The Briggs & Stratton 8000-Watt Elite Series portable generator is a very powerful and effective generator that can run devices or appliances when needed. However, this machine is not without the possibility that problems can occur during operation, including:
Error – The Engine Runs, But Without AC Output
Cause:
The AC may not be available while the engine is running if one of the circuit breakers is open, there is a poor connection to a load, or there is a general fault in the generator. There may also be a problem with a connected device.
Solution:
Remove any devices and check to see if they are working properly. Reset the circuit breaker on the unit. If these fail, contact a local authorized servicing facility.
Error – Engine Runs Poorly Under Load
Cause:
The engine may run well when not connected to load(s), but “bogs down” under load. This can occur if the engine speed is too slow, there is a short circuit in the generator, or there are too many loads connected.
Solution:
Remove excess loads and do not overload the generator. Review “Don’t Overload Generator” in the Operation section of the user manual. If there is a shorted electrical load, disconnect it and replace it with a properly functioning device. If the problem persists, contact an authorized service facility.
Error – Engine Runs Rough
Cause:
The engine can run rough if the fuel valve is in the “Off” position, the battery level is low or has failed, the air filter is dirty, the oil level is too low, the spark plug has a faulty connection or has failed, there is water in the fuel, the unit is flooded, the fuel mixture is excessively rich, the intake valve is closed or stuck open, or the engine has lost compression.
Solution:
Make sure the fuel valve is fully set to the “Open” position and the battery is functioning properly. Check the air filter and clean or replace it if needed. If the spark plug is disconnected, reconnect it. If the fuel is low, fill the tank. If the fuel is old or stale, drain the fuel tank and carburetor and refill it with new fuel. If the generator is flooded, fill the crankcase to the proper level and position the generator on a level surface. Wait 5 minutes before re-cranking the engine again. If the problem continues, contact an authorized service facility.
Error – The Engine Shuts Down Randomly
Cause:
The engine can shut down while the unit is operating if the load is too high, the fuel level or oil level drops too low, or the air filter becomes blocked. This can also occur when the generator becomes overloaded.
Solution:
Make sure the oil level and fuel level are high enough. Disconnect excess loads to see if this helps. Clean or replace the air filter if needed. Review “Don’t Overload Generator” in the Operation section of the user manual.
Error – Engine “Hunts” While Running
Cause:
The engine can falter or “hunt” while running due to the carburetor running too rich or too lean.
Solution:
To repair the carburetor, contact an authorized service facility.
The listed solutions should help fix these problems. However, if they continue or new ones arise, contact the Briggs & Stratton Customer Service Center.
