Generac generator with quicksilver motor

Dianna Johnson

New Member
Oct 22, 2018
2
Boat Info
1989 Sea Ray 440 aft Cabin
Engines
2 Mercruiser 454 gasoline
I have a 1989 Sea Ray 440 aft cabin. I'm having issues with the generac generator and need advice (other than replacing it). It starts and runs for about 28 minutes at best and then shuts down. After that it won't start. We have replaced numerous parts and ran every test anyone has suggested but, everyone just scratches their heads and can't figure out why. The obvious stuff done is:
Cleaned and inspected carburetor (3 mechanics have each done this)
Replaced fuel pump
Replaced control board (this was done because at first it would not shut down. )
Bypassed exhaust temperature sensor, oil pressure sensor and coolant temperature switch to troubleshoot those, and the problem continued with each one bypassed.
Replaced thermostat
Replaced ignition switch
There are no error codes.
Any ideas?

I am also trying to find a dipstick for the oil because it is broken and the part number for quicksilver is 810804 and generac part number 075735 but, this part has been discontinued and I have not found anything to replace it. If anyone has any suggestions on that ...I would greatly appreciate your help.
Thank you
 
I suspect an ignition component is failing when it heats up. Is this an electronic or points type ignition system? Could be an ignition coil, electronic pick up in the distributor or a bad condenser if a points style distributor.
 
To eliminate the possibility of vapor lock in the the fuel line insulate the the fuel line from all surrounding heat sources.
Additionally, there should be a small drain screw on the carburetor float bowl that can be opened and check for fuel. If the bowl is dry then a fuel starvation condition exists.
Use caution to avoid fuel spilling on hot surfaces when attempting this check.
 
I have a 1989 Sea Ray 440 aft cabin. I'm having issues with the generac generator and need advice (other than replacing it). It starts and runs for about 28 minutes at best and then shuts down. After that it won't start. We have replaced numerous parts and ran every test anyone has suggested but, everyone just scratches their heads and can't figure out why. The obvious stuff done is:
Cleaned and inspected carburetor (3 mechanics have each done this)
Replaced fuel pump
Replaced control board (this was done because at first it would not shut down. )

Bypassed exhaust temperature sensor, oil pressure sensor and coolant temperature switch to troubleshoot those, and the problem continued with each one bypassed.
Replaced thermostat
Replaced ignition switch
There are no error codes.
Any ideas?

I am also trying to find a dipstick for the oil because it is broken and the part number for quicksilver is 810804 and generac part number 075735 but, this part has been discontinued and I have not found anything to replace it. If anyone has any suggestions on that ...I would greatly appreciate your help.
Thank you

Dianna,

Welcome to CSR!

There is a lot of information here on that generator. It sounds like you have replaced the usual suspects so let's start with something you haven't done.

After it runs for 28 minutes and then shuts down....have someone spray starting fluid or carb spray into the carb and try to start it. If it starts....we know that you have a fuel delivery problem.

If it does not start then the next thing to look for is spark at the spark plugs. Again a simple test that ensures that you are getting voltage to the spark plugs. If you are not, have your mechanic run a 12 volt wire bypass to the + side of the coil and try to start it. If you get spark then....you have an ignition problem. (Note: If the engine starts with the bypass in place....it needs to be removed to stop the generator).


In both cases the Control Board controls the fuel pump and the ignition system. I doubt it has failed again because it usually works or doesn't work. I have seen more than generator act like yours because it has a broken connector or wire that heats up and causes a 12 volt connection to fail.

The dipstick is an easier problem. Virtually any aftermarket dipstick will work but you will need another Quicksilver generator dipstick to compare it to so that you can cut it. Measure, cut and index it for the oil level and you should be set.
 
A compression check cold, and one after shutdown may indicate that the valve lash needs adjustment.

Does it just shut down or does it start stumbling?
 

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