Pulling a pull-start is tedious and time-consuming. If you're still using a pull start and are frustrated with it, like most of us, it may be time to replace your pull start with an electric starter. You can convert pull start to electric start by following this guide.

Sure, here's a short introductory guide to converting a pull start mechanism to an electric start for small engines like lawnmowers or generators. Converting from pull start to electric start involves a few key steps. First, check the engine type and model to ensure compatibility with the electric starter kit. Next, obtain the necessary parts, including a starter motor, a starter solenoid, a battery, wiring, and a switch. Disconnect the existing pull start mechanism and install the electric starter components according to the manufacturer's instructions, properly securing and connecting all wiring generator manufacturer. Finally, test the electric start system before relying exclusively on it. This upgrade can provide convenience and ease of use for starting your engine. Always prioritize safety during the conversion process and follow the guidelines closely.

Eight simple steps to convert a pull start to an electric start

●    Check the owner's manual.
●    Inspect your engine for the mounting plate.
●    Inspect the flywheel for ring gear.
●    Purchase the proper starter kit.
●    Install the starter into the flywheel.
●    Bolt the starter to the mounting plate
●    Plug the starter into the outlet.
●    Press Start.

By following the eight steps outlined above, we will quickly identify if change is indeed possible. What happens when you've ticked most of the boxes but not all?

If your flywheel is missing a ring gear, the good news is there's still hope. However, with growing owners, the hope of conversion will stay the same as you can start your generator.

Converting a pull-start generator to an electric one

You've decided to go from a pull-start to an electric starting for your generator. Pull-start generators can be very taxing on your arms, and the time you lose attempting to run one might make you want to convert to an electric start generator. This is a wise decision on your part and will make your life much easier.

Before we start the conversion process, we need to set up a few things first. We need to be 100% sure that the replacement of your generator is indeed possible. How do you set it up? By following these steps:

1) Read through your owner's manual

Browse through your owner's manual. Generally, a section verifies that the device can be converted from a pull start to an electric starter (which most manufacturers consider when designing their products).

If the conversions section of your owner's handbook is available, search for a particular part number for the starter kit. It is required to complete the conversion. Most manufacturers produce electric starter kits, so finding the right one should be easy.

Some manufacturers go above and beyond by providing a detailed instruction manual for the conversion process. Look for this when you're going through your owner's manual.

2) Inspect your engine

Inspect your generator engine and find the proper mounting plates for the electric starter. The following conversion will be more straightforward if your generator already has plates with the appropriate mounting bosses or holes for the electric starter.

3) Inspect your flywheel

Inspect your flywheel to make sure it has the required ring gear.

You should now have the correct information on purchasing your generator's electric starter kit. You have ensured that the mounting plates are drilled correctly, and this will allow you to install the electric starter kit. You also verified that your flywheel has the ring gear as required. Now, you're ready to start making changes!

4) Purchase the right starter kit

Consider a few factors while selecting an electric starter kit for your generator. To ensure optimal performance and a more straightforward installation process, it is advisable to search for a kit made by the same company as your generator.

It's much better to get it right the first time than to continually have to repair it because things break all the time, so please do your homework and don't be afraid to spend a little more to purchase a high-quality kit.

Once you've got your starter kit, make sure it has all the components you'll need to convert the generator from pull to electric:

●    Starter motor
●    Push-button or key-operated ignition
●    Bolt
●    Plug

Fitting instructions

Before starting the conversion, check your starter kit checklist to ensure all the components listed above are in the kit. When done, follow these simple steps:

5) Fit the starter onto the ring gear and flywheel

Recall that the flywheel gear's slots and the electric starter's cracking gear must be precisely lined up.

6) Fix the electric starter on your generator.

Use the bolts you received with the starter kit to mount your electric starter to your generator.

7) Plug the electric starter into the outlet with the extension cord

Specific kits will include an internal battery that may be recharged. If one wasn't included in your beginning kit, plug the electric starter into the outlet with the extension cord.

