Propane Generator Fail

[@jimmotormedic]

This is the example of what KZbin should be. No nonsense straight forward helpful and useful information! Don't have a propane generator but have other propane powered equipment and it makes sense. Thanks for the tip

[@tm502010]

Agreed. Very useful video.

[@Joe-S-AK.andID.]

@@tm502010 Yes indeed! No mention of that "thing" anywhere else on the 'net that I could find.

[@PeterLawton]

In addition to adding this gem to the manual, Champion would benefit from passing the word throughout all their support staff, not just the one guy.

[@wdmm94]

The one woman.

[@yeahdude1986]

For sure, good news is when I called their tech support was in the states.

[@geoffmolyneux9173]

The valve you are having a problem with is called a slug valve. It is actually on the output of the propane tank. It is to stop propane from coming out if you have a propane leak. Turning on propane really slowly will slowly build up pressure on the hose side, and the slug valve will not trip. Turning the propane valve on real fast, will result in high propane pressure across the slug valve, closing the slug valve. There by shutting propane flow off to the customer propane device. This slug valve allows a little bit of propane to leak across the valve so the valve can be reset.

[@unquiche]

Exactly this; not the generator’s regulator. And since it’s an issue with “how to use your propane tank properly”, the generator company probably doesn’t want to “take responsibility” for people doing it wrong by putting ANY instructions for it in their manual.

[@kevincarson7096]

Not exactly??? My water separator for my air compressor uses a slug valve which is very different from the Excess Flow Valve (EFV) in the coupling at the end of a propane hose. The EFV or more properly named an "actuated liquid withdrawal excess flow needle valve". You might find that you need to disconnect the hose from the tank to relieve the pressure between the spring loaded needle valve and the Type 1 ACME valve on the tank to reset it before slowly reopening the Type 1 ACME valve.

[@mikestone234]

“Excess flow valve” they are terribly designed. I yank them out. They make more trouble, than they are worth. They are located near the inlet of the hose, where it connects to the tank. Find the tiny “check valve” looking thing, inside the inlet.

[@mikestone234]

@@kevincarson7096excess flow valves, are just like check valves, except, they have a bleed hole, to allow pressure to equalize, on both sides of the “check valve”. This is designed to slow down the flow of fuel, if a line has been cut. Buy a real excess flow valve,( can be serviced), the hose w/integrated excess flow valve, is junk.

[@soundspark]

@@mikestone234 Does a generator draw propane fast enough to trip the valve?

[@frankwrogg2515]

In every support center, there is that one person. Getting to that one person takes lots of calls sometimes.

[@rlcarbo]

So true!

[@Moondoggy1941]

We need to know that person's name.

[@Moondoggy1941]

Google your local politician's name. Nothing but the best that your money can buy.

[@davidwilson7131]

Dear Pleasant Valley Outdoors: Thank you so much for the great video. I have struggled and struggled trying to get my brand new DuraMax generator Hybrid 1200 series to crank. We just had a power outage due to the recent hurricane (Helene), we live near Asheville NC and woudn't you know it, my power goes out and the generator won't crank. I finally gave up. But after everything went back to normal and we got internet I started searching and found your video. I fixed the problem in 5 minutes. I owe you one my friend, thank you so much and God bless. David

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Glad to hear it worked for you. I’ve been seeing on the news about your area. Very scary situation. Stay safe and thanks for watching

[@dondiego124]

This is a common issue with all propane devices. I found it out on a propane grill that belonged to my cousin. I googled bad regulator and I banged the regulator around and opened it slowly and it worked great.

[@nothankyou5524]

Hey. It ain't an issue regarding propane. It's effing high school chemistry. Don't drop out before you get to take Chem or at least physics.

[@damianp1758]

👆Listen to @dondiego124... I knew exactly what the issue was when you said it seemed like it wasn't getting enough fuel. I've done this too many times to count on a BBQ grill and my camper, that now every time before I turn a valve on a propane tank, I turn it on almost freeze-frame slow just to avoid this issue. The other guy who replied to this comment is a MORON... don't pay him any attention, just another mommy's boi seeking attention and validation!

[@dennisberghorn9512]

Yes my gas grill does the same thing ,it believe when you open the valve fast it quick freezes the diaphragm, as valve gets older the diagram get harder just like carb diaphragms in older snowmobile, will drive you nuts ,also the Valves get moisture in them which does a guick type of freeze up ,next time put some hot water on the see if it helps!!!😊

[@thepoopsoup]

Regulator vent pluged

[@ATruckCampbell]

@@nothankyou5524 If highschool chem is the only reason the public would know this, that is a problem with propane cans not having it on the instructions/warnings.

[@EntropyOutdoors]

We have had the same issue with the regulator on out BBQ if you open the valve too quick you can feel and hear a small click in the regulator. To reset you have to turn valve off clear lone pressure and do it slower. Glad you got the problem figured out. Great video.

