Going back many, many years in memory I think the biggest problem may be what is known as a zero flow regulator. This only allows flow if there is a vacuum in the engine manifold. This is to shut off flow if the engine quits for whatever reason. On a single stand-alone engine, a very good idea but on a genset with a control panel that shuts the fuel solenoid electrically it is sort of redundant (and a real PITA). If the unit has a low cranking speed or is worn a bit the start vacuum will be too low to operate this regulator. Look for a control on the fuel line that has a small spring loaded push plunger on it. Holding this in will allow fuel to flow (providing all else is in good order) for starting.
Art.