HomeEnginesGenerac iQ3500

Generac iQ3500 Engine

The Generac iQ3500 is a 0.21 L 1-cylinder 4-stroke engine. It powers generator sets from Generac, including the IQ3500. It holds 0.6 L (0.2 gal) of oil.

Also known as: Generac iQ3500, iQ3500

0.212 L
Displacement
1
Cylinders
0.6 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity0.6 L
Displacement0.212 L
Cylinders1
Aspiration4-stroke

Common problems

15
  • Output Fault 14
  • Oil Level Low 18
    Fix: Add oil to the specified level before restarting.
  • Unit Shuts Down for Low Oil
    Fix: Problem 8
  • Overload Light Is On
    Fix: DISCONNECT LOAD, RESTART ENGINE AND CHECK AC OUTPUT AGAIN. (iX Units) DISCONNECT LOAD, PRESS AND HOLD RESET BUTTON, THEN RELEASE. IF OVERLOAD LIGHT GOES OUT, LOAD IS TO MUCH FOR THE UNIT. (iQ2000)
  • Overload 19
    Fix: Reduce load or check if the generator is overloaded.
  • No DC Output (iX Units Only)
    Fix: REPLACE INVERTER MODULE
  • No AC output.
    Cause: 1. Generator is overloaded. 2. Inverter module is overheated. 3. Short circuit in electrical device. 4. Defective inverter assembly.
    Fix: 1. Disconnect all loads. Shut down generator t
  • No AC Output
    Cause: BAD REPAIR OR REPLACE COMPONENT, BAD REPAIR OR REPLACE WIRE
    Fix: REPLACE INVERTER MODULE
  • LED Display INOP
    Fix: Replace LED MODULE
  • Inspect Spark Arrestor Screen 002404
    Fix: Inspect and clean the screen every 50 hours of operation or every season, whichever comes first.
  • Flex Power/Mode Feature is Not Responding
    Fix: REPLACE INVERTER MODULE, REPLACE SWITCH, TEST FLEX POWER/MODE SWITCH
  • Fault Output M 008034
  • Engine won't start.
    Cause: 1. Dial turned off. 2. Out of fuel. 3. Defective spark plug. 4. Plugged fuel filter. 5. Defective or stuck Dial assembly. 6. Incorrect engine oil level. 7. Defective ignition coil. 8. Fuel cap vent OFF. 9. Carb is flooded. 10. Throttle plate closed.
    Fix: 1. Turn on Dial. 2. Fill fuel tank. 3. Replace spark plug. 4. Replace fuel and fuel filter. 5. Contact IASD. 6. Check/fill engine oil. 7. Contact IASD. 8. Turn fuel cap vent ON. 9. Drain carb. 10. Open throttle plate (push toward back of unit).
  • Engine will not start; or starts and runs rough.*
    Cause: 1. Choke is stuck or left on. 2. Dirty or clogged air filter. 3. Defective or dirty spark plug. 4. Dirty fuel filter. 5. Dirty or gummed up carburetor. 6. Unit not warmed up. 7. Spark arrestor clogged.
    Fix: 1. Turn choke off. 2. Clean or replace air filter. 3. Replace spark plug. 4. Replace fuel and fuel filter. 5. Clean carburetor. 6. Gradually adjust Dial and reduce choke until engine runs smoothly in RUN position. 7. Clean spark arrestor.
  • Engine Will Not Start
    Fix: REPLACE CARBURETOR, REPLACE FUEL PUMP, REPAIR OR REPLACE STATOR, REPLACE IGNITION WINDING

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Generac iQ3500.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filter300 hr
Fuel filterReplace fuel filter +300 hr
Oil filterChange oil filter every 300 hours or season*300 hr
Battery10000038386 Amazon eBay $49.99
Belt
Coolant50 hr
Coolant filter
OilGenerac0.6 L0J0062010620 hr Amazon $8.99 eBay $35.00 FridayParts $32.07
Spark plugF7TC / F7RTC / BPR6ES or equivalent0J00620106300 hr Amazon $8.99 eBay $35.00 FridayParts $32.07

Pooled from every document that names this exact engine — confirm the interval and part number against your unit's serial number.

Repair guides

3

Step-by-step procedures compiled from the Generac service manual for this engine.

