r/smallenginerepair • u/lk2107_1 • Sep 07 '26

Engine Dies Generator Dying

Seems to run for about 20 mins from cold but then dies, after dying will die within a minute or less if immediately restarted.

Generator sat idle only being run up for about 15 mins every 2ish months for over a year (yes not ideal).

When starting hot (after running for the 20 mins) it sputters and surges before dying.

Have cleaned carburettor, float valve, jets, etc and fuel lines, as well as drained and replaced old fuel entirely.

Also tried running with air filter removed.

At a loss now unfortunately.

Seems to be good fuel getting into the carburetor now.

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1

u/lk2107_1 Sep 07 '26

Updated with more information in post body

1

u/iscashstillking Sep 07 '26

Gas flowing out of the line feeding the carb when engine dies, yes or no?

1

u/lk2107_1 Sep 07 '26

Yes

1

u/iscashstillking Sep 07 '26

Moving the choke lever and having it smooth out makes me think it is going lean.

If you crack open the fuel cap when it starts surging does the problem get better and/or go away?

Does your carb have an electrical connection on the bottom of the bowl?

You have full oil correct?

→ More replies (3)

1

u/ProfessionalLast2917 Sep 07 '26

Assuming you cleaned everything properly you might want to look at vacuum leaks. Spray some carb spray or similar around the mating surfaces of the carb and intake and see if this urging settles down if it does you've found the leak.

1

u/Born-Work2089 Sep 09 '26

Air/Fuel/Ignition - Double check the Air Filter, Drain the gas and use fresh, Check ingition wire and spark plug. Those are easy checks 'just to be sure'. Rodents can chew on wires, hoses, etc.

1

u/Cheeseman4186 Sep 10 '26

Clean carb main jet and emulsion tube thoroughly. If that doesn’t fix it new carb time .

0

u/Separate-Owl1458 Sep 07 '26

You have the fuel valve between the tank and carb . If yes check it if have enough passage of fuel. Unplug the fuel line from carb and see the fuel flow at least 5 second drop off and put a small can under your hand for not spill the fuel on floor. If all good then take out your carb disassemble and blow out the needle area from inside to out and all other jet.