Saved from scrap! Appraising & successful repair/maintenance of a GMC two stroke 850W Generator.

This GMC generator came from a deceased estate clean out and the deal was - whatever I didn't take was earmarked for the scrap metal pile, or landfill! Sadly, this happens all too often! 😒
Anyway, here's a detailed evaluation, repair and plenty of maintenance information to give you a guide to doing your own repair/maintenance work - and keeping perfectly good (or at least repairable) equipment from entering the waste stream!

[@mcallahan9060]

This is probably the best video I've seen on this type of 2-stroke generator on KZbin. I've owned one of these for years, and have watched dozens of videos of them being repaired. I know this video is 2 years old at this point but you've earned my subscription because of it. 👍

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Many thanks for your sub and such a great comment! I do plan on doing more small engine vids on my channel as my workshop gradually develops! 👍😊

[@ScrapMetalTV.]

Genuinely enjoyed that tutorial. Big thumbs up Chris 👍

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks SWK, appreciate your support! 😊

[@tonyfitzpatrick6799]

I bought one at a garage sale today for $10. I changed the fuel but unfortunately I didn’t clean the car by out before trying to start 😖. At least I know what I need to do tomorrow. Very informative thank you.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Excellent Tony - hope you are successful! 👍

[@Next-Ice-Age]

Red Armor Oil 2 Cycle 45:1 ratio. Will help cleaner inside engine and no buildup carbon.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Whatever oil mix is used - it's most important that it is fresh! Thanks for watching 😊

[@robertrob391]

The silencer also needs to be cleaned on the inside because it gets clogged.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

I usually just make sure air can blow through easily - but yes, they can get clogged up with carbon (or even wasp nests)

[@michaeldominy2084]

Well done, I wish mine would start as easy as yours, even after doing what you did.👌

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Michael. Maybe you need a Boxer dog? 😜🤣

[@davidk8699]

A very good result and an enjoyable video. I learnt a lot! Thanks again buddy :)

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks David, appreciate you watching! 👍

[@PolyProphet]

Great video Chris! I learned from it :) 👍🏽

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks PP 👍

[@petermihan2128]

Your video was so good and thorough. With the help of videos like yours I have been inspired to try these jobs myself these days. I have the exact same generator that has been sitting idol for many years. Your in depth video has me itching to get it out now. Thank you 👍

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Many thanks Peter, that's nice to hear! Good luck with it! 👍😊

[@melissakingsley-smith2767]

great video,... i have 2 in the shed to look at sometime when i need a change from mowers ,snipers, dryers,chainsaws washing machines etc,etc....

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Melissa! Sounds like you have your work cut out for you!

[@darrylrowley7547]

Thankyou. I have exactly this model and the governor seems to be closed so the motor wont start without putting fuel in the plug hole.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

It sounds like the choke isn't activating properly Darryl...

[@milkyway6724]

hello just wondering where can you buy parts for this as my petcock is totally destroyed

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Nope, sorry I don't know where you can buy parts. Maybe check ebay first..

[@rattech]

Mines not putting out power. The cap looks old and crusty so I tried a spare one I had laying around but still didn't work. The original cap was 15uf and the spare one I had was 12uf. Do you think it matters that much? Great video by the way

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Rat Tech. Not sure about the power side of things. I don't think the difference in cap values would make any difference though..

[@joseunruch1989]

I did a whole check up on mines and now is working like a clock, looks like themost common problem is the carb clogs either when fuel is left in it, dirty gas or just any dirt build up in the carb jet.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Most definitely with two strokes, bad fuel is the number one problem! Thanks for watching 👍😊

[@gabrielmaligeorges6996]

Thanks for demystifying two stroke engines Chris. A great video again.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Gabriel! Be warned - just as you think you master two-strokes, they conspire to mystify you again! 🤔🤣

[@reubendapiton573]

I have a question what will happend if i pulled it because i actually pulled it a couple of times and i think we both have the same problem with the un used two stroke fuel

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

If you've tried to start the engine with stale fuel in the tank, it will have drawn it into the carby and you may have to dismantle and clean it. You could try flushing out the tank and re-filling with fresh fuel, then starting the engine with a starting spray (like aerostart) - then quickly blocking off the air intake with your hand (so the air filter should be removed). This action will choke the engine to a stop - but will introduce a lot of extra suction through the jets and this can clean out any remaining old stale fuel.

[@catcastaneda6104]

Really great video. Thanks, it helped a lot!

