Portable Generator For Sale

I have a gas generator that stopped running. I only get a spark when the plug is resting on the frame. Help!?

I'm thinking more that this is not a fuel issue. I attached a wire to the frame and when I connect the other end to the outside of the spark plug, I get a strong spark. The fuel is getting to the installed plug just fine. Thanks for all the help.

Public Comments

1. That means that you are getting a good ground but it proves nothing...Maybe the plug wire is bad and only stops shorting out when you bend it to touch the frame...Maybe run a piece of wire from the engine mount bolt to the frame and see if that helps.. Is there a kill switch? Is the wire by the speed or throttle control loose and grounding out? Just some things I would check...
2. Take the unit to a small engine service center and get a full tune up. There are several causes for this to happen and the service people know what they are doing and can give you a reliable unit for the winter storms.
3. That is the only way you will get a spark. You have to ground the plug to get it to spark. It should do the same if you ground it to the engine. The main cause of running/starting issues in small engines is fuel. Could be the fuel filter or the shut off valve is plugged. I would start by making sure that the gas tank is clean and that there is fuel flow to the carburetor. Next I would put a few drops of gas into the sparkplug hole, replace the plug and see if it tries to start. If it does this would lead me to the carburetor. It may need to be cleaned and a rebuild kit installed. This is common for engines that sit around most of the time and than won't run when you need them.