Glad that that Ida had an instant buyer for that unit, but I swear the video showed that those holes at the bottom of the valve compartment were still plugged with paper towels when you put the cover back on, no?? This engine reminded me of an old push leaf blower that I had with an 8 horse Briggs. 70s vintage I believe and I bought it used. I ran that thing 2-3 times a year and never did anything for/to it but run the gas low when done and check the oil level before starting. Started on 1-3 pulls every time and ran strong! I was surprised that the voltage came up on your unit when you put the load in it. Good stuff as always and keep em coming!
even if not, crank case pressure buildup would pop one or both out into the valve spring area due to being breather vent ports, probably just cranking it over would.
Jim, Rance here. These older generators are well made and heavy! Require consistant and diligent maintenance. Small price to pay for a reliable machine. Job well done.
Agreed. The build quality on these old generators always amazes me. Built to last. I mean look at that intake system alone. On newer gens its just a square plastic box.
When I was a kid, there were so many 5hp B&S engines laying around that there were no ends to the options you had for a minibike or go kart. Old dudes in my neighborhood would hand them to you just for the joy of passing along their passion of mechanical things to the next generation.
i worked on these gen sets for the forest service. we would shave the heads before reinstalling them. it was fun. they found a bunch in a warehouse under bags of wheat. it was our final exam to fix and get them running, i passed with flying colors.
I have a 3500 watts Homelite from 1989 with the exact same engine. It's loud compared to a honda clone but it runs so well! It has so much mass to it, it does not bog down like the newer engines when applying a heavy load. It start up my compressor and 15 amp circular saw effortlessly, the engine RPM barely changes on startup.
Another win on your score card! What surprised me most is the low, no-load voltage vs the loaded voltage being normal. I can understand the open circuit voltage being 24vdc for the battery.
Those old brigs engines are bulletproof. I had an old used one that never died. Just a little maintenance once a year. Sold it for a newer model five years later.
Love the use of the hoist. First time I have seen that. Had to stop the video and go out to my garage to see if I have a way to install one here. I am still trying to solve the problem of crawling around on the floor to work on things. Decided to put in the hoist as a way to lift a 54 inch mower deck so i can get at the blades. Some of the things that I learn from you have nothing to do with generators or engines. Sometimes its just about learning to work smarter. Thanks.
Well- my first comment got added by magic before I finished it!!! Anyhow, my V50V2 was bought new by a friend's dad, carefully maintained to near-mint, and practically given to me just today. It runs beautifully. I always leave all my 1 and 2 cylinder engines on the compression stroke (1 cylinder at TDC) after use. All valves closed prevents a valve sticking open and seals the bores against the environment. In a 1-cylinder at TDC the rings never pass over an unlubricated surface. Of course, I always fog if stored for more than a couple months
Those flathead Briggs with the magnatron ignition were very good engines, but a little noisy. I had some luck by putting some sticky grease on the keepers to hold them in place while asselblying. I can't remember seeing both types of keepers in the same engine or have forgotten it. Great video, many thanks.
The exhaust valve was really clean. Am thing it was replaced which explains the different style of keepers. Also the head cam off without a fight so thinking someone was in there recently.
I found that making the valve slightly magnetic helps keep those keepers on till you're ready to release the valve springs. I made them slightly magnetic by rubbing the stem against a magnet in one direction (I used a speaker magnet that I use to hold onto the nuts & bolts) It's not strong enough to interfere with the installation work, but strong enough to hold on to the keepers.
That engine design reminds me of those from the late 60s and early 70s. I have a tractor from the 40s to cut grass, it still runs with a little tlc and encouragement. My backyard alone is 55+ acres not including the rest of the farm. It takes a while to cut "all" the grass. I really like these videos, gives an older gentleman lots of new ideas ... Thanks !
I have 2 similar units. 40 year old Briggs. Those carbs had brass floats. Impossible to find now. As others said, loud and gas hogs, but they will run forever.
@@cliffordreynolds1835 They're junk. Anything breaks on it and they are not repairable. They are made better than some others, but they are loaded with irreplaceable parts.
Good morning James. A real master at servicing these older generators. Wonderful job, perfect unit for it's size. Hope that you are ready for the unusual weather up in you area. be safe if the weather get's to bad. Really love to watch you weekly video's.
Great video, years ago I had that exact generator, I gave it to my father in law and he brought it back to Portugal with him and it still runs great to this day. I remember how loud this thing was
Nice genset and great job salvaging her! I have a Monkey Wards version similar to that. Same basic setup and engine model, except I have a 10HP unit that's a beast. Still just a 4KW 120/240 volt head, but open frame. It's got 100's of hours on it. Many years ago, I installed a natural gas fuel kit. Made it dual fuel! I wish I had the electric start kit! That thing is a beast to pull start! The flywheel is just massive. That 1.5gal fuel tank, same as mine! Would run maybe 3 hours 1/2 load or so before going silent. Shame stuff like this just gets tossed in the dump. 😣
I offer the following pull-starting tip as a fan of large-displacement single cylinder motorcycles: Gently pull until you feel the first resistance from compression. This is the compression stroke. Pause briefly and then resume pulling slowly and gently again. Stop immediately as soon as you feel a second bit of resistance. This is due to negative pressure (partial vacuum) caused by the piston moving down in the cylinder with both valves still closed. This would be the power stroke if the engine was running. With recoil starters release the starting handle so that you can do a full pull. Or with old-fashioned rope and pulley starters wind up the extra rope. At this point you have a full turn of the crankshaft to overcome the inertia of the heavy flywheel and generator field rotor before you hit the next compression stroke. Now you are ready to give the starting rope a firm full pull. With this technique I can get many single-cylinder motors to start on the first pull.
