This is great content, and I loved every minute of it. I watched Part 1 and didn't think you'd be willing to rebuild this engine. So great job and kudos! We live in a throwaway society, and nobody realizes that THIS more than anything else is what is destroying our planet. Perhaps in the future carbon credits will trickle down to the consumer, and things like this will earn months of carbon credits because right now nearly everyone would just toss that engine in the trash convinced that the time and money required to rebuild it simply isn't worth it. We need more guys like you willing to breathe new life into old things. No doubt that generator was rode hard and put up wet, and the skills you demonstrated aren't just for generators or even small engine repair. They translate into just about every mechanical setting. And your stubbornness to not let missing service data or unavailable parts deter you is beyond laudable. I wish I lived in your area because I would buy one of your rebuilt generators in a heartbeat. I can't wait for Part 3 to hear this generator roar to life!
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks. I agree completely. Too much waste in this world. Wish manufacturers were required to supply parts and make quality equipment.
@scottfirman2 жыл бұрын
Most people are not willing to pay for that type of repair any more. I have a hard time justifying a repair like that myself any more. Not that I don't because I purchased a non running generator last summer and found the timing was off. I had to totally disassemble everything to fix it. A paying customer would simply go buy a new one. Even repairing a carburetor is not worth the time and effort over a replacement now days. If it has any corrosion at all any more, I just replace it. 99% of the time, they never run right again anyways. Yes, we live in a disposable society, but you have to look at how we got there in the first place.
@garrydonnelly64332 жыл бұрын
Your comment Bill is just so accurate. Well said.l
@lordjaashin2 жыл бұрын
that is why right to repair movement is very important
@YukonHawk12 жыл бұрын
Well said.
@justonnie2 жыл бұрын
I do appreciate how the box of the cloned connecting rod states beware of imitation.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Also interesting that this connecting rod was sold as a direct replacement for this generator/engine, yet it did not fit.
@TheDamowalshe2 жыл бұрын
I'm sure I've seen a Mustie 1 video going back a few years, that had a missing rotator cap, he was stumped, but was able to ascertain by finding a diagram, that showed it was correct and manufactured that way. Thanks.
@Exit26B Жыл бұрын
I absolutely am fascinated by your videos, Mr. Condon. Your technique, your logic, your methods, your follow through and conclusions and reasonings and the way you tell it to me in your soothing voice convinces me you are more than an expert in what you do. I envy you. Thank you for the many hours I have watched your great camera work and editing! Aloha from Hawai’i.
@markyoung74702 жыл бұрын
James You are not crazy to try and start an engine with a defective compression release believe me it hurts like all get out when it pulls the pull grip out of your hand and if you not wearing gloves it will remove skin from your hand which really burns and takes forever to heal up. I look forward to all of your video's VERY informative and well done we need more people in this world teaching like yourself well done!
@jaystradinger43522 жыл бұрын
Just a couple of engine build practice comments: install grudgeon pin circlips with the gap in line with the rod, that is, either up or down. These engines don’t spin very fast but it’s still good practice. Second, a convenient valve lap technique is using tubing/fuel line on the valve stem from the back side of the head results in better control and feel in the lapping process.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the tips.
@THEFALCON582 жыл бұрын
and a cornless drill clear tube and stick on the stem side.?
@lv_woodturner38992 жыл бұрын
Wow, a lot of things needed to be fixed. A lot to learn from this video. I can imagine the frustration of having to wait for the parts delivery. Glad that the engine finally runs. Dave.
@rayshutsa66902 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the great video on rebuilding a high compression engine for a genarator. When the engine turned over and jumped I can see why you did not use the pull cord.
@vettepicking2 жыл бұрын
Couple things to look at. First was maybe lapp the head on some 320grit paper on a flat surface to rid the chance of a warp. Next dont use a abrasive brush or pad after the piston is installed your making a lapping oil that runs into and coats the cylinder and rings before start up. Great vid
@petertothpete65182 жыл бұрын
Kinda stunned on that one myself. Always do all de-carboning/cleaning before final assembly.
