I would have probably refused to work on it just because the previous owner said he "lapped the valves". The only thing worse is when it's brought to you in a basket.
It was a full movie plot: Exposition: The introduction of the characters, setting, and conflict Rising action: The characters grow and change in response to the conflict Climax: The conflict escalates to its peak Falling action: The story moves toward resolution Resolution: The conflict is resolved and the story ends One of the best videos he’s done to date.
Absolutely favorite RUclips channel! 1) your calm voice and approach 2) thoroughness and tenacity 3) intelligence and ability 4) how you teach as you fix Thank you for an awesome video!
Perfect engine learning video. So nice to see what happens when ignoring the phrase “You could but I wouldn’t recommend it”. You overcame so many obstacles. Truly the journey was the value. You touched every bit of that machine. Thank you for an amazing demonstration of what is possible.
It is good that you got it running. But, the original owner was sold a bill of goods. Unless it was damn near given to him. It is highly unlikely that the average backyard mechanic could have solved the multitude of problems. Very few would have thought of reversing those two wires. I might have said it before, but; you have an extremely high level of patience. Another nice job.
An EPIC struggle between man and machine! Will James successfully save an inverter generator from the parts bin? Drama, mystery, and intrigue awaits... Better than most movies these days, GREAT JOB James!
How cool. I had a Sportsman 1000 that changed my life with how efficient it was. I am presently working on a Yamaha EF2000IS that was given to me, because it has low compression, due to the user using it without an air cleaner. (Turns out rings are stuck. Valves and bore actually look fine! Even the piston looks clean) I used to consider myself an small engine expert, but i found myself, when tearing down the Yamaha, comparing everything I did, "Would James Condon do it this way? Would he be in such a hurry? Would he, etc, etc..." LOL. So, to see this drop today, as I have been ill, is like a little light in my day
I have one of those. It’s fuel efficient but there are models that are larger that use even less fuel per hour and it’s larger. Check generator bible. Great for the price though, I got it shipped from tractor supply for 180 bucks. Ran an inverter window AC all summer. Very handy for charging dead batteries while I’m out in the field or small loads like fans or computers. 100% run it out of gas, the fuel shut off leaks through.
What a wild ride this video was! Like a 2 part movie almost, but the climax is a while in, then keeps going. Ha! James, I wanted to say that, some of those ignition components looked like a GY6 style, i wonder, if you had total ignition failure, if you could use a GY6 series pickup, CDI, and coil as a standalone? They make 2 types of CDI for the GY6, one that needs a battery and one that doesn't, obviously you would want one that doesn't, or you would need to keep a small 12v battery in there, which may not be feasible- but even so, you could use the 12V output to keep it up.
@@Deveak You know what tripped me out, was looking at the run times of the Sportsman vs Yamaha, the Yamaha is rated at almost twice the output yet uses less fuel... I built a live-in camper van, and I parked it for a weekend, a weekend turned into almost a year because I loved it so much, but the issue was power out there, under a tree n the back 40, I was using a "regular" generator and having to fill it often, when I got the Sportsman, it ended up using just a fraction of the fuel, which made me fall in love with inverter generators. When I got the Yamaha I was super happy, and it is going into another van I am building, except it is going in a metal compartment, without the "skin" as James called it, with the exhaust run outside, CM monitor, and more noise insulation. It is only a backup genny. I am primarily running on solar on this van build, 1,600 watts, plus an alternator tie in, so the batteries are always up.
@ I really like the ones in the 1600-2000 watt range. Large enough to run a 15 amp circuit to full power and run a decent amount of motors and still thrifty on fuel and easy to lug
Your patience and resilience never cease to amaze me. When you broke the aluminium starter cup trying to take the engine apart made me think that was it, end of video. But no, not James. Instead you just got the right part to fix it and got it working like new, despite all the setbacks. Thanks, James. I really look forward to your videos. They make my week.
It took me three days to watch this rebuild but it was well worth the wait! You must have an amazing wife who can run the rest of the house & let you indulge in your hobby of small engine repair. I noticed the boo boo bandaid half way through the video. No explanation? Probably not worth mentioning? Another great video! Looking forward to your next. Thanks for producing quality content!
Just spent the last two days replacing the recoil rope on a Westinghouse I Gen2200 generator. Had other problems that developed so put the generator together and took it apart three times! Then when I finally got it running and done I went in for dinner and tuned to Utube to see the latest Jame Condon presents. Holy Cow! He’s working on my generator!!! Serendipity. Another great video. I always learn something new from James so now know what to look out for. Thank you James. I have six generators in my garage to tinker with. It’s a great hobby and I have helped quite a number of people in need of a generator. Craig
It would have been dreamed unrepairable for sure. Even if they thought it was just the block, that would be a $500 quote probably where k doubt this thing new was much more than that,
Wow, what an adventure! We got top-end issues, an epic "remove the flywheel" quest, the coil mystery, and of course carb issues. And who could forget our friend, the rusted tank? As always, you tackled everything with your typical big picture analytical approach. This has become one of my favourite videos from you. Great job!