[@Tonedog88]

What this outstanding video told me was that management needs to train their staff. It took 3 calls to get to the right person? But thanks, because I think that fix will apply to other propane devices, like heaters. Had a similar problem with my propane heater. Messed with it for a while, and finally got it working, but noticed that the procedure I used to get it working was the one this man speaks of, and I remembered that I had closed and opened the tank exactly as he said. Everything work fine then. Thanks, but I think your video is even more useful than you think!

[@jopo6388]

All propane tanks need to be opened slowly due to the OPD -overfill protection device. Learned this years ago from my propane guy.

[@samdunn1807]

Exactly. There is what is called an excess flow that if valve is opened too fast or a line ruptured this valve shuts off and slows the flow almost to nothing. The fix is to shut off tank valve and to wait until you a snap or click when it reopens. At that point open valve slowly and flow should be normal.

[@soundspark]

@@samdunn1807 Normally you open the valve with the device that consumes gas closed, and you wait for the two clicks before turning on the appliance.

[@slidewaze]

THIS!! Totally this.

[@lemfarba4827]

Was his name Hank?

[@Totogita]

I used to be in Tech support and ended helping to write the updated manual for their product. By posting this you helped a lot.

[@nothankyou5524]

If this helped a lot, too many of you dropped out of high school before taking a week of chemistry. Someone has to tell you the biggest byproduct of fossil fuel in a gaseous state is water? Who the f¥k is breeding all these mouth breathers?

[@johnjunior7231]

Great video I’m a new Rv owner and A propane guy a a refill station told me to open propane very slowly to avoid issues, I just purchased a Champion

[@joewong6662]

I had the exact same problem with my barbeque about five years ago couldn’t figure it out for the life of me and then I came across similar instructions and blew me away but thanks for posting because people need to find this out.

[@robertball3578]

Bureaucrats want us to be safe so they mandated a valve that closes on high flow, like a broken line, but you also get high flow when charging the hose and device when you first connect to the LP tank.

[@pantac4493]

@@robertball3578 people just need better education on how to operate it, nothing wrong with a safety device that can save your life

[@daleback9046]

I believe that the propane tank overfill protection valve systems install in the tank valve also have a open line safety system that minimizes propane flow when the valve opens and there is too much flow while the opening occurs. These overflow protection device were required after many propane cooking device injuries.

[@dandaly7305]

Also, the regulator diaphragm becomes stiffer with age, so the regulator is less tolerant of quick opening. They suggest "resetting the regulator: Turn off the propane tank valve and disconnect the regulator. Open the appliance valve(s) to release any residual pressure in the system. Close the appliance valve(s) and wait for a few minutes. Reconnect the regulator to the tank and slowly open the tank valve, listening for gas flow. Fairly typical on older propane tanks on larger propane grills.

[@killer2600]

This is an issue that is common with propane BBQ grills - low flame because the tank was opened too quickly or opened with the burners turned on.

[@maddhatter3564]

yes , thats the safety valve on the tank. designed to shut off flow in a broken hose situation. I see it every few weeks on our forklifts.

[@danstine897]

You just solved a mystery for me. I've had a similar problem when replacing the propane tank on a grill. If I'd leave a burner on when turning on the propane tank valve, the flame was very low. I'd usually go through a couple gyrations and it would work, but I didn't understand what was actually happening. Now, I understand exactly!

[@tylermulkey330]

same thing happended to me with my grill when replacing the propane bottle. low flame took me a few times of taking on a off the regulator. lol great to know.

[@justtuffjohnjf]

WOW!!! I been had my Champion Dual fuel for 3 years only used it twice and like you I had only use propane. So far I have had no problems, but your video is such a GREAT tool of knowledge. THANKS.

[@MrEferrell]

LP gas cylinders are equipped with a safety valve that will shut off flow if a hose becomes disconnected. If there is no pressure on the hose or whatever is attached and you open that valve quickly, the safety thinks the hose is broken and shuts off the flow. Since you had some gas flowing, the safety on your valve is probably faulty because when that safety closes, the only way it can open is to close the valve fully and reopen it.

[@LivingTheRosieLife]

yep! Gotta open so slow. It's actually the excess flow device you have attached, that is restricting the flow because of opening valve too quickly. It restricts the propane flow. This is great info for everyone, thanks for taking the time to show everyone your experience

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@genuismensa]

FYI for anyone that wants electric start but the replacement battery seems excessively expensive, I came up with a very cheap solution. I drilled two holes in the battery side cover, stuck a bolt out of each and put a nut on the inside, then the ring terminal for the battery, then another nut to lock it on. So you wind up with two studs sticking out of the side of the generator. I just used a silver marker to put + and - over the correct terminal. I always have some kind of jump box with me, whether it is for my toys, vehicle, or just helping out someone else. I just keep the just pack next to the generator. I normally would only need to start it every once in a while. Normally when we are camping it is running if we are in the trailer. I use electric start on a cold start, and then if I am just refueling it, I just give the rope a pull. If they are warm and tuned up, its takes like half a rip and its back up and running.

