Use this guide to troubleshoot common starting, electric-start, power-output, receptacle, and propane-related issues with the Power Joe SJG4100LP Portable Propane Generator.
Carbon monoxide danger: Operate the generator outdoors only and at least 20 ft away from windows, doors, and vents. Your home or wind conditions may require additional distance.
Never operate the generator inside a home, garage, crawlspace, or other enclosed or partly enclosed area, even if doors or windows are open. Always use a battery-powered or battery-backup carbon monoxide alarm in the home.
Watch the Start-Up Guide
Review the start-up video for a visual walkthrough before operating the generator.
Having trouble viewing the video? Watch the Power Joe Start-Up Guide on YouTube.
Before starting, place the generator on a flat, firm surface, check the engine lubricant level, confirm the propane cylinder and hose are properly connected, and make sure no electrical loads are connected.
Troubleshooting
Quick Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Possible Cause | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | Low lubricant level, faulty or fouled spark plug, empty propane cylinder, choke in RUN position, or cold engine. | Check the lubricant level, refill or replace the propane cylinder, move the choke to START, and inspect or replace the spark plug if needed. If the engine is too cold, move the generator to a warmer location for starting. |
| Engine is hard to start | Weak spark at the spark plug. | Replace the spark plug or have the generator serviced by a qualified service center. |
| Engine lacks power | Clogged air filter, excessive electrical load, or clogged spark arrestor. | Clean or replace the air filter, reduce the load, or clean the spark arrestor. |
| Electric start does not work | Engine switch is OFF or the 24V battery is not charged. | Turn the engine switch ON and charge the battery. Recoil start may be used if the battery requires charging. |
| AC receptacle does not work | AC circuit breaker is tripped or the connected item is defective. | Reset the AC circuit breaker or test another device. |
| Propane odor | Propane cylinder valve is open or the hose or valve may be leaking. | Close the cylinder valve immediately and inspect the hose, valve, and connections. |
| Gas leak detected | Improper installation, loose connections, rust, or damage. | Close the cylinder valve and correct the connection. Do not operate the generator while a leak is present. |
| Regulator makes a humming noise | The propane cylinder valve may have been opened too quickly. | Turn off the generator, close the cylinder valve, then reopen the valve slowly. |
Engine Will Not Start
Follow these checks before attempting another start.
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Check the Engine Lubricant Level
Place the generator on a stable, level surface. Remove the oil cap/dipstick, wipe it clean, re-seat it without threading it in, then remove it again.
The lubricant level should be between the L and H marks.
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Add Lubricant If Needed
If the level is low, add a 4-stroke motor lubricant that meets the specifications in the operator's manual.
The engine uses a low-oil shutoff system and will not restart until an appropriate lubricant level is restored.
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Check the Propane Supply
Confirm that the propane cylinder is not empty and is securely positioned in the onboard cylinder bracket.
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Check the Propane Hose Connection
Make sure the propane connecting hose is securely attached to the generator and propane cylinder.
The cylinder coupler should be centered and tightened by hand. Do not use tools on the cylinder coupler.
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Open the Propane Cylinder Valve Slowly
Open the cylinder valve completely, but open it slowly. Opening the valve too quickly can cause regulator noise.
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Set the Choke to START
For a cold engine, move the choke lever all the way to the START position.
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Disconnect Electrical Loads
Make sure nothing is plugged into the generator before starting the engine.
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Start the Generator
For electric start, install the charged 24V IONMAX battery, place the engine switch in the ON position, then use the electric-start control.
If the battery requires charging, the generator can also be started using the recoil grip.
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Move the Choke to RUN
After the engine has run for approximately 15–30 seconds, move the choke lever all the way to the RUN position.
Cold-weather starting: If the engine is too cold to start, move the generator to a warmer location for starting, then move it to the proper outdoor operating location before use.
Electric Start Is Not Working
The SJG4100LP can be started using the included 24V IONMAX lithium-ion battery or by recoil start.
