Portable Generator

What are the main parts & components of a portable generator that may cause a generator malfunction or fail ?

What are the main parts & components of a portable generator that may cause a generator malfunction or fail ?

A generator is a mechanical device. It will eventually fail or have problems. The major problem I’ve seen with portable generators relates to improper maintenance. The biggest problem is the carburetor becoming fouled with stale gasoline. Always use Stabyl or similar fuel stabilizer in the gasoline. Change the oil every 50 hours running time or once per year, whichever comes first. Old oil can become slightly acidic and actually create corrosion inside the engine.

For the most part the alternator side is maintenance free. If it uses brushes they should be changed when worn out, likely after several hundred hours running time. Run the generator under load once per month to ensure the residual magnetism remains adequate for startup. Otherwise you may have to flash the field to restore AC output.

Otherwise store it properly. Keep it dry and clean.

Read through my home generator page for other ideas.

How to Safely Operate a Portable Generator

TROY-BILT 120V 12V PORTABLE 900 WATT ULTRA QUIET GENERATOR MODEL 01923 $299.99

NEW 1200 Watt 2 Cycle Portable Generator camping RV $126.95

DuroMax 10000 Watt Portable Gas Electric Start Generator RV Home Standby Camping $949.99

DuroMax Elite 4500 Watt Electric Start Portable Gas Powered RV Camping Generator $449.99

CONTRACTOR LINE PROFESSIONAL PORTABLE GENERATOR $227.50

DuroMax Elite 4500 Watt Recoil Start Portable Gas Powered RV Camping Generator $399.99

DuroMax 1500 Watt Portable Pull Start Gas Power Job Site Electric Generator $199.99

DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered 4000 Watt Portable Generator – RV Camping Standby $299.99

DuroMax 1500 Watt Portable Pull Start Gas Power Job Site Electric Generator $199.99

Generac 6500 Watt Portable Generator $238.50

DuroMax 4500 Watt Portable Gas Power Generator – MX4500 $399.00

3,500 Watt Generator Watt 3500 Portable 3.5KW Generator Gasoline Electric Start $369.99

All Power America APG3014 2,000 Watt 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Generator NEW $234.99

DuroMax 4400 Watt Quiet Portable Electric Start RV Gas Powered Camping Generator $399.99

Extreme Max EXT3000P 2800 Watt RV Portable Generator Parallel Ready Elec Start $850.00

NEW PORTABLE 6500 W 6.5 KW SILENT DIESEL GENERATOR FREE SHIP $1,498.00

Ridgid Portable Generator $720.00

Generac Model 5941-0 GP6500E Portable Generator (49 State) $869.00

Generac Model 5931 XP8000E Portable Electric Generator (Canada) $1,949.00

DuroMax 4400 Watt Quiet Portable Recoil Start RV Gas Powered Camping Generator $349.99

All Power 2,000 Watt Gas Powered Portable Generator NEW $239.99

DuroMax Portable Generator Weather Resistant Cover $24.00

ARCTIC CAT AC2500GD2E PORTABLE GENERATOR $499.00

Briggs & Stratton portable generator model 030469 6000 watts $499.99

DAYTON Portable Generator, 5000 Rated Watts, HONDA Engine Model 2ZRP8 $1,100.00

Champion 9375 Watt Portable Gas Generator Electric Start 41537 $768.00

Champion 9375 Watt Portable Generator Wireless Remote Electric Start 41535 CARB $750.00

3500 WATT Portable Gas Generator with slide handle, wheels & electric start $739.99

3500 WATT Portable Gas Generator with slide handle, wheels & electric start $739.99

3500 WATT Portable Gas Generator with slide handle, wheels & electric start $739.99

DuroStar 4400 Watt Quiet Portable Recoil Start Gas Powered Generator -RV Camping $349.00

Portable, Generator!!! Solar Powered !!! $449.99

DuroMax 4400 Watt Portable Electric Gas Power RV Generator – XP4400E With Cover $409.00