[@jamestitone4304]

I just changed the lead acid battery out with a lifepo4 battery. It doesn't discharge on its own and I can always start the generator. And it lasts 10 x as long as lead acid.

[@genuismensa]

@@jamestitone4304 If it had remote start, I would care about having a battery. I camp a few times a year, and maybe use this generator for an extended power outage. No reason for me to have yet another battery to manage. Regardless of the chemistry, it gets to -35F in the winter where I live for a week or two out of the year sometimes and I have to bring in my small engine batteries in the fall. I have to keep them on the battery tender in the winter and charging a not self-heating lithium of any type under 32F is not recommended. I have nice lithiums on my motorcycles that I bring in. Not going to chance ruining a NOCO battery lol. I am glad the lithium is working out for you though. I am sure it makes sense to people that use theirs more often than a couple of times a year. Most of the time it just stays running the entire time we are camping if the weather is hot from Fri-Sun. It might get started a couple of times total during that just to refuel it. The studs were the proof of concept. Now I am going to be using some of those battery tender wires to direct connect the power pack into the generator. That way I can start the generator, but also it can charge my battery pack. I need to post videos of all my random stuff lol.

[@zarfer]

I live in hurricane threat area and have not used my Champion yet but did lend it to son-in-law a few years ago. I knew avout this but forgot so without you sharing your experience I

[@zarfer]

for genuismensa: That is thinking "outside the box". Going to do it to mine.

[@genuismensa]

@@zarfer It is really nice to not have to worry about keeping my generator on a battery tender too lol. As long as you keep a jump box handy, its honestly the best solution I could come up with.

[@robmcculley6835]

I have heard of this with propane BBQs. They run with half the BTU's and nothing you try to do like unclogging the lines of the burner etc will help. You need to shut the propane off, disconnect the propane, reconnect it and SLOWLY turn the gas on. I was then able to get full heat from my propane. For BBQ's people usually see this problem only when changing from an empty tank to a full tank, so this is a thing. I was unaware that this happens with generators - now I know! Thank you.

[@mikespangler98]

It's definitely true. Close off all burners, then open tank valve, then turn on burners one at a time. I think the high-flow valves are too conservative myself.

[@charcoalanderson8010]

I wonder why in the world Champion is so reluctant to add such an important detail that would help so many and stop bad reviews for something with such an easy fix. They wouldn't even have to do a complete overhaulof their manuals just add a big sticker/tag or a troubleshooting card in with each generator. At least we can thank you for sharing this info with us!

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

That was my question. It sure would make life easier. Thanks for watching

[@AndyPhu]

​​​@@OutdoorLiving88still absolutely no excuse to provide a warning like OP mentioned in the box with it. Might not be Champions part, but Champion sure put it through the R&D when they made the generator. So they're at least 50% at fault.

[@AndyPhu]

@@OutdoorLiving88 well yes you're right, every propane appliancr manufacturer is at fault

[@AndyPhu]

@@OutdoorLiving88 I guess you missed the part where he says in the video that the issue is caused by the diaphragm within the generator getting pressurized too quickly and then not functioning correctly when you quickly open the tank, which is why they say to open it slowly, so it doesn't over pressurize the diaphragm. It's not a problem with the propane tank, it's a problem with the valve on the inlet side of the generator.

[@AndyPhu]

@@OutdoorLiving88 that's a whole lot of words that equated down to I'm a mad piss baby with hearing issues

[@thewatcher5271]

Well, You Went A Long Way Around The Barn But We Got There, Lesson Learned & I Bet This Benefits A-lot Of People. Thank You.

[@phlogistanjones2722]

Silver Cymbal channel JUST did a video about this today 2024/06/23 with regards to a Weber Grill that would only put out a small, low temp flame. So VERY glad I watched your video (five days ago) and I am glad that other channels are also speaking about this problem. It is also heartening to know that you respond to comments even MONTHS after this video was put out. You are a gem sir. Peaceful Skies.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for your kind words and for watching

[@copper-tc6un]

I had issues with a propane tank on a grill, and this information solves the mystery. I bought a Champion 4650 W dual fuel genset 2 years ago and this is great information. Thanks for posting.

