Craftsman Generator Won't Start

[@jarniotes]

One professionally done video. This is how an instructional video should be produced.

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks so much!!!

[@tinabirch741]

Other than calling me a Dude as I watch .

[@butler386]

Great Video. I wished my grandson would get interested in doing some of this stuff. His mom is a single mom and struggles with things that don't start. I tried to get my girls interested in mechanic stuff but that went no where. I am going to see if my grandson will watch your video's on a consistent basis. Thank you for your patience in helping all of us out with fixing our machines. c

[@BrucesShop]

Thank you for watching. It isn't all mechanics. My main purpose is to teach people to save money on a lot of things. thanks again.

[@thebull5099]

I have one just like that. It has ran for year. Like 15 years. It still runs great. Love that Briggs and stratton

[@BrucesShop]

Me too.

[@jwchunn]

That fixed my problem. In my case, the valve clearance adjustment screw / rod seat thing had completely come out and was laying on top of the head. Rocker arm was flopping around basically like yours. Thanks for the video.

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks for watching. This video was made in 2014 Cool that 6 years later it helped someone. I am asking can you see the date it was made? I think it isn't visible on some devices.

[@jwchunn]

@@BrucesShop yes I can.

[@paulnavara7127]

Found this very interesting. I learned that more can go wrong besides carb troubles. Thanks for posting.

[@BrucesShop]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ronmoore1454]

Thank you so much for this particular video. I have that same generator, it went from one pull to endless pulls and not firing. I watched your video and 30 minutes later mine is running.

[@BrucesShop]

You made my day

[@MichaelPeters-01]

Thanks for making your video, the reset button is right there on the LED display, it's a membrane type button.

[@slidinsidewayzproductionss7906]

I can appreciate a human that takes pride in their work. One step closer to working on tesla’s, my friend!!👍🏽😎✊

[@BrucesShop]

Oh I would have to move. LOL

[@michaelstewart6414]

Hi Mr. Pender. Your camera work is getting better each video. Whenever I need to know something about a repair, I turn to you. You always find a way to fix something and you don't give up. Thanks

[@gergemall]

Great video and great resources, thank you very much.

[@JimBeshears]

I have this generator for about 10 years now, it’s saved my basement 4 or 5 times. We had a 2 day outage once and it ran great the whole time. I have it wired into the house so as long as we don’t use the AC it covers everything else.

[@BrucesShop]

good for you. We don't have AC up here.

[@scottelliott3074]

@@BrucesShop hq

[@SteveRobReviews]

Good catch- I thought it was going to be the low oil sensor until you said it did have spark. Thanks !

[@BrucesShop]

Yes low oil sensors can trick you into doing more work

[@max98138]

To SrRatsenol, You need to take the pull starter off and take a look it might have the rope looped around the outside of the pull starter. This kind of common. It,s just 4 bolts and not difficult at all. Give a try you,ll be proud that you did.

[@robertmattison1282]

For my two cents. I really like your video a lot. The one man camera was great work on the fly. I like the fast forward part and the graphic aka: words lay over the video. I would had like to heard more on what cause the valve problem. But you rate a A+. Hope to find more of your video. Yes I know this was Published on July 7, 2014 and I am watching your video on Wednesday; August 16, 2017 in Manchester, Vermont.

[@BrucesShop]

Hey thanks for the comment. I am having a tough day today. I know I try to cram in too much into the 15 minute video window. I am self taught and self trained in camera work and editing. The rocker arm just got loose. So loose they fell off the valves.

[@logman6656]

6 year's on still very much helpful nice one thank you

[@BrucesShop]

Glad it helped

[@josevegadejesus3229]

thanks for that video you saved me salvaste Life had a tremendous problem. Thank you.

[@BrucesShop]

You're welcome!

[@josemariacalebgarciayamin5250]

Amigo Bruce,muy buena su explicación. Lo felicito

[@glhandler]

This was the exact problem my generator had. Thanks!

[@BrucesShop]

So a valve adjustment is all it took. Good for you!!

[@glhandler]

Took the valve cover off and the same rocker arm had come loose.

[@BrucesShop]

This thing with the rockers is definitely a weak spot.