@gremlin13962 жыл бұрын
I totally agree I would have cleaned the piston before installing it into the cylinder that way there's nothing on the rings.
@haneyoakie142 жыл бұрын
I thought I would watch 5 minutes, an hour later I realized an hour went by. Great work. Every detail you showed is important and interesting.
@JohnT2482 жыл бұрын
I look forward to each new video. Though confident in engines, I have now fixed about 6 that I wouldn't have attempted looking at any generator internals w/o these videos. So far it has been obvious issues pointed out in your past show hows. Thank You
@jeremydewolfe80262 жыл бұрын
Well James, this is exactly the content I was looking for! I had to be patient because I really wanted you to dig into that crankshaft issue at the end of the last episode but you went above and beyond on this episode even so far as to thinking ahead and realizing that we all wanted to see it at least fire so I appreciate the scramble effort at the end to get it to run for a second. I was enthralled for one hour and two minutes. You should get a KZbin raise :)
@objection_your_honor2 жыл бұрын
I can watch your videos all day long. The hour went by too quickly. Can't wait to see part 3.
@RickP6542 жыл бұрын
Hey James, I'm not real sure but, I thought you missed getting it in perfect timing on the first set of gears. By it firing back through the intake supports my suspicion even more. I'm not sure how it would effect the engine in the long run. My experiences with the old v8's would prove out a hotter running engine. You do a fine job working on these little engines and other projects as well. I hope you never quit putting these fine videos out for the public to learn from. God bless.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks. Timing was my initial thought. A bad coil behaves in a similar way. Especially on small engines because the coil sparks a second time on the exhaust stroke igniting the fuel when both valves are open that did not ignite under compression.
@g2theb5842 жыл бұрын
Hey James, I've watched you fix so many gennies and I am 100% confident if I ever had to repair mine, I could do it without any issues. Love the videos.
@deangentles49662 жыл бұрын
Hi James great sitting in your class today mate nice to see you are sharing all your knowledge with us looking forward to part 3
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks Dean
@brewster39872 жыл бұрын
Am loving this series, sir... great tenacity! Not many channels that I will even start watching a 1-hour video, but yours never disappoint! One comment for consideration... torquing the crankshaft nut against a variable resistance (rope in the piston - slightly compressible) may give you some error in the actual applied torque. In this application it probably doesn't make a difference worth worrying over. If you want an absolute rotation lock on the crank, you might consider a piston stop installed in the spark plug hole. Love the channel and I'm always happy when I see a new video come out!
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks. I agree, its not exact and neither is my torque wrench. Have considered using a piston stop, but the idea of putting that force on the spark plugs threads doesn't sound great, although I know a lot of people do it without issue.
@jamesws32 жыл бұрын
@@jcondon1 Agree. Always thought a rope not gives some cushion, but spreads the load over greater surface area.
@francisbailey38312 жыл бұрын
Good morning, James. A very enjoyable and interesting video. As usual you are the master in small engine repair. I see that you love a challenge to solve and bring an engine back to life. 👍👍👍👍. I have watched part 1 & 2. Very much looking forward to Part 3. To watch the generator come roaring back to life, and to be able to put back into service.
@stevenlilly2 жыл бұрын
I'm excited to see you troubleshoot the compression release.. You mention it on about all of your repairs but I have no idea how that system works.. Glad you didn't try pull starting.. You would have been in for a wild ride!
@jayyoung54232 жыл бұрын
Nice job James and the shout out to Derek at VGG was priceless.
@jesterr71332 жыл бұрын
This engine had a very unusual set of issues. This was very interesting. I learned a new way for an engine to fail, and I definitely would have missed this one. You are very good at what you do.
@kenmitchell37842 жыл бұрын
Setting here drinking my morning coffee watching James work, almost makes me think about coming out of retirement. Good job can't wait to see part 3
@kaylajason89172 жыл бұрын
Thank you loved this series so far, between you with generators and being so descriptive and methodical and mustie1 for other equipment I get so much stuff running. Now I'm the neighborhoods small engine repair guy. Can't thank you enough. Maybe one day you and mustie1 can do collab he does engine and you do the generator and see what can be fixed 😉 that be a deadly duo right there.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Maybe some day. He is not that far away from me.