[@markpresson9056]

Great video and information! From what I’ve seen if the regulator is equipped with a black plastic QCC type large right hand thread for outside threads , the plastic knob has a small BB type check valve built in called an excess flow valve When service valve is opened quickly, it forces the BB to move forward to reduce flow because it thinks there’s an extreme leak in the line reducing pressure. Close handle remove black knob/ replace retighten and slowly open. Always spray those too. They do leak sometimes ( propane service tech retired)

[@Cstroup]

Thank you for posting! We were hit by Milton and lost power early. I could not get my Firman to run more than 20 minutes on propane and burned almost all of my gasoline. Your video showed me how to make it work and I am now over 100 hours with propane and no problems! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Glad the video helped. I hope you’re getting through this tragedy OK. Thanks for watching

[@Dan-cu9vv]

Thank you so much, sir... your tip about slowly opening the propane tank valve WORKED! I tried everything I could to start my new Champion dual fuel generator until I gave up (with very sore arms from yanking on the starter cord) and started searching youtube for help. I found your video and got busy. Turning the propane valve slowly didn't work at first until I disconnected the regulator assembly from the valve (I'm guessing it needed to depressurize to reposition the regulator diaphragm you talked about) - I reassembled everything, SLOWLY opened the propane valve, and the generator started right up! Many thanks to the Champion technical rep who told you what to do and a special thanks to you for posting it on youtube. I was about to take that Champion generator back to the hardware store and get my money back! I am not kidding!

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

I’m glad it helped you out. I haven’t had any issues with mine since. Thanks for watching

[@HemiDad1963]

We just bought a Predator dual fuel generator for our new 5th. I have not even taken it out of the box. But I will open the propane valves very slowly every time I need that generator. Thank you so much for making this video. 👍🏻

[@SilvaDreams]

It's just a propane issue, it's compressed gas so when you open it up quickly it rapidly expands and gets cold causing any moisture to freeze up instantly causing a restricted or plunged port. Middle school level science.

[@pantac4493]

@@SilvaDreams Most people think it’s the safety valve in the tank that shuts closed because excess flow that happens when you have a leak not really just a freezing issue. Middle school comment was unnecessary when you don’t know the whole problem yourself

[@jerryvelders4457]

Great info and great detective work. Also shows how resistant large companies are to change, and how slowly they do so.

[@vrod1a]

Thanks for detailed explanation, this will help many people. This is a common issue with newer propane regulators, it’s a built in safety feature in order to restrict the propane flow in case the hose bursts or develops a big leak, It’s not limited to champion or any other brand of generator, but you’re right, it should be mentioned in the owners manual.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@butternmayo]

You made Hank Hill proud

[@NoNORADon911]

Minus the accessories? 😢

[@butternmayo]

@@NoNORADon911 have you experienced the even heating of efficient, clean burning propane? thanks for the playlists

[@NoNORADon911]

@@butternmayo Yes playlist, lots to meander though, glad you found. Have a good night.

[@joshm3342]

Thanks for the info! I bought a Champion 100574 dual fuel 4 yrs ago, and have only used it for power outages. I have not had any problems, but I'll be aware to turn the valve slowly to prevent problems. The Operator's Manual says: "Fully open the LPG cylinder fuel knob."

[@terrancecoard388]

Back around 2005, I bought a super duper six-burner stainless steel BBQ. The second time I tried to use it, the flames were as weak as a match. The guy at BBQ Galore told me how to turn on and off the propane. Never had an issue with it again....the burners started pumping out some serious BTUs. I am in the market for one of these and you passed on some good information. Thank you.

[@igerce]

You just described my issue with my griddle in a cold weather. I figured out all by myself, and forgot already. I would never know generators may have the same issue. Thank you for reminding me. I'm installing the propane kit, and it's gonna be cold tomorrow.

[@headdown1]

Wow is this a timely video! I am boondocking about 30 minutes from Quartzsite. I have ordered a dual fuel Champion 4250 watt open frame inverter generator, and should have it next week. It is my first time using a propane generator, and I could easily see myself turning the tank on too fast without this heads up video. Thanks!

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

We were boondocking in Quartsite last year when I had issues with my Champion. Have a good time there and thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@bobduncan9015]

I have watched a number of videos about dual fuel and propane generators. Several of them have referenced the slow opening of the tank valve and even a release of the connector from the tank to the generator to dissipate air before starting. Seems like this is a pretty common issue and I am glad to know about it. Thanks for your video.

[@johnnyhotrod]

Great video.I would have tried gasoline to eliminate if it was purely a propane issue. Some people never want to run gasoline through their dual fuels,bad idea. Condensation will eventually leave rust and corrosion in the carb if it’s never run through. Good idea to alternate between fuel sources so everything gets a run through. Good luck with the gen,I like the Champion dual fuels so far.

[@glasslinger]

Bullshit.

[@johnnyhotrod]

@@glasslinger Better go back to Legos Slappy cause you don’t know engines

[@tfeltmat2903]

I have a Champion dual fuel generator and I use it for camping too. I have struggled from time to time with several propane appliances and the regulators are the big problem. The safety features can cripple them, some require large flow, some require barely any flow, and there's not a lot of help out there! Thank you for this video!

