Harbor Freight Predator 8750 Watt Open-Frame Inverter Generator Troubleshooting ideas

[bcs001]

My son bought this new about 8 months ago for his fencing business and went to start it the other day but either the engine or generator has tightened up to the point it won't start. We removed the spark plug but that didn't help at all so its not compression related. it is electric start with manual pull and there is definitely something that has caused either the engine or generator to really tighten up. The electric start engages and sounds like it disengages. Manual pull start assembly looks to be connected to the generator end and is definitely harder than normal to pull. There are not many hours on it and I'm thinking it may be something easy to resolve once identified. We will drain the oil next and see if that shows anything.

Looking for some ideas before really digging in deep to separate the generator from the engine.

Thanks.

 

[Tinhack]

Sounds like the compression release took a holiday. It could be a mechanical release as part of the cam or the cam itself broke. Check to see if the valves move up and down when you turn the engine (by hand). Also make sure the push rods are on/in the rocker pockets.

 

[bcs001]

Would a problem with compression release affect the complete cycle including when the spark plug was removed? If it’s something broken on the cam or rockers I can see it possibly affecting a full engine rotation.

 

[Mendonsy]

Isn't it under warranty?? Take it back to HF and complaint loudly.

 

[bcs001]

Warrantee was only 90 days. Not buying extended protection was a mistake.

 

[LittleBill21]

is there oil in it?

 

[bcs001]

Draining and inspecting oil is one of the next steps.

 

[BleedingOrange]

Is there an hour meter on it ? Does it still look like new ? Like others suggested, even thou the 90 days have expired, I would still take to one of the managers in the store for that area and see if they will offer some goodwill kind of warranty.

 

[nyone]

Let me guess theres 100-150hrs on it?

 

[bcs001]

Let me guess theres 100-150hrs on it?

Sounds like someone who has a little experience with Harbor Freight equipment.

He did initially contact them about it but being young, probably didn't press the issue. I'll do a little more evaluating then try making another call myself.

After a little more research online it does look like the compression release on the cam can be the problem on the compression stroke but I'm still not sure how it would make the engine tight over the intake or exhaust stroke.