BE PowerEase BE-3100PR 3100 WATTS PORTABLE GENERATOR $399.00

Hyundai 3500W 6.5 HP Portable Generator – HHD3500 $598.00

BE PowerEase BE-6500ER 6500 WATTS PORTABLE GENERATOR $699.00

Pentagon Tools Emergency RV Portable 8500 Watt Peak Quiet Gas Generator $673.90

Pentagon Tools Emergency RV Portable 6500 Watt Peak Quiet Gas Generator $613.90

NEW 800 Rated Watts/ 900 Max Watts Portable Generator $229.29

BE PowerEase BE-9000BR 9000 WATTS PORTABLE GENERATOR $799.00

Generac GP5000 GP Series 5000 Watt Portable Generator 5622R $569.99

DuroMax 4400 Watt Portable Gas Power Generator Recoil Start – XP4400 With Cover $359.00

Duromax Portable Gas Powered Electric Start Generator $399.00

DuroMax 4400 Watt Portable Gas Power Generator Recoil Start – XP4400 With Cover $359.99

DuroMax 4000 Watt Gas Powered RV Camping Portable Generator RV Camping – XP4000S $299.00

DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator Wheel & Handle Kit – DS4000S-WK $39.00

HARBOR FREIGHT $90 OFF Coupon 800 RATED WATTS 900 MAX PORTABLE GENERATOR $1.99

DuroMax 8500 Watt Portable Gas Powered Camping RV Generator – XP8500E With Cover $759.00

DuroMax 4400 Watt Portable Gas Power Generator – XP4400 $349.00

DuroMax 10000W Portable Gas Power Generator Electric Start – XP10000E With Cover $959.00

DuroMax 10000W Portable Gas Power Camping RV Generator – XP10000E $949.00

8500 Watt Gas Portable Generator w/ Electric Start Remote Control & Wheel Kit $799.00

Champion 6800 Watt Portable Gas-Powered Generator Emergency Power 41135 $600.00

Champion 6500 Rated Watts 8250 Starting Watts Portable Generator Electric Start $1,104.95

All Power America 2000 Watt 4 Stroke Gas Powered Portable Generator Electric NEW $239.95

Champion Power Equipment 4000 Watt 4 Stroke Gas Powered Portable Generator Camp $379.95

ETQ Generator TG3000 quiet gas generator – portable generator $100.00

PORTABLE GASOLINE ELECTRIC POWER GENERATOR 1200W $139.99

DuroMax Portable Generator Weather Resistant Cover $24.00

GENERAC 5939 GP 5500 PORTABLE GAS GENERATOR 389CC NEW! $659.99

Portable 2000 W Watt EPA Generator Gas power 4 Stroke Gasoline Camping RV $299.99

1000/1250 watt Portable Gas Generator by FUELN $161.90

2000W WATTS GAS PORTABLE GENERATOR QUIET RV CAMPING NEW 1800 WATT $299.99

1500 watt PORTABLE GAS POWERED ELECTRIC GENERATOR $179.99

DG3E BALDOR PORTABLE GENERATOR 3300 WATTS HATZ DIESEL $2,495.00

DG6E BALDOR PORTABLE GENERATOR 6000 WATTS HATZ DIESEL $3,395.00

Honda eu2000i Portable Generator – New in Box $835.00

New Sporstman 1100 Watt Portable Electric Generator – Gasoline $357.99

New Sporstman 2000 Watt Portable Electric Generator – Gasoline $264.99

New Sporstman 1850W Portable Electric Generator – Gasoline $369.99

New Sporstman 2000 Watt Portable Electric Generator – LP $308.99

New Sporstman 4000 Watt Portable Electric Generator – LP $464.99

New Sporstman 4000 Watt Portable Electric Generator – Gasoline $401.99

BLUE MAX 4000 Watt Portable Generator 6791 $391.99

Honeywell 7500W Portable Generator $1,297.77

Honeywell 5500W Portable Generator $967.77

Champion 6,500 Rated Watts / 8,250 Starting Watts Portable Generator with Electr $1,197.77

All Power APG3014 2000 Watt Portable Gasoline Powered Generator – RV Home $219.99

DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered 4000 Watt Portable Generator – RV Camping Standby $299.00

