. 4. Don’t operate your generator (unprotected) in a storm Heavy rain can cause electrical shock and damage to the engine.
Can you backfeed a generator?
You will plug that end of the cord into the generator. The “female” end is a connector that will fit into the power inlet box outside your home. IMPORTANT: NEVER backfeed your generator by directly plugging it into an electrical receptacle or outlet inside your home. It can injure workers trying to restore power.
How to start a generator for the first time (new generator)
If you just received your generator, you will probably need to put some oil in it and make sure everything is connected properly (consult owner’s manual for setup). After filling up with oil and fresh gasoline, you will need to follow proper steps to start it up safely.
How to start a generator that has been sitting
Starting a generator that has been sitting in your garage for a while is not complicated if you stored it properly, which means WITHOUT gasoline inside. If you did not, you will need to clean the carburetor and the rest of the fueling system (including the gas tank) before filling it up with fresh gasoline.
How to start a generator with an electric start
If you have an electrical start generator, it can be started with either button (like this):
How to start a generator with a pull cord
If your generator is equipped with a recoil start, you will notice a handle (usually located to the right of the air filter) that looks like this:
Pull cord hard to pull
Is your generator recoil cord hard to pull? There could be several reasons behind it. The number one problem in such a situation is when the combustion chamber gets filled up with liquid. There could also be problems with the recoil assembly itself.
How to connect a breaker bar to a power drill?
Simply attach a breaker bar connector to your impact driver or your power drill, shift your tool down to a low speed, and then slap the socket on the end of that connector. Push everything into reverse, attached directly to the starter motor nut, and then fire up the drill itself.
Do generators have redundancy?
A lot of modern generators have built-in redundancy systems to solve this problem exactly. Some have electric plug in starting systems that might be useful if you have another source of electricity (including battery) whereas others outline exactly how you can manually crank the starting motor on a generator to get you up and running.
Can a generator pull cord be made of steel?
These cords, after all, aren’t made out of steel. They’re usually made out of a decent quality rope but end up rubbing up against metal components and sharp corners over and over again.
Can you power a generator without a pull rope?
If none of that works (or if you’re having a tough time navigating the tips above) it’s also possible to power on your generator without a pull rope with nothing more than a cordless impact driver or power drill, a socket, and a little bit of juice in the battery.
How To Start a Generator Without a Pull Cord?
When faced with a situation where you can no longer use your pull cord to start your generator, you should first consult the manual that came with the generator. This manual will tell you how the pull cord on your generator model works, and sometimes the manual itself might advise you on what to do when your pull rope breaks.
Can You Use a Broken Pull Cord To Start a Generator?
If you do not have a power drill and your cord broke, hope is still left for you. Not all, but some generators do allow you to start your generator even if you are using a broken rope.
Can You Fix a Broken Pull Cord On a Generator?
If you have read your generator’s manual and you decide against starting it manually, or if it is not possible to start it by other means, you can attempt to fix the pull cord.
Reasons Why Your Generator Fails To Start
If you have tried making another roper, used the same cord attached directly to the flywheel, and used a drill to try to start your generator and it still doesn’t work, it might be because of any of the following reasons:
Conclusion
Thankfully, if you ever end up breaking your generator’s pull cord while trying to get it started, you still have a chance to turn the lights back on before supper. There are a couple of methods you can use; the one requiring the least manual labor will just need a power drill.
Sources
I've been conducting home inspections since 2002. I'm a licensed Home Inspector, Certified Master Inspector (CMI), and an FHA 203k Consultant. I started PickGenerators.com to help people better understand whole-house and portable generators.
Converting a Pull Start Generator To Electric
So, you have decided to convert your generator’s pull start to an electric starter. The strain on your arms and the time wasted trying to get your pull start generator running can be tiresome, so you may want to convert your generator to an electric start. This is a wise decision from your side and will simplify your life quite a bit.
What Factors Can Prevent You From Converting Your Generator?
