15
Dec

Honda Generator Troubleshooting: Common Problems & Fixes


Honda generator problems

Is your Honda generator not starting? Are you having Honda EU20i problems? As an Authorised Honda Generator Service and Repair Centre, we’ve fixed it all!

We asked our service experts to list the most common Honda generator problems that they repair here at Kelvin Power Tools. They explain the possible causes for each problem, how you can fix your generator and how to prevent problems from occurring.

Read on to see what they said…

Honda Generator Problems & Causes

Honda generators are extremely robust and designed to withstand tough working conditions. However, like any power equipment, they can still experience issues. These are the most common Honda generator problems we see.

The generator won’t start

Possible causes for a Honda generator not starting are:

  • An engine fault, e.g. it has seized
  • The engine oil level is too low
  • There isn’t enough fuel in the tank, the wrong type of fuel has been used and/or fuel has been left sitting in the tank for a long time without use
  • A problem with the carburettor, e.g. it’s clogged
  • A problem with the battery or the battery needs charged (not all Honda generators have a battery)
  • The fuel valve, choke and/or engine stop switch are turned off
  • A blockage in the air filter
  • The spark plug is fouled, e.g. it’s dirty
  • The generator is being used in the wrong environment, e.g. there isn’t enough air flow or it’s on an unlevel surface

The generator isn’t putting out power

Possible causes for the engine running but the generator not putting out power are:

  • Overloading has caused the alternator to cut out
  • An electrical fault, e.g. damage to the stator, a short circuit or a loose wiring connection
  • A problem with the capacitor

The generator runs for a few seconds then stops

Possible causes for this are:

  • Overloading
  • The engine oil level is too low/high
  • An engine fault
  • An electrical fault
  • A problem with the capacitor
  • A problem with the carburettor
  • A problem with the battery and/or the battery needs charged
  • The choke is turned on
  • A blockage in the air filter
  • The spark plug is fouled
  • The generator is being used in the wrong environment

The generator’s engine/power is fluctuating up and down

This is called hunting or surging. Possible causes for this are:

  • Overloading
  • An engine fault
  • An electrical fault
  • A problem with the carburettor
  • The choke is turned on
  • A blockage in the air filter
  • The spark plug is fouled
  • The generator is being used in the wrong environment

Fuel is leaking from the generator

Possible causes for this are:

  • The gasket and/or seals are worn
  • Wear and tear in the fuel hose
  • A problem with the carburettor

There is smoke coming from the generator

Possible causes for this are:

  • The wrong type of fuel has been used
  • The engine oil level is too high or the wrong type of engine oil has been used
  • There’s an oil leak, e.g. the seals on the oil tank are worn
  • The valve guide seal and/or the cylinder bore are worn
  • The piston rings are broken/worn, e.g. oil is leaking in the piston head
  • A problem with the carburettor
  • Carbon has built up in the exhaust muffler
  • The generator has been tipped on its side, e.g. there’s oil in the housing, filter, muffler, etc.

The generator’s starter mechanism is sticking/seized

Possible causes for this are:

  • The recoil is broken
  • The engine is seized

The wrong type of fuel has been put in the generator

This problem is self-explanatory. It’s an easy mistake to make!

How to Fix Your Honda Generator Problems

You’ll have received a user manual with your generator which contains troubleshooting information. Read through it and see if a solution is provided for your problem. If you can’t find your manual, you can download one here.

The manual will walk you through a checklist for each problem to ensure that you’ve tried everything possible to resolve the issue. For example, if you’re having Honda EU10i problems, the manual will ask you to check that there’s enough fuel in the tank, oil in the engine, the engine switch is on, etc.

If the manual doesn’t resolve your issue, Honda recommends that you get your generator repaired at an Authorised Service Centre.

That’s where we can help.

Kelvin Power Tools: Honda Generator Repair Service

We’re one of only three Authorised Honda Generator Repair Centres in Scotland! We’ve been approved by Honda to service and repair their power equipment as we meet the high standards they set in service and expertise. We’ll service, clean, test and repair your Honda generator, then return it to you working like new again!

Why choose our Approved Service?

  1. It’s Honda authorised! Our fitters have been trained by Honda and our service is conducted as the manufacturer recommends, with only official parts used.
  2. It’s effective! Our expert fitters give the highest standard of service – all of your Honda generator problems will be solved!
  3. It’s fast! Don’t wait weeks for a repair – we offer a quick turnaround of around 1-3 working days from when we receive your generator.
  4. Don’t compromise your warranty! An annual service MUST be conducted by an Authorised Honda Generator Service Centre to keep your 5 year warranty valid (domestic use only).

Note: Due to the nature of the product, this is a local service only. You must be able to bring your generator to our Service Centre in Glasgow.

Visit our website for more information about our Honda Service and to enquire about a generator service or repair!

Honda generator troubleshooting

How to Prevent Honda Generator Problems

Our experts have serviced and fixed thousands of Honda generators over the years, and they warn that most problems are caused by a lack of proper care. This power equipment requires regular maintenance to upkeep its performance and last as long as possible.

As mentioned, an annual service should be conducted by an Authorised Honda Generator Repair Centre to keep your warranty valid. In addition to this, you should conduct the following regular maintenance:

  • Change the engine oil
  • Clean the filter
  • Check and clean the spark plug

Your Honda generator troubleshooting manual provides instructions on how to conduct this maintenance and how often. The video below also demonstrates this and is a great help if you’re unsure about anything!

It’s also crucial that you drain the fuel if your generator’s being stored for an extended period of time. Ideally, you should let the fuel run down after each use to avoid contamination.

Lastly, our experts warn: NEVER tip your generator on its side! Doing so can cause an unbelievable amount of problems.

We Hope Our Honda Generator Troubleshooting Guide Has Helped

We hope you’ve found our Honda generator troubleshooting guide helpful and have been able to successfully diagnose your machine’s problem. If you’re unable to fix your generator with the solutions provided in your user manual, then we’re here to help!


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