Update - Generator Does

[cabinetman]

The pull starter only pulls in the clockwise direction (lookin' at it), and it was frozen. So, I removed the sparkplug, and squirted in WD40 on top of the piston. Then removed all the shrouding that housed the recoil mechanism. Couldn't get it off completely because the carb housing was in the way. I thought if I removed the carb, The gasket was likely to disintegrate. So, I got the recoil housing out far enough to get to the flywheel. It actually would turn by hand backwards, but not forward. So, I kept workin' it and the WD40 musta did it's thing, and it finally turned to the right.

Put it all back together, and it started up a huffin' and puffin' until it ran clear. Thanks for all the help and suggestions.
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[cork58]

That is great news! Now when you store it next time remove the spark plug and "FOG" the engine. In Alaska we go all winter without using some boy toys so we "FOG" the engines so they won't do what you just went through. FOG oil can be found at most auto parts stores, at least here it is. Good job!

[Stytooner]

Another suggestion is to use fuel stabilizer. I pour a little packet of that in the tank and then turn off the fuel supply after about 5 minutes running. This lets the old fuel get out of the lines and jets. I just cranked mine a couple days ago after almost a year and it started on the second pull. Sweet!

I do have a can of engine fogger and will start using that on the generator. I have used it on mowers and weed eaters with good results.

[Uncle Cracker]

Yes, fog oil is a good idea. Fuel stabilizer is a must if you are gonna leave it sit more than a month or so. I leave only a little fuel in the tank, and store the rest in proper cans. During h'cane season, I rotate fuel through the cans into my car every month, just to keep it all fresh, and then store about 10 gallons with stabilizer over the winter.

[conwaygolfer]

Generator

Glad the WD40 worked for you Cabinetman. Like I said, I have had to do the same thing with different engines. I see you are in Fla. and getting ready for the wind. I am in SC. and noticed that Hanna could come this way. So like you, I decided I better check my generator. Haven't needed it for several years. Same gas left in it since the last time I needed it. So I pulled it out from under the work bench and started pulling on the rope. I pulled til I could pull no more. Then I remembered that it had a gas shut off valve. Opened the valve and within 4 pulls it was up and running. This is one of the few items I own that will run on years old gas. Two things I do is "fog" the engine and use the gas shut off valve.
Conwaygolfer

[Uncle Cracker]

Fuel stability is definitely a function of humidity and temperature... I've had gas go bad here in a closed container in a couple of months before.

[L. D. Jeffries]

Cure all those "gas" problems! Convert to propane or NG!