Generator Runs A Few Minutes & Dies - Here's Why!

Generator Only Runs A Few Minutes & Dies - Here's Why!
If your generator won't stay running or only runs a few minutes and dies make sure to checkout this video. This could be your problem!
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Easy to follow and thorough step by step tutorials do it yourself (DIY) videos to help you with your broken lawn and garden equipment including snowblowers and zero turn mowers.
I do my best to teach you how to easily diagnose problems the fastest, quickest and most efficient way with real repairs beyond just replacing a spark plug. These tips are for both the homeowner and shop owner.
Whether it be a handheld, two stroke, two cycle engine like a chainsaw, weed eater, weed wacker, string trimmer, grass trimmer, line trimmer, hedge trimmer, strimmer, brush cutter, leaf blower, or four stroke, four cycle units like a lawnmower, wood splitter, lawn tractor, zero turn mower, snowblower, pressure washer, generator or a ride on mower that needs parts installed or replaced, I’m your go-to guy.
My favorite brands of spark plugs are NGK and Champion and are the ones I recommend.
I’ve been a small engine mechanic for many decades and also run my own repair shop so my videos are loaded with tips and tricks that I have learned and want to share with you. You will also find many tool and product reviews from top brands on my channel as well.
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Due to factors beyond the control of DONYBOY73 “The Small Engine Doctor”, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. DONYBOY73 “The Small Engine Doctor” assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. DONYBOY73 “The Small Engine Doctor” recommends safe practices when working with power tools, hand tools, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of DONYBOY73 “The Small Engine Doctor”, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not DONYBOY73 “The Small Engine Doctor". ave
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[@donyboy73]

Watch my video on how to quickly start a generator that's been sitting a long time here; kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3KufKirjbqAbKs

[@petersack5074]

2:10 ? One, (me) has to wonder, what were those 'engineers' thinking ? WHY not have an in-line filter, like the good 'ole days ? North America is FULL of non-working machines like this......so much for whatever happened to '' user friendly '' serviceable generators/mowers/tillers /etc. Or, at the very least, HAVE THIS FILTER, IN the machines MANUAL, under 'service' listing, in table of contents ? Thank-you, DonnyBoy, for NO BACKGROUND noise (music); and an easy to 'hear' gentle voice: non-intimidating for novice users......

[@alang.4570]

I purchased a new Champion 7500W Duel-Fuel Generator (model # 201040) in October 2021. The gen was exhibiting the same issue as shown in your video with one minor exception. It ran flawlessly at idle. However, when I applied a load, the gen would die out after about 15 seconds. It didn’t matter if it was running on gas or LP gas. The result was the same. I contacted technical support and the tech said it sounded like a bad Overvoltage Controller and he’d ship out a replacement ASAP. After receiving the replacement, I installed it and the same thing would happen. Since it was under warranty, I took it to the service center in Newark, NY for the tech to diagnose what was causing the engine to die out when a load was applied. The issue turned out to be two bad 120V AC 20A GFCI receptacles which, for some reason was causing the engine to die out. After the receptacles were swapped out with new ones, the generator runs great now. I enjoy watching your videos. I even watch them when the equipment you're working on is not relevant to me. I figure at some point watching your videos can be applied to help me diagnose/fix/repair power equipment in the future. Keep up the good work!

[@donyboy73]

thanks for that info!

[@VoxxRocks231]

A quick trip to KZbin University and voila, I'm back in business! Thank you!

[@mariocestra1156]

A simple repair based on your years of experience. Great job.

[@manuelFlores-io8hc]

There was a hurricane this Sunday in Houston and left us with no power for three days my mom’s boos gave her a generator so we could use but it was shutting off every ten minutes thanks to you I was able to fix it and I could get some sleep 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@sgoldie3235]

I have a 4.0 hp Champion on a trash pump. Very reliable machine. It quit running the other day and wouldn’t restart. I thought maybe it sucked some grit into the carb as it was low on fuel. I did a carb clean and still no go. Checked fuel filter, another carb clean and cleaned fuel tank. Still no go. Then it occurred to me this engine has a LOW OIL sensor. Checked oil and it was low. Added oil and engine fired right back up! Live and learn I guess! Thanks for your great channel!

[@kimperkins6144]

Easy fix my behind...I couldn't understand this mess in a million years

[@oleyeller]

Good video. I've had a similar problem with a pressure washer. The problem has a plugged fuel cap.

