Make the machine safe first
Disconnect all appliances before fault checks. Stop immediately for fuel leaks, exposed wiring, electric shock, fire, severe smoke, overheating or internal knocking.
External checks only
Do not open the alternator, control panel, AVR, injection pump or engine. Internal electrical, fuel-system and engine work requires a qualified person.
Symptom-based first checks
| Symptom | Safe first checks | Stop and request service when |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | Check fuel level and fuel control, correct oil level, run/stop switch, battery connection or recoil operation. Remove all loads. | Fuel leaks, damaged wiring, no compression, repeated failed starting or abnormal mechanical noise. |
| Starts then stops | Check the oil-alert condition, fuel supply, blocked air intake and whether the load was connected too early. | The fault repeats after correct oil and fuel checks, or smoke and noise increase. |
| No power output | Disconnect loads, check the output breaker, inspect plugs and cables, and record meter readings or warning lights. | The breaker will not reset, voltage is unstable, sockets are damaged or the fault remains with no load. |
| Breaker trips or overload | Remove every appliance, then reconnect one at a time. Record which load causes the trip and check its starting demand. | The breaker trips with no load, smells hot, is damaged, or cannot stay reset. |
| Heavy smoke or low power | Remove the load and stop. After cooling, check for a blocked air intake, dirty external air filter or incorrect load size. | Smoke continues without load, fuel leaks, engine knocks, oil consumption rises or power remains low. |
| Overheating or vibration | Stop, let the set cool and inspect only for blocked ventilation, loose external fasteners or an unstable mounting surface. | There is severe vibration, metal noise, damaged mounts, hot wiring, burning smell or repeated overheating. |
Send details that speed up diagnosis
Machine identity
Generator model, engine model, serial number and clear nameplate photos.
Fault evidence
What happened, when it started, connected loads, warning lights, smoke colour, sound and a safe short video.
Service history
Operating hours, last oil and filter service, recent repairs and parts already changed.
Your location
Town, province and whether the machine can be transported for inspection.