Reset the circuit breaker if the starter motor will not operate. Reduce the electrical load and wait a few minutes before resetting the breaker. Unscrew the fuse holders on the generator's control unit. There are three fuse holders. Replace the top fuse with a 15-amp fuse, the middle with a 4-amp fuse and the lower one with a 4-amp fuse. Reinstall the fuse holders and tighten them securely. Do not install a fuse with a higher rating because this could cause a fire or damage the unit. Make sure the battery connector to the generator is secure.
Clean or replace the spark plug if the starter motor works, but the engine will not start. Lift off the spark plug caps and wipe the area clean around the plug. Use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug. Clean carbon deposits from the plug with a wire brush. Measure the electrode gap on the plug with a gap feeler tool. The gap should be 0.6mm to 0.7mm. Adjust the gap by bending the electrode at the top of the plug. Insert the plug and tighten by hand to avoid cross-threading. Use the socket wrench to tighten further. Replace the spark plug If the electrode is worn, or the insulation is cracked or chipped.
Add oil to the generator if the engine starts, but stops immediately. The engine protection system may have engaged. Remove the oil filler cap and wipe the dipstick clean. Insert the dipstick into the oil filler hole, pull it out and check the fluid level. Fill the oil reservoir to the upper level if necessary.
Clean the air cleaner element if the generator is not performing correctly. Remove the wing nuts and air filter cover. Remove both the foam and paper elements. Clean the foam element in warm soapy water, then rinse and dry it thoroughly. Dip the element in clean engine oil and squeeze out the excess oil. Tap the paper element against a hard surface to remove dust and debris. Do not brush the paper element because this could force dirt into the fibers. Reinstall the cleaner elements and replace the cover and wing nuts.
Fill the tank with fresh gasoline and gasoline conditioner if the generator is stored for longer than two months. Run the generator engine for ten minutes to ensure the carburetor float bowl receives the treated gasoline.
