Generator Problem

[Harryc]

The Onan 4000 in my 1999 Coachmen Solera won't start. It makes a weird starter noise (link) but I don't hear it spin over nor do I feel any compression at the exhaust. Where do I start with this problem? The Genset has 72 hours total and hadn't been used for 2 years. https://photos.app.goo.gl/K2FxBJHgmfzhnWn89

[Harryc]

Replying to my own post, it was a bad battery. Still won't start but now it cranks normally.

[Harryc]

Replying to my own post again; So I spent a few minutes on the Genset today. I disconnected the fuel line at the carb and hit the starter switch...and nothing. No fuel at all coming out of the hose. I am going to order a fuel pump unless anyone has something else I can check?

[dalford]

Hi Harryc, Welcome to the forum. Kind of members we like, those that talk to themselves..lol.

What is the fuel level in your MH. If it is low the gen pickup is set high so as not to empty your fuel tank so MH won’t start.

[Harryc]

Thanks for the reply and the welcome. The fuel level in the main tank is 3/4 or more.

[dalford]

Gas, I assume? Have you checked the fuel shutoff valve. Search YouTube. There are many videos on that genset

[Harryc]

Originally Posted by dalford

Gas, I assume? Have you checked the fuel shutoff valve. Search YouTube. There are many videos on that genset

Thanks, There is no fuel shutoff valve for the Onan 4000. There is a fuel cutoff solenoid, but that is in the carb. I am getting no fuel out of the fuel line when disconnected from the carb and cranking.

[Harryc]

Today I hooked up a siphon fuel source to the carb. I laced the gas with Seafoam (a cleaner). When I went to start the Onan, it never caught and the fuel started pouring out of the intake/air cleaner. I am thinking stuck float. I'll let the Seafoam work a few hours and try again. I might even drop the fuel bowl to see if I can free up the float needle. If not, new carburetor time. I read you can't rebuild these? Anyone disagree with this approach? Thoughts?

[tomkatb]

You are going with my approach.

Extensive experience with SU carbs. The fuel running out is typically a stuck float.

Modern gas is awful about this now a days. Small engine shop nearby recommended premium gas. And running the carb dry before storage.

Typically theses small carbs are not terribly expensive. Removing the float and carefully cleaning the needle valve can help.

I have never touched the Onan carb.

[Harryc]

Replaced the carb and ran the Genset off of a siphon hose. It starts and runs (roughly and slow) but as soon as I let up on the start switch it dies immediately. So, multiple problems going on here. Seems like a choke issue for the rough running, an oil pressure switch and or a AC output issue for the shutting off. Could be a bitten wire. I am finding those as I go thru the motorhome. Rodents were once there. I just fixed a side marker light last night....wires bitten clean thru.

[Georgetown377]

Make sure you have spark. Check spark plug and wire.