Generator problems

Starter motor is probably stuck

It could possibly be that the brushes that ride on the commutator are worn down. When they wear down, the brush pressure on the commutator isn't sufficient to provide a good contact, and they just sit and burn instead of creating force to rotate. If you are so inclined, you can check and find out the length of new brushes versus what you have, if not, take it to an electrical starter/generator alternator place.

When did you last run it? Is it possible the engine is seized due to rust in the cylinders? If you hold the power on a stalled electric motor (aka a starter) of course it will smell funny as the insulation burns up.

naturist wrote:
When did you last run it? Is it possible the engine is seized due to rust in the cylinders? If you hold the power on a stalled electric motor (aka a starter) of course it will smell funny as the insulation burns up.

The last time it was used was a few months ago. It's always been tough to start the first time but has always cranked.

Wild Card wrote:
Starter motor is probably stuck

Is there a easy way to get it unstuck?

So I pulled the generator out (what a pain in the a$$) the solonoid is sending power to the starter so I'm thinking it's the starter. I was able to spin the pinion by hand but it doesn't move when I try to start it. What do you guys think?

Eyetattoo wrote:
So I pulled the generator out (what a pain in the a$$) the solonoid is sending power to the starter so I'm thinking it's the starter. I was able to spin the pinion by hand but it doesn't move when I try to start it. What do you guys think?

Assuming the engine turns over by hand/wrench replace the starter

Any chance your batteries aren't fully charged? Try jumper cables from your truck and see if it will turn over.

nayther wrote:

Eyetattoo wrote:
So I pulled the generator out (what a pain in the a$$) the solonoid is sending power to the starter so I'm thinking it's the starter. I was able to spin the pinion by hand but it doesn't move when I try to start it. What do you guys think?

Assuming the engine turns over by hand/wrench replace the starter

I was able to freely spin the starter bendix. I have to work on pulling the starter off to try and turn the motor. Dang bolt are seized so I have to get some PB blaster. I ordered a new starter and solenoid from Amazon so if either is bad I have them on hand.

dedmiston wrote:
Any chance your batteries aren't fully charged? Try jumper cables from your truck and see if it will turn over.

Batteries show 13.7 volts on my solar charger so there should be more than enough to turn it over? It's also plugged into the house as well.