[@markg1247]

I had an issue with my 8k Champion the other day, it would start and run fine with a light load, but after about 20 minutes or sooner with a heavy load it would bog down and die. Let it sit a few minutes and it would restart and do it again. I am running on propane, dual 40lb tanks, so I knew fuel wasn't an issue. Pulled the plug and it looked perfect, nice and tan, no signs of lean or rich burn. Decided to check the valve lash since I hadn't checked it in about 40hrs of run time, and I found the exhaust valve had basically zero lash and the intake had .001-.002". Set them to .008" on exhaust and .006" on intake, fired it up and it ran for 12hrs straight without a bobble. Looks like the exhaust valve lash was so tight that when it ran under load or for an extended time, it would expand until it wouldn't seat anymore and the engine would die from compression loss out the exhaust port. Pay close attention to your valve lash on these little engines, it's important.

[@sparta2v]

Thanks for that info, besides this issue, what is your opinion about this generator? I am thinking of buying one.

[@benstoth]

I have the 5500 watt duel fuel champion, I’ve only run it on propane. It’s been doing the same thing you described. I just hit 100 hours so it’s still pretty new. It’s under warranty, but how difficult is it to get to the valve lash?

[@markg1247]

@@sparta2v Sorry for the delay, don't log in very often. I've had good luck so far except for the lash issue. As soon as I corrected that it's running great again.

[@markg1247]

@@benstoth It's not very hard, plenty of videos showing the process. A few common hand tools needed and they are typically pretty easy to access on an open frame generator. The lash numbers in my post are pretty common on these engines, but if you can find a service manual for your engine, set to what they say if its different.

[@matthewjohnston1017]

I’m always surprised how very simple so many repairs are, and how the vast majority of the time it just comes down to following of gas is getting to engine.

[@outboardfixer]

Why put that tiny fine screen back in there, put an inline filter in the gas line and be done with it.

[@docsavage4414]

If your champion generator is shutting off without any spitting/sputtering, unplug your oil sensor. These things go bad like crazy. That's after making sure you have oil.

[@kts3081]

Mine was brand new duromax got this year and it ran for a few minutes and died. Watched your video and what I did I just straightened the fuel hose so it doesn't look like its pinched and it ran none stop! Thanks for the video!!!

[@Leonardokite]

Wow, that seems like a pretty poor design. But as you showed, it's very easy to fix and take care of. One just needs to know and now you just taught many people.

[@mlmiks]

Hi there. Love your videos. How about removing the screen and installing a inline fuel filter? Have a nice weekend

[@donyboy73]

yes you could do that

[@barrypettit3668]

Thanks Don, great video. I have a smaller champion i run every two weeks or so and run ethanol free gas. All tips i got from your videos. Thanks and keep up the great work.

[@gigiadrianmager6003]

Thank you Don for sharing with us! All the best from România!!!👍🤗👏👏👏🇷🇴

[@donyboy73]

My pleasure!

[@filibertovargas8354]

awesome thankyou so much..

[@colehara]

👍🇨🇦

[@dereksmith4178]

I had a Honda exact same set up doing exact same thing drove me crazy everything was cleaned and functioning but believe it or not it was the plug! As the plug got hot it quit firing.

[@pm270100]

wish i could piss that good 😁

[@vetterfellow]

DB73 You're a wizard of small engine repair. Stay safe ol Buddy.

[@donyboy73]

thanks buddy, have a good weekend!

[@richardross7219]

Good video. I've seen it a few times where the gas cap vent was plugged and the fuel could only run out for a little while. Good Luck, Rick

[@joefriday950]

Thanks Don. Love your videos. You are a great teacher.

[@dannynye1731]

We did all that. Ran 5 min and quit again

[@YukonHawk1]

One thing I do is use a funnel with a built-in screen when refueling. That has saved me a lot of grief with keeping dirt out of the tank. Great video and thanks for posting it.

[@donyboy73]

great idea!

[@JourneyInTruth]

Ty for saying that. Awesome idea!!! Great video also!!!

[@woodstover]

neighbor has the same generator and the filler for the tank has a removable screen in it.

[@fightingcock8096]

Thank 🫵

[@bobmcl2406]

Really clear demonstration of how to logically diagnose the problem. I have not yet seen a machine with that style of valve/filter, but now I will be ready when I do. Great job Dony!

[@BobHerres]

Agreed absolutely! Don has excellent troubleshooting skills! Some technicians do it the other way.... replace parts until it works, then proudly proclaim "I fixed it!" 😶

[@57torg]

Thank you, now if my H07552 is equipped with the same fuel valve assembly I'll check that first. Thanks, I'm subscribed and rang the bell.

[@kevinandersen8951]

I have a generator that is almost impossible to turn over, I remove the spark plug and it turns over just fine. With the plug back in I can pull the cord only about a foot and it stops, if I pull very hard I can start the engine and it runs fine, I have had repair mechanics look at it and they have no idea, it’s not a vapor lock. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Kevin

[@TheCrittercam001]

Is it possible you may have a plug that's too long? Maybe try one with a shorter thread length? Just a thought, could be something easily overlooked. Good luck.

[@jptrainor]

The engine has a feature called "compression release" that is intended to make starting easier. Sounds like it's broken.

