Troubleshooting the engine on your DEK generator when the engine runs rough
If your generator engine cuts out, smokes, idles poorly, vibrates or runs erratically, it could need a good tune-up to replace the spark plug, oil and air filter. Or the problem could be with the generator engine's fuel system. Rebuild or replace the carburetor if the engine isn't getting a good supply of fuel.
If the engine misfires, backfires, sputters or jerks the starter rope out of your hand when you try to start it, the flywheel key could be broken. A broken flywheel key disrupts the ignition timing because the magnets aren't passing the ignition coil in synchronization with piston movement. Replace the flywheel key if it's damaged or broken.
Frequently replaced parts in DEK generators
- Carburetor. The engine carburetor is the component that mixes the air and fuel to create a combustible mixture that enters the engine cylinder and gets ignited by the spark plug to drive the piston.
- Air filter. The air filter prevents abrasive particles from entering the engine's cylinders, which could cause mechanical wear and oil contamination.
- Battery. On electric start engines, the battery provides the 12 volts needed to power the starter.
- Spark plug. The spark plug is the engine device responsible for delivering electric current from the ignition system to the combustion chamber of the cylinder. This current ignites the compressed fuel/air mixture by means of an electric spark, while containing combustion pressure within the engine.