We have discussed the conversion from a pull start to an electric start when the circumstances are perfect for performing the conversion. There are, however, instances where you will have to make some modifications first before you can start with the conversion. Let us explore these instances:
Conclusion
Using a generator pull start is the old-fashioned way of starting your generator. It places strain on your arms and rarely starts after just one pull. All of us had pulled and pulled for what seemed to be forever before our generators decided to start. It can be frustrating, to say the least.
Sources
I've been conducting home inspections since 2002. I'm a licensed Home Inspector, Certified Master Inspector (CMI), and an FHA 203k Consultant. I started PickGenerators.com to help people better understand whole-house and portable generators.
What to use to start a generator that won't start?
If you’re caught with a generator that will not start due to a pull cord being broken, then a cordless drill (with a fresh battery) can be used to start the engine but it doesn’t come without great risk.
How to start a generator if you don't have a recoil cord?
A safer method of starting a generator if you don’t have a functioning recoil cord assembly is to find a small rope (it could be the majority of what might be left from your recoil cord assembly) about 4′-6′ in length and make an overhand not on one end. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.
Why is my generator not producing electricity?
If your problem is that your generator has simply lost its residual magnetism in the alternator, then a corded drill can bail you out of a depressing power outage.
How to turn cordless drill to forward?
Turn your cordless drill to the forward (clockwise) position for the drill chuck. Place the socket which is attached to the drill over the nut and press and hold the trigger until the engine starts. Pull your drill away immediately when the engine starts or risk severe injury or property damage.
What is the AVR on a generator?
AVR on the bottom left (crescent-shaped), bearing in the middle, and the brushes are just above that and slightly offset to the left. The AVR is responsible for sensing the output being produced by the generator and bringing it to a predetermined amount (120v, 240v, etc.).
Why is magnetism lost in a generator?
Unfortunately, the residual magnetism can be lost due to a generator being banged around when not in use, being allowed to run out of gas when a load is being placed on it, being turned off with the engine start switch when a load is being placed on it, or simply by sitting in storage too long without being used.
What happens if a generator produces too much energy?
Conversely, if it senses that the generator is producing too much is reduces the amount of energy being fed to the exciter coils which reduces the magnetic field and reduces the electricity being produced.
How to Make a Generator Automatic Start
Every day, power outages happen. While you may not realize it, each time the power goes out, you’re in for a little adventure attempting to get things back up and running.
A Step by Step on How to Make Generator Automatic Start
Here are explained steps on installing an automatic start for a portable generator. We know that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all of these technical terms, but don’t fret. Anyone with basic electrical knowledge can easily follow these instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, you’ll need to install an automatic start device if you want your generator to start automatically. Automatic start kits are designed to connect to portable generators, allowing them to start and run in the event of a power loss or other circumstances where electricity is unavailable.
Final Thoughts
While it’s true that some generators do include automatic start mechanisms, the majority don’t especially portable generators. So, if you have such a model, don’t panic: our seven steps above provide detailed instructions on making one; follow them diligently.
Preparation
Next: Turning on Your Generator
- 1. Turn fuel valve on Flip the fuel valve on. When the fuel valve is released, fuel travels to the carburetor to help the generator start. 2. Turn choke on Move the choke rod from right to left. This makes it easier for the engine to start running. 3. Turn ignition (or engine switch) on Many generators require you to flip the switch to turn the eng...
Connecting Your Generator to Your Home
- Let the generator run a few minutes before plugging in any cords. Also, make sure you have turned your circuit breakers on. After it has run for 3-5 minutes, you can begin connecting it to the house. There are a few ways to restore your power: 1. Extension cords When you use an extension cord, it's important for it to be the proper gauge. The higher number gauge extension cords are f…
Refueling
- When you need to refuel, unplug the cords from your generator, let the generator run for a few minutes to stabilize. Then, turn it off and let it cool before adding more fuel. You can repeat the process described above to turn the generator back on.