Troubleshooting A Generator That Won't Start And Is Leaking Gasoline

Question:

I bought 2 of these AI 2000/1600 watt Inverter generators about 4 or 5 years ago. Never used them except once a month just for preventative maint. Less than 20 hours on each of them. One of them started leaking gasoline from the top of the unit and covered the entire electrical face plate plus the entire engine. Doesnt start. I first assumed the carburetor may be leaking, but the leak seems to come from way up further. Any suggestions ? Thank you !

asked by: David M

Expert Reply:

I'm willing to bet that the spark plug either needs to be cleaned or replaced since it seems to be the typical cause for issues with generators, like the # 289-SUA2000i-2. There's also a circuit breaker on the face of the unit that could be tripped and needs to be reset.

As for the leak it wouldn't be able to diagnose it without actually taking it apart to discover where the leak is. It could be a simple as a dry-rotted fuel line that's leaking out. Even though you're past the warranty of the generator it wouldn't hurt to reach out to the manufacturer to see if they'd heard of this happening and seeing if they'll replace the unit. If not, then I recommend taking it apart as much as you can until you find the leak. It's not really safe to use until you find and fix the leak.

expert reply by: Kevin C