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Excellent Cat, that's great to hear! 😃👍

[@luckygen1001]

After watching your video I started up my two stroke whipper snipper (Stihl) after I had not used it for well over 12 months. It ran for a minute and then made more smoke than a fog machine. It then it stopped so I removed the plug and it was clean as it would have come out of the factory. So I squirted some petrol down the plug hole and refitted the plug and it ran after that. It must have had some oil build up some where in the engine. Thanks again for your video.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Yep, the fine jets in the carby tend not to like oil residue! You can sometimes start the engine with a squirt of starter fluid, then totally block the air intake with your hand (like a manual choke)... this provides maximum suction and will usually clear oil blockages easily 👍

[@MrKaloxy]

Very informative and clear video i have found so far. I just found an old Genset we were using some 9 years old. Its in very bad state and i am no mechanic man ...but thought i would used it to learn about engines together with my 12 year old twins. Am a complete newbie 😂. But willing to learn. Thanks for this!

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

An excellent idea to undertake that project with your twins! I'm sure you will all find the experience valuable even if you don't get the engine running! 😊👍

[@Lloydski]

Good vid mate. How many turns out on the carb adjustments screws. The new one came and was 4.5 turns out I think it was the only adjustable carb screw on it. Also definitely not getting a spark like like that one is, I replaced the top coil guess I need to pull off the fly wheel and look at that electronic mag.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Lloyd. I don't remember the mixture screw adjustment - but I think it's only an idle jet screw as it's probably a fixed main jet. If you are getting some spark but weak, I would say the ignition coil would be fine. It's usually rusty magnets on the flywheel or the coil/magnet air gap that causes spark problems.

[@robertcabral1366]

Thanks for taking the time to make this video. It's very detailed and informative. You provide a methodical approach to check and repair the 2 stroke engine.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Glad it was helpful Robert! 👍😊

[@mikeyboy2154]

Thank you so much sir. Best blooming video of its kind and there are some good ones. Your explanations very clear and exemplary. I’ve subscribed.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks and welcome mikeyboy! 😊👍

[@ApprenticeGM]

That was an excellent video for troubleshooting and maintenance of this little generator - thanks mate. I can answer a couple of questions you asked: Q: How old and how much? A) They were sold in Bunnings in 2005 for $98 so that gives you an idea (don't know how long the selling run lasted). I have my Dad's which has the receipt attached in the manual, trying to get it going . . . can't remove the spark plug (corroded in by looks) with normal spark plug long sockets and can't get an adjustable spanner on it as spanner edges too thick to fit in between plug & fins. Going to have to buy a new special socket or ring spanner (22mm?) sigh as I don't have that size in my set.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks ApprenticeGM, that's interesting! Less than $100 seems very cheap - but then again $100 could buy you much more back then! Good luck with the plug removal. Maybe soak with a quality spray lube for a few days and heat the cylinder head a bit when trying next. Be careful using too much force as the alloy thread can strip out pretty easily!

[@Dingoroaming]

Love the full brake down. But other then doing sonfor KZbin is it worth doing all this? I just got one on side of road. In box....very little use. Startes first pull the fuel tap fell apart

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

I guess it depends on how much time you have and whether you enjoy fixing things up! Thanks for watching 😊👍

[@DavidTheDave]

This was great! I just pulled exactly the same genny out of one of my Mobile Skips. Watching this has convinced me it's worth a bit of my time getting it going. After hearing it running I don't think I'll be taking it to any campsites! Many thanks.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Haha, has it got a few "death rattles" Dave? Thanks for watching and commenting mate 👍😊

[@radaraacf]

I only needed to check the spring and rod was attached to the carb correctly, but the carb bowl clean and carb blowout really was in need of doing as it’s now running a bit smoother now thanks!

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

That's great! Thanks for watching and I'm glad it was helpful! 😊

[@michaeldominy2084]

Hi, Do you know what type of spark plug you use in the Ginny, ie, type and number.?🤔😊

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

I'm not sure now Michael - but I think you could probably google it!

[@securityguardcommand9792]

I litterally just repaired the same genny the other day. Mine was bought in 2008. Carb rebuild kit was twice what a new carb was so replaced the whole carb. Threw a new magneto and coil at it. Cleaned the spark plug. Pulled the cylinder head off and wire brushed and fine sanded it and put it all back together. Runs like a champ now.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Awesome! That sounds like a comprehensive repair! You should be right for years now! 👍😊

[@securityguardcommand9792]

@@TheUltimateRecycler that little generator is powering a battery charger for our house batteries right now, in the middle of the night.

