Tuning up the engine on your Kawasaki generator
- Gather the supplies that you'll need such as oil, drain pan, air filter, spark plug, tools and personal protective equipment.
- Position the generator on a level surface in a well-ventilated area.
- Position the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug then remove the oil drain plug to drain the engine's oil. Reinstall the oil drain plug after the oil drains and wipe up any spilled oil. Dispose of the used oil properly. Refill the engine with fresh oil.
- Replace the air filter and spark plug.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes then recheck oil level and add oil if needed.
How to troubleshoot your Kawasaki generator when the engine won't start
When you can’t start your generator's engine, make sure the tank has fuel and that the fuel is fresh; stale fuel can become watery and won’t ignite well. Tune up the engine to give it the best chance of starting. Check the spark plug and replace it if it’s covered with oil or other deposits.
If your generator uses a battery, charge or replace the battery if it won’t power the starter to spin the engine. If you have to pull the starter rope to start the engine, replace the recoil starter if it doesn’t spin the engine when you pull the rope. Replace the starter rope if it’s broken.
Some generator engines have a low oil level switch that prevents the engine from starting and running if the engine's oil is low. Check engine oil level and add oil if needed.
Test the ignition system using a spark plug tester. Replace the safety switch or the ignition coil if the spark plug isn’t getting current through the ignition system.
Carburetor problems often prevent your generator's engine from starting. Replace or rebuild the carburetor if it’s clogged.
Check your owner's manual for additional troubleshooting tips to help you get the engine started.