Service intervals

25
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Engine oil levelCheck8 hrat each use / every 8 hours
Oil levelCheck24 hrMonthly or 24 hours of continuous operation
Oil and filterChange25 hrFirst service — After first 25 hours of operation
Valve clearanceCheck25 hrFirst service — After first 25 hours of operation
Spark arrestor screenClean50 hrevery 50 hours of operation or every season, whichever comes first
Air filterClean100 hr6 moclean/replace; replace parts if cannot be adequately cleaned
Engine oilChange100 hr6 moFirst service — change oil after first month or 20 hours of operation; every month under heavy load/high temperature
Complete tune-upOther200 hr24 moTo be completed by a Dealer
OilChange200 hr24 mo2Y or 200 hours, whichever occurs first
Oil filterChange200 hr24 mo2Y or 200 hours
Crankcase Breather HoseCheck300 hrCheck/Replace
Cylinder headCheck300 hrto be performed by IASD
Fittings/fastenersCheck300 hrto be performed by IASD
Fuel filterReplace300 hrto be performed by IASD
Spark ArrestorClean300 hr6 moEvery 300 hours or every season
Spark plugReplace300 hrevery 300 hours or every season
Valve clearanceAdjust500 hrFirst service — check/adjust after first 50 hours, then every 300 hours
Air cleanerClean400 hr
Spark plug(s)Clean400 hrReplace every 4 years or 400 hours
Battery (remove corrosion, ensure dryness)Inspect12 moYearly
Battery charge stateCheck12 moYearly
Battery electrolyte levelCheck6 moUnsealed batteries only; every 6 months
Battery terminals (clean and tighten)Clean12 moYearly
Fuel lines and connectionsInspect1 moMonthly; notify dealer if repair is needed
General condition (vibration, noise, leakage)Inspect1 moNotify dealer if repair is needed

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Service specifications

60
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceExhaust valve clearance0.10 ± 0.02mm (0.004" ± 0.001")cold
ClearanceIntake valve clearance0.10 ± 0.02mm (0.004" ± 0.001")cold
GapSpark plug gap0.024-0.028in (0.6-0.7 mm)
GapSpark plug gap0.024-0.028 (0.6-0.7)in/mm
GapSpark plug gap0.028-0.031in
GapSpark plug gap0.03in
GapSpark plug gap0.76mm (0.030 inch)
GapSpark plug gap1.02mm (0.040 inch)
GapTrigger pickup gap0.20-0.30mm
PressureFuel pressure to regulator - LP10-12inches water column (19-22 mm mercury)
PressureFuel pressure to regulator - natural gas3.5-7inches water column (7-13 mm mercury)
PressureMinimum allowable compression pressure60psicold engine
ResistanceControl Winding: Yellow-Yellow0.16-0.18Ohms
ResistanceDC Winding Blue0.19-0.21Ohms
ResistanceDC Winding Blue0.86 ±15%Ohms
ResistanceDC Winding: Green-Green0.13-0.15Ohms
ResistanceIgnition Coil Winding (J1 Pin 5)0.5Ohms
ResistanceIgnition Coil Winding (J1 Pin 5)0.7Ohms
ResistanceIgnition Coil Winding (J1 Pin 5)0.8Ohms
ResistanceIgnition coil Pin 1 to Ground1.7 ± 0.5Ohms
ResistanceIgnition coil Spark Plug to Ground12.5K ± 2KOhms
ResistanceIgnition: Blue-Yellow/Green0.63-0.71Ohms
ResistanceMain Coil of Stator1.6 ± 0.4Ohms
ResistanceMain Coil of Stator1.9Ohms
ResistanceMain Winding Brown0.75-0.85Ohms
ResistanceMain Winding Brown0.97 ±15%Ohms
ResistanceMain Winding Red 1-21.97-2.18Ohms
ResistanceMain Winding Red 1-31.97-2.18Ohms
ResistanceMain Winding Red 2-31.97-2.18Ohms
ResistancePrimary coil0.8-1.0Ohms
ResistanceSecondary Winding Orange0.42 ±15%Ohms
ResistanceSecondary Winding Orange0.50-0.55Ohms
ResistanceSecondary coil5.9-7.1Ohms
ResistanceStepper Motor Pin 1 to Pin 4~50Ohms
ResistanceStepper Motor Pin 1 to Pin 5~195Ohms
ResistanceStepper Motor Pin 2 to Pin 3~50Ohms
ResistanceSub Coil of Stator (Pin 1-Pin 4)0.3Ohms
ResistanceSub Coil of Stator (Pin 1-Pin 4)0.5Ohms
ResistanceSub Coil of Stator (Pin 1-Pin 4)0.7Ohms
ResistanceTrigger assembly (G Pin 12)128Ohms
ResistanceTrigger assembly (J1 Pin 3)129Ohms
ResistanceTrigger assembly (J1 Pin 3)30Ohms
TemperatureNormal operating range-20 to 122°F (-29 to 50°C)tested per UL 2200
Torque10mm bolt, nut25.8-29.5ft-lb
Torque12mm bolt, nut36.8-44.2ft-lb
Torque5mm bolt, nut2.9-5.1ft-lb
Torque6mm bolt, nut5.9-8.8ft-lb
Torque8mm bolt, nut14.7-20.6ft-lb
TorqueAir cleaner mounting nut M6 X 15.9-8.8ft-lb
TorqueAir cleaner mounting nut M6×15.9-8.8ft-lb
TorqueAlternator Cover1.8-2.2ft-lb
TorqueBracket to Base - Screw HHFCS M6-1.0 X 10 G8.85ft-lb
TorqueBreather chamber cap bolt M5 X 0.753.6-5.9ft-lb
TorqueCarb Drain - Screw SHC M4-1.0 X 10 G10.91.0ft-lb
TorqueConnecting Rod2-2.2ft-lb
TorqueConnecting rod bolt M6 X 18.8-10.3ft-lb
TorqueConnecting rod bolt M7×18.8-10.3ft-lb
TorqueCooling Fan1.1-1.3ft-lb
TorqueCrankcase Cover2-2.5ft-lb
TorqueCrankcase cover bolt M8 X 1.2519.9-22.1ft-lb

