Automatic Generator Prime Function

[16ACE27]

The longest 45 seconds in the world is when you are standing at the generator control panel holding the button in the stop position to prime fuel to the generator. I assume we have to do this because there is a drain-back function to drain the generator's carburetor so it doesn't get gunked-up with stale gas. Has anybody delved into a simple timer circuit that will run the pump for the required 45 seconds after you hit a momentary on switch, and automatically shut off with a beep to let you know you can now actually start the generator??

[Miramar Owner]

I have never had to hold the primer for more than 15 - 20 seconds so I haven't found it to be a problem. It could be because I use it quite often and run it at least monthly when stored.

[brianh442]

Same here, at the most 15 seconds!

[rick kirby]

What kind of generator is it ? Mine in a Onan and I don't have a prime button.

[JamieGeek]

Originally Posted by rick kirby

What kind of generator is it ? Mine in a Onan and I don't have a prime button.

Yes you do: Hold the switch on stop for 5-10 seconds until the light lights up. While the light is on the fuel pump is running. Owner's manual says to do this for 45 seconds or so to prime it. Myself (as with everyone above) has only really had to hold it for 20 seconds or less to get the genny to start.

[rick kirby]

Good to know, thanks, I'll try that in the morning. What primes it in auto start?

[JamieGeek]

Originally Posted by rick kirby

Good to know, thanks, I'll try that in the morning. What primes it in auto start?

Our unit doesn't have autostart so I can only speculate. My speculation would be that nothing primes it: When using autostart I would bet the assumption is that the genny is ready to run.

You really only have to prime it if it hasn't run in a while (in my experience a while = months).