Briggs & Stratton 6250 Generator Error Codes & Fixes

The Briggs & Stratton 6250-watt portable generator is a large and powerful mobile generator made to run nearly any device or appliance it can connect to. However, this machine is not without its occasional errors that need attention, including:

Error – The AC Output Fails While the Engine is Running

Cause:

The AC output could stop working due to an open circuit breaker, a more serious problem with the generator, a bad device connection, or a failure in the connected device.

Solution:

Reset one of the generator’s circuit breakers and check the device connections. If the device connections are loose, reconnect them more firmly. Check the connected device for any faults and use another that works properly if required. Check the device extension cable for any cracks or frays and replace it if needed. Contact a service facility if the problem continues.

Error – The Engine Runs Poorly Under Load

Cause:

The engine can “bog down” under load for several reasons. There could be a short circuit in a connected load or the generator has its own short circuit occurring. The air filter could also be clogged.

Solution:

Check the unit for any short circuits and repair them if possible. Also, inspect the connected device for any short circuits and use another device that works properly if needed. Check the air filter for any clogs and clean or replace it if required. If the problem continues, contact an authorized service facility.

Error – The Engine Fails to Start

Cause:

The engine can fail to start for a variety of reasons. If the fuel valve is set to the “Off” position, or the unit is low or out of fuel, if the fuel is old or stale, if the air filter is clogged, if the spark plug is faulty, if the spark plug cable is detached, if there is water in the fuel, if the oil level of the machine is low, if the machine is flooded, if the intake valve is stuck open, if the engine has lost compression and needs to be restarted, if the fuel mixture is too rich.

Solution:

Turn the fuel valve to the “On” or “I” position and refill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. If the fuel is stale, drain the tank and carburetor entirely and refill. Check the spark plug for any damage and make sure the cord is connected securely. If the spark plug is faulty, replace it. Clean the air filter or replace it if needed. If the generator is flooded, move it to a level surface and allow it to sit for at least 5 minutes before re-cranking it. If the problem continues, contact an authorized service facility.

    Error – Engine Shuts Down While Running

    Cause:

    The engine can shut down if the oil level is low, the fuel runs out, the fuel is stale, the fuel valve is switched to the “Off” or “0” position, the spark plug wire becomes disconnected, or the engine loses compression. The air filter may also be too dirty to continue functioning properly.

      Solution:

      Make sure the fuel valve is in the “On” or “I” position and the fuel level is high enough. If the fuel is old, drain the tank and carburetor and refill with fresh fuel. Check the spark plug for any damage and make sure the cable is firmly connected. Clean or replace the air filter if needed. Set the engine rocker switch to the “On” position. If the machine is flooded, move it to a level surface and wait for 5 minutes before restarting the engine. If the problem persists, contact an authorized service facility.

        Error – The Engine is Low on Power

        Cause:

        This can be caused by a dirty air filter, a high load connection, or a dirty fuel filter.

        Solution:

        Remove any excess loads. Clean or replace the air or fuel filter if needed. Do not connect too many devices or use devices that exceed the output of the unit.

        Error – The Engine “Hunts”

        Cause:

        The engine may “hunt” if the carburetor is running too lean or too rich. The fuel filter may also be dirty or clogged.

        Solution:

        Check the fuel filter for any blockages and replace it if needed. Contact an authorized service facility for assistance with the carburetor.

        If any additional problems occur, please contact the Briggs & Stratton Customer Service Center.

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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