FAQ: Service Repair

What should I do with my rusty fuel tank?
- It is very difficult to clean your fuel tank after corrosion has occurred. Westinghouse does not recommend or support any specific cleaning agents, and the fuel tank will need to be replaced.

How important is it to remove and service the spark arrestor?
- The spark arrestor is used to capture hot particles emitted from combustion. Improper maintenance of the spark arrestor can lead to a decline in engine performance.

What will happen if I use another type of oil?
- Mixing different viscosities is not recommended. Follow the oil recommendation chart in the Owners Manual for proper usage. Engine performance could decline if different viscosities are blended.

How can I get water out of the fuel tank?
- Drain the fuel from the fuel tank & discard properly. Refill with fresh fuel.

What is the best method to cleaning the portable?
- Compressed air. Rag and soapy water. Avoid excessive water, and be careful not to saturate any electrical components.

Can I use gasoline to clean the generator?
- No...gasoline is dangerous and will mar the paint finish

Can I adjust the valve lash?
Valve Lash should be performed by a Service Center certified technician. Information on adjusting the valve lash can be found in the Service Manual.

My pull cord won't retract or it is broken, what should I do?
- You should request service from your local Westinghouse Dealer.

Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping?
- You may be overloading your generator. Try reducing the number of appliances you have plugged in. - You may have a faulty appliance. Try disconnecting certain appliances or try plugging in the faulty appliance to utility power.

My engine won't start.
- See troubleshooting page in the manual.

Can I use carb cleaner in my fuel?
- Yes. You can treat your fuel tank for long term storage. Be certain to follow the carb cleaner manufacturer's recommendations on usage.

Why does my generator quit when I turn on load?
- See troubleshooting page in the manual.

I took my generator out from winter storage and it won't start
- Did you properly service the generator set for storage - Troubleshooting tab

Why does the generator kick back when I pull the rope?
- See troubleshooting page in the manual.

My generator does not produce max power.
- See troubleshooting page in the manual.

My output voltage is too low or too high.
- See troubleshooting page in the manual.

My engine surges up and down.
- See troubleshooting page in the manual.

Does this portable have any diagnostic checks? Ex: Fault Codes?
- No

My generator was broken right out of the box, what do I do?
- Return it to the place of purchase with proof of purchase, or contact your local Westinghouse Service Center.

Where do I take my generator for a return?
- Return it to the place of purchase with proof of purchase.

My frequency is too low or too high.
- See troubleshooting page in the manual.

My generator got wet...what should I do?
- Immediately wipe dry. Blow off with compressed air. Let generator sit for 24 hours, and then attempt to start. Generators contain many electro mechanical parts that can be damaged when in contact with water.