Hi, James! Well now you've done it. A 2.5 hour video that I could not pull myself away from. Boy is my wife pissed! I started watching with my morning coffee and now it's late morning. I was supposed to finish painting the sunroom. You'd think after 51 years of marriage she'd know better but nooooo. Actually you'd think I would know better. Oh well. I gotta say that's the first time I seen a complete disassembly of one of those small inverter/generators. Pretty amazing how they manage to cram everything in there. My little Westinghouse iGen2200 has a plastic gas tank. Everything is about the same as that Sportsman so you might be able to get away with that replacement you found. Anyway, loved the video as usual. Thanks!
I especially want to thank yyou for refraining from playing background music. We can all deal with silence, but we don't all like the same music, besides most of those who do play it play the most motonous crap they can find, and usually too loud.
I watched every second of this video totally spellbound. For a person like me, who is always fixing stuff around the house (cars, motorcycles, generators, power washers, lawn mowers, string trimmers, etc) this was not only very informative and inspirational, but entertaining. I loved watching how you diagnose problems and attempt fixes, only to find either the solution didn't fix the problem or you discovered another problem rearing its ugly head. Nevertheless, you persevered until you eliminated virtually every problem. So many times, I am trying to revive something that is so old (or Chinese made) I can no longer find parts. Thus, like you I have to improvise. At first I chuckled because I thought you were putting a thousand dollars worth of labor into a generator worth $350 new but I see new ones offered anywhere between $664 and $920 online. I know this wasn't just a practical effort on your part; instead it created incredible content for others to enjoy and from which to learn. Extremely well-done. I am just now discovering your channel and I am a new subscriber.
I always enjoy your videos James, but this one was really exceptional. I would have never believed that generator troubleshooting could create this much drama and engagement. Legitimately, I've watched more than one movie/TV show recently that didn't create as much tension and interest as this video. After the first couple of setbacks each subsequent test and new twist had me holding my breath waiting for the outcome. You really do an exceptional job with the presentation.
Wonderful finding a new video of yours. This really makes me think an open frame inverter generator will be the way to go. Its really a tight squeeze in these boxed mini generators. Great work, an enjoyable video
Hey James, years ago I bought two of the inexpensive Sportsman generators. Both of them ran poorly out of the box. Both of them had carburetors that flooded over. They did make power and I only used them for lighting on my farm so I didn’t care how clean it was. They were such poorly made that it just wasn’t worth using them. So I threw them in the dumpster. It was a good lesson though. I have had a couple of 2kw Hondas that have over 1000 hours on them and they put out clean power reliably. I also have a 1kw Honda that is equally good. Lesson learned, cheap ain’t cheap! I have a Chinese generator to power my house during outages situations. It is such a pile of crap also. If I can get it to start it is as loud as a bull dozer working in a rock pile. I am thinking about building an efficient power unit out of a small automobile engine. I can gear it up so that it will run at about 1200 rpm and not use much fuel. It will also be quiet and reliable. I only wish that I had natural gas at my farm.
Outstanding Video!! Really helps when chasing down issues even on my generators. I have 2 Yamaha EF1000is generators, a Honda EU1000i and a Honda EU2000i . I purchased the EU1000i in a box totally took apart I rebuilt the engine and we have dry camped on a military base for over 10 years during winter months in Key West. The EU1000i Honda always starts its just incredible and I think I had around $250 dollars in it when it was all said and done. The Yamaha EF1000is generators are pretty cool in the fact that they have inverter technology but when they are not pulling a load or a small load they slow down like a Honda inverter generator but they have like 2 circuits in the generator windings and they slow down again making it capable of running like 9-12 hours on around 1/2 a gallon with just a small load which is incredible especially when your dry camping. The only thing I didn't like about the Yamaha generators was that choke cable like on the generator you repaired especially when you are depending on it like we do for 2-4 months the carbs at some point will need servicing so I modified my choke cable using a piece of stainless wire I make a loop that will slip over the brass circle on the carb for the choke then I attach that stainless wire loop to the choke pull cable with a small cable clamp once its set up like that you can slip the stainless loop off the brass circle on the carb easily too remove the carb and slip it back over the brass circle when putting carb back on. Once I slip the stainless loop over the brass circle I put the the yamaha screw back into the brass circle and that keeps the stainless loop from slipping of the brass circle when you pull choke. It is really a game changer when I need to pull a carb quickly. The Honda generators choke system is simple as you know and no cable needed I wish Yamaha had went that route.
There are so many points in this video I thought for sure would be the end all, but once again, perserverance, patience, and knowledge win the day. Top ten James.
Way to go on persistence James!! Nobody else would have put all the effort in on getting this generator running as you did. I was glad to see you drain the break in oil out of the engine as I did not see where you filled the crankcase up with oil. Only you with your vast array of diagnostic equipment would have discovered the coil problem after all the other testing you had done. I wonder if removing the small fuel filter caused the carburetor to overflow with a small amount of debris in the needle seat? Coating the inside of the tank would have made it a dual fuel machine, but if the new owner is aware of it being a propane only machine, no problem. Plastic is not the total answer to things, especially where heat is present. Good show, and it was very entertaining for the entire 2-1/2 hours. Keep up the good work.
