Generator wont start

[gsmallwood]

I have a 2003 280SD with a 5E Kohler Gen. The boat stays in the water. I try to crank the gen and motors at least once a month during the winter. Yesterday i was going to run everything. My engines cranked fine, but the gen just turns over. It does not even seem to hit. It is like a switch is off or is out of gas. My running tank is full so i know i have plenty of gas. I cranked everything Thanksgiving weekend and it ran great. Any ideas on where to start?

 

[Larry&Leisa]

How long has it been since plugs were changed? That would be my first place.

 

[jason78]

+1 Plugs and the fuel filter. There is a separate Water Sep fuel filter for it. When was it last changed? It is also possible the automatic choke is not engaging. Visibly check the choke assembly and make sure the spring is in place and nothing is obstructing the movement of the choke and throttle assembly on the top front port side of the gen. Make sure you use the correct NGK plugs if you change them.

 

[gsmallwood]

How hard is it to get to the plug on the back?

 

[jason78]

How hard is it to get to the plug on the back?

Not too bad for the average size arm. You will just have to do it all by feel. It is right on the opposite side of the head where the front one is located. I am not sure a mirror would be of use due to the mounting location in the 280.