Onan backfire?

Question

Onan 2800 is hard to start.  It was serviced about 10 hours ago and runs well once it has started.  I exercise it once a month, but it is hard to get going.  Once it has been started, it is easy to start again.  It requires too much cranking and every once in a while it will backfire.  Previous owner told me to hold down the start switch in the off position for 30 seconds to prime it, but this doesn’t seem to help and the owners manual doesn’t say anything about priming.  Unit is installed in a ‘97 Pleasureway.  Why is this thing so hard to start??

time2roll · Answer

Backfire through the exhaust is usually too rich. Use less choke.
Backfire through the carburetor is usually too lean. More choke.

I suspect the carburetor or fuel system in general needs work. I am not an Onan expert.

lynnmor · Answer

Clean out and adjust the carburetor.

chum_lee · Answer

Take some canned starting fluid (ether) and spray it into the carb when cold just prior to cranking/starting. If it starts/fires easily and then runs fine, your choke needs adjustment. If not post back.

Chum lee

ernie1 · Answer

When I used to put Stabil into my gas tank and run the generator a while to circulate it, it would almost always backfire when attempting to start it again at a later date. After the initial start which would take awhile, the generator would run ok. I don't use Stabil anymore besides my new rv has a propane generator.

time2roll · Answer

An onan technician will need the exact model and serial number or some will not even reply.

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Onan backfire?

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