It has a "magnetron" decal on the blower housing, that's electronic ignition (no points). It runs so well and looks so cool, you should restore it all.
Nice job! I had kind of forgotten what a PITA those old big block Briggs engines are to service but boy are they reliable and great running machines. That thing will probably still be running 50 years from now. Hope you and your family got by alright during Henri, looks like Ida might impact us next.
Great video James. Read most of the comments. Although some suggest grease on the keepers to keep them in place, I would suggest STP instead. Back in the day it was our engine assembly lube and is a better lube than grease in combustion environment. Ir's so sticky that it keeps the "keepers" in place. Kind Regards, Craig
I just picked up the economy 4000 w model of the same one. It’s a nice unit but takes a healthy pulling arm to start it. The electric starter makes yours much nicer! That manufacturer is still in business not too far from where I live.
@@jcondon1 something else I noticed when I rewatched this, mine was just as touchy to get the high speed jet set right. I had serviced the carb prior, I knew there was no dirt in it and I did finally have success. I had the misfortune of a dirty tank to deal with as well. The voltage behavior was the same on mine, it worked best under some load. I have a video up of it.
@@jcondon1 You inspired me to refurbish an old flat head Suffolk Colt mower engine 75cc that I still had laying around. Must be decades old. No idea until when they still produced them. Surprised to learn it has a Zenith carburator, the same brand as the carb in my Ford Model A
On those flat head engines you can sometimes see the valves through the spark plug hole. I had this problem on a briggs engine. I was able to push the exhaust valve down and then start the engine. No problems after that.
Great job! Ssubscribed to your series. But, I was a machinist fior many years. One the first things they teach you in school is, Never Grind on the side of a grinding wheel! They are not designed for it and could explode under high stress. Just a thought.
Oh I have a similar one that has the same issue, it turned out to be an inlet valve stuck open due to old 15year old fuel. When I got it, it had 3/4 tank of fuel so I topped it up with fresh fuel and it ran fine. How ever the next day it had no compression as the old fuel had gone sticky holding the valve open. Lots of flushing of the fuel tank and brake cleaner down carburettor fixed it and it’s not been a day trouble since.
SWEET!!! Up draft Briggs. There is some great old school mechanics there James. The last one I did I went over 4 th on the exhaust valve but it still ran great. Lapping helps a small amount to bring them back. .
This looks like a well used but well loved unit, owned by someone who cared for it and appreciated it's value as a tool as well as it's monetary value. Personally, these older units are more desirable than a modern equivalent simply for the build quality. Especially when things look like they do in the first 10 mins of the video, looks to always have been dry stored and well maintained & the mods are reasonably well executed for a home-gamer. I'd bet money the tank & carb are spotless and dry, and the oil reasonably clean. TBH I feel the only reason this ended up at the dump would be it's owner passed & their family didn't see the worth in it. Glad it's come your way.
Glad to see it find a home and a use so quickly, hopefully the new owner didn't suffer too badly with the storm & hopefully they appreciate the old unit for what it is and take good care of it.
Awesome older genny. Built like a tank for sure. That's when a Briggs was a Briggs. Not like today's garbage. Love the new lift that debuted during the live stream last night with Ken's Small Engines. Definitely a back saver. For me it was tough to see that genny sell so fast, being spoiled watching your videos I would have liked to see it completed. But that's okay since it's money in your pocket and you're helping someone who needs a great genny. Nice job all around cleaning it up. Looked more like 3 years old instead of 35😁😁. Glad hurricane Henri turned out to be a non event for our area. I'm still down in Delaware and the weather is hot and unbearable humid. Looking forward to your next video. Loved all the ones you released this week. Thanks for your dedication to your side gig. 😁😁👍👍
Thanks Paul. I was a little sad letting this one go early, but the old ones are harder to sell so had to take advantage of the opportunity. Enjoy the reset of your vacation.
Just picked up a newer looking version of this A50 model for $30. Seized engine and the generator notes 6000 peak and 4400 cont. for some reason which is different to what I've found online in a manual. Anyways, time to get to working on the engine since I think the generator is good with low resistance on the windings thankfully. Thanks for sharing!
Hi James I know how much you love the Briggs and Stratton engines nice to see you save this old gene and give it new life It will be good for another 30 years I think
First pull very impressive. I agree to keep it running due diligence will pay off with a good running genset. Thanks for sharing the video with us and congratulations to the guy tat bought it. Ed
@@jcondon1 Are they really? Flathead engines and updraft carburetors are obsolete for a reason. This thing was obsolete when it was brand new. Flatheads hadn't been used in cars for 20+ years when this thing was built. Updrafts hadn't been used since the early '50s.