[@johnclarke6647]

I always shut down my generators with the fuel shutoff valve, as if it did not even have an in ignition kill switch. When i got my last generator an 11 up Briggs 4500w generator, I adjusted the OHV valves as a part of the 1st oil change. This way I will not have to mess with them for quite a while. They were a little looser than factory specs for that engine, so I am glad I did it. I will recheck them at 100 hours. I now have 50 hours on the generator. I use Pennzoil Platinum, 10W-30 oil in all of my four cycle equipment and generally change it if it darkens up or 25 hours, whichever comes first.

[@javahigh]

Found the same issue on one of these I bought cheap on craigslist. Thanks for the guide!

[@BrucesShop]

+javahigh Did you fix it??

[@cartycartyamplifiersalesrepair]

Love this video you have teach me alot and you work very clean i like that.

[@fearnomenbutgod]

Thank you very easy to explain. It help me to fix my intake valve

[@BrucesShop]

Good for you

[@royboy3597]

Dude it's alive! Same exact thing happened to me. Same valve. Spark plug not getting fuel. Totally dry. After adjustment fired right up. A new plug isn't all ways the answer

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks Roy. Yes plugs last for years in a car

[@billthompson9295]

The reset button is embedded on the LED readout, (circle display). The key is to look for an embedded impression on the dial.

[@BrucesShop]

I will check that. thanks

[@alssmallengines]

Good job Bruce! Great video!

[@malcolmyoung7866]

learnt something new today, Thanks Bruce...

[@BrucesShop]

Yes a person should learn something new everyday.

[@skern002]

Bruce thanks for the video. I have the same generator and it runs well but if I have this problem I will know where to look.

[@BrucesShop]

Cool

[@mclark8848]

If you like these type of videos, James Condon has several and they are enjoyable!

[@BrucesShop]

He is a great tech.

[@MartyChristianSoldier]

Great job, and great attention to detail.

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks a lot marty

[@miduisa]

Nice job, we recently recieved a used generator same kind and your video was very helpful thank you for taking the time

[@BrucesShop]

Thank you!!!

[@tommycoffey2085]

Love your videos.Thank you for you making them.

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks for watching.

[@billglydon8513]

A real life video...well done!

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks this video is 5 years old now.

[@dj5752]

Nicely Done. It's appreciated.

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks John.

[@timmygilbert1371]

Great video as usual Bruce !

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks Timmy

[@abutimmy3743]

WOW back yard mech got to love them....keeps me in work

[@greetswithfire1868]

Where are your videos? I want to watch you fix something; anything. And leave the comment section open.

[@somerandomguy3868]

Nicely done

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks I made this video in 2014 and I think the generator is still running.

[@jmonte2811]

As always GREAT Job!! Thanks!!

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks a lot J

[@Tina-7773]

Thanks Bruce!

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks for watching.

[@williamwaters4506]

Nice job. How would the rocker arm come apart like that?

[@BrucesShop]

Over time the valves get loose and eventually the rocker arm slips off when hot.

[@abemartin6297]

Thanks gave me another idea to trouble shoot my generator !

[@BrucesShop]

Good for you. Let me know how you made out.

[@BrucesShop]

Well donnyboy73 is the Small Engine Doctor". I am just the apprentice. Bruce

[@JorgeSanchez-xm7pc]

Great Video. Came in very handy to fix our generator. I have a question, where can I get this rolling cart/table that you have the generator on - very cool table that you can bring up and down.

[@BrucesShop]

A video explains it all. Where i got it and what i did to it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6ead6d8jLd7l7c

[@ebfromwyoming4118]

Great job sir

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks again

[@SouthpawDavey]

Doctor Bruce very nice sir ;-)

[@TommyG11814]

Great video

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks Tommy

[@donyboy73]

what make is the lift at the start of the video bruce?

[@BrucesShop]

It is a lift I bought at Princess Auto here is the link Thx Donny I bought it at a Canadian Store Called Princess Auto. Here is the link to the lift www.princessauto.com/pal/en/Moving-Equipment/660-lb-Scissor-Lift-Cart/8017549.p

[@BrucesShop]

Oh I added a 2foot X 3 foot 3/4 inch plywood with a lip on the top ;-)

[@BrucesShop]

I got in on sale for $189.99 2 years ago.------------The lift.