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Glad it helped. Thanks for watching

[@HarleyDavidsonWizard]

It's not the regulator. It's the safety valve in the propane tank. I had the same situation with my grill. 2 regulators and 3 different tanks later... I finally did a deep dive into figuring it out. If you open the propane tank to fast the safety valve inside the propane tank can open part way, lot letting full flow. And it can get stuck like that sometimes. Always open slow. Been like 3 years + since then and never a problem now.

[@Propworn]

We use all kinds of propane forklifts and other equipment indoors in our plant. One of the training regimens are changing tanks and maintaining the equipment. Every one of them we open the propane slowly as we were told opening them too fast can cause the carb to freeze up. Don't know if it's true about the icing but opening slowly seems to work on everything we use.

[@bigjoecovers]

Had this on a BBQ, hit the interwebs and read about the slug valve or whatever it’s called. BBQ issue was solved. Glad you got yours figured out!

[@johnbauman4005]

The equivalent of years of experience with high value tip and comment section! Subscribed.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for checking it out

[@Joe-S-AK.andID.]

Yeah John - me too, even on the subscription thing too.

[@polarisflyer]

This is common knowledge about propane. This not only affects generators, but grills as well.

[@captnkarl4401]

Great video with explanation. I've had this same issue when using a gas grill and gas heater.. The intense and rapid pressure input does something inside the regulator and they will not work. Can't remember who told me to open the valve SLOWLY to fix the issue but it's become a habit now. I do have a dual fuel generator but thankfully it's still in the box. I thank you for putting out this information.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for checking it out

[@MrTks1959]

Good video. I have the exact same generator and I've got several hundred hours on mine and I've never adjusted the valves. I heard the trick about opening the propane valves slowly at least a couple of decades ago after the industry switched over to the new style of valve and so I've done it that way ever since.

[@tracycrispino3446]

Propane tank valve was my issue, same thing happened to me. Open fast and the valve will click, blocking fuel flow. Open slow and works fine. Safety mechanism in the tank valve caused my problem and hasn’t happened since. Thanks for posting your information as it could very easily be a different issue all together on yours.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@MrRChitty]

Thank you for doing this. As you were talking, i actually was thinking to myself that the problem is the differences in pressure from tankside to the generator. The "rush" makes the regulator act like a severed line and it reduces the flow. You can simulate this condition on a grill. With the propane tank in the off position, turn the burners on and open the tank. It will restrict the flow. It's a safety feature. However, if everything is off, opening the tank should cause the pressures to balance and the restriction should not be triggered. I am not sure how the gas valve on the generator works, but if in the off position, it should balance out. Then you should be able to turn the valve on the generator on.

[@ramseywilliams5087]

I have a 12Kw Duromax dual fuel I purchased from Home Depot a few years back. I live in Florida and having a generator that can power up the central A/C is a must have during weeks/months of power outages. Brought it home, wired it into the house wiring and it worked like a charm for the first 8 day power outage. The next hurricane that was headed our way, we tested the generator about a week out and had the same symptoms that you had with needing to choke it just to get it to run, and then there wasn't enough power to charge a cell phone. I used to do propane fleet conversions for the local power companies years ago and they had a similar problem with the diaphragms in the pressure regulators. And since the new EPA requirements, there can also be a problem with the safety restrictors on the newer propane tanks as well. When the problem occurs, the regulators and safety valves need to be reset, which basically requires removing all pressure from the lines and turning the propane back on slowly, so the equipment doesn't respond like there was sudden break in the supply line.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for taking the time to comment and for watching. Stay safe in Florida

[@tristanschaper281]

Great video and you are spot on! Agreed that other small propane appliances like grills, can have the exact same problem. This should be in every propane appliance manual. I have also read that Champion did seem to have some bad regulators and would often send a free replacement to people under warranty. (but I don't know if the regulator was actually bad, or just the issues like you had). However, regulators do go bad, often from living outside, especially in a marine/salt water environment. So keeping a spare is a smart idea either way.

[@anthonymarino4260]

the same thing with the gas grill

[@redlew012]

There's a little ball in it for overflow protection and yes it is a thing. Thankfully you figured it out and now you got a backup.

[@freddierussell9500]

The excess flow valve is on the service valve INSIDE the tank. LP service tech, retired

[@glennbtw8669]

I am on my third Champion 3400 regulator in about four years. I had learned about the slow opening some time back with a gas grill. It didn't help with the first two regulators. First replacement one was under warranty, Second one was on me. The latest replacement has been working fine for over a year now, with about 100 hrs total on the generator. I think they just had a bad batch or regulators. But I make sure to follow the slow opening rule.