I would hate for you to think that I'm being "clever", James, but I've rebuilt hundreds of similar engines! Those valve collets are tricky so I sympathise but a smear of thick grease applied to the inside of the collet, before you press it in works wonders. Always worked for me working on side valve engines from the '20's, 30's, 40's 50's . I'm over twice the age of that generator/engine so I learned a few tricks back then! 🤔😉😉🏴
I have a welding machine with the 16hp version of that engine. I need to do a valve job on it as well for low compression. For the fuel line that runs next to cylinder fins, I used a piece of copper tubing so my rubber hose doesn't melt or get chafed. Edit: "voltmaster" is an awesome name for a generator! I wonder what's better... voltmaster or ampmaster... maybe best of both worlds and go for wattmaster?
If I was given the choice between buying this, and today's brand new generator of the same size, even for the same price, I would pick this hands down. Look at this beauty! The only plastic part is the crank handle! The engineers who designed this, also designed tanks? Even the paint has held up beautifully! There's a reason they don't build things like this anymore. It lasts too long and bad for business. I would've love to see the guts of the carb. Me so sad :(
@@jcondon1 Just watched the one from May/2020 As I suspected, even the float bowl was not plastic! This generator is a keeper and can be repaired indefinitely. I'll keep my eye out for one of these around Ottawa Ontario. Me so happy :)
Hi James. 12 years old, I brought home an old lawnmower from the trash. Couple hours later I was cutting the front lawn with it. The neighbor said my husband said it would never run again. That began my lawnmower, repair business eventually Ford master tech. Love watching your show. I have an old generator with that motor on it. When you plug something into the generator, the motor speeds up and won’t quit speeding up. Is there a governor that sticks?
My father used to do the stuff 45 years ago small engines why is it been 45 years my father passed away 32 years ago from cancer lung cancer and he did it for a good long time thanks from 1977 to 1983
very handsome sturdy machine built for ease of servicing and longevity....the flathead design is so functional and straightforward .....the modern machines often look like deranged bird nests compared to the spare simplicity of this machine
Underneath that recoil assembly is the starter clutch which is what you hooked the drill to and in the center of that there is a hole. Next time you have one of these and it's taken apart make sure you spray some lube in that center hole. These particular starter clutches are prone to failing and will spit the rope out and squeal like a banshee when the starter clutch sticks.
To add to this there should also be a little felt disk that sits directly on to of the crankshaft inside the driver, it's designed to hold the light weight oil that is applied through the little hole. I actually seen the square drive part seized to the crank due to lack of lubrication.
Hello James, nice work again. I am curious about your comment about making sure it would work in case the storm came. I hope you were getting it ready for someone in need and that you kept one of the 10,000 watt generators for your own home. People have to understand that these things are for more than just hurricanes, you can lose power for just about anything including a car hitting a power pole.
I always keep an extra generator for backup in case mine goes belly up or a neighbor needs one. For this generator, wanted to get it back together 100% before looking to enhance it. Ended up selling it to someone who wanted one in preparation for the hurricane.
In the early fiftys we where using a 3 HP briggs and stratton for washing machines. At that time ther whare places without electricity,thats why we place a B/SI have a friend who still have that little motor and its still running.
I love the name VoltMaster! Like a superhero. In fact, I think James Condon should from here on out be called Doctor VoltMaster! ;) Very nice. Love these older units.
A neighbor gave me the same gen set but with an "International Diesel" alternator on it. 3000W. It was bough after a hurricane in 1985 and used only a few short times. No hours on it really. I fully restored it and had it running great. That updraft carb was terrible though. Especially the way the bottom screw holds it to that mount. I always had fuel leaks, and/or sucking air. Even with new seals. It was a pig to start, ran like a pig, it was loud & plowed through fuel. I really got it running just to see if I could, and it was more of a novelty. Mine had a magneto, too, just like yours. Mine didn't have electric start though. Well done video!!!
@@alanfryer5670 I had the same problem with fuel leaking from that bottom hole, when running. Even with a new seal. Poor design. The gen set was lost to a salt water flood, less than a year after I restored it, so I never got that fuel leak figured out
I have an old one very similar to this. Bought it probably 15 years ago now from Government auction in a lot and never really saw the value in it. Now since the cost of just breathing has doubled, I might dig this dinosaur out of the dust bunnies and have a closer look and a second thought. Cheers 🍻
Jim, I have an 8 horse like this, and it has a gear reduction on it. The carb was robbed before I got it, so it will need that. I'll look online. I prefer OEM, but could buse an aftermarket one if push comes to shove.
I’m checking out a very similar Voltmaster generator right now: Model A50. 8HP Briggs/Stratton engine dated 1993. It is almost working. It may need a carburetor cleaning and the two 20A circuit breakers appear to be missing. There are 2 empty holes for them on the generator end cover. I wonder if their securing nuts loosened up and fell off due to engine vibration? Perhaps the circuit breakers are still there, inside the end cover?
not really surprising that the main issue was the exhaust valve clearance. it is something you almost always have to check with flat heads. it is very common to see on the Tecumseh snowblower engines. usually they will get so bad that the muffler glows red and if bad enough you can see it glow during the day time.
On the "top" of the recoil housing there'll be some numbers stamped. One of them should be a date code, telling you at least to the month that the engine was made. I know this from my lawn mower, made in June of 1978 - and still going strong! B&S certainly made reliable machines.
I just ordered the same spring compressor to replace the intake valve on my lawnmower. May end up doing a valve job on my generator even though it does run good
Would love for you to say what you're using when you're working. For example, what was the fluid you sprayed on the top of the cylinder to de-carbon it? What was the attachment you used to scrub the cylinder and valves? Those details are what make the video as useful as possible. Really do enjoy your videos and learn a lot. Thanks.