[@daneandkath]

I think Jim Trainor has the right answer, likely a faulty compression release…

[@gerrymcintosh4477]

Another outstanding video Mr. Dony. You’re videos are easily the gold standard…. Cheers from Ottawa

[@donyboy73]

cheers from Muskoka!

[@kenk3102]

...another great DIY video Don.....thanks for posting.....if I wanted to install an inline fuel filter between the tank and the carb, what kind of filter would you recommend for the gravity feed system?

[@donyboy73]

the filter with a screen inside

[@rogerford4427]

I had that same problem with mine. Good information. 🤙

[@scottmclagan4276]

Jeez Dony... at today's gas prices you prolly bled out about a hundred buck of fuel in these tests!! LOL. Good info, thanks.

[@donyboy73]

Great point!

[@tihspidtherekciltilc5469]

Why steel tanks are still being used is beyond me. I just got a free Craftsman tiller with the same issues plus rust. It now has a Tecumseh Snow King tank on it with the shut off and inline filter from the snow blower someone neglected and "blew up."

[@patthesoundguy]

I love those bowl drain screws for that very reason, easy troubleshooting. I bet many carbs get pulled and replaced when it was the screen in the tank. Great video!

[@alainbenoit7206]

Really good video thank you! And the quality of your camera, the screen is really clear and pleasant to see! It s not blurry.

[@GonzaLeston]

Hi, tank u for thw videos. My Hyundai generator had a problem with the fuel valve, I replaced it, but the issue is that it keeps revving intermittently. When I try to connect the water pump, which I used to connect without any problem, it starts having those acceleration intervals, then it shuts down, and the circuit protector trips." Let me know if you need any adjustments!

[@heavysnow8616]

Thanks Dony, always nice watching your videos. God Bless you and family. Hang in there friend!

[@donyboy73]

thanks buddy!

[@tomfillmore9710]

thanks buddy I have a generator smaller model I will do that for sure thanks very much take care have a great weekend

[@mohamednabulsi3533]

Good job Like always Thank you

[@RonneyEpon]

WOW! 😮 My generator just gave the same problem. Running for a couple of minutes and dies. Maybe that's the couse, I'll follow the prompts as watched and see if it solves the problem. Thank you anyway.😊👍🏼

[@JpInHi808]

Informative and highly useful as always. Awesome!

[@carlmiller1034]

Thanks for sharing Don. I hardly work on or see these, as I don't own on. But great info to know, just in case. Have a great weekend.

[@jensenwilliam5434]

Thank s

[@peterdixon4514]

Awesome

[@daved.4740]

Thanks Dony, this was my problem.

[@deanmoore420]

Nice job 👍

[@chrisbreidenbaugh3697]

Jeez, that machine is so clean. Is it new?

[@donewals9423]

I have a DuroStar DS4000S generator (purchased in 2015 on Ebay) which is very similar to the Champion unit in your video. My unit was running fine, I start it once a month and run it for 15 minutes to ensure it is working properly. Then one day, I started it and it runs for a few minutes and quit in the same manner reflected in your video. After watching your video I thought that the shutoff valve was also my problem. I purchased a new shutoff valve (a little different from yours) specifically made for my Durostar DS4000S. I installed it and it shutdown after a few minutes... same problem as before. It should be noted, I actually drained all the gas and put fresh gas in the generator tank before I installed the new shutoff valve. So I figured the problem must be in the carburetor. I bought a new carburetor and installed it … still the same problem. I have no idea what to try next... Any ideas what the problem night be???? Apparently... I need an assist!!!

[@walterbeaver6365]

Great video. Instruction easy to understand and follow. Thankyou Sir.

[@nashguy207]

Thanks for the tip. Thats a pretty easy fix!

[@TURNKEYiNK]

Interesting, thank you for posting! I find it interesting that my lawnmower (10years), never had any carburetor/fuel/filter issues, wonder why that is?

[@grosseileracingteam]

Always good to start at the beginning. Fuel delivery...check. Thanks for posting Dony.

[@stephenzies8867]

Good Troubleshooting And Fix

[@gnystrom13]

Another great video.

[@jayrmalcolm]

I have a Honda ez1800 generator and it runs for 30 sec then dies; you can wait 10 sec and it does the same thing. Same thing if low oil switch is disengaged. Tried the bowl test and a steady stream of (new) gas keeps coming. Exhaust not plugged. Ideas?

[@user-wo7rz3yn4o]

My 420cc generator suddenly won't turn over. Will still start and run if I use a screwdriver on starter solenoid. Bad keyed switch??? Other electronic gizmos? Wiring all appears fine.

