A generator changes one type of energy into another, most commonly mechanical to electrical, and they are used in all sort of machinery and equipment from cars and lawnmowers to sailboats and bicycle lights.
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Generators can also be used as a backup if electricity supplies happen to fail. UK Power Networks explains just how valuable generators can be.
If your generator fails, your equipment will not be able to start. How can you try to get it working again?
What to check
Many of the parts within your generator can simply become dirty or clogged over time. Your spark plugs and carburetor are two such parts. If fuel is left in the carburetor, it can leave behind a sticky residue as the excess fuel evaporates. Your spark plugs might fail because of a little corrosion buildup that can simply be sanded off, but they can also fail entirely. If a spark plug is showing any signs of being cracked or heavily corroded, you can use a spark plug tester to see if it needs to be replaced.
Another common cause of your generator failing to fire up is the starting system itself, including the power switch, starter motor, recoil starter and ignition coil. Before you try to change what you think might be a faulty ignition coil, always check the spark plugs first.
The recoil starter gets the crankshank turning, and if it is faulty, it either won’t turn or won’t do so effectively. The teeth on the cam and pulley should securely latch on to the engine when the starter rope is pulled; if it doesn’t, it’s not engaging correctly.
You should also check your start and safety switches with a multimeter.
If you need replacement parts
Sometimes you will need a new part to get your generator going again, and companies such as https://diyengineparts.com/ provide a range of replacement products including Briggs and Stratton parts, at competitive prices.
Of course, if you really can’t be without your generator, it might be worth considering keeping a few essential spares as a backup. You can also buy a range of kits to test the various parts of your generator. Depending on how reliant you are on your generator, you might want to consider investing in one or two of them.