What Would Cause Generator to Have Idle that Surges

Updated 10/16/2024 | Published 10/08/2024

Question:

289-SUA2000i A friend bought 2 of theses in 2023 new. They both surge at idol. If we turn choke half on if gets better. Carburetors are clean. We have tried larger pilot jets. That makes it better but does not completely solver issue. Any suggestions?

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

Hey Steve, typically surging indicates a lean condition. The pilot jet is associated with the air from idle to about 20 percent throttle so you are on the right track changing yours. Does it ping at all too? I would try bigger pilot jets until you find one that allows it to idle smooth without surging or on the opposite end doesn't make it idle rough (too rich).

expert reply by: Jameson C

Steve

10/8/2024

I worked up from oem 68 to 80. It started running pooy but still surging. Any more ideas?

Jameson C.

10/8/2024

@Steve Is the gas old? Any possible air leaks?

Steve

10/9/2024

@JamesonC gas is fresh. No air leaks on either of the 2 generators. Both have less than 5 hrs use

Jameson C.

10/9/2024

@Steve What's your elevation? Usually anything over 8,000 feet is when rejetting is required. Probably a dumb question but are you using e85 by chance? It does seem that you just need more fuel.