Briggs & Stratton No-Crank on Utility Failure

Generator will not crank at all when a power outage occurs (no click, no attempt to start).

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Dead or disconnected battery, Failed starter solenoid, Faulty start relay in controller, Open neutral or control wiring between ATS and generator

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn controller to OFF and disconnect battery negative before working on starter circuits.

  • Check battery voltage: Measure at the battery posts. Charge or replace the battery if low.
  • Inspect cables: Ensure positive cable to starter and ground cable to frame are tight and free of corrosion.
  • Starter solenoid test: With a meter or test light, verify that the solenoid receives 12 V on the control terminal when a start is commanded (MANUAL mode). If voltage is present but no crank, replace the solenoid.
  • Controller/ATS control wiring: If the unit cranks in MANUAL but not on outage, inspect the low-voltage start signal wiring from the ATS to the controller.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Starter Solenoid
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