[@davestybay]

Clearly conveyed information. My old GMC 850w had a cracked fuel bowl and I was close to scrapping it. Your pull down and reassembly of this model generator has helped me to effectively repair the generator rather than scrap it. Thanks.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

That's awesome to hear! Well done to you! 😊

[@CHEAPROLLIN]

Nice

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks for watching! 😊👍

[@BilgemasterBill]

Thumb's up for that look over your shoulder. Those old 2-stroke "fussbuckets" are just the ticket for running most power tools off-grid. I've got a couple of near-identical ones here in the States, albeit in our 115VDC flavor here. They're also handy in weather or other emergencies if the power goes out for a time. They won't run the whole house, of course, but with a decent extension cord through the window you'll at least have a few lights, maybe run a fan or small space heater on "medium", and every couple of hours it'll even put its back into running most refrigerators (but nothing else) for an hour or so to keep everything from defrosting or spoiling. Every homeowner should have one for those short term emergencies. One trick to keeping them happy, especially if there's any ethanol in your fuel, which can clog them up pretty quickly if they sit unused even for just a few weeks, is to shut down the engine by turning off the fuel tap and just letting the carb run dry. That really helps keep the carb from getting a case of "the ethanol snots". I also try to run ethanol-free fuel in mine. Sadly, one of my two gensets like that one (a StormCat 900 sold here by Harbor Freight) has developed a very poor spark. I've replaced the spark plug with a new and also a known working one, installed a new coil (actually two, in case of defect, along with its accompanying spark plug lead), tested and also disconnected the engine on-off switch, but still get only the very faintest of sparks--hardly visible at all. It may start and run for a moment or so, but soon dies, after less than a minute, usually. Frankly, I'm a little stumped now. Any advice from you or your viewers would be greatly appreciated.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks for your great comment Bill! Yep, turning fuel off and leaving the carby to empty itself is a great method of preventing future problems! 👍 As for your spark issue, the only thing left is the flywheel/magnets! Sometimes light rusting of the magnet surface can cause a weak spark. I doubt the magnets could have lost their magnetism - but check that and make sure the air gap is as small as possible. Good luck!

[@BilgemasterBill]

@@TheUltimateRecycler Thanks! I was afraid you'd be pointing me to the flywheel. But aside from some glitchy wiring somewhere, that's really the last remaining gremlin frontier, isn't it.

[@wojciechklaus]

Wow, this is so good! I could seen how its built without breaking mine, also mine had a low bvoltage problem, which you shown how to adjust the RPM`s, which I guess gonna fix mine. Great tutorial, great knowledge, vell presented! Thank you!

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Glad I could help! Thanks heaps for watching! 😊

[@BilgemasterBill]

These little gensets often come with the engine speed and hence voltage a little bit off. After the engine has broken in a bit with some use, you can easily adjust the engine speed without removing the fuel tank with a long crosshead or "Phillips" screwdriver through an access half-hole cutout in the lip of the bottom of the fuel tank just above the pullstart mechanism. Just put the probes of a multimeter set to measure AC voltage into the power outlet, start and warm it up, and adjust the engine speed to the desired voltage. For the USA or Canada it should be steady at about 115 to 120 Volts AC, elsewhere it's usually 220 Volts AC.

[@streetcopper1151]

Two strokes are there own animals 🤣..great video TEACH .. I wonder if everything comes easy to you .. again the Secret of life hasn’t been solved yet 🤣👊🏻..

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks mate - who knew two strokes held the secret of life! 🤣🤣👊

[@streetcopper1151]

@@TheUltimateRecycler 🤦🏻‍♂️I meant hasn’t been solved 🤣that should be your next tasks 🤣

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

@@streetcopper1151 Hahaha - I reckon that video would go viral!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@streetcopper1151]

@@TheUltimateRecycler yes sir In a big way .. 👊🏻

[@dylangunness]

Extremely helpful. Thank you.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Dylan, glad you found it helpful! Thanks for taking the time to comment 😊

[@glenhehir3833]

I really enjoyed that Chris. Thanks mate.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Glen! 👍😊

[@haveyoulostyourcircusmitch248]

You made that look very easy mate, better in your shed than the tip.

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Absolutely! Looking forward to the next power outage now that I'm prepared! 🤣

[@Plan-C]

Really helpful thanks!

[@marktilly5801]

Great video. Thanks

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Mark! 😊

[@kumiko3264]

Thank you so much. I got an old one of these and now I'll be able to follow your instructions to make it work 😜

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Excellent Jacob, let me know how you go! 👍😊

[@kumiko3264]

@@TheUltimateRecycler the piston popped out. How do I fit it back in

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

@@kumiko3264 How did that happen??

[@aussieallrounder6018]

Great save

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks AR! 😊