Another machine saved from the scrap yard! This one seemed haunted, which is fitting for a Halloween video release. Most people would've given up on this one. Just goes to show what perseverance and analytical thinking can do!
This would have to be the biggest most frustrating rabbit hole of a rebuild I've seen! How you didn't throw it across the yard is beyond me! But I enjoyed every minute and can fully relate to every one step forward and two steps back aspect to this rebuild! And it reminded me to go out in the garage and kick over my 2500 watt pure sine wave inverter generator that I haven't used for over 3 years!
omgosh you are perfect mechanic engineer because I am motor mechanic and I don't give up ... Mann your the best in explaining thank you sooo much bless 🤩💯❣
Your voice and approach to generator repair is so similar to another channel I view - Wristwatch Revival. Not sure if you are in fact one and the same, but I love your content! Keep up the great work. I’ve learned a ton!
@@mikenonameneeded3485 I’m at the point of comparing his hands between both videos. I’m nearly certain it’s the same guy. If not, then it’s the same narrator. Not trying to create a conspiracy. I’m just curious as I LOVE both channels. The content is wildly effective at relaxing me after a crazy day. Plus, I’m learning a ton. While I’ll never get into watch making, I now have enough confidence to attempt to repair my neighbors’s generator carburetor and my old riding mower carburetor (I’m converting it into a yard gorilla utility cart hauler).
I work on a lot of motorcycles. When putting the stator on through the magnets, it is easier to do it with long studs. Find long screws that fit in the threaded holes and slide it in! You just need two studs. Hope this helps someone too. Love watching your videos!
It's cursed! The inverter from hell! In all seriousness though, I really enjoy watching your videos. It's always a great feeling when you fix something yourself. Who would ever have thought that watching someone else could give you that same "job well done feeling". Great job as always!
"Order online, you'll love it" Like you James, I find online and quality of products today are horrible and I've spent, wasted, more gas, time and money returning them than I saved in the first place. As I've said in the past; another great and informative video! Thank you James!
This man does not give up ! I wonder if this company that builds these units has any quality control! I have had 2 of the Honda 2200 v units and Never had a single issue! I know there is a major price difference !
When I sat down I was clean shaven and I had a 2 year old. When the video was over, she was married with her own children and I have a long Duck Dynasty beard!!!😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I dont think a generator doesnt needed the flywheel because you have the rotor of the inverter coil that replaces it, so it kinda had a flywheel, probably thats why they didnt use the one on the engine side. I think the added flywheel shouldnt cause any problems, maybe its more sensitive to load changes but keep that in mind and you wont have problems
Hi James, This is your best video to date. Your diagnostic skills are unsurpassed. You approach every issue with confidence and confidence, you never seem to get flustered or upset. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Rob
James, I have recently come to realize that inverter generators are far more efficient and produce much cleaner power than a non-inverter generator. My question to you is, in your expert opinion, do you think inverter generators need fewer repairs than their non-inverter counterpart. Thanks, and I always look forward to your videos.
Inverters are very reliable, even the clones. As long as you take care of the fuel and engine. That said, usually the point of failure is the inverter module. On name brand machines you can replace, but often it does not make sense due to cost.
@@jcondon1 So the best solution is to buy noninverter generator with just AVR and some kind seperate inverter and bond them togather to charge batteries or banks of energy and through this batteries and inverter charge devices in the House?
@@rw9737 Inverters change DC to AC. I don't think you can feed AC power into an inverter. Remember that they convert power from batteries or solar collectors, both of which are DC. I think James favors the inverter types of generators because of the very clean output.
Nice work! I own two Smarter Tools generator 1600/2000W (similar in design) Your video provided an in-depth knowledge of what's happening behind the plastics. Thank you!
Thank you for this video, what a very pleasant way to spend a couple of hours watching your expertise and gently manner in returning this generator to life. Tony (UK)
James, I'm assuming that this is a labor of love, and not a going commercial concern. Can you touch on the economics of a repair this deep? How can you tell that you aren't going to have a generator or inverter problem, once you get to a "better than new" engine? Thank you for taking your time to show us what CAN be done. It is a joy to watch a skilled mechanic at work. The word "mechanic" I use with great admiration and respect.
Thanks for letting us come on your journey with you, it's all there to test us and never give up, great video and well spoken through the breakdown and rebuild Colin from London England ❤
Absolutely impressed I'm guessing you spent more time and money I'm repairing that little engine then what it was originally Worst by the holy unit. But thank you for the effort. It was well worth the effort if nothing else for my viewing pleasure thank you
I have 2 of these generators which don’t have the propane option. They both run great. I will keep this video in my archive in case I ever have to tear into them. I’m really glad to see you work on these suitcase generators. They are very popular, but a pain to work on. As always, thanks for your great videos.
Idk exactly what's inside the electronics but any kind of transistor loses efficiency with heat maybe that has something to do with it.James makes everything look so easy! I would be cursing and throwing things.He just has a gift IMHO very satisfying to watch.
As an electronics guy, as far as the inverter is concerned, if that had proved to be a problem, the first thing I'd be replacing are all the capacitors. They don't handle long-term heat so well.
