RedHawk generator won't stay running

I know they are rare, but I have a Red Hawk Equipment electric generator, and it will not start or stay running. There is an on/off switch with an indicator light above the on position. When switched to ON the light does not come on. When you pull start the generator it will not turn over or even come close. HOWEVER, if you spray some starter fluid into the carburetor it will turn over...but promptly shut off. After trying this multiple times I noticed that above the engine running from the front to the back is an arm, and as the engine shuts down the arm moves/pivots from the front to the back of the motor, and when it gets to the end of the motion the engine is fully off. I am thinking it functions similar to a throttle cable in a vehicle. My delima, how do you get to function properly? Is there a battery in the switch that has gone bad, has the switch gone bad?

Thanks!

 

Welcome to the forums.

That arm you are looking at is the carburetor linkage. It connects the carb to the governor. Be careful and don't mess with it. That linkage is what keeps the engine running at the correct speed. The carburetor rests at wide open throttle and as the engine starts or speeds up..... that linkage closes the throttle.

You have a clogged carburetor issue from old gas. It will probably need to be taken apart and cleaned.

 

Reading between the lines of your post it sounds like the engine does turn over. It just does not run but it will fire or sputter when on starting fluid which indicates it's probably a fuel problem. I would start with disassembling the carburetor and give it a thorough cleaning and drain the fuel tank and add good, fresh fuel.

 

Thanks for the great and quick replies. Not going to lie, not that great with small engines. Kind of makes me nervous to take something apart. Hopefully I can get by with a carburetor cleaner.

 

I wouldn't bother with spray carb cleaner. I'm betting the generator sat for a long time without being run and fuel was left in it. If you're not comfortable with it look for a small engine shop and take it to them.

 

I would also check the fuel line for damage.