[@bombadeer8231]

Eksaust aka exhaust 👍

[@BrucesShop]

I know This video is 6 years old I can't fix it. just a simple mistake. When you expose yourself to the world every malfunction is revealed. I am not a trained journalist.

[@randi740]

Great Job!

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks This video was shot in 2014 If you use a phone can you see the date I am trying to find out if my subs can see the date made when using a phone not a computer.

[@joerothrock9904]

Thanks. That's great

[@stevenzepeda4489]

I have an exact one like yours but your seems newr than mine. Found out I need a new push rod where can I order or if you know part # thanks in advance

[@BrucesShop]

Sorry just having my coffee.

[@Tribute2FordChopper]

Dear Mr. Pender, I have a Briggs and Stratton 2100 / 7500 Watt 210 / 110 generator. The fly wheel key was sheered I replaced it and removed a plastic bag from the inner workings. It pulls just fine but only with the spark plug out of the engine. I'm going to use your chart I may have adjusted the valves wrong. I've removed the had and cleaned out the burnt carbon of the piston and valves. Any idea why the pull cord handle would pull your had into the pull cord assembly only when the spark plug is in the machine? Sincerely, M.J.

[@BrucesShop]

It still looks like the timing is off. Make sure the valves are opening all the way. Good luck Mike. Rotate it slowly.

[@Tribute2FordChopper]

Mr. Pender, The valves are opening and closing correctly I think I may have tightened the flywheel bolt too tight or there may be something stuck on the starter gear. Supper hard to remove the starter I'm going to buy a tool at Harbor Freight. MJ

[@BrucesShop]

Good luck. Just keep plugging away.

[@Pescador101]

Hi, my English is too bad. But I need yo say: Thank you!.

[@BrucesShop]

You are welcome.

[@johnclarke6647]

It is .004 on the intake and .006 on the exhaust. If yu set the exhaust to tight you can burn it.

[@BrucesShop]

Yes I read this chart and one can read it differently . You can pick either 4 or 6. Thanks for commenting John. This video is 3 years old and the gent who owns is a carpenter friend. I am sure it is still running or he would have brought it over.

[@gordonwilloughby8793]

If the generator with error codes doesn't have a reset button does it have a battery to start the generator? If it does disconnect the battery for about 30 seconds when the generator isn't running then reconnect it. This might reset the display. You could also try disconnecting the display if possible for about 30 seconds and reconnect.

[@BrucesShop]

No battery on tis one. We are just living with the codes. Thanks though. I understand about the memory sticking.

[@skipbarrus4106]

Great video: I have a United Power GG7200CLE (Not sure who makes it or where my late brother got it...but I took the carb completely apart and cleaned it. I put fresh gas and a new battery in it. I checked the spark and it does have spark (Not like a car but there is spark)...It has a pully and key start....I can get it to crank but it won't turn over and run. What am I missing?? I have no paper work on this generator so don't have a clue what the specs are on the valves or spark plug gap.

[@BrucesShop]

+Skip Barrus Does it run for a few seconds when you prime it with fuel ? That would tell you if things are set up OK as far as the valves and spark are concerned.

[@skipbarrus4106]

+Bruce Pender Won't crank at all....I guess my next step would be checking the valves and compression if I had the specs.....but I don't

[@BrucesShop]

+Skip Barrus Have you taken the spark plug out to see if it full of oil or gas. Then take that valve cover off to see of the valves are off centre. Sorry I am not there to see if where you are. Don't be shy by taking stuff off, as it already broken. Just google specs for the motor not the generator. E.G. Briggs 8HP Horzontal valve lash or whatever.

[@ElCineHefe]

you might have an emergency genny but if it stops, do you have the important spare parts and know how to get it running again? this is that video!

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@luisfelipeacevedo1960]

good video, thanks

[@BrucesShop]

+Luis Acevedo Thanks for watching.

[@RockyTop1911]

Great vid!!!!!!!!

