Diagnosis
A dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing poor performance, hard starting, and increased fuel consumption.
How to Fix It
Procedure is specific. Locate the air filter cover on the side of the engine. Remove the wing-nut. Lift off the cover. Remove the foam filter element. Wash it in warm water with mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly. Squeeze out water—do not wring. Let it air dry completely. Apply 1-2 tablespoons of clean engine oil to the filter. Squeeze to distribute oil evenly. Reinstall foam and cover.
If That Didn't Work
If the foam is torn, hardened, or disintegrating, it must be replaced. The WEN part number is 56660-001. Do not run the generator without a filter installed.
Heads Up
Never use gasoline or solvent to clean the foam filter. This will destroy it. The filter must be oiled after cleaning. A dry filter does not trap fine dust effectively.