QuestionI have just taken a Coleman Powermate (pm0525312.02) 5000 watt generator out of the box and installed the wheels, rubber feet, handle, and approximately 1.5 liters of SAE 30w motor oil in the unit. The motor is a tecumseh hm80-100 10 hp motor. I was happy to get the generator as I am anticipating hurricane Gustav in the next 48 hours and generators right now are hot items. I started the unit up and it seemed to work fine, however it surges and backfires pretty bad but continues to run (at least for the 5 or 6 minutes I ran it). Also, I have not put any load on it yet. I would appreciate any advice as soon as you might have it.
Thank You,
Brian.
AnswerBrian
If the Engine operates erratically, surges, and runs unevenly.
Possible causes:
1. Fuel line or fuel tank cap vent is clogged.
2. There is water in the fuel.
3. Fuel pump is defective.
4. Governor is not set properly, sticking, or binding.
5. Carburetor needs adjustment or service.
6. Loose carburetor/intake pipe resulting in vacuum leak
Problem: Engine idles roughly, unevenly, or surges.
Possible causes:
1. Carburetor is dirty.
2. Air leak in carburetor or intake manifold (e.g., bad O-ring, gasket, primer).
3. Carburetor is improperly adjusted or needs service.
Problem: Engine misses under load.
Possible causes:
1. Spark plug is fouled, improperly gapped, or damaged.
2. Breaker points are pitted or improperly gapped, breaker arm is sluggish, or condenser is bad.
3. Carburetor needs adjustment or service.
4. Fuel line, fuel filter, or fuel tank cap vent is clogged, or fuel shutoff valve partially closed.
5. Valves not adjusted properly or valve springs weak.
Problem: Engine backfires.
Possible causes:
1. Carburetor set too lean.
2. Magneto is not timed correctly.
3. Valves are sticking.
Good Luck with the Hurricane