[@TheHavocdog]

The problem isn't in the regulator. The problem is in the safety valve of the propane tank. It is internal to the tank and is designed to shut off or highly restrict the flow of propane out of the tank, should there be a hose failure, or if someone opened up the tank valve whole it is disconnected. All newer propane tanks have this safety device. But some of these propane tank safety valves are more sensitive than others.

[@JohnDeUlloa]

Great video. I wish everyone could explain issues as well as you. Champion actually has good support but as anything in today's world, it's often hit or miss. The first question I ask any tech support person is "Have you ever heard of this issue?" If they say no, I ask if they could check to find another rep who has. It saves having to call back. I learned about opening a propane tank slowly when I purchased a new BBQ grill. Again, great video. Very well thought out and how you explained the entire story. I purchased a Champion Duel Fuel 5500 from Cabela's near Reno, NV. My only regret was to only use propane. Other than that, I'm pleased with my purchase. Thanks again! What does Jean Luc Picard say...? Oh yeah - Well done.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@louvp57]

I knew what you were getting to, I have the same issue with my gas grill if I open the valve to fast, I get almost no flame. I think its a safety feature of the regulators. it thinks theres a gas leak when it sees the rush of gas pressure

[@Tomcoker1952]

I have the exact generator, bought mine 6 yrs ago and have 40 hrs on it. My gas grill would not work and I googled regulator and it said open slowly and that solved my grill issue, so every time I use the generator,I open the bottle slowly and I have never had any issues other than my battery died, but it starts with 2-3 pulls of the pull starter.. great video and info.

[@robertfarino9020]

It’s not the generator or the regulator. It’s a propane tank that has a built-in pop off valve in case the line is cut or severed. It shuts off the supply of propane. if you have an empty propane hose and immediately open up the valve, it pops off that valve on the tank. Some valves are a little more sensitive than others.

[@ToIsleOfView]

Wow! Thank you. Who would ever guess this. This advice is probably good for every propane user. Regulators can get damaged from violent pressure changes, so this makes good sense to slow down the surge.

[@rlcarbo]

This is really good to know. Good job! This is a video that could be classified as a “Public Service Announcement”.

[@WmTyndale]

Thank you for this video. I have this same type of generator. U are what makes America Great. I also discovered this phenomenology with my roofing torch many years ago. If I opened the propane too fast the torch would have little flame. I believe this is a Safety Feature built into regulators to prevent "flare outs". Always slowly open propane tank valve. I used my generator (flawless performance) the first time during Hurricane Beryl here in Houston this summer. I had never connected the regulator issue to any problems that the generator might present. YOUR VIDEO IS INVALUABLE. Especially for those who are depending on it during crisis. It is good to also have multiple backups like solar and perhaps another generator. The attraction and advantages of propane are evident. Trouble Free Long Term storage.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for your comment and for watching

[@MrRossi1805]

Why do you pull the choke in LPG operation? I was instructed, on LPG u don’t need the choke, only with gasoline is it required (to vaporize more fuell for the startup)

[@MindControlledSheepie]

my dad taught me this about 20 years ago. never forgot it. could never get my grill to get hot enough, told me to crack it open slowly. worked! thanks dad!

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@gobassin54]

I have dual fuel Gen that has starred running rough on propane. It has always run fine on propane until I starred it few days ago and it ran rough,switched on gasoline it ran fine. Going to try slow opening of propane valve see if it runs smooth again. I know have had problem with bbq grill opening valve to quickly. Thanks for your post very informative.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@canzcustoms]

Geoff, you must work with or studied regulators, it happens on all regulators the newer they are the less quality the get. BBQ, RV appliances and whatever else has a regulator and there are new safety items installed, the slug valve as Geoff describes is one of them. Basically if you cut the hose it wont let out full pressure in the event of a catastrophic failure of the gas hose and a running generator, its a good system but turning on the exercising the diaphragm keeps it moving, when disconnected it gets moisture inside and a bit of corrosion is all it takes to stop the slug valve from opening. So in all essence it is best to exercise this valve to keep it moving properly. The generator in the video was in fact starving for fuel and he worked it free and did a heck of a video describing just that. Well Done.

[@deant876]

I have never had that problem myself. But I have been using cutting torches for years, and you have to open them slowly also

[@sbouchillon]

I had a similar problem with a Mr. Heater. Found the same answer on KZbin. Now I know this a universal problem with propane devices. Thanks.

[@14DFASniper]

Recommend you also install a propane filter on the line going into the generator. There are small particulates in the larger tanks that this filter removes and keeps the system running longer. People with Mr. Buddy heaters use them frequently on the 20 lb tanks. If they don't, eventually they learn to install the propane filter. You can get them at stores like ACE and tractor supply.