Great patience and skill James!! And all for 1600 watts. I know I would have given up on that machine in the 1st hour. I prefer the open frame inverters because of the larger gas tank, and easier to work on. So much to take apart and later assemble with the enclosed generators, and I hope that people who own that Make/Model of Gen. won't encounter the vast array of problems that you did, especially from the same unit and all at the same time. Very fortunate James to get a new engine block for so cheap... What didn't fail with that Gen??...lol
SUCH a problem MACHINE! Yikes! But again, you've proven your mastery over the intransigent. The titles of Generator Master, Generator Guru, and even Generator Wizard are very appropriate, James. You've earned them several times over. Thank you for sharing this one with us. It was a compact bunch of complex problems, and it's kind of you to say it only cost $160 to bring back to great working condition. But that only assumes your expertise and hours of labor come at no charge. How many hours DID you put into servicing this unit? At local warranty shop work rates, I think a person would likely be ahead to buy a different generator. Unless like you, they love the challenge, have the space and the tools and experience, to make a disaster into a success, as you have here. Before Covid-19 I typically told my projects that I have more money than time to make the repairs. But after Covid, which gave me incentive to finally retire, I look at them with a different eye, thinking I've more time than money to chase after them and make them toe the line. Thank you for showing us how to make a silk purse out of this sow's ear!
Looks like you got yourself a REAL Yamaha powered generator. That’s a lot of work and tooling to get it going, but I can understand since I too will go to great lengths to get to the finish line with the satisfaction of bringing something back to life haha. Great video and awesome job getting that “sportsmaha” functional again haha.
ONE THING ABOUT JAMES HE DOES NOT GIVE UP .
That thing would have been in the dumpster if it was me
@@howardnielsen6220 Yes, about 1 hour into it! Congrats on getting it going and your succinct explanations of each of the issues. Tons of knowledge!
I would have probably refused to work on it just because the previous owner said he "lapped the valves". The only thing worse is when it's brought to you in a basket.
That was a struggle. But you won the battle. Congratulations!!!
@@kensam684 yeah I throw tools and curse. My video would be half me looking for tools I misplaced and half my cursing about it.
I learn a thing or two every time I watch of these videos. This one? I feel like I learned about 37 things! There’s no better repair channel on YT.
Wow. This one had it all! It has definitely earned a place near the center of the speakers' table at the Condon Hall of Fame annual dinner.
It was a full movie plot:
Exposition: The introduction of the characters, setting, and conflict
Rising action: The characters grow and change in response to the conflict
Climax: The conflict escalates to its peak
Falling action: The story moves toward resolution
Resolution: The conflict is resolved and the story ends
One of the best videos he’s done to date.
@@MrZZeroG yes!
@@MrZZeroG well said!!
No matter how stressed I am, I know a vid from James will calm me right down.
LOL. same. so glad to see this vid just show up. I use these vids to help me relax before bed time.
100% i get the same with rainman rays repairs as well. i said it's mindful wrenching
He's great. Very calm manner.
Me Too! It's good therapy.
Valium James huh?
What amazes me is that the generator sat for a long time disassemble and you still remember how it all went back together.
He has the video.
It's all on RUclips 🤓
@@johnwaller2333 that’s what I thought.
Absolutely favorite RUclips channel!
1) your calm voice and approach
2) thoroughness and tenacity
3) intelligence and ability
4) how you teach as
you fix
Thank you for an awesome video!
Agreed. A humble man.. I would say this is only a 'hobby' judging by his house and yard - we are lucky
Stop
Perfect engine learning video. So nice to see what happens when ignoring the phrase “You could but I wouldn’t recommend it”. You overcame so many obstacles. Truly the journey was the value. You touched every bit of that machine. Thank you for an amazing demonstration of what is possible.
My favorite RUclipsr! I’d watch him restore a wheel barrow!
and I went one step further by adding a second wheel from harbor freight and an axle to mine, now it does no longer tip over
Same
Jesus, I would have trashed that thing way earlier. You’re a persistent man
It is good that you got it running. But, the original owner was sold a bill of goods. Unless it was damn near given to him. It is highly unlikely that the average backyard mechanic could have solved the multitude of problems. Very few would have thought of reversing those two wires. I might have said it before, but; you have an extremely high level of patience. Another nice job.
An EPIC struggle between man and machine! Will James successfully save an inverter generator from the parts bin? Drama, mystery, and intrigue awaits... Better than most movies these days, GREAT JOB James!
Wow. This one had everything. What a battle. Really great work, Jim.
How cool. I had a Sportsman 1000 that changed my life with how efficient it was. I am presently working on a Yamaha EF2000IS that was given to me, because it has low compression, due to the user using it without an air cleaner. (Turns out rings are stuck. Valves and bore actually look fine! Even the piston looks clean) I used to consider myself an small engine expert, but i found myself, when tearing down the Yamaha, comparing everything I did, "Would James Condon do it this way? Would he be in such a hurry? Would he, etc, etc..." LOL.
So, to see this drop today, as I have been ill, is like a little light in my day
I have one of those. It’s fuel efficient but there are models that are larger that use even less fuel per hour and it’s larger. Check generator bible.