It is useful information. I usually just list everything used down in the description rather then calling out part numbers and product names in the video. I used WD40 on the top of the piston. The attachment was a 3M plastic bristle brush. Links in the description and in my web store. www.amazon.com/shop/jamescondon
Very suspicious,... no sound when introducing the collets,... I suspect your inner sailor took over your vocal chords. As always a real pleasure James.
A quality machine beautifully restored James, good for another 10 years before it needs a service. Did I spy a new overhead hoist in the shop? Next it will be a nice workbench and stool so you can work on the gennies at eye level and save your back.
I have that same generator minus the electric start. I have never had any real issues with it other than carberator clean every year or rebuild depends on how mad I get at it. Mine also without a load only puts out 100 or so volts, but put a real load on it and it jumps to the correct output. I keep threatening to buy a new one when it hard starts. But then it pops over and runs like a champ when I need it, so have yet to go get a new one.
How about that. I am presently working to get my old B&S 8 HP snowblower engine to work. From what I see it is the exact same engine. Mine was manufactured in 1967. I just have to adjust the valves and I think I can get it running again. It's not going to be reused , just trying to learn about how small engines work. Very interesting video.
Nice! I have the exact same generator, mine was made in 1986. It has a plastic fuel tank, it finally deteriorated and I had to order a new one today. I replaced the original muffler with the bolt on "super low tone" version, not sure if it will make any difference or not yet.
Do you know where I could find the governor adjustment info for an engine like this? I have a Briggs 190412-1709-01 with a 1978 date code on a 4000W generator. The speed is correct both with and without a load, but the governor reacts a bit too slowly compared to the one in this video.
The only way to increase the sensitivity (reaction time) is to move the governor rod to another hole down on the governor arm closer to the governor shaft. Your model does not appear to have any other holes. You could drill one, but just note that too close and the engine will surge. So it is trial and error and may not be possible depending on your engine.
@@jcondon1 Hmm, I'm probably thinking of my Homelite LR4400 with the cast iron sleeve type Briggs. That one does have the multiple spring holes. The older generator is a Homelite E4000-1. The only manuals I've found so far are just a couple parts lists. It's been kinda fun to work on though.
Glad that that Ida had an instant buyer for that unit, but I swear the video showed that those holes at the bottom of the valve compartment were still plugged with paper towels when you put the cover back on, no?? This engine reminded me of an old push leaf blower that I had with an 8 horse Briggs. 70s vintage I believe and I bought it used. I ran that thing 2-3 times a year and never did anything for/to it but run the gas low when done and check the oil level before starting. Started on 1-3 pulls every time and ran strong! I was surprised that the voltage came up on your unit when you put the load in it. Good stuff as always and keep em coming!
Everyone is making me paranoid on this. Went back and found proof that the plugs where removed. ua-cam.com/video/3MXoFWSvHVw/v-deo.html
@@jcondon1 Awesome! Makes me feel better too, man. Thanks for confirming. 👍
@@jcondon1 If you look at 23.59 when the valve cover goes on you'll see the plugs are removed.
even if not, crank case pressure buildup would pop one or both out into the valve spring area due to being breather vent ports, probably just cranking it over would.
Wish I knew about it in time
Jim, Rance here. These older generators are well made and heavy! Require consistant and diligent maintenance. Small price to pay for a reliable machine. Job well done.
Totally agree.
Agreed. The build quality on these old generators always amazes me. Built to last. I mean look at that intake system alone. On newer gens its just a square plastic box.
This is how Briggs got it’s reputation. 30 year old beast ready to run.
When I was a kid, there were so many 5hp B&S engines laying around that there were no ends to the options you had for a minibike or go kart. Old dudes in my neighborhood would hand them to you just for the joy of passing along their passion of mechanical things to the next generation.
i worked on these gen sets for the forest service. we would shave the heads before reinstalling them. it was fun. they found a bunch in a warehouse under bags of wheat. it was our final exam to fix and get them running, i passed with flying colors.
Nice
I have a 3500 watts Homelite from 1989 with the exact same engine. It's loud compared to a honda clone but it runs so well! It has so much mass to it, it does not bog down like the newer engines when applying a heavy load. It start up my compressor and 15 amp circular saw effortlessly, the engine RPM barely changes on startup.
You added a fuel filter. Color matches perfectly, like it is an original part. (40:13)
Another win on your score card! What surprised me most is the low, no-load voltage vs the loaded voltage being normal. I can understand the open circuit voltage being 24vdc for the battery.
Those old brigs engines are bulletproof. I had an old used one that never died. Just a little maintenance once a year. Sold it for a newer model five years later.
its a shame that same cannot be said about newer Briggs engines
Love the use of the hoist. First time I have seen that. Had to stop the video and go out to my garage to see if I have a way to install one here. I am still trying to solve the problem of crawling around on the floor to work on things. Decided to put in the hoist as a way to lift a 54 inch mower deck so i can get at the blades. Some of the things that I learn from you have nothing to do with generators or engines. Sometimes its just about learning to work smarter. Thanks.
