Encountering a Sumec generator cranking but not starting can be frustrating, especially when you need a reliable power source.
There many things which can lead to the onset of emergence of this particular issue, such as low fuel or oil levels, improper choke positioning, dead batteries, dirty air filters, clogged carburetors, or exhaust blockages causing carbon buildup on the spark plug.
To fix your Sumec generator’s cranking but not starting problem and ensure it runs smoothly, in order to fix the issue, it is necessary to accurately identify and effectively address the root cause.
This guide will walk you through standard solutions like checking and replenishing fuel and oil levels, adjusting the choke, replacing dead batteries, cleaning air filters and carburetors, and clearing exhaust obstructions.
As you adhere to these procedures, you canto identify and fix your Sumec generator when it’s cranking but not starting, fix the issue, and restore reliable power.
1. Check the Oil Level
It is very important to check the level of engine oil in a Sumec generator daily before starting it. Initially, the oil level should be checked every month, and during intervals, it should be checked every six months.
Sumec Firman provides high-quality engine oil specifically designed for Sumec generators, and it is recommended that the original Sumec Firman engine oil be used for optimal performance.
When checking the oil level, ensure the generator has been off for at least one hour and placed on a level surface. Locate the oil filler knob or cap on the front of the generator and wipe it clean before unscrewing it. The oil dipstick is attached to the underside of the filler cap. To check the oil level, insert and remove the dipstick.
The dipstick is marked with ‘L’ (low) and ‘H’ (high) indicators:
- The oil level should be between these two marks, closer to the ‘H’ mark.
- If the oil level is below the ‘L’ mark, top up the generator with the recommended oil type (SAE 30).
- Use a funnel and slowly add oil until the level reaches close to the ‘H’ mark, but do not overfill.
- Smaller generators may make using a pipe to fill the oil more straightforward to avoid spilling.
Additionally, check the oil color – it may be time for an oil change if it appears black or dark. If the generator was previously overfilled, tilt it slightly to drain out the excess oil.
2. Locate the Low Oil Shut-Off Sensor
Many Sumec generators are equipped with a low oil shut-off sensor that prevents the engine from starting or continuing to run if the oil level is too low. This safety feature helps protect the engine from potential damage. To locate the low oil shut-off sensor:
- Check the battery cables, fuel valve, ignition switch, spark plug wire, and propane tank valve (for hybrid models) to ensure they are correctly connected and functioning.
- Inspect the air filter, spark arrestor, and spark plug for any signs of damage or clogging. A dirty or faulty air filter can restrict airflow, preventing the engine from starting.
- If the gas has been sitting for over one month, the carburetor may need to be disassembled and cleaned. Stale fuel can clog the carburetor, causing the engine to crank but not start.
The low oil shut-off sensor is typically near the engine’s oil fill tube or dipstick. It may be a separate component or integrated into the engine block. Consult your Sumec generator’s owner’s manual for the exact location and instructions on accessing and inspecting the sensor.
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Common Sensor Locations |
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Near the oil fill tube |
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On the engine block |
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Attached to the dipstick |
If the sensor is faulty or not functioning correctly, it may need to be replaced. However, before replacing the sensor, ensure that the oil level is correct and that no other underlying issues are causing the generator to crank but not start.
3. Temporarily Bypass the Sensor
Suppose the Sumec generator is still not starting after checking and replenishing the oil level, and the low oil shut-off sensor is the culprit. In that case, you can temporarily bypass the sensor to determine if it is the root cause. Here’s how you can do it:
- Locate the Low Oil Shut-Off Sensor Wire: Refer to your generator’s owner’s manual or consult a professional to locate the wire connected to the low oil shut-off sensor.
- Disconnect the Sensor Wire: Carefully disconnect the wire from the sensor. This bypasses the sensor and allows the generator to start, even if the oil level is low.
- Attempt to Start the Generator: Try starting the generator with the sensor wire disconnected. If it starts and runs typically, the low oil shut-off sensor is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
⚠️ Warning: Running the generator with a faulty or bypassed low oil shut-off sensor can result in damage to the engine if the oil level is not carefully monitored. This should be considered a temporary solution until the sensor can be replaced or the underlying issue is fixed.
If bypassing the sensor does not fix the issue, the problem may lie elsewhere, such as a clogged carburetor or fuel system. In that case, you may need to try the following steps:
- Spray Carburetor Cleaner/Penetrating Oil: If the generator has been in storage, spray the carburetor cleaner or penetrating oil directly into the carburetor and close the choke. This can help dissolve any buildup or clogs in the carburetor.
- Drain the Carburetor: Turn the fuel valve off, remove the carburetor drain bolt, and let any accumulated moisture or water drain out.
Remember, bypassing the low oil shut-off sensor is a temporary solution and should not be used as a permanent fix. In order to guarantee both safety and efficiency in the functioning of the generator, measures must be taken, it is imperative to identify the underlying cause of the issue and replace any faulty components.