[@paullemay3218]

Great tip. Thank you for sharing. ❤️🇨🇦

[@frankie7508]

I would remove the shut all foul and throw it away. I would then put a shut off alvin that is strictly a shut off valve. And down stream of it I would put in a replaceable filter. Typical chinese cheap design and impractical. When I see these videos, it makes me realize how we long for briggs and stratton back in the market again. Chinese engineering has a very long way to go.

[@Rellderrick777]

What if my Rv is just pulling to much power for a 3200 watt running 3700watt starting

[@rhiantaylor3446]

A simple fix but they all help - thanks !

[@lucaspower4579]

Had the same problem on my 1500watt would stay going for 30 seconds then die, I disconnected the low oil sensor wire and it is running smoothly again, thanks

[@tonym6920]

Very informative, thanks Dony. 👍👍

[@kathy5939]

I replaced the petcock as it was leaking, still wouldnt start, checked for spark, was none, so cleaned the plug... It ran. Problem being it runs rough... shakes like a son of a gun... Would that be the carb needing set?

[@patmatte]

I have one that had the fuel delivery issue but my problem was a movable pin or plunger on the BACK of the needle valve.

[@dolphincliffs8864]

We are replumbing our generator,filter first and then a 1/4 turn shutoff after. Fuel just trickles out now and won't hold the welder.🤬

[@Ibelieve218]

MINE WAS THE OIL SENSOR IS BAD i JUST UNPLUGGED THE SENSOR SO i AM UP AND RUNNING

[@Roby005]

thanks as always👍

[@gpo5432]

Great video... your solution solved my issue. Huge thanks!

[@seanmcgillicuddy956]

Very nice information ..Thanks Donny

[@jimbarron8619]

Thank you! I just learned something today!

[@Luigi-pk8mk]

great tip not too many people would suspect the shut off valve, and would be scratching their head over that one!

[@vikingrobot4179]

I aquired an older generator . It wont have any fuel flow unless you blow compressed air into tank briefly then fuel flow is fine.

[@riceski]

Thank you - been working on mine for a month and it has the same issue. THANKS

[@GavinEmmons]

I took line off from tank and fuel flows good. But it still quits running after a few seconds.? So is carb bad?

[@philliphall5198]

I keep all my funnels in plastic bags or they get dirty sand and grass in them Plus I don’t put tanks filter back in , use inline filters

[@LarryRichelli]

I think my dual fuel 7800w has bad gas. How do I get rid of bad gas?

[@LarryRichelli]

Mine is the open frame model and is a dual fuel model so not so easy to clean.Bummer because I really need it and it is not working

[@almclean4835]

Another very useful video

[@keithkilps8250]

Nice tip Don Thanks

[@RG-wy1ol]

Mr don how come you don't wear rubber gloves to protect your hands in your videos 🤔?

[@aprilsmith35]

Thank you it's 450 am and o I think that f😅xed it

[@bmcc12]

Take the screen out of the valve entirely, and put a fuel filter in the fuel line to the carb!

[@chuckuu9294]

Once again another great repair tip

[@GrumpyFarmer]

For gas only Genny not applicable to dual fuel or propane

[@CrazyCanuckFitness]

Love your videos!!!

[@shanew7361]

💪🙏🇺🇸👍

[@sparta2v]

Great video! Question ; now, after 2 years, what is your opinion about this generator? I am thinking of buying one, but can't find much infotmation.

[@donyboy73]

They are not too bad actually!

[@niceguy1183]

Pull out the little screen filter from the valve, and install a clear filter inline.

[@andreasnoraas1429]

That was the problem. Thank you.

[@hphillips7425]

Good video to the point and well explained

[@philliphall5198]

Take value screen out and add a in line filter is easier to service later

[@WalkingByFaith12]

Thank you brother this help me alot

[@dbworx]

Hey, donyboy73, watched and applied your skills to my generator and woohoo I got it!! = need new oil sensor tho. Thanx Much - Don B.👌 L.A.

[@godsammy6549]

Man ion really know where to start from man!!!! Your a life saver 🙌🏽That shii really worked!!!🤍🙏🏽BIG UP FAM!

[@bobmcl2406]

Dony, could you please do a video about servicing or refilling "sealed" hydrostatic transmissions on lawn tractors. Thanks!

[@petersack5074]

now, theres a helluva PLAN......

[@petersack5074]

...speaking of a 'plan'........what about on vehicles ??

[@lestatangel]

Yesterday my little over 3 year old Predator 4000 decided it was going to make a bad day for me. It probably has 2500 hrs on it and it had regular oil changes. I'm not sure what the problem is but I'm cruising KZbin channels trying to figure it out. I bought a smaller Predator 1800 yesterday as a stand-in.

[@steelpix]

I cleaned the jet that was on top of the carb because of surging at idle. My Westinghouse iGen 2500 only sputters for about 5 seconds and then dies after the jet cleaning. But...when I put the covers back on, I laid it over on it's side, forgetting about where the oil might seep. Thoughts?