Well- my first comment got added by magic before I finished it!!! Anyhow, my V50V2 was bought new by a friend's dad, carefully maintained to near-mint, and practically given to me just today. It runs beautifully. I always leave all my 1 and 2 cylinder engines on the compression stroke (1 cylinder at TDC) after use. All valves closed prevents a valve sticking open and seals the bores against the environment. In a 1-cylinder at TDC the rings never pass over an unlubricated surface. Of course, I always fog if stored for more than a couple months
Pretty cool seeing an old generator, those old Briggs flat head engines are great and will run forever if taken care of, nice work James!
Those flathead Briggs with the magnatron ignition were very good engines, but a little noisy. I had some luck by putting some sticky grease on the keepers to hold them in place while asselblying. I can't remember seeing both types of keepers in the same engine or have forgotten it. Great video, many thanks.
The exhaust valve was really clean. Am thing it was replaced which explains the different style of keepers. Also the head cam off without a fight so thinking someone was in there recently.
I found that making the valve slightly magnetic helps keep those keepers on till you're ready to release the valve springs. I made them slightly magnetic by rubbing the stem against a magnet in one direction (I used a speaker magnet that I use to hold onto the nuts & bolts) It's not strong enough to interfere with the installation work, but strong enough to hold on to the keepers.
Thanks, great tip.
@@jcondon1 no prob
Yep I got a tool for that and use it mostly on screwdrivers
That engine design reminds me of those from the late 60s and early 70s. I have a tractor from the 40s to cut grass, it still runs with a little tlc and encouragement. My backyard alone is 55+ acres not including the rest of the farm. It takes a while to cut "all" the grass. I really like these videos, gives an older gentleman lots of new ideas ... Thanks !
I have 2 similar units. 40 year old Briggs. Those carbs had brass floats. Impossible to find now. As others said, loud and gas hogs, but they will run forever.
I have one and you are right about it
For me, the age is a plus. It is most likely built better than anything you can buy, at least in the consumer market today.
Honda might be almost as good. They still have a reputation of reliability.
@@cliffordreynolds1835 They're junk. Anything breaks on it and they are not repairable. They are made better than some others, but they are loaded with irreplaceable parts.
Good morning James. A real master at servicing these older generators. Wonderful job, perfect unit for it's size. Hope that you are ready for the unusual weather up in you area. be safe if the weather get's to bad. Really love to watch you weekly video's.
Great video, years ago I had that exact generator, I gave it to my father in law and he brought it back to Portugal with him and it still runs great to this day. I remember how loud this thing was
It is loud, but in a good way.
Nice genset and great job salvaging her! I have a Monkey Wards version similar to that. Same basic setup and engine model, except I have a 10HP unit that's a beast. Still just a 4KW 120/240 volt head, but open frame. It's got 100's of hours on it. Many years ago, I installed a natural gas fuel kit. Made it dual fuel! I wish I had the electric start kit! That thing is a beast to pull start! The flywheel is just massive. That 1.5gal fuel tank, same as mine! Would run maybe 3 hours 1/2 load or so before going silent. Shame stuff like this just gets tossed in the dump. 😣
It is hard to pull the engine over but it runs well and is built well.
I offer the following pull-starting tip as a fan of large-displacement single cylinder motorcycles: Gently pull until you feel the first resistance from compression. This is the compression stroke. Pause briefly and then resume pulling slowly and gently again. Stop immediately as soon as you feel a second bit of resistance. This is due to negative pressure (partial vacuum) caused by the piston moving down in the cylinder with both valves still closed. This would be the power stroke if the engine was running. With recoil starters release the starting handle so that you can do a full pull. Or with old-fashioned rope and pulley starters wind up the extra rope. At this point you have a full turn of the crankshaft to overcome the inertia of the heavy flywheel and generator field rotor before you hit the next compression stroke. Now you are ready to give the starting rope a firm full pull. With this technique I can get many single-cylinder motors to start on the first pull.
I was concerned about the low voltage condition but this machine really came around, nice job James
It has a "magnetron" decal on the blower housing, that's electronic ignition (no points). It runs so well and looks so cool, you should restore it all.
Nice job! I had kind of forgotten what a PITA those old big block Briggs engines are to service but boy are they reliable and great running machines. That thing will probably still be running 50 years from now. Hope you and your family got by alright during Henri, looks like Ida might impact us next.
Henri was a Dud. Sounds like you might have a little more excitement with Ida. Stay safe.
Great video James. Read most of the comments. Although some suggest grease on the keepers to keep them in place, I would suggest STP instead. Back in the day it was our engine assembly lube and is a better lube than grease in combustion environment. Ir's so sticky that it keeps the "keepers" in place. Kind Regards, Craig
I just picked up the economy 4000 w model of the same one. It’s a nice unit but takes a healthy pulling arm to start it. The electric starter makes yours much nicer! That manufacturer is still in business not too far from where I live.
It does require some muscle to pull these over with the rope.
@@jcondon1 something else I noticed when I rewatched this, mine was just as touchy to get the high speed jet set right. I had serviced the carb prior, I knew there was no dirt in it and I did finally have success. I had the misfortune of a dirty tank to deal with as well. The voltage behavior was the same on mine, it worked best under some load. I have a video up of it.
Ever since I own a 1929 Ford Model A. I've had a weak spot for flat head engines. this one runs lovely! Better than my car currently I must say
Same here. They are solid and reliable engines.
@@jcondon1 You inspired me to refurbish an old flat head Suffolk Colt mower engine 75cc that I still had laying around. Must be decades old. No idea until when they still produced them.