Generac 5500 Watt Portable Generator Gasoline Powered GP5500 $475.00

PORTABLE GENERATOR Tri Fuel – 6,000 Watt – 120/240V – 11 Hp Honda – Elect Start $2,167.00

DuroMax Elite 4500 Watt Electric Start Portable Gas Powered RV Camping Generator $449.99

DuroMax Elite 4500 Watt Recoil Start Portable Gas Powered RV Camping Generator $399.99

DuroMax 1500 Watt Portable Pull Start Gas Power Job Site Electric Generator $199.99

DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered 4000 Watt Portable Generator – RV Camping Standby $299.99

New MTN Gearsmith 10000W Portable Gas Power Camping RV Generator 13HP 10000 Watt $949.00

DuroMax 1500 Watt Portable Pull Start Gas Power Job Site Electric Generator $199.99

NEW All Power 2000 Watt Gas Powered Portable Generator $247.99

Generac iX1400 1.4kW Portable Generator CARB Compliant 5842 NEW $499.00

Generac XP8000E XP Series 8000 Watt Portable Generator CARB Compliant 5712R $1,199.99

Generac GP5500 GP Series 5500 Watt Portable Generator 5939R $588.99

Portable Generator Solar Powered, 1800 Watts peak power , Camping mate $379.99

Honda EU2000i 1600 Watt Portable Inverter Superquiet Generator L@@K SAVE $760.00

2000W WATTS GAS PORTABLE GENERATOR QUIET RV CAMPING NEW $329.99

New 2000 Watt Portable Steele Generator, 3 Hp Engine – Free Shipping $315.00

COUPON Save$90 800 Rated Watts/ 900 Max Watts Portable Generator Harbor Freight $4.99

800 Rated Watts/900 Max. Watts Portable Generator NOW $89.99 Save $90 $0.99

Centurion by Generac Power Systems 3250 Running Watts Portable Generator $107.00

GMC Yukon 6000 Portable Gasoline Generator with Wireless Remote Starter $899.00

GBG International 6500 Watt Portable Generator GBG GS-6500 $730.99

Iwatani Torch Burner Professional #Cb-tc-pro $28.78 Professional cooking torch for all cooking needs. Use only with Iwatani gas cylinder, Bu-5 and BU-6…

NewAir AI100S Portable Ice Maker $169.95 Make fresh ice cubes wherever you go with the easily portable NewAir AI-100S! This compact ice maker doesn’t require permanent installation – and because it doesn’t need a drain, the AI-100S is perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities, including BBQs, family gatherings, and pool parties! The countertop ice maker also comes with a handy ice scoop for your convenience. Makes More IceThe NewAir AI…

Sienna Empressa Digital Steam Press $349.00 SSP-3208 Features: -Steam press.-Non stick and anti shine coating.-Lock for pick up and convenient storage.-Computer controlled system.-Digital LED display.-Accurate temperature selection to suit all fabrics.-Reduces ironing time by up to 70pct.-Features burst of steam.-34” x 12” Ironing surface. Includes: -Includes accessory spray bottle, pressing cushion, and water fill cup. Dimensions: -Over…

No-Spill 1450 5-Gallon Poly Gas Can (CARB Compliant) $22.98 Red No Spill gas cans are tested and certified to meet standards and specifications for portable gasoline containers for consumer use. Professional quality. Patented self venting, self sealing nozzle; just pick up, tip, and press the button to pour. Flows up to 3 gallons per minute. Nozzle stops flow automatically when the tank reaches full. Unique features include quart and liter markings molded …

Sunforce 50022 5-Watt Solar Battery Trickle Charger $49.95 Solar Power Chargers for your 12V batteries and accessories. Power-up anywhere, affordably! These Solar Power devices grab free “juice” from the sun! They extend the life of your 12V batteries, maintain the charge and allow you to run various electronics (deer feeders, landscaping pumps, etc.) from your batteries. Clean, silent operation… with both cigarette lighter adapter and battery clamps. T…

Sierra Tools JB5684 Battery Operated Liquid Transfer Pump $7.99 PUMPS GAS, WATER, OIL, AND OTHER NON CORROSIVE LIQUIDS. USE IN GARAGE, AQUARIUMS, BASEMENT, BATHROOM, SHOPS AND THE YARD. PUMPS 5 TO 6 QUARTS OF LIQUID PER MINUTE!Number of Pieces: 1Material: PlasticWarranty Description: 1 Year Limited Manufacturer WarrantyDimensions: Length: 23.5 “; Width: 1.77 “; Depth: 4.13 “Product Weight: 0.5 Lb….