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Recommended fluids

FluidGradeStandardAmbientCapacityNotes
Engine oil10W-30 / SAE 300.6 L
Engine oilSAE 30 / 10W-30 / Synthetic 5W-300.6 L (0.6 qt.)
Engine oilSynthetic 5W-30API Service Class SJ, SL, or betterSuitable for all temperature ranges; synthetic oil may be used in the appropriate weight
Engine oil10W-30API Service Class SJ, SL, or better-23°C to 4°CBetween 40° and -10°F (4° and -23°C)
Engine oilSAE 30API Service Class SJ, SL, or betterabove 0°CFor temperatures above 32°F (0°C); no special additives
FuelClean, fresh, unleaded gasoline; minimum 87 octane/87 AKI (91 RON); up to 10% ethanol acceptable10.0 LDO NOT use E85. DO NOT use a gas oil mix
FuelLiquid propane (LP) gas (vapor)at least 2,500 Btus per cubic foot (93.15 megajoules per cubic meter)250.0 gallons (946 liters)Minimum LP tank size recommended when converting from natural gas
FuelNatural gas (pipeline)at least 1,000 Btus per cubic foot (37.26 megajoules per cubic meter)Unit is factory set to run on natural gas
FuelUnleaded10.0 L (2.64 U.S. gallons)

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Fault codes

25
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
BATTERY PROBLEMBattery ProblemBattery problem warningWarningContact servicing dealer.
CHARGER MISSING ACCharger Missing ACBattery charger missing AC inputWarning
CHARGER WARNINGCharger WarningBattery charger warningWarningContact servicing dealer.
EXERCISE SET ERRORExercise Set ErrorExercise timer setting errorWarning
FUEL PRESSUREFuel PressureFuel pressure warningWarning
FUSE PROBLEMFuse ProblemControl panel fuse problemShutdownCheck ATO 7.5 amp fuse. Replace with same type fuse if bad. Contact servicing dealer if fuse is good.
HIGH TEMPERATUREHigh Engine Temp.High engine temperature alarmShutdownCheck ventilation around the intake, exhaust and rear of generator. Contact servicing dealer if no obstruction is found.
INSPECT BATTERYInspect BatteryBattery inspection reminderInfoInspect battery; press ENTER to clear.
INTERNAL FAULTInternal FaultInternal controller faultShutdownContact servicing dealer.
LOW BATTERYLow BatteryLow battery voltageWarningClear alarm. From the MAIN menu navigate to the BATTERY MENU. Contact servicing dealer if battery is GOOD. Replace battery if CHECK BATTERY is displayed.
LOW OIL PRESSURELow Oil PressureLow oil pressure alarmShutdownCheck oil level. Add oil per Owner's Manual. Contact servicing dealer if oil level is correct.
LOW VOLTS REMOVE LOADLow Volts Remove LoadLow voltage, remove loadShutdownClear alarm and remove household loads from the generator. Put back in AUTO and restart.
NOT ACTIVATEDNot ActivatedUnit not activatedInfoRefer to activation section in Owner's Manual.
OVER VOLTAGEOver VoltageOvervoltage alarmShutdownContact servicing dealer.
OVERCRANKOvercrankEngine failed to start after the cranking cyclesShutdownCheck fuel line shutoff valve is in the ON position. Clear alarm. Attempt to start in MANUAL. If it does not start or starts and runs rough, contact servicing dealer.
OVERLOAD REMOVE LOADOverload Remove LoadGenerator overloadedShutdownClear alarm and remove household loads from the generator. Put back in AUTO and restart.
OVERLOAD WARNINGOverload WarningOverload warningWarning
OVERSPEEDOverspeedEngine overspeed alarmShutdownContact servicing dealer.
RPM SENSE LOSSRPM Sense LossLoss of RPM sensingShutdownClear alarm and remove household loads. Put back in AUTO and restart. If problem returns, contact servicing dealer to investigate possible fuel issue.
SERVICE AService Schedule ASchedule A maintenance due (oil, oil filter, tune-up)InfoPerform SERVICE A maintenance; press ENTER to clear.
SERVICE BService Schedule BSchedule B maintenance due (oil, oil filter, tune-up, air cleaner, spark plug(s), valve clearance)InfoPerform SERVICE B maintenance; press ENTER to clear.
STEPPER OVER CURRENTStepper Over CurrentStepper motor over currentShutdownContact servicing dealer.
UNDER VOLTAGEUnder VoltageUndervoltage alarmShutdownContact servicing dealer.
UNDERSPEEDUnderspeedEngine underspeed alarmShutdownContact servicing dealer.
WIRING ERRORWiring Error / MiswireController wiring errorShutdownContact servicing dealer.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Procedures

