Generac Generator

[RobMD]

I have a Generac 4000 watt Generator with a 7.8 HP engine. The unit sat around my place for 2 years with gas still in it, unbeknownst to me. I pour fresh gas in, clean the carb, purge the fuel line, and it runs ok now at lower speeds. During wide open loads, the engine starves for fuel. Float is non-adjustable, there are no needle settings.

Seems to be a carb that, when dirty, you have to throw it away and get another one. There is no taking this aluminum carb apart, completely sealed.

I figure if I get the carb issue straightened out, I was going to put a fuel filter in the line. Since the gas goes to the carb via gravity, think the gas will go through the filter ok?

 

[LenND]

Check to see if there is a leak in the intake pipe between carb and motor. Mine was cracked and wouldn't run worth a hoot. JB welded the crack and runs fine now.

 

[Dalex]

No problem using an inline filter , just get it at a small engine shop , where you know it will be suitable for gravity flow fuel systems. Some folks here say automotive inline filters are too restrictive , but thats all I've ever used ...Ignorance is bliss , I guess...

 

[Billy Shafer]

Best thing you can do. Is throw that genajunk generator away and go buy a generator.

 

[Bob - MI]

Sounds like it's running lean when the governor kicks in for more load. I would pull the carb and spray every orifice with Gumout. Flush the float needle and seat as well. I would also run some Sea Foam through it for safe measure.

You can thank the EPA for the fixed jets. This is so you don't go wild and richen the mixture and spew unburned fuel.

I have a Generac as well and it came with an in-line filter on it so you will be fine.

 

[MarkB_MI]

The main jet passages must be plugged with varnish. I don't know what you mean about "all sealed up". Unless the carb has been brazed together, you should be able to get it apart and get to most of the passageways. You might have to remove a plug or two. Find the main jet, unscrew it and clear out the orifices with a piece of fine wire. (I like to use monel fishing leader; I happen to have some in my saltwater tackle box.) Figure out which passages feed the main jet and clear them out as well.

 

[buickanddeere]

I ordered a new carb for mine, runs great.
It was only a couple bucks more than a kit. The old carb was suspect anyways as somebody had been drilling inside it.

 

[Kentb of SWMO]

Put a load of FUEL INJECTOR CLEANER in it. Run it for a while to be sure the treated fuel gets into the carb. Let the engine set 24 hours and then run with a varying load. If this does not fix the problem replace the carb.Then store WITHOUT fuel in it.

Kent

 

[Uncle Ernie]

Best thing you can do is keep your mouth shut!!

 

[Billy Shafer]

Well I have forty years working on generators. So I know a few things about the Generac Product. If you have one that runs good that is great. But ask anyone in the generator field what they think of them. Try getting one worked on.

 

[Billy Shafer]

Best way I have found. Is some gas cleaner in a small gas can. Let it run with the gas from that tank. You may have to run it with the choke on a little. When you get it to run normal with no choke. Put it under some load and let it run as long as you can.

 

[Anonymous-0]

I have a similar generator with a Tecumseh engine. On the side of the carb where the mixture needle valve should be there is a plastic cap. Under the cap is a removable, non-adjustable, needle valve. The valve has a VERY small hole in the end. Mine was plugged up and the choke had to be partially closed at high speed to make it run. Cleaned out the hole & it runs like new.

 

[rockyhawaii]

About a year ago I started mixing Sea Foam into the gas can that I use for small engines and I haven't had a fuel problem since doing this. My engines start right up instead of driving me crazy.

 

[Uncle Ernie]

Well I have 45 years working on engines and it is cheaper to fix a carb problem than to buy a new unit! You must work in SALES!

 

[Billy Shafer]

Nope I worked in the service department. I agree it is cheaper to repair than buy new. But Generac is famous for being a pile of junk.One problem after another. Parts prices are out of site and forget factory support.

 

[Anonymous-0]

Generac is now owned by Briggs Stratton. Any of there dealers should be able to help you.