Great for the price though, I got it shipped from tractor supply for 180 bucks. Ran an inverter window AC all summer.
Very handy for charging dead batteries while I’m out in the field or small loads like fans or computers.
100% run it out of gas, the fuel shut off leaks through.
What a wild ride this video was! Like a 2 part movie almost, but the climax is a while in, then keeps going. Ha! James, I wanted to say that, some of those ignition components looked like a GY6 style, i wonder, if you had total ignition failure, if you could use a GY6 series pickup, CDI, and coil as a standalone? They make 2 types of CDI for the GY6, one that needs a battery and one that doesn't, obviously you would want one that doesn't, or you would need to keep a small 12v battery in there, which may not be feasible- but even so, you could use the 12V output to keep it up.
@@Deveak You know what tripped me out, was looking at the run times of the Sportsman vs Yamaha, the Yamaha is rated at almost twice the output yet uses less fuel... I built a live-in camper van, and I parked it for a weekend, a weekend turned into almost a year because I loved it so much, but the issue was power out there, under a tree n the back 40, I was using a "regular" generator and having to fill it often, when I got the Sportsman, it ended up using just a fraction of the fuel, which made me fall in love with inverter generators. When I got the Yamaha I was super happy, and it is going into another van I am building, except it is going in a metal compartment, without the "skin" as James called it, with the exhaust run outside, CM monitor, and more noise insulation. It is only a backup genny. I am primarily running on solar on this van build, 1,600 watts, plus an alternator tie in, so the batteries are always up.
@ I really like the ones in the 1600-2000 watt range. Large enough to run a 15 amp circuit to full power and run a decent amount of motors and still thrifty on fuel and easy to lug
James , you are a persistent bear .
You don't give up
You troubleshoot brilliantly 👏
Hars off to you, sir 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Nobody except James fights for such a long time with a small generator and win . My respect.
Your patience and resilience never cease to amaze me. When you broke the aluminium starter cup trying to take the engine apart made me think that was it, end of video. But no, not James. Instead you just got the right part to fix it and got it working like new, despite all the setbacks. Thanks, James. I really look forward to your videos. They make my week.
The broken one probably would have worked fine, but luckily there was a used OEM Yamaha one on eBay
It may smoke until the rings seat.@@jcondon1
@@lestergillis8171It likely had oil and carbon in the exhaust from running with the stuck piston rings before it finally failed.
It took me three days to watch this rebuild but it was well worth the wait!
You must have an amazing wife who can run the rest of the house & let you indulge in your hobby of small engine repair.
I noticed the boo boo bandaid half way through the video. No explanation? Probably not worth mentioning?
Another great video! Looking forward to your next.
Thanks for producing quality content!
This is more than a regular presentation. This is like a full training course in engine repair.
This is a basic engine rebuild. You crack me up.
This is a basic engine rebuild. You guys crack me up.
Just spent the last two days replacing the recoil rope on a Westinghouse I Gen2200 generator. Had other problems that developed so put the generator together and took it apart three times! Then when I finally got it running and done I went in for dinner and tuned to Utube to see the latest Jame Condon presents. Holy Cow! He’s working on my generator!!! Serendipity. Another great video. I always learn something new from James so now know what
to look out for. Thank you James. I have six generators in my garage to tinker with. It’s a great hobby and I have helped quite a number of people in need of a generator. Craig
I like reading the comments to see how other viewers opinions are! Like myself your fans are so impressed with your work.
Thanks for spending the time to repair this generator. I’m not sure any repair shop would have spent the time to fix it.
It would have been dreamed unrepairable for sure. Even if they thought it was just the block, that would be a $500 quote probably where k doubt this thing new was much more than that,
"it's amazing how the right tool makes a job so much easier" Words to live by, my friend. 😃
On the bright side James, you now have a good selection of pullers. Great video. 😁
Wow, what an adventure! We got top-end issues, an epic "remove the flywheel" quest, the coil mystery, and of course carb issues. And who could forget our friend, the rusted tank?
As always, you tackled everything with your typical big picture analytical approach. This has become one of my favourite videos from you. Great job!
So much engineering in those suitcase units. Amazing!
James, I pray we would have people in government with your ferocity and diligence to correct problems -- I'm dreaming, I know 😞😞😞
James Condon for President, with mustie1 as his running mate!
@@neilmorten6416 They would make an "Electrifying Combo". (sorry for that one)
That one went all 9 rounds but the winner is James Condon!
You are the most patient man I have ever seen. I would have taken a sledgehammer to that piece of crap a long time ago but you made it work
You have a lot of patience. I would have given up on this, but you didn't. Nice inverter once you killed the demons. Great video.
Hi, James! Well now you've done it. A 2.5 hour video that I could not pull myself away from. Boy is my wife pissed! I started watching with my morning coffee and now it's late morning. I was supposed to finish painting the sunroom. You'd think after 51 years of marriage she'd know better but nooooo. Actually you'd think I would know better. Oh well. I gotta say that's the first time I seen a complete disassembly of one of those small inverter/generators. Pretty amazing how they manage to cram everything in there. My little Westinghouse iGen2200 has a plastic gas tank. Everything is about the same as that Sportsman so you might be able to get away with that replacement you found. Anyway, loved the video as usual. Thanks!