4. Carburetor Cleaning
If your Sumec generator is cranking but not starting, cleaning or servicing the carburetor may be necessary. Here are the steps to clean the carburetor:
1. Prepare for Carburetor Removal
- Turn the gas to the ‘off’ position before removing the carburetor.
- Remove the air filter and air box.
- Disconnect the throttle spring and choke lever.
2. Disassemble and Clean the Carburetor
- Remove the carburetor bowl and jet.
- Clean the jet and emulsion tube using carburetor cleaner, ensuring you can see through them.
- Disassemble the carburetor by removing the float, main jet, nozzle/emulsion tube, pilot jet, and idle mixture screw.
- Clean the carburetor parts using a carburetor cleaning spray and cleaning needles.
- Blow out any remaining debris using compressed air or an air can.
3. Reassemble and Reinstall the Carburetor
- Reassemble the carburetor, being careful not to overtighten the brass components.
- Check the float and float needle, replacing the gasket if needed.
- Reassemble the carburetor, reinstall the jets, and adjust the idle mixture screw to the proper setting (1.5 turns out).
- Ensure the float is properly reinstalled and ascertain that it moves unimpeded.
- Reinstall the air box and filter, reconnecting the throttle spring and choke lever.
- Turn the gas back on before starting the engine.
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Important Considerations |
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Avoid bending the carburetor mounting as it is connected to the engine mount. |
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Call the technical support team if you encounter any issues or need replacement parts. |
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Carburetor cleaning should be done every 100 hours or if you experience issues like clogging from bad gas. |
| Consult the generator’s manual
for specific instructions and safety precautions. |
| Use the necessary tools and expertise
for the task. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to consult a professional. |
| Consider using fuel stabilizers
and carburetor cleaning products regularly to prevent future issues. |
5. Draining the Carburetor
Draining the carburetor is essential in resolving the issue of a Sumec generator cranking but not starting. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Turn Off the Fuel Supply
- Locate the fuel valve on your Sumec generator and turn it to the “Off” position.
- This will prevent additional fuel from entering the carburetor during draining.
2. Remove the Carburetor Drain Bolt
- Locate the carburetor drain bolt, typically found at the bottom of the carburetor bowl.
- Using the appropriate socket or wrench, carefully remove the drain bolt.
3. Allow the Carburetor to Drain
- Once the drain bolt is removed, accumulated moisture, stale fuel, or debris will drain out of the carburetor.
- Allow the carburetor to drain entirely before proceeding to the next step.
4. Inspect and Clean the Drain Bolt
- After the carburetor drains, inspect the drain bolt for any debris or residue.
- Clean the drain bolt thoroughly using a carburetor cleaner or compressed air.
5. Reinstall the Drain Bolt
- Once the drain bolt is clean, reinstall it securely into the carburetor bowl.
- Tighten the bolt to the recommended torque specifications to prevent leaks.
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Important Considerations |
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– Ensure you have a suitable container to catch the drained fuel and dispose of it properly. |
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– If the drained fuel appears contaminated or discolored, consider replacing the fuel filter as well. |
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– Consult your Sumec generator’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. |
By draining the carburetor, you can remove any accumulated moisture, stale fuel, or debris that may be causing the Sumec generator to crank but not start.
This process should be performed regularly as part of routine maintenance or when the generator has been idle for an extended period.
Conclusion
Resolving a Sumec generator’s cranking but not starting issue necessitates a systematic approach to underlying the cause and addressing it.
By adhering to the instructions provided in this simple guide, you can troubleshoot and rectify common problems such as low oil levels, faulty low oil shut-off sensors, clogged carburetors, and fuel system issues.
Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes, carburetor cleanings, and fuel system checks, can prevent many of these problems from occurring in the first place.
While some of the solutions presented require technical know-how, taking the time to understand and properly maintain your Sumec generator can save you from frustrating downtime and ensure a reliable power source when needed.
If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step, consult a professional or contact Sumec’s technical support team for assistance.
FAQs
What are the common reasons my generator cranks but fails to start?
The generator may only crank without starting due to several issues. These can include corrosion, a flattened or broken connection in the battery, or dilution of lead-acid batteries by water. Additionally, any faults or wear in the starter motor, crucial for turning over the engine, can prevent the generator from starting.
What are the top reasons a generator might not start at all?
Several factors can prevent a generator from starting, including:
- A low-fuel tank should be the first thing to check.
- Low oil levels in the engine.
- A dead battery.
- Cables plugged into the generator.
- Incorrect choke control adjustment.
- A clogged air filter.
- A dirty spark plug.
- A clogged carburetor.
How can I successfully start my generator?
To start your generator, follow these steps:
- Turn the fuel valve on.
- Move the choke rod from right to left to turn the choke on.
- Flip the switch to turn the ignition or engine on.
- Pull the recoil cord.
- Once the engine starts, adjust the engine choke to the “run” position.
Why might my Generac generator fail to start?
If your Generac generator doesn’t start, the issue might be with the spark plug, which could be damaged or malfunctioning and may need replacement. Other potential problems include damage to the fuel line, a blocked or damaged carburetor, or compression issues.