The Briggs & Stratton 5500-watt portable generator can provide enough power to run nearly any device or appliance while outdoors or on a trip. However, like all machines, there are some issues or problems that may require your attention, including:
Error – Unit Provides No AC Output
Cause:
This can be caused by a closed circuit breaker, a defective device cord, or a faulty device. The cord connection may also be loose and need to be reconnected.
Solution:
Make sure the circuit breakers are closed and the device has a firm connection to the unit. If the cord is broken or frayed, consider replacing it. Check the connected device to see if it is malfunctioning in any way and use a different one if needed.
There may be a more serious problem with the generator and require contacting an authorized service facility for further assistance.
Error – Engine Runs Poorly Under Load
Cause:
When loads are connected, the engine seems to “bog down” and not run properly. This can be due to the generator being overloaded from connections drawing excess power, or a short circuit in one of the loads having occurred. There could also be a shorted generator circuit or a much more serious issue.
Solution:
Disconnect excess loads and make sure there are no shorts within them. Also, check the generator for a short at any port outlet. Review the “Don’t Overload Generator” in the Operation section of the user manual for more info. If the engine does not improve performance, contact an authorized servicing facility.
Error – Engine Fails to Start
Cause:
The engine can fail to start for a number of reasons. The fuel valve may be set in the “Off” position or the rocker switch may be set to “Off”. The air cleaner may be dirty limiting the airflow into and out of the engine. The fuel could be the culprit if it is old or stale. The fuel could have water mixed in it or the fuel mixture could be too rich for the machine.
The fuel intake valve may be stuck open or closed causing flooding or lack of fuel. The generator may be low on fuel and need refilling. The spark plug may not be functioning properly due to a basic failure or a poor connection. The engine may have lost compression and need to be restarted.
Solution:
Make sure the generator On/Off switch is set to “On” and the fuel valve is in the “Open” position. Inspect the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. Check the fuel level and refill the fuel tank if it is too low. The fuel may need to be replaced if it is stale, so empty the tank and carburetor and fill it with a fresh mixture. Make sure the fuel mixture is not too rich.
Check the spark plug and cord for any damage and replace either if needed. Wait for 5 minutes before trying to restart the machine again. If this fails, consider contacting an authorized servicing facility for assistance.
Error – The Engine Shuts Down While Running
Cause:
The engine can shut down spontaneously due to a few reasons. The fuel may have run out or the air filter may be too dirty. The “On/Off” switch of the generator may be set to “Off”. The connected loads may be too high causing the engine to falter.
Solution:
Disconnect any extra loads and restart the engine to see if this solves the issue. Check the fuel level and refill if needed. Inspect the air filter and clean or replace it if required. Review the “Don’t Overload Generator” in the Operation section of the user manual for more info.
Error – The Engine “Hunts” During Operation
Cause:
This is called engine “hunting” and happens when the carburetor runs too lean or too rich causing the engine to falter.
Solution:
The carburetor may require specialized servicing. Contact an authorized service center for assistance.
If any of these solutions do not fix the errors that appear, contact the Briggs & Stratton Customer Service Center.