😂
I’m married for 54 years and they never change the demands lololo
James' long videos have a lot of content and are worth watching. His voice is so easy to understand, I can watch at 2X speed!
James, I believe what you are trying to tell us is that working on generators and RUclips funds your tool addiction! I’m with you!!!!!
I especially want to thank yyou for refraining from playing background music. We can all deal with silence, but we don't all like the same music, besides most of those who do play it play the most motonous crap they can find, and usually too loud.
@@jimdavis6833 Just hit mute and cc to solve that problem.
I watched every second of this video totally spellbound. For a person like me, who is always fixing stuff around the house (cars, motorcycles, generators, power washers, lawn mowers, string trimmers, etc) this was not only very informative and inspirational, but entertaining. I loved watching how you diagnose problems and attempt fixes, only to find either the solution didn't fix the problem or you discovered another problem rearing its ugly head. Nevertheless, you persevered until you eliminated virtually every problem. So many times, I am trying to revive something that is so old (or Chinese made) I can no longer find parts. Thus, like you I have to improvise. At first I chuckled because I thought you were putting a thousand dollars worth of labor into a generator worth $350 new but I see new ones offered anywhere between $664 and $920 online. I know this wasn't just a practical effort on your part; instead it created incredible content for others to enjoy and from which to learn. Extremely well-done. I am just now discovering your channel and I am a new subscriber.
I always enjoy your videos James, but this one was really exceptional. I would have never believed that generator troubleshooting could create this much drama and engagement. Legitimately, I've watched more than one movie/TV show recently that didn't create as much tension and interest as this video. After the first couple of setbacks each subsequent test and new twist had me holding my breath waiting for the outcome. You really do an exceptional job with the presentation.
A blessing in disguise, everything usually happens for a reason
Wonderful finding a new video of yours. This really makes me think an open frame inverter generator will be the way to go. Its really a tight squeeze in these boxed mini generators. Great work, an enjoyable video
What's more impressive than knowing how to do this, is knowing what parts are interchangeable with clones.. amazing..
Any kid out there want to start a side or main hustle? Watch this channel get some tool, and get to work! This is a great wealth of knowledge!!!!
Talk about going down the rabbit hole.... 6X over! WOw. Impressed is hardly an accurate word. Great job James!
Your perseverance on this machine was amazing.
Thanks for hanging in there just like I am once I know I'am to deep I will not give up even if its not cost effective or its of vintage quality!
You outdid yourself on this one James. Over 2.5-hour long video!
Hey James, years ago I bought two of the inexpensive Sportsman generators. Both of them ran poorly out of the box. Both of them had carburetors that flooded over. They did make power and I only used them for lighting on my farm so I didn’t care how clean it was. They were such poorly made that it just wasn’t worth using them. So I threw them in the dumpster. It was a good lesson though. I have had a couple of 2kw Hondas that have over 1000 hours on them and they put out clean power reliably. I also have a 1kw Honda that is equally good. Lesson learned, cheap ain’t cheap! I have a Chinese generator to power my house during outages situations. It is such a pile of crap also. If I can get it to start it is as loud as a bull dozer working in a rock pile. I am thinking about building an efficient power unit out of a small automobile engine. I can gear it up so that it will run at about 1200 rpm and not use much fuel. It will also be quiet and reliable. I only wish that I had natural gas at my farm.
Wow, that is a test of patience right there! Great job once again. I would of given up long ago but this turned out to be a great learning experience.
Genuinely one of my favorite channels! High quality content, clear/concise information, and a good relaxing environment. I'm proud to be a subscriber.
Outstanding Video!! Really helps when chasing down issues even on my generators. I have 2 Yamaha EF1000is generators, a Honda EU1000i and a Honda EU2000i . I purchased the EU1000i in a box totally took apart I rebuilt the engine and we have dry camped on a military base for over 10 years during winter months in Key West. The EU1000i Honda always starts its just incredible and I think I had around $250 dollars in it when it was all said and done. The Yamaha EF1000is generators are pretty cool in the fact that they have inverter technology but when they are not pulling a load or a small load they slow down like a Honda inverter generator but they have like 2 circuits in the generator windings and they slow down again making it capable of running like 9-12 hours on around 1/2 a gallon with just a small load which is incredible especially when your dry camping. The only thing I didn't like about the Yamaha generators was that choke cable like on the generator you repaired especially when you are depending on it like we do for 2-4 months the carbs at some point will need servicing so I modified my choke cable using a piece of stainless wire I make a loop that will slip over the brass circle on the carb for the choke then I attach that stainless wire loop to the choke pull cable with a small cable clamp once its set up like that you can slip the stainless loop off the brass circle on the carb easily too remove the carb and slip it back over the brass circle when putting carb back on. Once I slip the stainless loop over the brass circle I put the the yamaha screw back into the brass circle and that keeps the stainless loop from slipping of the brass circle when you pull choke. It is really a game changer when I need to pull a carb quickly. The Honda generators choke system is simple as you know and no cable needed I wish Yamaha had went that route.
Super lovely and beautiful, James, thank-you!