@stazeII2 жыл бұрын
I might have filed a bit off the crank case just for piece of mind. The thought of that little clearance when something is spinning at 3600rpm makes me think it’s gonna close that gap. But I’m likely just paranoid. :) Great work sir! And awesome luck on that $18 rod. :)
@checkonetwo91552 жыл бұрын
yep..i would bet if you checked both rod big ends they would be in the ballpark range the same , and the crank is where the problem is as it was slightly oversized incorrectly. If this is the case it will make the new rod do the same thing again when its ran for extending period of time .i would of sanded a half a thou off the crank ....do the chi nese sabotage some of these engines to make ameri cans buy more on assembly line for a reason and make tolerances real tight so when the engine gets hot from running it ,its seized . I say its likely,is it done on purpose to get in our wallet or just chi nese error, and why is there no tolerance specs on anything anywhere on these engines to be found~ so they are just thrown away and a new one purchased same game and plan.?
@merlepatterson2 жыл бұрын
Never seen the water in the rotor through bolt hole removal trick, but that's pretty slick and good to know.
@joesinakandid5282 жыл бұрын
Lets be clear here, James, I would happily watch a 3 hour video of yours - back-to-back with a 4 hour one! Your videos are the equivalent to many, many trips to the knowledge bar - and that is a seriously good thing. OH - I usually, for myself, use ATF instead of WD-40 - better lubrication in my way of seeing it. Then again, that's just me. Patiently waiting for Part 3! - Joe -
@robertpeters94382 жыл бұрын
Try Lucas oil extender!
@Gfthce34266 ай бұрын
When you use the side of a grind stone like that they can sometimes just up and let go of a chunk of stone fast enough to cause great owie or even sleep . 😮 Really enjoying your videos. Thanks
@gbsbill2 жыл бұрын
James I found this video facinating I just could not stop watching you. The things you did to the connecting rod. But the choice to make sure it runs before reconnecting the generator head was brilliant. Thanks for this I hope I never encounter one in this shape.
@piconano2 жыл бұрын
This channel is like a fun condensed course in small engine repair, for smarter people that don't need everything explained to them. Thanks for the free knowledge my Jedi generator whisperer 😉
@MiniLuv-19842 жыл бұрын
Attention to detail. Careful control of ones urges and thoughtful progression through the process. I hope my mechanic working on my engine takes as much care. Thanks - love your videos.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@RC-fu6hg2 жыл бұрын
Great video! I just enjoy following along as you troubleshoot and bring life to these generators. 👍
@Jameson43272 жыл бұрын
I truly wish you could include a break down of what you spend on the complete build? Once again you have proven that you are one of best! Keep up the great videos!
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thought I could get away with an $18 connecting rod. Here are the part costs. Connecting Rod $26, Gasket Kit $28, Rotator Cap $10, Push Rod Retainer $8, Ignition Coil $15, Spring Retainer $33, Airbox $19
@Jameson43272 жыл бұрын
@@jcondon1 Thanks for the reply.
@ScottSellsSoCal6 ай бұрын
Dawn power wash……. Amazing stuff. I’m thinking you need a parts washer to help you out! Loveeee your content and style James! Thank you
@cliffmauck5102 жыл бұрын
Great video, I learned a lot. I do not blame you for avoiding the pull cord with high compression.
@iantyler40452 жыл бұрын
I've had small motors kick back so hard that they've broken the pull handle and almost my fingers so I do understand your reluctance to pull start this one.
@rexharvey84202 ай бұрын
Great attention to detail as always Jim, and a very interesting and well produced video. Thanks.
@kpdvw2 жыл бұрын
I love it when James says "I bought it as a parts machine" and it winds up as a functional rebuild! As for the missing rotator cup; factory has been known to forget to install it....! The flat areas on the valve spring retainer need to point up so that the smallest part of the spring retainer on the valve stem is up and gravity can not drop it !
@kpdvw2 жыл бұрын
Before you "give it a go" did you add oil to the crank case?