Surprised to learn it has a Zenith carburator, the same brand as the carb in my Ford Model A
Nice looking classic up draft Briggs and stratton .L Head engine. Great to see it has spark which means it has solid state ignition 😄👍
Was surprised it had spark. Assumed 87 would be points.
@@jcondon1 I think late 70s or early 80s was generally when Briggs transitioned.
On those flat head engines you can sometimes see the valves through the spark plug hole. I had this problem on a briggs engine. I was able to push the exhaust valve down and then start the engine. No problems after that.
I love the care and attention to detail that you demonstrate on these videos. First class!
We have one of these old generators at the cabin. It has been a workhorse but it is LOUD.
thats incredible, i found a similar 1992 coleman powermate, needed carb cleaned, and well all cleaned, sold it for $275.
I've been missing TOT but you fill the void nicely! Great job once again!!
It has been a while since I have seen one of those old style Briggs engines. I love the classic kill switch, which always works.
Great job! Ssubscribed to your series. But, I was a machinist fior many years. One the first things they teach you in school is, Never Grind on the side of a grinding wheel! They are not designed for it and could explode under high stress. Just a thought.
Doc., that antique looks and runs like a new one, great find.
Oh I have a similar one that has the same issue, it turned out to be an inlet valve stuck open due to old 15year old fuel. When I got it, it had 3/4 tank of fuel so I topped it up with fresh fuel and it ran fine. How ever the next day it had no compression as the old fuel had gone sticky holding the valve open. Lots of flushing of the fuel tank and brake cleaner down carburettor fixed it and it’s not been a day trouble since.
SWEET!!! Up draft Briggs. There is some great old school mechanics there James. The last one I did I went over 4 th on the exhaust valve but it still ran great. Lapping helps a small amount to bring them back. .
Thanks Bruce. I obsess a little trying to get the clearance exact. But they usually run just fine when in the ball park. That engine sure ran well.
I recommend a KD Tools valve keeper inserter for these flathead style valve keepers. It's a treat and can be found used for about $10.
Hi,
A little dab of grease on the keepers helps to hold them in place.
Thank you for taking the time to share...
Good job James, for me that would have been a keeper, lovely old engine, bomb proof.
that is the model i have. it has been a great gen with an occasional carb clean and a diode replacement in the head
Lots of those old engines over here. They either use thick grease or a magnet on the valve to get those keepers to stick.
I like the magnet idea. Grease works well.
This looks like a well used but well loved unit, owned by someone who cared for it and appreciated it's value as a tool as well as it's monetary value. Personally, these older units are more desirable than a modern equivalent simply for the build quality. Especially when things look like they do in the first 10 mins of the video, looks to always have been dry stored and well maintained & the mods are reasonably well executed for a home-gamer. I'd bet money the tank & carb are spotless and dry, and the oil reasonably clean. TBH I feel the only reason this ended up at the dump would be it's owner passed & their family didn't see the worth in it. Glad it's come your way.
Ohh no, 10.50 are they the valves one has to grind to correct clearance? Ugh, not the best arrangement ever...
Glad to see it find a home and a use so quickly, hopefully the new owner didn't suffer too badly with the storm & hopefully they appreciate the old unit for what it is and take good care of it.
It was a well cared for machine. It almost looked like someone replaced the exhaust valve given how clean it was but did not set the clearance.
Nice find James, only a head gasket and labor. Not bad😊
Awesome older genny. Built like a tank for sure. That's when a Briggs was a Briggs. Not like today's garbage. Love the new lift that debuted during the live stream last night with Ken's Small Engines. Definitely a back saver. For me it was tough to see that genny sell so fast, being spoiled watching your videos I would have liked to see it completed. But that's okay since it's money in your pocket and you're helping someone who needs a great genny. Nice job all around cleaning it up. Looked more like 3 years old instead of 35😁😁. Glad hurricane Henri turned out to be a non event for our area. I'm still down in Delaware and the weather is hot and unbearable humid. Looking forward to your next video. Loved all the ones you released this week. Thanks for your dedication to your side gig. 😁😁👍👍
Thanks Paul. I was a little sad letting this one go early, but the old ones are harder to sell so had to take advantage of the opportunity. Enjoy the reset of your vacation.
@@jcondon1 Totally agree and thank you.😁
Just picked up a newer looking version of this A50 model for $30. Seized engine and the generator notes 6000 peak and 4400 cont. for some reason which is different to what I've found online in a manual. Anyways, time to get to working on the engine since I think the generator is good with low resistance on the windings thankfully. Thanks for sharing!
Hi James I know how much you love the Briggs and Stratton engines nice to see you save this old gene and give it new life It will be good for another 30 years I think
I hope so. Someone really took good care of this one.
For those that don’t know the word Magnetron on the shroud would confirm a no-points ignition.
Missed that detail. Thanks Ken.
And the literal translation is magnet and transistor.
Also for those that don't know, Megatron is an evil Decepticon.
@@esqueue Robots in disguise!
What a nice classic generator. Made in America and ready for decades of use.
First pull very impressive. I agree to keep it running due diligence will pay off with a good running genset. Thanks for sharing the video with us and congratulations to the guy tat bought it. Ed
He was very happy to get an older model generator in this condition. He knew they are build better.