99.99 recurring % of us would have thrown that thijng in the creek away's back . . . You didn't. Wow!
There are so many points in this video I thought for sure would be the end all, but once again, perserverance, patience, and knowledge win the day. Top ten James.
Way to go on persistence James!! Nobody else would have put all the effort in on getting this generator running as you did. I was glad to see you drain the break in oil out of the engine as I did not see where you filled the crankcase up with oil. Only you with your vast array of diagnostic equipment would have discovered the coil problem after all the other testing you had done. I wonder if removing the small fuel filter caused the carburetor to overflow with a small amount of debris in the needle seat? Coating the inside of the tank would have made it a dual fuel machine, but if the new owner is aware of it being a propane only machine, no problem. Plastic is not the total answer to things, especially where heat is present. Good show, and it was very entertaining for the entire 2-1/2 hours. Keep up the good work.
Probably the best video you’ve ever done. I wouldn’t have done it but it made an award worthy video 😀
Another machine saved from the scrap yard! This one seemed haunted, which is fitting for a Halloween video release. Most people would've given up on this one. Just goes to show what perseverance and analytical thinking can do!
Nothing like a challenge to make life interesting. I was thinking that this one would never run. Thanks for your time and expertise. Great job.
This would have to be the biggest most frustrating rabbit hole of a rebuild I've seen! How you didn't throw it across the yard is beyond me!
But I enjoyed every minute and can fully relate to every one step forward and two steps back aspect to this rebuild!
And it reminded me to go out in the garage and kick over my 2500 watt pure sine wave inverter generator that I haven't used for over 3 years!
This one is better than new. Your patience and persistence always amazes me. Nice job!
omgosh you are perfect mechanic engineer because I am motor mechanic and I don't give up ... Mann your the best in explaining thank you sooo much bless 🤩💯❣
Your voice and approach to generator repair is so similar to another channel I view - Wristwatch Revival. Not sure if you are in fact one and the same, but I love your content! Keep up the great work. I’ve learned a ton!
I watch and enjoy both....for the same reason.
@@helicartIs it the same guy? They appear to go by different names.
I thought the same thing.
@@mikenonameneeded3485 I’m at the point of comparing his hands between both videos. I’m nearly certain it’s the same guy. If not, then it’s the same narrator. Not trying to create a conspiracy. I’m just curious as I LOVE both channels. The content is wildly effective at relaxing me after a crazy day. Plus, I’m learning a ton. While I’ll never get into watch making, I now have enough confidence to attempt to repair my neighbors’s generator carburetor and my old riding mower carburetor (I’m converting it into a yard gorilla utility cart hauler).
@@mikenonameneeded3485 Well maybe I’m wrong. I went ahead and googled enough to see the face behind the hands. They sound and act so similar. Weird.
That was a LOT of work! Always good to see a not working gen brought back to life.
This one was a marathon, but you did get over the line.
I work on a lot of motorcycles. When putting the stator on through the magnets, it is easier to do it with long studs. Find long screws that fit in the threaded holes and slide it in! You just need two studs. Hope this helps someone too. Love watching your videos!
The best photographer on RUclips bar nun 👍👍👍🥰🥰🥰🥰
It's cursed! The inverter from hell! In all seriousness though, I really enjoy watching your videos. It's always a great feeling when you fix something yourself. Who would ever have thought that watching someone else could give you that same "job well done feeling". Great job as always!
Thanks to James I can fumble my way through talking about carbs that ive never ever worked on.
300 MINUTES! That is a deep dive.
This is the best complete troubleshooting video of a inverter generator I have ever seen. Kudos, you really cowboyed up! 🤠
Two + hours of quality entertainment.
Thanks!
Another award winning resuscitation! Not an easy one but you prevailed!
Thanks!
Whoopiee, Thursday is Jamesday!!
"Order online, you'll love it"
Like you James, I find online and quality of products today are horrible and I've spent, wasted, more gas, time and money returning them than I saved in the first place.
As I've said in the past; another great and informative video!
Thank you James!
Time for me to buy more tools!!! Thanks James!!!!! 😃
Pretty tough job for this one, but for James, it's just a walk in the park!!!! 😁😁😁
James you should check betweennthe spark lead and both of the primary leads as the coil may be wired as a common ground like a tapped coil.
This the longest video I've ever watched on RUclips. However, I watched the entire thing and it kept my interest throughout. Well done James.
You da man, James. I would have cheated and got a new one from Tractor Supply for $379. But that's just me. lol
This man does not give up ! I wonder if this company that builds these units has any quality control! I have had 2 of the Honda 2200 v units and Never had a single issue! I know there is a major price difference !
"Lucky break" Love it!
This could have been me. I average having to buy three new tools for each job I attempt. Great job. I always learn a lot from your videos.
James, my hero!
The usb tester. That’s awesome. Never would have thought it was possible to check usb performance.
When I sat down I was clean shaven and I had a 2 year old. When the video was over, she was married with her own children and I have a long Duck Dynasty beard!!!😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I’m still watching from inside my coffin 😂😊
Wow James, that was quite the enigma, your tenacity in the project is what really solved the issue! Very nicely done. Cheers
I dont think a generator doesnt needed the flywheel because you have the rotor of the inverter coil that replaces it, so it kinda had a flywheel, probably thats why they didnt use the one on the engine side. I think the added flywheel shouldnt cause any problems, maybe its more sensitive to load changes but keep that in mind and you wont have problems
Was a incredible 1.5 hours of experience. THANKS!!!