@neilspringer55302 жыл бұрын
Friend gave me his old gen it would not crank I don't have a lot of mechanic skill but I was mesmerized by you skill I hope I can figure out why the crank is stuck, but it was fun just watching you work.
@HobbyMotorDK2 жыл бұрын
Great video James I enjoyed it very much - your T-shirt should read: Tenacity.
@RS-yj3gn2 жыл бұрын
I keep watching most your videos with great interest. Thank you for making the effort. The best trick today was the journal clean up, followed by the rope in the chamber. As I said in the comments on one of your other videos, the LIFAN engines are pretty good, performing well and reliably for a knock-off.
@aymannabil92 жыл бұрын
Omg 😅 it took me 2 days to watch this video due to network connection issue in my place ...anyway I recently had this compression release problem and at last I found out that the spring which is attached to the timing gear was stuck then I had to replace the whole timing gear with new one then the problem was solved but in your case I don't know exactly what's happening and that's attracting me to see part 2 Can't wait to watch it 😅 Thanks a lot for the detailed explanation Mr. James ...👍
@phillipmckinney79062 жыл бұрын
Love the old school Rope trick as it always works with a bit of elbow grease as i saw done back in the day with dad doing fixes on Oil pumping machines in the oil fields
@kd5byb2 жыл бұрын
Around 22:50, as you had finished applying cleaner to the frame, I turned my attention to my other monitor to take care of a window that had popped up. While I was looking away, you started your pressure washer, and for split second I thought you had AN INVISIBLE ENGINE installed in the frame running that was making the noise! :) Another great video. I really appreciate how you take the time to do things right and don't just slap stuff back together.
@LostDeadSoul2 жыл бұрын
I was thinking that the connecting rod would never fit. It's a shot in the dark. But damn, that was a well educated guess.
@freddyrosenberg92882 жыл бұрын
Paint stripper works very well at removing carbon build up. I use it on heads and pistons. Apply with a brush, let it sit for 10 minutes and wipe off. Repeat as needed.
@robertpeters94382 жыл бұрын
What type of paint stripper
@edmnich82552 жыл бұрын
After all of the cleaning you did i was surprised to see you cleaning the piston in the clean engine.
@AntonioClaudioMichael2 жыл бұрын
Vicegripgarage would be very proud you did an amazing job on the engine rebuild and the vise grips are a good touch @James Condon
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@jaystradinger43522 жыл бұрын
One last comment on engine build practices, lube all threads as well as under the heads. Motor oil is fine. Results in about 10% greater squeeze with no change in bolt elongation. A good thing.
@ernmeister542 жыл бұрын
Great attention to detail on the rod bolt and push rod guides. I will keep that in mind for my next rebuild. Really good job on troubleshooting that cranky engine!
@wingloading2 жыл бұрын
I doubt I'll ever do teardown work but watch these for a better understanding and your methodical patience.
@3jeepsdeep7682 жыл бұрын
Connecting Rod box says "Beware of Imitations" - funniest thing I've seen all day!
@bobcarry48202 жыл бұрын
I wish you would mention "added oil". I was concerned watching you try to start it and I have watched so many of your videos that I knew you added oil but you were in a hurry. Waiting patiently for video 3. I have learned a lot from your videos. Thanks.
@jantsbenzproaudio2 жыл бұрын
I thought part 2 will took too long to be posted but it's not. Great work!!
@Rev-D19632 жыл бұрын
Man, that generator is turning into a major project, being a real stinker! BTW, I've had kick-back from high-compression engines before too, so you weren't being a "baby" for using the electric start, you were just keeping from getting hurt. Nothing wrong with that! You'll win on the next one James! Thanks for the great videos as always. God bless. Rev. D.
@michaeloyekan9078 Жыл бұрын
Please how do you fix a kick back from a generator due to high compression? Even when the compression release on camshaft is absolutely fine?
@Rev-D1963 Жыл бұрын
@@michaeloyekan9078 Check the flywheel key to see if it's broken or sheared off. If so, the motor is out of time and definitely will cause kick-back. Remove the recoil starter and check the flywheel key. If it's loose or missing, it's broken.