12
Check/Adjust Valves adjustment

Tools: socket, feelers/gauges

  1. Verify the piston is at top dead center (TDC) of its compression stroke (both valves closed).
  2. Remove four (4) screws from rocker cover.
  3. Remove rocker cover and rocker cover gasket.
  4. Loosen rocker arm jam nut. Turn adjustment screw in to decrease clearance or out to increase clearance.
  5. Hold socket steady and tighten lock nut to specification; check clearance and make minor adjustments.
  6. After tightening jam nut, recheck valve clearance to make sure it did not change.
  7. Install rocker cover, gasket and four screws; tighten to specifications.
Trigger Pickup Adjustment (iQ) adjustment

Tools: non-metallic feeler gauge

  1. Install or replace trigger pickup; ensure routing of wires is correct and not pinched.
  2. With rotor in place, set gap to 0.20-0.30mm using the oval holes in the pickup bracket.
  3. Align trigger point on rotor outside surface in-line with sensor and check/adjust gap with a non-metallic feeler gauge.
  4. Tighten mounting screws to specification and check gap; adjust if necessary.
Valve Lash Adjustment adjustment

⚠ Hold the rocker arm jam nut in place as the pivot ball stud is turned.

Tools: Feeler gauge, 10mm Allen wrench (530cc engine), 13mm Allen wrench (410cc, 990cc, 999cc engines), Large socket and socket wrench

  1. Engine should be cool before checking (60° to 80° F / 16° to 27° C).
  2. Remove spark plug wires and position them away from the plugs; remove spark plugs.
  3. Bring piston to Top Dead Center of its compression stroke (both valves closed).
  4. Remove the four screws attaching the valve cover.
  5. Loosen the rocker jam nut; turn the pivot ball stud while checking clearance with a feeler gauge.
  6. Correct clearance is 0.002-0.004 inch (0.05-0.1 mm).
  7. Hold the pivot ball stud and tighten the rocker arm jam nut to 174 in-lbs (19.68 N-m).
  8. Recheck valve clearance to make sure it did not change.
  9. Install new valve cover gasket and re-attach the valve cover.
  10. Install spark plugs and re-attach the spark plug wire.
  11. Repeat the process for the other cylinder, if necessary.
Check Engine Compression diagnostic

Tools: compression gauge

  1. Remove spark plug.
  2. Insert an automotive type compression gauge into spark plug hole.
  3. Crank engine until there is no further increase in pressure; record highest reading.
Check Engine RPM diagnostic

Tools: Small engine tachometer or inductive tachometer

  1. With engine running, connect engine tachometer per manufacturer instructions and record the engine RPM.
  2. If engine rpm is within rated specs refer to flow chart; if outside range go to Problem 7 flowchart.
Check Fuel Pump diagnostic

⚠ Explosion and Fire. Fuel and vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Add fuel in a well ventilated area. Keep fire and spark away.