Conair SU1W Sound Therapy, Silver $15.95 Sound therapy with 10 soothing sounds. Escape your surroundings and relax to the soothing sounds of morning rainfall in the Amazon or rippling Tahitian waves at high tide. In fact, a whole world calming aural atmospheres await with the press of a button. This sound machine will run constantly when turned on. You can also select the 60 minute timer function to turn the unit off after 60 minutes. Th…

Infiniti Pro by Conair Spin Air Rotating Styler …

HoMedics SS-2000 Sound Spa Relaxation Sound Machine with 6 Nature Sounds, Silver $18.99 Filters out background noise : Natural sounds help you relax while you read, work, study or sleep : Six digitally recorded calming sounds – Ocean, Summer Night, Rain, Rain Forest, Waterfall, and Heartbeat : 15, 30 or 60 minute auto-off timer : Compact & lightweight for easy portability : Battery or adaptor operated (adaptor included, 4 AA batteries not included) : Includes instruction manu…

CyberPower CP1000AVRLCD Intelligent LCD 1000VA 600W with AVR Mini Tower UPS $109.99 The CyberPower Systems CP1000AVRLCD UPS, designed for mid to high-end computer systems, features dynamic line conditioning and an Intelligent LCD diagnostic display. Real-time system vitals can be viewed from this display and the unit can be conveniently mounted in a workstation cabinet or directly on the desktop. The CP1000AVRLCD also guards against surges/spikes, and also offers battery backup i…

Champion 4000-watt RV Outlet Portable Generator $356.99 This recreational Champion portable generator provides enough power to run the most essential items in your RV, home or business. This unit also features several safety and convenience features including low-oil shutoff.

Champion 3500-watt Remote Electric Start and RV Outlet Portable Generator $418.15 This recreational Champion portable generator can be operated from the comfort and safety of your RV or home. This generator provides enough power to run the most essential items in your RV, home or business.

All-power 2.0-kilowatt 4-stroke Portable Generator $336.05 Portable generator keeps appliances, tools and automotive equipment running when they’re needed mostElectric generator is a lifesaver in an emergencyGreat for additional juice in the shop, the warehouse or the family house

1200-watt 4-stroke Portable Generator $227.04 1200W portable generator is a powerful toolEngine tool has 2.5HP 4-stroke air-cooled, single cylinder enginePower supply features recoil start

Champion 9200 Watt Wireless Remote Electric Start Portable Generator $1019.99 This heavy duty Champion portable generator provides enough emergency power to run all the essential items in your home or business. Electric Start, too!

Buffalo Tools 4000-watt Portable Generator $323.99 Every auto shop needs a portable generatorShop equipment features 4000 surge watts and 3250 running wattsITEM NOT AVAILABLE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS

DuroMax 4000 Watt 7.0 Hp Portable RV Generator $365.99 This rugged portable generator workhorse is ideal for a wide variety of uses from getting you through a power outage to keeping you and your family supplied with all the necessary conveniences of home while being miles from nowhere.

Buffalo Tools Pro Series 7000-watt Silent Diesel Portable Generator $1430.54 Pro Series offers dependable contractor-grade 7000-watt jobsite generatorShop equipment has 9 HP diesel engineITEM NOT AVAILABLE TO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS

Portable 2000-watt Generator $186.2 Ensure you have plenty of back-up with the Buffalo Tools GEN154 2000 watt portable generatorIdeal for camping or workshopITEM NOT AVAILABLE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS

4000-watt Propane Generator $371.1 Great for getting power when you need it, this 4,000-watt generator features an automatic fuel shut-off safety valve. With a 2.8 HP OHV engine, this generator is also EPA approved.