Problems Starting an Elecric Generator

[rpeter]

I was just given a 13 HP Electric start Electric generator. The man that owned it said he always had trouble starting it. I find that it starts fine when it is cold. Start it cold it runs fine; turn it off wait 30 seconds; start it and it runs fine. However; if you start it and run it for say an hour....... then turn it off and you can not get it to start again......until it has completely cooled down. Anyone got any suggestions?

 

[murphy1244]

I say Vapor lock on the gas or bad coil.

 

[whistlepig]

Take your gas cap off. The vent may be plugged on the cap.

 

[V1Rotate]

What kind of unit is it?
Do you know what brand of engine it has?

 

[rpeter]

Thanks for all the quick replies......
I had thought of a vapor lock but did not know what might be causing it.
This is a "Chicago Electric Generator". It is a Chinese manufacture sold by Harbor Freight. But hey it was free
The engine is Chinese ..... Lifan is the manufactures name

I will try " hot start with the gas cap off.

Thanks again.

 

[V1Rotate]

It's possible that you have an ignition problem. After you have run the generator for a while, shut it down and see if it will start. If it doesn't, pull the spark plug out and see if you are getting any spark.

 

[Bob Rooks]

It's possible that you have an ignition problem. After you have run the generator for a while, shut it down and see if it will start. If it doesn't, pull the spark plug out and see if you are getting any spark.

I concur. Do you know if it has an electronic ignition system? It sounds like the capacitor (condenser) or high tension coil is breaking down from just engine heat.

 

[Travelover]

You can also remove the air cleaner and shoot a little gasoline into the carburetor throat. If it runs for a few seconds on the gas you shot in, then gasoline is not getting to engine. If gas if getting to the carburetor (gas in bowl), then crud may be getting pulled up to block main jet.

Also check for spark as has already been suggested.

 

[IkeRoberts]

Make sure the cooling fins are all clean. If it gets hot enough, when you shut it off, the gas in the carb starts to evaporate.

 

[rpeter]

I tried leaving the gas cap off and that did not help. Looks like the next is to take off the air cleaner and then the spark plug.

Thanks again for the help!!