Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Engine wont fire., piston movement, homelite generator

Question
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Followup To
Question -
Micheal, I have a small gas powered homelite generator. It has spark and gas, Yet when I try to fire it up, it Back fires! I have tried starter fluid with the smae results.
Can you tell me any why it won't run?
Or is there other test I need to conduct?

Thanks
Answer -
Hi Ted,

Is it backfiring from the carb or exhaust?  Is the engine 2 or 4 stroke?  Do a compression test or hold your finger over the spark plug hole and see if you feel compression and vacuum, during piston movement.  Hold your hand over the carb intake and see if you feel vacuum only...With no outward pressure.

Let me know what you find.


Mike, the number on the plate is Model 93412-0316-01-code 960726FA

I think it's a BS engine .

I removed the plug and it seems that there is NO Compression!

Does this indicate that a ring is broke, or What is your thought?

Thanks

Ted

Answer
Hi Ted,

On a 2 stroke, (Which uses oil mixed fuel.)  No compression could be the result of a bad reed valve between the carb and block, a worn crankcase seal or other leak or a port problem.    On a 4 stroke, which I think is what you have, I would check the intake valve for movement.  You will need to look in the valve inspection cover or may be able to see it, from the spark plug hole.

Michael