Replacing Onan Generator Spark Plug

[ehhackney]

Our generator is not starting. I know we have enough gas.

I want to replace the plugs, but can't figure out how to get to the inside one. It's against a bulkhead in back and close to a bulkhead on top. I can get my fingers on it, and, possibly, a spark plug socket, but I can't figure a way to get there with a rachet.

Is there a trick to this?

Thanks in advance,

Hack
--//--

[cottontop391]

Sounds like a job for the Onan man.

[She and I]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ehhackney Our generator is not starting. I know we have enough gas. I want to replace the plugs, but can't figure out how to get to the inside one. It's against a bulkhead in back and close to a bulkhead on top. I can get my fingers on it, and, possibly, a spark plug socket, but I can't figure a way to get there with a rachet. Is there a trick to this? Thanks in advance, Hack --//--

Hi Hack,
Need more info make mod etc, Maybe....Does your gen slide out?
Richard

[txdutt]

if you can get a spark plug socket on it but not a universal or wobble extension, try using a box or adjustable wrench on the socket end (if the socket has the shoulders on it)--just be careful about applying force to it..

[Bumperfood]

These spark plug areas, seem to collect a lot of debris around them, you need a way of cleaning the area around the plug screws in before removing it, or risk something falling into the cylinder (not a good thing). Compressed air works well. You may find it handy to position a mirror in there-- shine a light on it and work in the reflected light. If you can get to to the back panel and it is adjacent to the area of plug location, you could cut out an access panel. If you go this route, be sure to have some way of covering the hole when finished. good luck.

[ehhackney]

Quote:

Originally Posted by She and I Hi Hack, Need more info make mod etc, Maybe....Does your gen slide out? Richard

Hi Richard. I don't think it slides out, but I have wondered if I have to tip it down. I found that at least one Onan generator has to be tipped down to get to that plug. 'Needs a floor jack.

Hack
--//--

[bluepill]

Good suggestions above. Sometimes you just have to make a combination of extensions and wobble or universal joints to make it work.

I had a 1967 Cougar GT with a 390 CI engine squeezed into a space designed for a 289. I had to make a list of what extensions & universals were needed to remove 3 of the plugs. With leaded gas, the plugs needed cleaning every 2-3K miles. Uggggh!

[Diplomat Don]

Depending on the model, especially the 4000, they tip down. Place a floor jack or a scissor jack from your car under the outer edge. There are two bolts that release the generator and let the outer edge drop down. It will give you access to the rear plug.

[She and I]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ehhackney Hi Richard. I don't think it slides out, but I have wondered if I have to tip it down. I found that at least one Onan generator has to be tipped down to get to that plug. 'Needs a floor jack. Hack --//--

You got it!.....Thats how !...change fuel filter while you have it down...
And blow out the dust..........
Catch ya on the flip side!
Richard

[DAN L]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ehhackney Hi Richard. I don't think it slides out, but I have wondered if I have to tip it down. I found that at least one Onan generator has to be tipped down to get to that plug. 'Needs a floor jack. Hack --//--

install denso iridium plugs so you don't have to do it again for a long time.

[Mike Canter]

I agree on the Denso Iridium plugs. In a car they will go for 80K to 100K miles. Make sure you put a small amount of anti-sieze compound on the threads. They normally sell small packets of it at the auto parts counter.

[mgscott4]

Go back to the original post that says the generator will not start. Why do think it is the spark plugs? You say you have enough gas, but is it getting to the generator? Try some ether spray directly into the carb and see if it will start for a few seconds. If it does, you need to check the fuel line between the tank and the generator. Do you hear your fuel pump when you prime it? Check both in line fuel filters too.