Generator won't start

[coffeemate]

We have an Onan 2800 watt generator in our 2007 190 Popular. Can't get the generator to start. Any idea what I need to do to get it running again?

[avanti]

First thing to check is the little rubber vent tube that hangs down below the unit. It is essential that it be clear. In the past, Onan failed to put a screen on the end and it became a favorite hangout for nest-building insects. It is amazing how frequently this problem shows up. Happened to me twice. Clean it out thoroughly with a bit of stiff wire. This procedure has gotten many a genset running happily again. Worth a try, anyway.

[Ron J. Moore]

Do you have enough gas in the tank? I believe it has to be above a quarter of a tank......and they are sometimes finicky. Ron

[booster]

Originally Posted by avanti

First thing to check is the little rubber vent tube that hangs down below the unit. It is essential that it be clear. In the past, Onan failed to put a screen on the end and it became a favorite hangout for nest-building insects. It is amazing how frequently this problem shows up. Happened to me twice. Clean it out thoroughly with a bit of stiff wire. This procedure has gotten many a genset running happily again. Worth a try, anyway.

I don't recall a vent tube on our Onan in the Chevy, when we had it. I have heard of them on propane and plugging issues, though. The OP has a gas 2800, it would appear.

[avanti]

Originally Posted by booster

I don't recall a vent tube on our Onan in the Chevy, when we had it. I have heard of them on propane and plugging issues, though. The OP has a gas 2800, it would appear.

Could be. My experience is limited to propane.

[WJones]

Coffeemate,
Can you be more specific as to the symptoms. Does it not turn over at all, does it turn over but fail to start, does it seem to start but stop when you release the switch?
William

[coffeemate]

Yes, it seems to start but stops when we release the button.

[WJones]

Originally Posted by coffeemate

Yes, it seems to start but stops when we release the button.

First, and easiest, thing to check is the oil level. There is an oil level switch in the crankcase that prevents the generator from running if the oil level is low. When looking at the service manual they say that the unit will start and stop if the oil is low, while the circuit diagram indicates that it won't start at all. So, the jury is out on this one. Worth checking though.

This symptom also indicates that the generator isn't putting out AC voltage. This can be caused by dirty slip rings and/or a faulty voltage regulator. This can't be checked or repaired without dropping the generator.

William