@jfjjjjfj2 жыл бұрын
44:35 It looks like someone grinded the plate, with that grinding mark on top. Great video, I just watched part one and now away to part three 😺 So calm and peaceful video, with interesting tips and tricks! It makes me want to repair the same things 😺💕
@greghanlon22352 жыл бұрын
Nice diagnostic work James. Now hopefully people can understand why Chinese clones are always cheaper but cost more in the long run.
@adnacraigo65902 жыл бұрын
You are an exceptional troubleshooter and mechanic.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@leadpelletinass2 жыл бұрын
Interesting content. Lots of technical stuff to keep me informed on what to look and test for. 😁 Also keeps me entertained while I do laundry and clean up my kitchen at midnight. Thank You for all the effort to post it.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@HillbillySailor2 жыл бұрын
That pushrod plate is a definite upgrade. Lifan really cheaped out on that....
@guataco2 жыл бұрын
The Lifan adventure, miniserie in three episodes (we hope). I have no generators, nor small engines, but I love to watch your videos. Thank you.
@bsdiceman2 жыл бұрын
Takes resilience to keep going in the face of obstacles. Thanks for making this video for me.
@billsuess62432 жыл бұрын
I just wanted to reach out and say how much I enjoy your Channel. I enjoy the chase down of the problem the best.
@YukonHawk12 жыл бұрын
I can't think of enough accolades to say on part two. This is way above next level.👍👍👍👍👍👍
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks Paul
@lawnguru23442 жыл бұрын
Greatly appreciated james.. Tip for cleaning heads..get a brass bush .there's great on Aluminum heads.. and that high compression..Iam with you bother..had one nearly throw me face first to the floor !!! Be safe 🙏❤
@TheOriginalEviltech2 жыл бұрын
Nice! I enjoyed the video alot! Good call not trying to start it by hand, that backfire can be quite painful. You can ask a friend of mine that tried to start my 92' DR650 like a 2 stroke... The kickstart kicked his shoe 15 meters away and he had to wear a cast for a month.
@aboveaveragejoe62912 жыл бұрын
Wow James that is a great idea doing the crankshaft journal with the sandpaper and rope, I actually learned something, Thanks.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@richardbaker36212 жыл бұрын
Thanks for another great video. Nice catch on the valve guide problem. Looking forward to see what the issue is with compression release.
@chavescrave2 жыл бұрын
As always James great video - cheers from Melbourne Australia.
@brngrofdeth2 жыл бұрын
Excellent job as always! Love and blessings from Ontario Canada!
@chucktrotter96992 жыл бұрын
1.20.22 Great video James. Learned alot from this engine. Can't wait for part 3. Thanks
@vmaxride062 жыл бұрын
Great series here Professor , cant wait for part 3. Best channel hands down
@ShiversRSS2 жыл бұрын
A wealth of information. I'd have been nervous pulling that cord as well
@shawnmrfixitlee64782 жыл бұрын
Glad that did not kick back and try to rip your hand off , Done that myself to many times ! Good call on the new rod .. Saved some real $ there .. Great work man , ENJOYED !
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks Shawn
@dalee.mccombs8571 Жыл бұрын
James, I just worked on a 420cc Honda clone and there was a notch milled out of that small rib where your rod bolt was striking. So you cound have filed/ground a notch in the rib instead of grinding that rod bolt smaller. Hope this helps in your future rebuilds.
@ghettsumm79492 жыл бұрын
I like the fact that you rarely show your face in your Vlogs,... It reminds me of the friendly, neighbor " WILSON " next door. 😊
@Trump9852 жыл бұрын
“I just finished cleaning the parts in the kitchen sink” boy I hope you aren’t married 🤣🤣🤣
@wildefox14782 жыл бұрын
Nice work James, looking forward to part 3!
@troubleis52712 жыл бұрын
just to share a tip. I clean all the cylinder heads of my scooter engines with oven/grill cleaner that works great and hardly even requires mechanical agitation. spary, wait ten min and rinse.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Would be afraid to use that. The lye eats aluminum.
@danielwestergren9032 жыл бұрын
Good respons! I did not see that one comming, thanks!
