Craftsman 580.328300 Owner's Manual page 9

NOTE: If engine fails to start, set the key to the "Run"
position and wait for about 10 seconds before retrying.
IMPORTANT: Never turn the key switch to the "Start"
position while the engine is running. You could
damage the starter motor.
• When the engine starts, gradually open choke by
pushing the choke knob and keep it fully opened
while running.
IMPORTANT: Do Not overload the generator! Do Not
overload individual panel receptacles! These outlets
are protected against overload with push-to-reset-type
circuit breakers. If amperage rating of any circuit
breaker is exceeded, that breaker opens and electrical
output to that receptacle is lost. Read "Don't Overload
the Generator" on page 12 carefully.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
• Unplug (or turn OFF) all electrical loads connected
to generator panel receptacles. Never start or
stop engine with devices plugged in and turned
on.
• Let engine run at no-load for 30 seconds to
stabilize the internal temperatures of engine and
generator.
• Turn the key switch to the "Stop" position.
• Close the fuel valve.
STOPPING THE ENGINE WITH THE
FUEL VALVE
This procedure eliminates fuel from the carburetor.
Use this method to stop the generator if you plan to
store the generator over a long period. Fuel will clog
the internal passages of carburetor if allowed to
remain for an extended period.
• Unplug (or turn OFF) all electrical loads connected
to generator panel receptacles. Never start or
stop engine with devices plugged in and turned
on.
• Let engine run at no-load for 30 seconds to
stabilize the internal temperatures of engine and
generator.
• Close the fuel valve while the engine is running
and wait until the engine stops.
• Set the key switch to the "Stop" position after
stopping the engine. Failure to put the key
switch into the "Stop" position will deplete the
battery.
If the Engine Will Not Start
Perform the following checks if your engine does not
start:
1. Do you have enough gasoline?
Check to make sure you have fuel in the gas tank.
2. Is the fuel valve open?
Check to make sure the fuel valve is open. If it is
closed, open it.
3. Is there enough compression?
Check to see if either spark plug is loose. If so,
tighten it.
4. Is there enough oil?
You unit comes equipped with a low oil pressure
shutdown system. If there is not enough oil in your
engine it will not start. Fill the engine with oil to the
proper level.
5. Is the spark plug wet with gasoline?
• Apply full choke and crank the engine for 2 or
3 seconds. Remove the plug and check to see if
the electrode is wet. If the electrode is wet, fuel is
well supplied to your engine.
• If the electrode is dry, check to find where the
fuel is restricted. (Check the fuel intake of the
carburetor and fuel strainer intake.)
• In case the engine does not start with well
supplied fuel, try using fresh fuel.
6. Is there a strong spark across the electrode?
DANGER
! Wipe off any spilled gasoline before
checking the spark plug. Place spark plug as far
away from the spark plug hole as possible.
Do Not hold spark plug by hand when checking.
• Remove the spark plug and connect it to the
plug cap. Ground spark plug against engine
body. Turn key switch to "Start" position.
Observe strength of spark.
• Repeat above step with a new spark plug if
the spark is weak or there is no spark.
• The ignition system is faulty if there is no
spark with a new spark plug. Take your unit to
your nearest Sears service center.
7. Is your battery well charged?
• Check the battery as it may be discharged
and unable to operate the electric starter.
Consult your nearest Sears service center.
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