[@For_What_It-s_Worth]

I remember once having a low flow problem with a small tank and a propane torch. On the small orifice at the end of the torch’s finger/tube that opens the schraeder (sp?) valve in the cylinder and seals with the o ring, there was a tiny wad of lint packed in. A brush and blow cleared it away, and the torch ran full blast again. I also got a two burner camp stove from a trash can with one inoperative burner. The one metering orifice was plugged with something, so I was going to carefully poke it out with a tiny soft bristle, but sprayed it with carb cleaner first. It dissolved with no poke needed. I surmise some kind of hydrocarbon contaminant built up from impure propane. Worked fine. I enjoyed that temp job on the back of the trash truck, running all over our rural county.

[@ron.v]

This is why people watch KZbin. If they want to learn, nearly everyone I know searches KZbin for a video like this. Thanks for posting. Great info.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching Ron

[@basketcase8540]

I know that my bbq does something like that. It will slow the burners to barely burn. I was told to keep it from leaking a lot of gas if the line gets severed.

[@SSO1025RET]

I actually had the exact same problem with my propane grill as well. It was driving me nuts for such a simple fix that nobody knows about.

[@Brood_Master]

This problem isn't isolated to generators. I've had a couple of propane grills that have the same problem... If I open the valve too fast, or if any of the burners are on. The feul flow gets reduced to a trickle. I eventually figured out that if it has a regulator. You need to open the valve slowly...

[@rameylewis7730]

I must have talked with the same lady who told me to open the valve slowly. I did what she said and everything works perfectly. I run two of the same generator you have with a junction box between them for more power. Running two years now with no issues. I only run the propane as well. I bought the tents that cover the units because mine sit outside.

[@martehoudesheldt5885]

the problem isn't the regulator it's the OPD valve on the propane tank. if when you open the valve to fast or a line breaks the high flow thru the valve has a safety in it that all but shuts off the gas. close valve wait a minute and then open slowly.

[@markmeador]

I thank you for this video. I have one of Champions duel/fuel generators that I use when I have power outages. I live in anRV full time. Mine is an 8800kw so a lot bigger than yours. I had the same problem running on propane and hated running on gas. After watching your video I tried opening the valve slowly and my generator started instantly. Guess what, this also works on gas grills. My grill wouldn’t get up to heat and I tried opening the valve slowly, it now works perfectly.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@kylapimp7443]

We learn something new daily

[@dancampbell167]

Thank you for posting this. My little Firman 3200 was doing exactly the same thing, I just tried slowly opening the tank and it is running like a top again. More testing to follow, but fired up like a dream.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Glad it worked for you. Thanks for watching

[@jkbrown5496]

Sounds like the free-flow safety in the OPD valve (connects to tank) is tripping. That happens when the gas rushes if you open it fast on a long hose or with the burners open. In this case, it may be that the demand regulator (big diameter one) has stuck open. It is suppose to only let gas flow when there is a vacuum from the engine intake. You might check to see if gas flows out of the generator end of the hose which would indicate a leak in the demand regulator. The free-flow safety is common to all OPD valves. I learned about it with a weed torch. I now naturally open propane slowly out of habit. It's just a ball check valve that closes if the gas flows to fast with a small weep to balance the pressures then it resets.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Excellent information. Didn’t know that. Thanks for taking the time to comment and for watching

[@billworkman-nn2vr]

That's exactly what is was and maybe why Champion seems to think they do not need to tell anyone about it because it's the safety valve in the tank causing the issue not the regulator or generator. Closing the valve and reopening it slowly allows it to reset and function normally.

[@mattpitts3205]

I need to try this on the weekend. I saw mention of this on another channel as well. I have the same exact model. Was dealing with similar issues with trying to get it run on propane. My generator has less than 10 hours so no way valves, spark arrest, or spark plug would be an issue yet. I had also heard mention that choke shouldn't be required if on propane since it is coming in pressurized and bypasses the gas portion of the carburetor anyway where the choke is. Not completely sure I buy that but may test it anyway. Glad I found this video!

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for your comment. I’ve had a lot of people telling me I don’t need to choke it to start but that’s not true. I’ve tested it several times and it won’t start without it. Thanks for watching

[@kimmer6]

Thank you. I will remember this for as long as I live. Open the propane valve slowly!!!! Will do!

[@rlcarbo]

😂

[@mfb6310]

OMG. Literally 3rd time was the charm. Good on her. Unfortunately, sometimes it has to be the "mgmt's idea for it to be 'right'. Let's hope she gets the kudos she deserves, though. And thank you very much for posting this to help many of us out!!

[@teeing9355]

All propane tanks have this safety feature, but it shouldn't be that touchy. Try a new tank, your tank might of been over filled or just old.

[@jeffmc306]

Thanks for posting the video. It's a good reminder to slowly open the tank's valve. Had the same experience with our Weber Genesis grill. Did you consider trying to run it on gasoline when you had the problem for troubleshooting? It would be a way to eliminate the regulator from the equation. I have two Champion Dual Fuel generators, one 3400 just like yours and a 2500. No problems with either. We run them off our Airstream's low pressure propane port on the front of the trailer. Nice units for the money.

