Generator cranking a long time

I follow j-d's procedure as well, although sometimes I have to prime 3 times. Our Remote switch doesn't say Stop/Prime, but I hold it in the stop position for about 5 seconds. I can hear the pump run. If it doesn't start after the 3rd try, I usually run the engine to add a little umpf to the house battery. I have noticed that the generator starts best when the battery has a full charge.

I may hold the start button for as long as 10 seconds, but definitely not 45 seconds. If I am not mistaken, the starter is at the back of the generator. It is a hassle to change, so be nice to the starter.

-Michael