What a cute little generator and I'm digging your marvel t-shirt
Hi James, This is your best video to date. Your diagnostic skills are unsurpassed. You approach every issue with confidence and confidence, you never seem to get flustered or upset. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Rob
Thanks
James, I have recently come to realize that inverter generators are far more efficient and produce much cleaner power than a non-inverter generator. My question to you is, in your expert opinion, do you think inverter generators need fewer repairs than their non-inverter counterpart. Thanks, and I always look forward to your videos.
Inverters are very reliable, even the clones. As long as you take care of the fuel and engine. That said, usually the point of failure is the inverter module. On name brand machines you can replace, but often it does not make sense due to cost.
@@jcondon1 So the best solution is to buy noninverter generator with just AVR and some kind seperate inverter and bond them togather to charge batteries or banks of energy and through this batteries and inverter charge devices in the House?
@@rw9737 Inverters change DC to AC. I don't think you can feed AC power into an inverter. Remember that they convert power from batteries or solar collectors, both of which are DC. I think James favors the inverter types of generators because of the very clean output.
Nice work! I own two Smarter Tools generator 1600/2000W (similar in design) Your video provided an in-depth knowledge of what's happening behind the plastics. Thank you!
Thank you for this video, what a very pleasant way to spend a couple of hours watching your expertise and gently manner in returning this generator to life. Tony (UK)
James, I'm assuming that this is a labor of love, and not a going commercial concern.
Can you touch on the economics of a repair this deep?
How can you tell that you aren't going to have a generator or inverter problem, once you get to a "better than new" engine?
Thank you for taking your time to show us what CAN be done. It is a joy to watch a skilled mechanic at work. The word "mechanic" I use with great admiration and respect.
Thanks for letting us come on your journey with you, it's all there to test us and never give up, great video and well spoken through the breakdown and rebuild Colin from London England ❤
Another master class. I'm assuming you're a dentist in your day job. You're very gentle and precise!
Super cool series of complex/intertwined problems & educational diagnostics. Superb content and the filming and editing are on point as well.
Absolutely impressed I'm guessing you spent more time and money I'm repairing that little engine then what it was originally Worst by the holy unit. But thank you for the effort. It was well worth the effort if nothing else for my viewing pleasure thank you
I have 2 of these generators which don’t have the propane option. They both run great. I will keep this video in my archive in case I ever have to tear into them. I’m really glad to see you work on these suitcase generators. They are very popular, but a pain to work on. As always, thanks for your great videos.
Idk exactly what's inside the electronics but any kind of transistor loses efficiency with heat maybe that has something to do with it.James makes everything look so easy! I would be cursing and throwing things.He just has a gift IMHO very satisfying to watch.
As an electronics guy, as far as the inverter is concerned, if that had proved to be a problem, the first thing I'd be replacing are all the capacitors. They don't handle long-term heat so well.
I enjoyed that one, working on small engines can be very enjoyable, and some times it can bring a lot of challenges, glad you stuck with it as always.
Your attention to detail is impressive.
My heavens, what patience! Superb job, James.
Great patience and skill James!! And all for 1600 watts. I know I would have given up on that machine in the 1st hour. I prefer the open frame inverters because of the larger gas tank, and easier to work on. So much to take apart and later assemble with the enclosed generators, and I hope that people who own that Make/Model of Gen. won't encounter the vast array of problems that you did, especially from the same unit and all at the same time. Very fortunate James to get a new engine block for so cheap... What didn't fail with that Gen??...lol
I would have tossed that one. For sure you got 12-15 hours or more into that. More than it’s worth . Your determination amazes me
SUCH a problem MACHINE! Yikes! But again, you've proven your mastery over the intransigent. The titles of Generator Master, Generator Guru, and even Generator Wizard are very appropriate, James. You've earned them several times over. Thank you for sharing this one with us. It was a compact bunch of complex problems, and it's kind of you to say it only cost $160 to bring back to great working condition. But that only assumes your expertise and hours of labor come at no charge. How many hours DID you put into servicing this unit? At local warranty shop work rates, I think a person would likely be ahead to buy a different generator. Unless like you, they love the challenge, have the space and the tools and experience, to make a disaster into a success, as you have here. Before Covid-19 I typically told my projects that I have more money than time to make the repairs. But after Covid, which gave me incentive to finally retire, I look at them with a different eye, thinking I've more time than money to chase after them and make them toe the line. Thank you for showing us how to make a silk purse out of this sow's ear!
Looks like you got yourself a REAL Yamaha powered generator.
That’s a lot of work and tooling to get it going, but I can understand since I too will go to great lengths to get to the finish line with the satisfaction of bringing something back to life haha.
Great video and awesome job getting that “sportsmaha” functional again haha.
Except the cover, crank shaft, head, valves, cam shaft, and connecting rod. It’s maybe half genuine Yamaha now