Read the manual thoroughly and understand all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings before using this equipment. If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns.

Troubleshooting a leaking carb on a portable generator

A potential reason for a leaking carburetor is a loose (not fully tightened) carburetor drain screw.

Another reason for a leaking carburetor is a stuck carburetor float. This can happen when old or stale fuel is left in the fuel system, causing the carburetor float needle to become sticky.

Environment

This article applies to portable generators that have a carburetor.

Procedure

IMPORTANT: Do not run or attempt to run the generator if it is leaking fuel.

Shut off the fuel valve located below the fuel tank.

How to address a loose drain screw

1. Locate the drain screw on the side of the carburetor bowl.

Note: There are different drain bolt styles you may see depending on your model. Reference your user manual to determine the most appropriate steps.

2. Confirm if fuel is leaking from this area.

3. If confirmed fuel is leaking from the drain screw, use a screwdriver or wrench to rotate the drain screw clockwise until the screw is fully seated against the surface. Once seated, tighten the screw an additional 1/8 turn only. If a torque wrench is available, tighten to 7.5 N-m. Do not overtighten.
4. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position, wait 60-90 seconds, and check for leaks.

How to address a stuck float needle

1. Use a rubber mallet or other non-metallic tool (i.e. screwdriver handle) to lightly tap on the outside of the carburetor bowl several times.

2. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position, wait 60-90 seconds, and check for leaks.
3. If unsuccessful in releasing the stuck float needle, proceed with cleaning the carburetor detailed in the following article: How do I clean my portable generator's carburetor?

How can the issue be prevented in the future?

• Use fresh non-ethanol fuel with stabilizer.
• Run the unit every 30 days.
• Follow proper storage procedures (i.e., remove all fuel from the generator's fuel system if it will not be used for longer than 30 days).

For more information on proper storage procedures, see the following article: How Do I Prepare My Portable Generator for Storage?

See also

• What Type of Fuel Should I Use in My Portable Generator?
• How do I Drain the Fuel from My Portable Generator?