I have a 7000w cheap chinese gas generator that I use for backup power for the house and other portable power. It starts and runs great but lately it isn't really working. It was running a 1500w heating element and suddenly started pulling the engine down and eventually quit. Now when I run it even without a load connected it pulls the engine down.
It isn't the usual fuel flow, plugged carb stuff. I went through all that. It seems like the engine is labouring. Almost like a bearing seizing up, but not that because when you pull the cord immediately after shutdown, it spins freely.
I am leaning toward a shorted generator winding, but there is no smoke or anything so I am not sure. I know some of you guys are way better with generators than I am so fire away with suggestions.
Also, any advice on testing the windings and other generator end components would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance
Derek