-20F? No wonder it won't start. You're in the extreme edges of engine operation. In these conditions, you either have to heat the oil and engine, use synthetic oil, or both.

You can read about these issues on the BITOG forums here: http://theoildrop.server101.com/.../ ubbthreads.php
They have a subforum about smaller engines here: http://theoildrop.server101.com/...t=0& Board=UBB14

These people would be happy to help you select a lubrication regimen that will ensure you can get that generator cranked up on a reliable basis. Good luck!
James Ferrill | Homepage | 01.25.07 - 2:24 pm | #

I second the vote for synthetic oil. Also, if you add a good bypass type oil filter you can extend drain intervals enough to offset the more expensive lube.

Is that you with the generator? And do my eyes deceive me or is that really a 2-stroke cycle Detroit Diesel? If so you may have some real trouble getting it to fire at -20F. A fuel burning coolant heater is probably your best bet for reliable starts. If a wood stove is close enough to the generator you could put a water heating coil in the stove and run a small pump to circulate engine coolant through the coil.

I hope this helps!
Joshua Skinner | 02.02.07 - 8:15 pm | #

That's me, and yes, it's a 2 stroke 2 cylinder Detroit 2-71. It takes a strong battery, a yearly starter rebuild, and a can of ether to get that baby going at -40
Steve Spence | Homepage | 02.03.07 - 8:31 am | #