@@jcondon1 Are they really? Flathead engines and updraft carburetors are obsolete for a reason. This thing was obsolete when it was brand new. Flatheads hadn't been used in cars for 20+ years when this thing was built. Updrafts hadn't been used since the early '50s.
It looks like they took a little rascals go kart and made it the frame!! Love the lift, they are handy!
Do you know what they call that one slot-type valve spring keeper, please? I thought the same about that frame, totally kid-engineered.
I would hate for you to think that I'm being "clever", James, but I've rebuilt hundreds of similar engines! Those valve collets are tricky so I sympathise but a smear of thick grease applied to the inside of the collet, before you press it in works wonders. Always worked for me working on side valve engines from the '20's, 30's, 40's 50's . I'm over twice the age of that generator/engine so I learned a few tricks back then! 🤔😉😉🏴
Thanks. Not sure what I was thinking tried using sticky assembly lube this time. Did not work so well.
that would be a generator i would be proud to own
I have a welding machine with the 16hp version of that engine. I need to do a valve job on it as well for low compression. For the fuel line that runs next to cylinder fins, I used a piece of copper tubing so my rubber hose doesn't melt or get chafed. Edit: "voltmaster" is an awesome name for a generator! I wonder what's better... voltmaster or ampmaster... maybe best of both worlds and go for wattmaster?
Actually looks like a decent generator judging from the build . Worth repairing.
If I was given the choice between buying this, and today's brand new generator of the same size, even for the same price, I would pick this hands down.
Look at this beauty! The only plastic part is the crank handle! The engineers who designed this, also designed tanks? Even the paint has held up beautifully!
There's a reason they don't build things like this anymore. It lasts too long and bad for business.
I would've love to see the guts of the carb. Me so sad :(
I agree. This one was built to last. If you check out my Winco videos you will see the inside of this type of carb.
@@jcondon1 Just watched the one from May/2020
As I suspected, even the float bowl was not plastic!
This generator is a keeper and can be repaired indefinitely.
I'll keep my eye out for one of these around Ottawa Ontario. Me so happy :)
Today, at the end of the video, we saw what it's really all about.
Thanks for ALL you do James
Great job of getting this up and running. Hope the storm goes someplace else for you. Thanks for the video.
Thanks 👍
Hi James. 12 years old, I brought home an old lawnmower from the trash. Couple hours later I was cutting the front lawn with it. The neighbor said my husband said it would never run again. That began my lawnmower, repair business eventually Ford master tech. Love watching your show. I have an old generator with that motor on it. When you plug something into the generator, the motor speeds up and won’t quit speeding up. Is there a governor that sticks?
That's my favorite type of engine by Briggs and Stratton
My father used to do the stuff 45 years ago small engines why is it been 45 years my father passed away 32 years ago from cancer lung cancer and he did it for a good long time thanks from 1977 to 1983
Great program last night, I love these old flat heads
Thanks
Looks like you got that one fixed up just in time James ! ENJOYED..
very handsome sturdy machine built for ease of servicing and longevity....the flathead design is so functional and straightforward .....the modern machines often look like deranged bird nests compared to the spare simplicity of this machine
I love those old engines. Real workhorses.
Underneath that recoil assembly is the starter clutch which is what you hooked the drill to and in the center of that there is a hole. Next time you have one of these and it's taken apart make sure you spray some lube in that center hole. These particular starter clutches are prone to failing and will spit the rope out and squeal like a banshee when the starter clutch sticks.
Good point. This one was working well, but should done it when in there.
To add to this there should also be a little felt disk that sits directly on to of the crankshaft inside the driver, it's designed to hold the light weight oil that is applied through the little hole.
I actually seen the square drive part seized to the crank due to lack of lubrication.
I use wd40 silicone spray
Those old flat head motors are pretty tough in my experience. Tecumseh Snow King being the best. Glad it was a straightforward fix.
Hello James, nice work again. I am curious about your comment about making sure it would work in case the storm came. I hope you were getting it ready for someone in need and that you kept one of the 10,000 watt generators for your own home. People have to understand that these things are for more than just hurricanes, you can lose power for just about anything including a car hitting a power pole.
I always keep an extra generator for backup in case mine goes belly up or a neighbor needs one. For this generator, wanted to get it back together 100% before looking to enhance it. Ended up selling it to someone who wanted one in preparation for the hurricane.
I lose power here in southern ohio from high winds and ice storms
In the early fiftys we where using a 3 HP briggs and stratton for washing machines. At that time ther whare places without electricity,thats why we place a B/SI have a friend who still have that little motor and its still running.
I love the name VoltMaster! Like a superhero. In fact, I think James Condon should from here on out be called Doctor VoltMaster! ;) Very nice. Love these older units.
It is a good name.
Easy way to do the exhaust valve keepers is to apply grease to the them to act as 'glue' and they are very easy to get on the valve shaft.
Now I see how you find so many generators, nice job
Very nice classic generator, and some happy customers and viewers ; )
A neighbor gave me the same gen set but with an "International Diesel" alternator on it. 3000W. It was bough after a hurricane in 1985 and used only a few short times. No hours on it really. I fully restored it and had it running great. That updraft carb was terrible though. Especially the way the bottom screw holds it to that mount. I always had fuel leaks, and/or sucking air. Even with new seals. It was a pig to start, ran like a pig, it was loud & plowed through fuel. I really got it running just to see if I could, and it was more of a novelty. Mine had a magneto, too, just like yours. Mine didn't have electric start though. Well done video!!!
