Briggs & Stratton 3500 Watt Portable Generator Error Codes & Fixes

The Briggs & Stratton 3500 Watt portable generator can provide plenty of power to supply your devices enough to run during outings. However, this machine is susceptible to certain issues that may need to be resolved, including:

Error – No AC Output While Engine is Running

Cause:

The AC output can stop working if the generator is broken in some way. A circuit breaker could be open, or a cord may have a poor connection. Also, the connected device could be malfunctioning.

Solution:

Check the connected device for any malfunctions and use a different one that is in good shape. Reset the circuit breaker and make sure the cord connection is secure. If the issue continues, contact Briggs & Stratton Customer Support.

Error – Engine Struggles When Connected to Loads

Cause:

This can happen if too many loads are connected to the unit causing the engine to be sluggish or “bog down” while running. It can also happen if a short circuit occurs either in the unit or a connected device.

Solution:

Disconnect the extra loads and limit connection to one device to see if this improves the situation. Make sure no connected devices or ports are suffering a short circuit. If the problem continues, contact an authorized servicing facility.

Error – Engine Does Not Start

Cause:

This can happen if the fuel valve is in the “Off” position or the rocker switch is set to “Off”. The air cleaner may also be dirty or the unit is out of fuel. The fuel may also be old, or the spark plug wire is disconnected. The spark plug may be bad, or the fuel could have water in it or have flooded the unit. The fuel mixture may be too rich, or the intake valve is stuck open. At some point, the engine may have lost compression.

Solution:

Set the rocker switch to the “On” position and make sure the fuel valve is at the “Open” position. Fill the fuel tank to full if it is low. If the fuel is old, drain the fuel tank and refill it with new fuel. Check the spark plug and make sure it is connected to the wire, or consider replacing it altogether. Wait for 5 minutes and re-crank the engine. If these do not work, contact an authorized dealer.

Error – Engine Stops Running

Cause:

The engine could stop running due to the unit running out of fuel.

Solution:

Check the fuel tank and refill it if needed.

Error – Engine Lacks Power

Cause:

The engine may run at low power due to the connected load being too high or the air filter may be dirty.

Solution:

Disconnect extra loads from the unit and do not overload it. Check the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary.

Error – The Engine “Hunts” While Running

Cause:

The engine will “hunt” when the engine RPMs fluctuate. This often occurs when the carburetor is running too lean or too rich.

Solution:

This may be too difficult to solve on one’s own. Contact an authorized service facility for assistance.

Error – The Engine Does Not Run Smoothly

Cause:

This can be due to a number of different reasons. First, the fuel valve may be in the “Off” position, or the rocker switch is set to “Off”. Also, the air cleaner may be dirty or there may be water in the fuel. The unit may also be flooded with excess fuel or the fuel mixture is too rich. The engine may have lost compression and need to be restarted.

Solution:

Turn the fuel valve to the “Open” position and set the unit switch to “On”. Check the air filter for excess dust and debris and clean or replace it as needed. If the fuel tank is low, then refill it. If this does not work, then empty the fuel tank and drain the carburetor and replace it with new fuel. Check the spark plug and make sure it is connected to the wire. If it is, consider replacing the spark plug. Allow the unit to sit for 5 minutes before restarting the engine. If these solutions do not work, call a local servicing center for assistance.

These solutions should fix the problems listed above. However, if they continue or new ones arise, contact a Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer.

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Nick Klamecki, Author
About Nick Klamecki, Author

Nick Klamecki is a certified Fire and Workplace Safety expert with 15 years experience in product research and testing. He has a degree from U.C. Davis, is an active outdoorsman and spent years ensuring the safety of special needs children. Nick researches and tests workplace, industrial and safety products and provides advice on their safe use. Learn more about Nick here or connect with him on LinkedIn | Medium