Generac GP8000E Generator Error Codes & Fixes

The Generac GP8000E Portable Generator has plenty of power to run your appliances or devices while out and about. However, some issues can appear while you operate it, including:

Error – No AC Output While Engine is Running

Cause:

The AC output will not work if the connected device is defective or the cord is poorly connected or frayed. The circuit breaker may be open or the generator has another unknown problem.

Solution:

Check the devices for any problems functioning and make sure the connections are secure. If the cord is broken or frayed, replace it. Reset the circuit breaker in the unit. If the problem continues, contact an authorized Generac service facility.

Error – Engine Bogs Down Under load

Cause:

The engine can bog down when loads are connected for several reasons. The generator may have a short circuit, a connected device may be short-circuited, or the engine is running at too low of a speed.

Solution:

Inspect each connected device and remove the one with the short circuit. Check the engine power and speed and adjust it if possible. Review the “Don’t Overload the Generator” section of the user’s manual. If the problem persists, contact an authorized Generac Service Facility.

Error – Engine Does Not Start

Cause:

The engine may not start if the air filter is dirty, the fuel is low, the fuel is old or stale, the spark plug is disconnected or faulty, the fuel has water in it, the oil is low, or the choke is in the wrong position. This can also occur if the intake valve is locked in the open or closed position or the engine has lost compression. The fuel mixture may be excessively rich, limiting the engine’s performance, or the fuel shut-off is in the “Off” position.

Solution:

Check the air filter and remove any dust or blockages. Turn the fuel shut-off to “On” and fill the fuel tank and oil levels to full. If the fuel is stale, drain it and refill it with fresh fuel. Make sure the fuel mixture is not too rich. Inspect the spark plug and replace or reconnect it to the cord if needed. Place the choke in the “No Choke” position and place the generator on a smooth flat surface before restarting. If the problem continues, contact an authorized Generac service center.

Error – Engine Shuts Down While Operating

Cause:

The engine will shut down when running if it runs out of fuel or the oil level gets too low. There may also be a fault in the engine.

Solution:

Refill the fuel tank and oil. If the problem persists, contact a Generac service facility.

Error – Engine Lacks Enough Power Output

Cause:

The engine may not provide adequate power if the connected loads are too many, the air filter is dirty, or the engine requires servicing.

Solution:

Disconnect excess loads from the unit and clean or replace the air filter. Review the “Don’t Overload the Generator” section of the user’s manual. If the problem continues, contact a Generac servicing center.

Error – The Engine “Hunts”

Cause:

The engine may “hunt” if the carburetor is running too lean or too rich. This can also be caused by the choke being opened too early.

Solution:

Shift the choke to the halfway position until the engine runs smoother. If this does not work, the carburetor may have a problem and needs to be inspected by an authorized Generac service facility.

Additional problems may arise while running the generator indicating more serious issues. If these occur, contact the Generac Customer Support 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