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CodyClassB's avatar
CodyClassB
Explorer II
Jun 02, 2014

Prime the generator

Sorry for asking this basic question. While reading the Onan 4K generator manual, I notice a phrase "if you have not used your generator for more than 2 weeks, you may need to prime the generator". What does "prime the generator" mean? I searched the forum and found a couple articles which suggested holding the "stop" button for a few seconds . Is this correct ?

Thanks for taking time to answer this very basic question.

3 Replies

  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jun 02, 2014
    On mine you prime, as the other person said, by pressing the stop button for a long press (Not sure but I think it is 30 seconds or more) till the light in the switch comes on.

    I did this from OUTSIDE on one occasion,, I did not hear the pump start clicking till the light came on.. I'd hold it a few seconds longer, then press start.

    Option 2

    Tap start, wait like 15-45 seconds, press Start to start.
  • othertonka's avatar
    othertonka
    Explorer
    Jun 02, 2014
    Yes that is right, press and hold down the Stop/prime button on the generator itself. You should hear the electric fuel pump clicking and the clicking will start to slow down when it has filled the carb. bowl. Usually takes about 10 to 15 seconds or more. then push and hold the start button until it starts.

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