Troubleshooting a Briggs & Stratton Generator

Written By
Cameron Easey
Cameron Easey
Published: May 14, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

No Power When Generator Is Running

Step 1

Check the circuit breaker on the generator, and see if it has tripped. Reset or turn the circuit breaker back on, and see if power or electricity now comes from the unit.

Step 2

Examine the extension cord you are using with the generator. The cord could have a poor connection or a short. It could also be bad or defective. Replace the extension cord, and see if the problem has been corrected.

Step 3

Check and see if the power tool or device connected to the generator is bad. Connect another power tool or device to the generator to see it works correctly.

Advertisement

Generator That Shuts Down or Runs Rough

Step 1

Open the cap to the fuel tank, and see if the generator has run out of gas. Refill the generator with gas, and restart the engine.

Step 2

Pull out the dipstick, and check the level of the oil. If the oil level is below the "Full" line, you need to add more oil.

Step 3

Move the generator to a level surface if it is sitting at an angle. The engine will run better when it is level on ground.

Warnings

Overloading the generator with too many devices will cause it to work harder and have less power than normal.

Cameron Easey

Cameron Easey has over 15 years customer service experience, with eight of those years in the insurance industry. He has earned various designations from organizations like the Insurance Institute of America and LOMA. Easey earned his…

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.