Tools: suitable fuel container

  1. Open side panel to expose carburetor (A) and fuel pump (B).
  2. Carefully remove fuel line from filter on inlet side of carburetor.
  3. Using a suitable container, slowly pull on recoil cord and turn engine over; fuel should flow from fuel line.
  4. If fuel does not flow, verify fuel is available to pump; inspect fuel filter and pulse line.
  5. If fuel does not flow, replace fuel pump.
Check Spark diagnostic

Tools: spark tester

  1. Disconnect spark plug lead from spark plug.
  2. Attach high tension lead to spark tester terminal.
  3. Ground spark tester clamp by attaching to cylinder head.
  4. Attempt to pull start engine; if spark jumps tester gap, ignition system is working properly.
Test Sub Coil of Stator diagnostic

⚠ Explosion and Fire. Fuel and vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Add fuel in a well ventilated area. Keep fire and spark away.

Tools: DMM

  1. Stop engine and drain fuel from tank.
  2. Remove electrical box assembly, back window, and upper enclosure half.
  3. Take out C4 connector (do not remove harness of control panel).
  4. Set DMM to measure resistance.
  5. On female side of C4, connect one lead to Pin 1 and the other to Pin 4; measure and record resistance.
  6. If within specified values refer to flow chart; if outside tolerance replace stator.
Battery Cable Connection (if equipped) installation

⚠ Do not make battery connections in reverse.

Tools: Phillips screwdriver

  1. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw from the battery door.
  2. Remove battery strap from battery.
  3. Connect red cables to positive (+) battery terminal with bolt and nut.
  4. Slide rubber boot over positive (+) terminal.
  5. Connect black cables to negative (-) battery terminal with bolt and nut.
  6. Slide rubber boot over negative (-) terminal and make sure all connections are secure.
Return to Service installation

⚠ The exercise timer and current date and time must be reset when the battery is dead or has been disconnected.

  1. Verify that utility power is turned off.
  2. Check the tag on the engine for oil viscosity and classification; drain and refill if necessary.
  3. Check the state of the battery; fill unsealed batteries to proper level with distilled water; recharge to 100%.
  4. Clean and wipe down the entire generator.
  5. Make sure the 7.5 Amp fuse is removed from the generator Control Panel.
  6. Reconnect the battery. Observe battery polarity. Install positive cable first.
  7. Reconnect the battery charger AC input T1/Neutral cable (white sleeve) at controller.
  8. Open the fuel shutoff valve.
  9. Insert the 7.5 Amp fuse into the generator Control Panel.
  10. Start the unit by pressing the MANUAL button. Allow the unit to warm up for a few minutes.
  11. Stop the unit by pressing the Control Panel OFF button.
  12. Turn on the utility power to the transfer switch.
  13. Set the Control Panel to AUTO.
Add Engine Oil maintenance

⚠ Verify proper type and quantity of engine oil prior to starting engine.

Tools: Funnel

  1. Place generator on a level surface.
  2. Clean area around oil fill and oil drain plug.
  3. Remove oil fill cap and wipe dipstick clean.
  4. Insert funnel into oil fill opening and add recommended engine oil.
  5. Insert dipstick into oil filler neck to check oil level.
  6. Verify oil level is within safe operating range.
  7. Install oil fill cap/dipstick and hand-tighten.
Battery Maintenance maintenance

⚠ Do not dispose of the battery by incineration.

⚠ Remove the 7.5 Amp fuse from the generator control panel.

⚠ Remove all jewelry and use tools with insulated handles.

  1. With the generator shut down, lift the lid and remove the front panel.
  2. Inspect the battery posts and cables for tightness and corrosion; tighten and clean as necessary.
  3. Check the battery fluid level of unsealed batteries; fill with distilled water only. DO NOT use tap water.
  4. Have the Dealer or a qualified Service Technician check the state of charge and condition.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Common questions

What is the oil capacity of the Generac iQ3500?

The Generac iQ3500 engine has an oil capacity of 0.6 liters.

What is the displacement of the Generac iQ3500?

The Generac iQ3500 has a displacement of 0.212 liters with 1 cylinders.

Which generators use the Generac iQ3500 engine?

The Generac iQ3500 powers 1 generator set(s), including Generac IQ3500.

How often should you change the oil in the Generac iQ3500?

The Generac iQ3500 oil change interval is every 20 hours.

What is a common problem with the Generac iQ3500 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Generac iQ3500 is: Output Fault.