[@CrucesNomad1]

This fixed my issue, I always open the valve two or three times. Starts every time.

[@polishpicl]

Thank you thank you thank you....I'm a mechanic and I would have gone nuts trying to fix a non fixable problem....you put out a great video.....

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@thinkingimpaired5663]

I learn something almost every time I talk to tech support, the lesson is that tech support doesn't know anything further than what's written on a computer screen. Tech support clowns. By the way I had similar issues with a BBQ.

[@glasslinger]

Hey wow! I have one of these and have only used it one time for about an hour. At least now I know to carefully open the propane tank valve! Thanks for the heads up!

[@mikeadams2339]

I have one that I have only used a couple of times.im worried that by sitting. Have had mine at least 4 years and doubt I have over four hours on it.i don't run it when the weather is cold thinkin I will mess something up. How about a video on cold starting a generator in cold conditions? Thankz for a great tip!

[@glasslinger]

@@mikeadams2339 Mine is propane and starts right up in 25F temperature. I had a gasoline onan and it was a bear to start. I ended up putting a 12 volt plus a 6 volt battery for a total of 18 volts. This cranked fine in the cold but had to have special arrangements to charge the 6 volt battery.

[@j.b.9895]

The propane tanks now have these safety features. One is flow control when a fast gas flow is detected, ie a leak. These safety features can be very temperamental and activate by allowing an empty hose to fill to fast. Open the gas supply at your tank very slowly for the first quarter turn then as fast as usual to minimize these false shutdowns

[@user-gz1hu5px1z]

That was great advice you received , I am thinking of getting a duel fuel generator and will not forget this. Thanks for video.

[@shelley131]

The propane tank is the problem. If you open the valve to fast it has a safety valve that is tripped. The valve thinks the tank fell or was dropped and becomes activated. The lady was on the right track but all propane tanks will do this. I first learned about this years ago when I bought my first turkey fryer.

[@ghostshadow9046]

need the old type of propane tanks... unfortunately companies not allowed to fill the old tanks that don't have the internal valve that is causing many problems, I have an old propane burner it has too high a flow rate so the new tanks internal valve shuts off.

[@S.JerseyJim]

Buddy you are a natural in front of that camera. No “uhm” 20 times. This was a very helpful video. 👍👍

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Thanks for watching

[@timcat1004]

All newer propane tanks have a blow out prevention safety in the tank itself. If it trips you need to close the tank, crack the regulator, retighten and open the tank slowly. This applies to all tanks now and no matter what you hook the tank up too. I have known this for over a decade. Your problem had nothing to do with the gen or regulator. It's a Government safety built into all newer tanks now.

[@freddierussell9500]

All you need to do is close the tank valve, wait a minute or so, and the excess flow will reset. Do NOT bleed it off!

[@DavidWarner-my1uq]

I only have about 10 minutes on mine, I look at all the videos I can, this was a great thing to know, mine is a 2200 small duel, getting ready to fire it up for the five hours break it in,thank you.

[@oldmaninthemirror]

Has nothing 😢to do with Champion or any generator it is a function of the propane tank. I had this problem with a propane stove some years ago went on KZbin found a video discussing this valve and turning it on too fast issue. Since that time I open the valve on propane tank slowly regardless of device and no problem.

[@budp.4209]

Nice information, straight to the point, no nonsense delivery. Thanks so much

[@regthibodeau965]

Thank you very much for making this video. I've done propane conversions on two 2K Honda inverter generators. No problems so far, but I will definitely make a point of opening the tank slowly.

[@PleasantValleyOutdoors]

Glad it helped. Thanks for watching

[@stevendrake6831]

Thank you for taking the time to make such a helpful video!

[@MyClutteredGarage]

I have the 4500w model. I wonder if it’s similar. I’ll open the valve slowly just in case now. Thanks!

[@PatrickBaptist]

@7:50 yeah it's not just gennys that you should open the gas valve up slowly on, I've seen that warning on LP heaters and seen it happen once on my own furnace.

[@watchgospelworkers]

I have the identical generator and have never had this problem, but I thank you for the information. I'll know just what to do if this happens to mine. 👍

[@TimeSurfer206]

Sure is nice of Champion to let us know how they feel about us.

[@AddictOfLearning]

I have this exact same generator, I'm super happy that I found this. Thank you for the information

[@TheLpjoe]

The valve at issue is actually in the lp cylinder rather than the regulator. It is a safety feature incorporated in OPD valves almost since they first came on the market and are required by code. The flow needed to trip them can vary widely from cylinder to cylinder. Just the nature of the beast. Might you have swapped to a different cylinder just prior to having your issues?