[@SrRatsenol]

Mr. Pender, I have a B&S Portable Generator 5550 WATTS 8550 Starting WATTS Model 030235 with the following problem; any suggested solutions are appreciated: The pull cord appears to be locked, I can only pull it only about 4 inches. It has only about 20 hours use on it. I did remove the carburetor, cleaned it, and reinstalled it. The pull cord was working prior to removing the carburetor. I turn the gas on, set the choke, and turn the power button on and try to pull but nothing. Thank You! JR

[@BrucesShop]

OK You can take off the rewind (the rope assembly ) check for any restrictions. I would also take off the valve cover as well to see if the valves are intact as in this video. Something is stopping that motor from turning over. Of course check the oil before starting. good luck!!! Don't be afraid of taking stuff apart as it already broken!!!

[@johnlabauve3891]

Bruce Pender my son ran his coleman out of oil,it has a shut off sense ,after refilling oil it won't start and no fire, no compression

[@BrucesShop]

Is it turning over? If it is check to see if one of the valves id stuck open. If it isn't turning over give the entire motor a check to see if there is anything from making it turn over. Take the rewind cover off and check that. No compression means that the valves aren't closing or something is stuck open. There is no resistance on the rope when you pull it.

[@krazzystallion61]

you can go to the website and look for the manual for this gen it could tell u where the reset button is.

[@maphumunozipho4921]

I once gave someone mine and he destroyed it when i open there i fine i bend inside where you find those long shiny wires so i must buy the whole set?

[@BrucesShop]

Sorry I don't understand what you need. I think you are having trouble with the generator not the motor. That is an expensive fix.

[@brickwal92tt]

I picked up a similar model curbside for free, but it won't run? When I pull the cord, it pulls too freely and I don't hear any exhaust at all. I have another model almost the same and it does start. The cord has more tension and the exhaust makes noise as I pull the cord. The key on the crankshaft is intact. Any ideas...? EDIT: turned out to be a broken connecting rod. Engine is shot!

[@BrucesShop]

As in this video at 1:47 did you take that valve cover off to see of the valves are normal. It sounds like one of them is stuck open .

[@brickwal92tt]

@@BrucesShop Sure did. With the help of this FB group, it turns out the connecting rod is broken. It's not worth fixing for me. I'll be selling it for $50 , facebook.com/groups/862388813778610/?multi_permalinks=3131934686824000&comment_id=3132006783483457&notif_id=1556241361723889&notif_t=feedback_reaction_generic

[@hectorjerez2614]

Gracias

[@BrucesShop]

:-)

[@mildbull2000]

good vid DR Pender if you couldnt find the specs on the valve gap what would you have tried gaping ?

[@BrucesShop]

.005 can work in a pinch. Bruce

[@furiousangels6222]

I have an 8500W Generator, same component setup as this. Wont run. Turns over several times only. Good spark, Carb removed and fully cleaned, Air Filter not blocked, even tried disconnecting oil sensor. Turns over but won't run. Valves appear to operate correctly too. Any more thoughts please?? 😤🤔

[@BrucesShop]

Are you sure about the valve. Check for some need looseness at top dead centre. They can operate but have to be a bit loose ate TDC

[@charleshendrick7266]

Spray a little carb cleaner or engine starting spray in the carb then try and start it.. If it fires and runs for just a bit you have a typical fuel issue... solved by giving the carb a good cleaning. Lots of vids on youtube tell you how to do this. Problems start when these generators are left sitting with fuel in the carb (float bowl)..which ends up with crud blocking jets/ports etc in the carburetor. Once you get this machine running again a few rules of thumb.... Never store it with gas in the float bowl. If storing it with fuel in the tank...tank should be completely full with REAL gasoline.... no ethanol. I will run these motors with gas containing ethanol … no problem, but it goes bad too fast to suit me... even with a stabilizer in it. Reason behind keeping tank completely full is it stops there from being condensation in the gas tank itself, also the REAL gasoline stores better and longer with less exposure to air. Hope this helps

[@sin21soldier]

Help!! I have the same genorator, wont start.. not getting any comoression!! Any solutions?

[@BrucesShop]

Have you checked the valves for lash?

[@Advanceauto999]

Check valve lash , bent valves, valve seat dropped, bad head gasket, worn piston / rings, worn cylinder.