@kingwood43572 жыл бұрын
Excellent video and very interesting, anxious to see it running and hopefully the generator is OK
@timsiefer43872 жыл бұрын
Great video with perfect detail. I always look forward to your postings.
@wjodf80672 жыл бұрын
Oh Lordy each one of the little jobs on that Jonah of a generator has a great big job just waiting for you...
@ItllBurnOff2 жыл бұрын
That was a great video as always I love the detail you go into. As to the last thing you say in your videos.... yes, I'm someone and that help. Thanks again as always.
@charlesbartlett44572 жыл бұрын
I don’t blame you for not wanting to pull start that engine I was starting a log splitter a couple days ago and thought I broke my wrist I didn’t but certainly hurt
@scottjamison16022 жыл бұрын
I use spray carburetor cleaner and a brush to remove the carbon buildup, it’s amazing how well it removes even heavy buildup.
@tempusveritas89012 жыл бұрын
James I love your content. I will give you a tip that will save you a couple bucks. STP oil treatment for engine assembly lube (old original blue). 15 oz for the price of the 4 oz special red stuff. Thats what works for me. Take it or leave it. I don't care. Keep up the good work!
@AntonioClaudioMichael2 жыл бұрын
That 110 psi compression makes that engine a Beastly runner @James Condon
@AntonioClaudioMichael2 жыл бұрын
I think your right the rotator cap came off and ended up Causing the Issue with the connecting rod good Find @James Condon
@danmackintosh63252 жыл бұрын
After that nod to Derek with the battery rigging, all it needed when you added fuel was "waaaayyyy too much... Perfect"...
@arthurbiringer56762 жыл бұрын
Okay! You’ve got my attention as usual! Can’t wait to see part 3…..
@scottfirman2 жыл бұрын
I picked up a small generator last summer for dirt cheap. It didn't run and I took a chance on it. Reguardless of what I did, it wouldn't run. I ended up tearing the engine apart and found the timing was off. After realigning the marks and reassembling, it started and runs great. I use it for camping. I was going to replace the crank on a Honda mower, but ended up finding a perfectly good engine on a crap Honda mower that had rotted. After swapping the engine, Its my yard mower. Has self propel too. I guess my point is , yes I could rebuild an engine in my sleep but have decided over time it's just not worth it any more. Most people do not want to pay for a job like that any more anyways.
@kyleroth10252 жыл бұрын
Oh my. This Honda clone is fighting Jim at every turn.
@mjg2632 жыл бұрын
Nicely done, can’t wait for pt 3!
@davidcampbel2 жыл бұрын
Another excellent video, thank you. I learn a great deal from you with every video you offer.
@andytheflyer2 жыл бұрын
Nicely done. A pleasure to watch.
@BobPegram2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for not leaving part 2 as a cliffhanger James Condon! I guess I have to give credit to your day job with databases for your very organized collection of past video clips. I probably would never have found one, let alone both clips where a high compression engine hurt you! You make enjoyable videos with very evident skill. While we definitely await the completion of this rebuild, we did get to hear the old girl fire off!
@DeadKoby2 жыл бұрын
I actually discussed your situation with the mower techs locally. It does seem weird that it would be too tight, rather than too loose. The boss discussed how he would fix the existing connecting rod..... and that they have had a few of these shanghai special motors that were too tight from day 1........ they just filed warranty on the machine and let the OEM deal with it. In regards to the high compression, and not wanting to cord-start it....... Anything over 10hp, usually has electric start..... and I've had my fingers bruised by even 3.5-5hp motors.... a 15 could get your elbow or shoulder!
@docpalazola4912 жыл бұрын
What a great video, James. Can't wait for Episode 3.
@jcondon12 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@larrykelly28382 жыл бұрын
Nice diagnostics, ye have a new engine.
@mikehotchkiss89752 жыл бұрын
I am currently doing a salvage on a champion of similar size. Would bet the motors were made in the same factory. Swapped coil, carb lapped valves and can see the light at the end of tunnel. No hurry, it's about the journey right
@Lennyj242 жыл бұрын
Finally the 2nd part i been waiting for these, love your videos really helps me alot.