Firman Generator Won't Start - Troubleshooting and Ways to Prevent the Issue

Firman generators rank among the most trusted and popular brands in the generator segment today. In this article, we will discuss why the Firman generator may fail to start with an emphasis on how to go about resolving the problem. Further, we will highlight simple troubleshooting procedures to identify these problems.

A generator is an essential tool in our homes and businesses today. They can be used as the main source of power, or, in most cases, as a backup in the event of unforeseen mains power failures. However, the generator, like any other machinery is prone to failure due to a host of reasons. One of the most common problems is the failure to start.

What can cause the generator not to start?

Firman generators are designed to be started electrically through a push button or manually using a pull cord. However, the manual start is usually cumbersome, unreliable, and requires extra muscle energy. This article will dwell mainly on the electric start. The Firman generator may fail to start due to one or a combination of the following issues:

1) Faulty or Dead battery

Battery failure or faulty battery connections are a major reason why the Firman generator won't start. Just like in a car, the battery provides the initial power to start the generator. If the battery is faulty, dead, or has loose/faulty electric wire connections, your generator will not start. 

Use a voltmeter to check whether your battery has the required power. Remove the battery from the generator and connect the voltmeter to the terminals. If the voltmeter reading is below 12 volts, then it is dead. Try re-charging it, or buy a new one altogether. Additionally, check the terminal connections from the battery to the generator to ensure they are functional before trying to start the generator again. Battery failure is usually caused by a build-up of lead sulfate on the battery plates over time. When this happens, the battery has to be replaced.

2) Faulty Starter Motor

The starter motor turns the generator engine to start it when you switch it on. If the motor is faulty, the generator will not start. If the generator starts manually by using the pull cord, then the starter motor could be the problem. If indeed the starter motor is the problem, it requires repair or replacement. This is a complicated process and requires a certified expert to repair or replace your motor. Unless you are an expert in the field, do not attempt a DIY on this part.

3) Faulty Solenoid and Starter switch

Related to the starter motor, a faulty starter solenoid, and a faulty starter switch could as well prevent the generator from starting. The solenoids act as a relay to the starter motor. A faulty solenoid is pretty easy to repair if one has the right equipment and basic mechanical knowledge. Likewise, you can follow the user manual, or call in an expert to repair or replace it for you.

As you await repair, you can easily bypass the solenoids by connecting the starter motor directly to the battery. Turn off the generator and close the fuel valve. Connect the motor to the battery by use of jumpers, ensuring that you connect the negative and positive terminals correctly. This should start your generator directly. 

Additionally, if the ignition switch is faulty, the generator will not start. If you can start the generator manually with the pull cord, then, the switch is most likely faulty and should be repaired or replaced. Again, this is a fairly simple DIY activity.

4) Dirty/Clogged Spark Plug

A dirty spark plug will prevent the generator from starting, even if you do it manually. The spark plug becomes useless when there is a build-up of carbon at the plug point which compromises the fuel ignition process in the combustion chamber. To rectify the problem, remove the spark plug and clean it with a wire brush. However, if you realize that the plug is covered with un-removable debris/soot, or has signs of cracking or broken electrodes, then replace the plug with a new one. 

In the event that you discover the plug's electrode gap has reduced or enlarged, use the generator's manual to adjust the gap accordingly. Once done with both the cleaning and gap adjustment, hold the plug against the generator crankcase and pull the recoil starter to test it. If the plug fires an array of blue sparks, it is now ready. Re-install it and try to start your generator.

5) System Clogging

There are several areas in the Firman generator where clogging is likely to occur over time. Any form of clogging will prevent the generator from starting electrically (or manually).

Clogged Fuel SystemWhen the fuel system becomes clogged, gasoline will not be efficiently delivered for combustion and hence the generator will not start. To resolve the problem, the entire fuel system from the tank, fuel filter, and delivery pipes must be cleaned thoroughly. This will require some mechanical/technical know-how since some parts will have to be removed for cleaning before fixing them back. New clean fuel must be used after the unclogging exercise. 

6) Clogged Air Filter

A clogged air filter prevents the carburetor from getting the required amount of clean air for combustion. The air filter works hand in hand with the choke and if even after adjusting the choke the generator does not start, the air filter is likely dirty. The air filter is easily accessible and should be removed, and if dirty, replace it with a new one. 

7) Clogged Carburetor

Continuous fuel flow into the carburetor may clog the jet nozzles and bowl owing to debris and other dirt that may come along. This prevents the proper flow of fuel into the combustion chamber. To unclog, drain the carburetor, close the fuel valve, and remove the carburetor bowl at the bottom. Use a clean towel or brush to clean out any debris. Further, use a needle or a straight pin to unclog the nozzle jets. Once done, re-fit the bowl and open the fuel valve, and then try starting your generator.

8) Clogged Fuel Valves and Filters

The fuel valves between the tank and the carburetor are also prone to clogging. To check their status, unplug the fuel hose to check whether fuel is flowing freely through the line (ensure you keep a bucket/container handy to put in any fuel flow as you check to avoid wastage). If the fuel flow is not smooth, clean the hose and the valves and replace the filter before attempting to start the generator.

9) Low Fuel/Stale Fuel in Tank

If your generator is petrol-powered, check the fuel level to ensure it is at the recommended minimum. Also, ensure that you do not have stale fuel in your tank. It is recommended not to keep fuel in your Firman generator tank for more than 60 days as this damages the engine. Drain any stale fuel from your tank and carburetor and refill with fresh fuel and then start your generator.

10) Low Oil Level/Damaged Oil Sensor

Engine oil is essential for the normal functioning of the Firman generator. Low oil levels may prevent the generator from starting. Although most generators have an oil sensor, it may get damaged and thus, you will not be able to know when the oil level goes beyond the recommended minimum. 

Use the oil dipstick to check the oil level and refill if necessary. You could as well drain the oil and refill it with new oil.

Note that the oil sensor may fail to read the oil levels if it has malfunctioned, or, if you have placed your generator on an uneven surface. To check if it is faulty, place the generator on an even/level surface and remove the sensor. 

If the generator starts without it, then the sensor is faulty. Switch the generator off and plug in the sensor and start the generator. This action should reboot the sensor, but if it prevents the generator from starting, replace it forthwith.

11) Plugged-in Cables

Sometimes, outlet cables and appliances plugged into the generator may prevent it from starting. Unplug all connections and then try starting it up. If it still fails to start, then you can start troubleshooting other possible causes of the failure. 

12) Choke Control

The choke controls the amount of air available for mixing with fuel in the carburetor to initiate combustion. The choke should be closed completely to cut off the air the engine is cold. On the other hand, a warm engine requires a half-closed choke. Check the choke lever before you attempt to start the engine depending on the engine condition.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, it is recommended that you always keep your Firman generator under routine maintenance and repair to ensure it is in good working condition. Always remember to unplug all appliances and switch off the generator before attempting any troubleshooting when the generator fails to start.