[@you166mhz]

the chart says -- 0.004 and 0.006 ... one is for the intake valve and the other is for the exhaust valve ... it is not a choice chart ....

[@BrucesShop]

Ok???

[@you166mhz]

one set of vales will explode while the other set will expel the waste .. the waste side does not need to be gauged on a stronger setting -- however the exploded side is under much pressure and it needs to be set on a diff gauge setting ... this alone makes the valve work efficient thus making the up-down sequence motion goes smooth ... this is why the diff settings ...

[@tim7217]

Start doing bigger engine repairs plz. The little engine repairs are getting boring. Thnks.

[@thatguy1128]

Mr. Pender, I have a generator that surges when running. I have replaced the carb and re-adjusted the governor. I also cleaned out the gas tank and put fresh gas in it with no luck. It does run better with the choke all the way on. Any suggestions?

[@BrucesShop]

They are surgy things. Does it surge under a load. (like a drill) Governor adjustments don't help surging. It sounds like a Honda or Honda clone. Run it for a while. Spray some carb cleaner on the gaskets for the carb. Air may be leaking in there If the engine changes rpm while spraying you need new gaskets as the intake is sucking fuel though the gasket from the carb spray.

[@thatguy1128]

I will try that. Thank you for the insight. I just started watching your videos and I've already learned a lot!

[@sheikhmuhammad7596]

could you tell me the name of instrument whom you find on check chart or fix exaust

[@BrucesShop]

I am sorry the website or the tool to measure, the toll is called a feeler gauge and here is the website. www4.briggsandstratton.com/miscpdfs/RNT/Engine%20Specifications%20Chart_ms3992.pdf

[@paprile57]

Hello Mr. Pender - I have a 10,000W Honda clone which I have been running faithfully monthly for around 10 minutes a session with a load so that it will be ready when needed. The last time I test ran it was approx 1 month ago and it worked like a champ. Today I needed it (power outage) and lo and behold it started, stalled, and refuses to start again. Tried the starter fluid in the carburator trick and no go. Checked for spark and didn't see anything. Help! In advance, thanks, Peter

[@BrucesShop]

Peter A Do you know how to change a coil?kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYCseaOHaLalr9k

[@paprile57]

Bruce Pender I do now thanks to your excellent video...Thanks! The generator only has 3 hours on it, all of it from a series of monthly ~10 minute test runs (plus whatever was on it from the factory tests). I'm surprised it failed this quickly.

[@paprile57]

Bruce Pender Hello again Mr. Pender. I changed the coil and spark plug and still no spark. The generator has an electric start (battery) which is fully charged and seems to be trying to turn the engine over. Any suggestions?

[@BrucesShop]

Peter A I am not there which makes it tough. I had a generator with no spark and it was low on oil which caused the low oil shutoff to shutoff the coil.

[@paprile57]

Bruce Pender Appreciate your prompt response. Oil is good. Have continuity through the coil wire. This sounds like one for the X files.

[@papabits5721]

i have the same lift table with the exact same piece of plywood installed on it .

[@BrucesShop]

That is so cool.

[@johnlannigan9831]

To add to the other comments about the display, or Statstation as Sears likes to call it, the reset is just to the left, either a prominent button or a tactile PCB switch, firmly press around the left area of the display until you feel a click, page 16 of the manual has the information.... www.sears.ca/deploy/repair-manuals/craftsman-outdoor-power/craftsman-built/generators-power-washers/owners-manuals/71_580_67561_580_675610_500_204412-0163-E1_BOM_2006.pdf

[@BrucesShop]

Thank you but the ink didn't work for me. I am cursed with Craftsman Sears sites.

[@atschirner]

Updated link to Owner's Manual: www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/user-manuals/580675610-Craftsman-Parts-Generator-Parts-manual

[@stevegiroux6664]

Awesome to know i have a generator it doesnt start but when it does it knocks a little 3500 to 5000 Honda. Ill have to inspect the OHV that might be the culprit.

[@BrucesShop]

It could be

[@RVingwithG]

Well done! Does anyone know the dBs on this Gen?