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Check the Engine Switch
Make sure the engine switch is in the ON position.
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Check the Battery Charge
Press the battery charge-level button and check the battery indicator lights.
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Charge the Battery If Needed
Use the compatible 24V IONMAX charger supplied for the battery. The operator's manual states that the included battery takes approximately 5 hours to charge.
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Use Recoil Start If Necessary
If the battery requires charging, use the recoil-start procedure to start the generator.
The supplied charger does not automatically shut off when charging is complete. Unplug the charger when all three battery LEDs are illuminated.
Engine Lacks Power
The SJG4100LP provides up to 4100 starting watts and 3300 running watts. Do not exceed the generator's available wattage.
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Reduce the Connected Load
Disconnect unnecessary devices and make sure the total running and starting wattage requirements are within the generator's capacity.
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Add Loads One at a Time
Start the generator with nothing connected and let the engine warm up with no load for 2–3 minutes.
Connect the largest load first. Allow the generator output to stabilize before adding another load.
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Check the Air Filter
A clogged air-filter element can reduce engine power. Inspect the filter and clean or replace it as directed in the operator's manual.
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Check the Spark Arrestor
Inspect the spark-arrestor screen and remove carbon deposits with a brush as needed.
AC Receptacle Does Not Work
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Disconnect the Device
Unplug the connected appliance or device.
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Check the AC Circuit Breaker
If the AC circuit breaker has tripped, reset it.
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Test Another Device
Connect another known-working device to determine whether the issue is with the generator receptacle or the original device.
Do not continue using damaged plugs, cords, receptacles, or connected electrical equipment.
Propane Smell or Gas Leak
If you smell propane gas, shut off the propane supply at the cylinder immediately.
If the odor continues, stay away from the generator and contact your propane gas supplier or fire department.
How to Perform the Connection Leak Test
Perform the leakage test before each use and whenever the propane cylinder is replaced.
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Prepare the Leak-Test Solution
Mix 1 part liquid dish soap with 3 parts water.
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Apply the Solution
With the cylinder connected to the hose, apply several drops of the solution to the connections along the hose, regulator, and cylinder.
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Open the Cylinder Valve
Open the propane cylinder valve and inspect the connections for bubbles.
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Check the Result
If no bubbles appear, the connection is secure.
If bubbles appear, close the cylinder valve, loosen and re-tighten the connection, then test it again.
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Stop If the Leak Continues
If bubbles continue to appear, close the cylinder valve and do not operate the generator.
Never use an open flame to check for propane leaks. Do not smoke during the leak test and do not perform the test indoors.
Regulator Makes a Humming Noise
A humming regulator may occur if the propane cylinder valve is opened too quickly.
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Turn Off the Generator
Shut the generator down.
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Close the Propane Cylinder Valve
Turn the cylinder valve completely off.
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Reopen the Valve Slowly
Slowly reopen the cylinder valve before restarting the generator.
Using the Generator for Home Backup Power
Never connect the generator directly to your home's electrical system.
The generator must not be connected to a building's electrical system unless the generator and transfer switch have been properly installed and the electrical output has been verified by a qualified electrician.
The installation must isolate generator power from utility power and comply with applicable electrical laws and codes.
Grounding requirements can vary depending on how the generator is being used. Consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or local authority having jurisdiction when grounding or connection requirements need to be confirmed.
Official Product Information
The SJG4100LP uses a 223cc 4-stroke OHV engine, produces 4100 starting watts / 3300 running watts, and supports both 24V IONMAX battery start and recoil start.
Need the Operator's Manual?
For complete operating, maintenance, electrical, propane, and safety instructions, review the official SJG4100LP Operator's Manual.
Still Need Help?
If the generator still will not start or operate correctly after completing the applicable troubleshooting steps, or if you find damaged components or a propane leak that cannot be corrected, contact Shop Joe Customer Support. Have your complete model number and serial number available.