how do i fix a problem with the carb et on an elec generator?

Question

cleaned carb an all still run for 5 sec and stops. seem like it runs out of gas.

Answer 1

You do have a fuel supply problem, that is obvious. Is there a sediment bowl that the fuel runs through before the carb? This is a common problem. If you have a sediment bowl, remove it. There should be a paper filter inside that needs replacing.

I just had this problem on an engine at work. Changed the filter, problem fixed.

Answer 2

I can practically guarantee you that you have water in your gas. That is why it runs briefly, then shuts off. The shaking from starting the generator "knocks" water away from the fuel line. When it "settles down", water (which is heavier than gas) gets in the line and makes it shut down. You can prove this by syphoning some gas from the bottom of the tank into a glass container. You will see "bubbles" of water (in the bottom) and probably rust, as other answerers have suggested. Better yet, drain the tank by clamping the fuel line, then un-attaching it from the carb and then drain it into an approved container. Dispose of the gas in an ecologically responsible manner. You actually ought to be able to use most of it in the generator if you remove the water. The water will settle to the bottom of the container.

Answer 3

You say that you cleaned the carburetor. What exactly did you do? Did you remove it, disassemble it, and soak it in a good parts/carb cleaner? If not you did not clean it properly. You should also reassamble it with a rebuild kit. What you are describing is a fouled carburetor. Remove it, clean it, and install a rebuild kit. It is not a hard job and it will run like new. Others have good suggestions about making sure the fuel is fresh and the gas tank is clean.

Answer 4

Check for an inline fuel filter; generators are often fueled from jerry cans full of rust and other crap. Or perhaps an overlooked fuel petcock valve's not fully open?. Probably gravity fed, perhaps there's a bad/pinched fuel line between the carb's inlet and the tank.
Maybe the needle valve/seat is dirty- or needs adjusted.
Maybe your fuel is old?

I'm just venturing my best guesses-hope it'll give you something to work with...