[@BrucesShop]

sorry

[@stephanieculmer2172]

what happens when you get 180 watts when it should be 120?

[@BrucesShop]

+stephanie culmer Well it is a 5600 watt generator and the saw is about 1000??? I don't understand the question. sorry Stephanie. It does generate 120 volts ac

[@Jim-ie6uf]

How did I miss this one?

[@BrucesShop]

I don't know. Watching Airplane too much Shirley you didn't.

[@Jim-ie6uf]

@@BrucesShop I didn't, and don't call me Shirley. There seems to be a problem in the cockpit. You know, the little room where the pilot sits. You ought to dub in some jet engine sounds on a video, see if anyone catches it! ATB. Jim

[@VNXiTrum]

The reset button is next to the code display, on the looked like circle cap

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks

[@waynedavies3185]

You should have put the generator under full working load and slightly higher, and check both the voltage, and the Hz ratings it's giving out, If both are found to be correct, or very close to within proper limits, engine speed should be at a proper 3600 rpm. or very close there to. If voltage and Hz are "not correct" within working limits, they need to be adjusted for correctness. Should be checked with every generator you repair, or run, before saying it's in good working order.

[@BrucesShop]

I do agree. Although the saw does draw 13 amps which is a good load. About a 1/3 of the use. This video is 8 years old and I did a tune up on it last fall.

[@waynedavies3185]

@@BrucesShop I use a few electric heaters to apply the correct load needed. I also have a meter that gives both HZ and voltage, while heaters are working, and generator is under full load ( Ialso add a few extra watts for a slight over-load, because some will work well when loads are higher than the generator rating. If Generator load gets too high, it will cut out, then cut back on the load to where it is normal max wattage rating again. Most electric heaters use 1500 watts each on high settings. You should be able to run 4 heaters on this generator at one time, with a slight overload of 400 watts if your engine, and generator settings are correct on this generator unit.

[@theoldwizard998]

Ever find the reset button ?

[@BrucesShop]

+theoldwizard998 It is on the next model up from this one.

[@loveydovey4u]

Was that engine manufactured in China? Seems like poor quality control

[@BrucesShop]

This one is a Briggs and Strattton American made.

[@samuelgonzales1831]

could someone please tell me the specifications for the valves on model#apg3009 all power american generator. thanks.

[@BrucesShop]

+Samuel Gonzales You can google the motor size and type---valve clearances.

[@brianbuskey7419]

alright dudes

[@MechanicsDIY]

it's alive #

[@abutimmy3743]

you would do compression test before you disassemble any thing..basic you need 4 things to start..

[@terencole1854]

Everything was good up until the 2:00 mark where you say, Ohh, that’s the problem, the valve isn’t opening”. Then you literally skip forward the video to where you have already removed pieces not explaining how, & have already put it back together. A lot of good info given but the for the lay man watching you pretty much skipped the disassembly and reassembly. Great you showed us the proper torque level but come on man... video was going too good to leave out steps.

[@tinabirch741]

Not everyone watching are Dudes. You can say guys! Some girls do work on our own equipment

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks Tina. You are right. This is a seven year old video. I hope to have improved on that now. My niece as a Heavy Duty Mechanic.

[@MasonNesson]

It's Alive , lol ha ha ha too funny dude

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks Mason

[@melodym4818]

kids?

[@avalladares9036]

Reset is to the left of the led window… I know it’s an old video… lol

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks I don't find it

[@lestergillis8171]

It doesn't look all that old.

[@BrucesShop]

Yes and this video was made in 2014. Thanks for watching.

[@robincampbell5260]

My is not a crastman A wasting house 3600 it won't start It back fires

[@BrucesShop]

It is most likely a valve

[@johnbrass8910]

wow that is a clunky valve design

[@BrucesShop]

i feel the same

[@abutimmy3743]

load tester why did I was my money drill and saw

[@reysorto]

Sorry when to wrong channel

[@meltondrewcurley3629]

what if the lifting rod doesnt move?

[@BrucesShop]

Do you mean the lifter rod? Take the rocker arm off if it is really tight.

[@you166mhz]

then the problem is the valves ...

[@robertwilliams1204]

I haven't seen a class but generated over right here

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks for watching.