How did you fix the leak? I have the same carb problem, leaks fuel. Online I have seen comments that this is a common problem.
@@alanfryer5670 I had the same problem with fuel leaking from that bottom hole, when running. Even with a new seal. Poor design. The gen set was lost to a salt water flood, less than a year after I restored it, so I never got that fuel leak figured out
I have an old one very similar to this. Bought it probably 15 years ago now from Government auction in a lot and never really saw the value in it. Now since the cost of just breathing has doubled, I might dig this dinosaur out of the dust bunnies and have a closer look and a second thought. Cheers 🍻
Great vid. Was surprised a bit on 24 v out of charging system.
Jim, I have an 8 horse like this, and it has a gear reduction on it. The carb was robbed before I got it, so it will need that. I'll look online. I prefer OEM, but could buse an aftermarket one if push comes to shove.
I’m checking out a very similar Voltmaster generator right now: Model A50. 8HP Briggs/Stratton engine dated 1993. It is almost working. It may need a carburetor cleaning and the two 20A circuit breakers appear to be missing. There are 2 empty holes for them on the generator end cover. I wonder if their securing nuts loosened up and fell off due to engine vibration? Perhaps the circuit breakers are still there, inside the end cover?
not really surprising that the main issue was the exhaust valve clearance. it is something you almost always have to check with flat heads. it is very common to see on the Tecumseh snowblower engines. usually they will get so bad that the muffler glows red and if bad enough you can see it glow during the day time.
Great video I’ve got one of these types of generators with a Gillette 240 volt generator attached to a 5 horse Briggs . Great machine
Another great job and video! That small fuel tank will need to be checked often to be sure the genset doesn’t run out of fuel.
On the "top" of the recoil housing there'll be some numbers stamped. One of them should be a date code, telling you at least to the month that the engine was made. I know this from my lawn mower, made in June of 1978 - and still going strong! B&S certainly made reliable machines.
I just ordered the same spring compressor to replace the intake valve on my lawnmower. May end up doing a valve job on my generator even though it does run good
Would love for you to say what you're using when you're working. For example, what was the fluid you sprayed on the top of the cylinder to de-carbon it? What was the attachment you used to scrub the cylinder and valves? Those details are what make the video as useful as possible. Really do enjoy your videos and learn a lot. Thanks.
It is useful information. I usually just list everything used down in the description rather then calling out part numbers and product names in the video. I used WD40 on the top of the piston. The attachment was a 3M plastic bristle brush. Links in the description and in my web store. www.amazon.com/shop/jamescondon
The products used here have been mentioned in past videos, as an FYI.
That's a nice generator, no cheap plastic.
Cool old genny! Although it being different colors would drive me nuts lol.
Very suspicious,... no sound when introducing the collets,... I suspect your inner sailor took over your vocal chords.
As always a real pleasure James.
I really like that drill scrubber tool you have!
A quality machine beautifully restored James, good for another 10 years before it needs a service. Did I spy a new overhead hoist in the shop? Next it will be a nice workbench and stool so you can work on the gennies at eye level and save your back.
Good job James........YOUR skill is going to be even MORE VALUABLE in the near future 👍
if he can survive the chaos first.
@@king49334 .......I think he WILL!!....HIS MIND IS " right ".......
I have that same generator minus the electric start. I have never had any real issues with it other than carberator clean every year or rebuild depends on how mad I get at it. Mine also without a load only puts out 100 or so volts, but put a real load on it and it jumps to the correct output. I keep threatening to buy a new one when it hard starts. But then it pops over and runs like a champ when I need it, so have yet to go get a new one.
Those briggs engines never die, Glad on the later models they did away with the updraft carb.
Best channel on youtube in my opinion
What a classic old generator in great shape. Another save!
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✅✅✅✅✅
How about that. I am presently working to get my old B&S 8 HP snowblower engine to work. From what I see it is the exact same engine. Mine was manufactured in 1967. I just have to adjust the valves and I think I can get it running again. It's not going to be reused , just trying to learn about how small engines work. Very interesting video.
Nice! I have the exact same generator, mine was made in 1986. It has a plastic fuel tank, it finally deteriorated and I had to order a new one today. I replaced the original muffler with the bolt on "super low tone" version, not sure if it will make any difference or not yet.
Nice video! I have a near-mint V50V2 bought by a friend's dad
Always interesting James thanks for sharing 🦘🇦🇺👍
Do you know where I could find the governor adjustment info for an engine like this? I have a Briggs 190412-1709-01 with a 1978 date code on a 4000W generator. The speed is correct both with and without a load, but the governor reacts a bit too slowly compared to the one in this video.
The only way to increase the sensitivity (reaction time) is to move the governor rod to another hole down on the governor arm closer to the governor shaft. Your model does not appear to have any other holes. You could drill one, but just note that too close and the engine will surge. So it is trial and error and may not be possible depending on your engine.
@@jcondon1 Hmm, I'm probably thinking of my Homelite LR4400 with the cast iron sleeve type Briggs. That one does have the multiple spring holes.
The older generator is a Homelite E4000-1. The only manuals I've found so far are just a couple parts lists. It's been kinda fun to work on though.
Thanks for the vid James. Must have missed this one first time round.
There is a part 2
@@jcondon1 Thanks for letting me know James.