Episode 071 - Diagnosing Generator Run Problems Part 1

This episode explores common generator problems and challenges the automatic assumption that fuel is always to blame. Erik Bjornstad outlines a systematic approach to diagnosing generator issues, presenting four key diagnostic steps: checking fuel filters, examining fuel lines, inspecting valves, and looking for additional filters.

The episode emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis to avoid unnecessary expensive solutions like fuel disposal or part replacement.

Special attention is given to detecting microbial contamination through various signs and testing methods. The host stresses that while fuel can be the culprit, other factors should be investigated before reaching that conclusion.

Listen to the Full Episode:

What You'll Learn:

• The systematic approach to diagnosing generator problems
• Four key diagnostic steps for troubleshooting generator issues
• How to identify signs of microbial contamination in fuel systems
• The true costs associated with fuel disposal and system repairs
• Why fuel isn't always the culprit in generator failures
• Methods for testing and confirming microbial contamination
• The importance of proper diagnosis before expensive solutions

Ideas Worth Sharing:

Here are three notable quotes from the podcast episode:

• "The fuel is bad isn't actually the right answer to the problem."

• "If you have evidence of microbial contamination, it's never a question of if it's going to lead to a future problem. It is always a question of when is that going to happen."

• "Most of the generator service technicians who conclude that the condition's due to a fuel problem, they actually don't know that much about fuel, but they'll blame the fuel anyway because it's the easiest thing to do."

Resources Mentioned:

• Bell Performance testing kits
• ASTM D975 specifications
• Erik Bjornstad: LinkedIn

Show Notes:

[00:00:00] - Show introduction and overview
[00:01:00] - Discussion of seasonal fuel challenges
[00:02:00] - Introduction to generator problems and fuel blame
[00:04:00] - Common scenario of generator service technician diagnosis
[00:06:00] - Why technicians often blame fuel problems
[00:08:00] - Cost implications of fuel disposal
[00:12:00] - Diagnostic Step 1: Checking fuel filters
[00:15:00] - Diagnostic Step 2: Checking fuel lines
[00:17:00] - Diagnostic Step 3: Examining valves
[00:18:00] - Diagnostic Step 4: Third filter inspection
[00:20:00] - Discussion of microbial contamination
[00:22:00] - Five signs of microbial growth
[00:24:00] - Testing methods for contamination
[00:26:00] - Preview of part 2
[00:28:00] - Closing remarks and subscription information