8) Press the start button

If you have done the setup correctly, your generator should start without problems. Remember to always unplug your starter when you're not using it.

It's as simple as that. Following these simple steps, you should be fine changing your starter setup.

Factors that might prevent you from converting pull start to electric start

We've talked about converting from pull start to electric start when conditions are right to make the conversion. However, there are instances where you may need to make some modifications before beginning the transformation. Let's explore these examples:

After checking your engine to locate a mounting plate, if there isn't one, drill a mounting plate; you should look for one that is already drilled. You're in trouble if there's no mounting plate or mounting boss. This means you won't be able to change. Retrofitting is an option; however, this can be very difficult to achieve and time-consuming, making it not worth the effort.

When there is no ring gear in the flywheel, when removing the flywheel cover and you find that there is no ring gear, do not apply pressure. Your current flywheel needs to be changed out with one with a ring gear. The conversion will only work with the presence of this section.

If change is impossible, what other options do you have?

You can try and start it with an electric drill. Find a socket that fits into the nut on the flywheel. You may need to remove the engine cover to test it. Ensure the drill is set forward so your engine will start that way.

FAQs

1) What is the difference between a pull start and an electric start generator?

Unlike traditional pull start mechanisms, which require physical effort to start the engine, an electric start generator uses a push button or key switch to start the combustion process.
2) Can you put an electric start on a pull-start generator?

Many generators come with a pull-start mechanism. Some come with none. Although both starter defaults are standard for generators, many consumers prefer generators with electric starts. Fortunately for them, there is a way to add an electric start to the generator itself.

3) Will an electric start generator run without a battery?

Without a battery, your backup power source won't even turn on and cannot provide the power you need at critical times. An automobile's engine and a standby generator's engine are incredibly similar.

4) Are electric start generators reliable?

An electric start is often considered more reliable than a pull cord start, especially in cold weather. However, in modern generators, cord start has become quite reliable in any climate. Electric start can also fail if its battery is not charged. However, it is rare.

5) What is a key start generator?

An essential start generator is a type of electric start generator that is operated by turning a key.

6) What are the adverse effects of electric generators?

When utilizing a generator, the main risks to be aware of are carbon monoxide (CO) and harmful engine emissions, electric shock or electrocution, fire, and burns.

7) What causes a starter generator to fail?

A bad battery is one of the most common reasons for a generator not starting. This is frequently the result of a loose connection or sulphation accumulation; this is the buildup of crystals of lead sulfate on the lead-acid battery plates.

8) What damages the generator?

Generator safety and maintenance are essential. If not addressed immediately, problems such as overheating, fault current, motoring, loss of residual magnetism, and low voltage can cause irreversible damage to the generator.

9) How long does the battery last in an electric generator?

Please replace your generator batteries every 36 months, even if they are still working. In the best-case scenario, replace them every two years to assure you that the generator will be ready to start and perform when needed, especially in a power emergency.

Conclusion

The manual method of starting your generator is by pulling the start. It puts stress on your arms and rarely begins after just one stretch. We all pulled and pulled for what seemed like forever before our generators decided to kick on. It can be frustrating.

Changing the pull start mechanism to an electric start is a transformational upgrade that increases convenience and usability. This change offers a significant advantage by eliminating the physical effort required to start the engine, mainly when repeated starts are necessary. This streamlines the process and expands accessibility, making it more user-friendly for individuals who may struggle with manual stretching movements due to physical limitations or discomfort. Integrating an electric start system makes the equipment more versatile and efficient, meeting modern standards of ease of operation and efficiency.

Finally, the switch from pull start to electric start represents a forward-looking increase in machinery functionality. It modernizes the devices and promotes accessibility and ease of use. This adaptability ensures that starting the engine becomes hassle-free, catering to a wide range of users and adapting to the changing demands of user-friendly and efficient technical solutions.