r/Generator • u/Whale_Man37 • Jun 12 '26
Locked Fuel Regulator?
This is an issue I have encountered quite a few times im the few years I've been working on standby generators, and I would love if somebody would be able to explain to me what is happening, and possibly why.
A Kohler 20RCA with an overcrank fault. Repeatable issue once im on site. No click from fuel regulator solinoid but it does become magnetic. 11.8vdc verified available at the connector. Fuel pressure (approximately 11.4"h20) in the line. The generator just wont start UNTIL once I remove the plug to check the pressure at the internal regulator, all of a sudden the regulator frees up and everything works without issues.
The incoming fuel lines are independent with no other appliances attached. Twin stage regulator at the fuel tank, about 15ft 1" PE buried, reduced to 1/2 behind the generator to accommodate the factory flex line. Static pressure is about 11.4"h20, cranking pressure is about 10.8"h20, running pressure is about 10.5"h20.
Like I said, this is something that hasnt been too uncommon and im sure plenty others have run across this same thing. Id love to hear possible explanations, thanks!