As odd as it seems, combustion of any hydrocarbon produces water vapor.
Yes, it’s normal
One of the products of combustion (especially of fossil fuels) is water. Some fuels emit a significant amount of water vapor in fact. Usually you don’t see it because the vapor is too hot…
Found a used Onan of the same vintage and intalled it on my van. Ran great until recently. I probably don’t exercise it enough though I do try. Normally it takes about three tries or so to start if it’s been sitting a few weeks. I am pretty sure this has to do with the fuel delivery. For whatever reason there is no priming function on this by holding the stop button for 20 seconds either from the remote or the switch on the generator itself. After it starts and warms up it’s fine.
Lately I had difficulty starting it. After the three tries or so it would start and die. I couldn’t get it to stay running from the remote switch inside. I got under there (it mounts exposed under the carriage smh). After reading the manual, there seems to be a lever for winter use which I set. I had to hold the governor(?) for a second longer but it fired up and runs as per usual now. Ever since I had it though it would spurt out what I’m assuming is condensation as seen in the pic.
When I got it I serviced it with new oil, spark plug, air and fuel filters. I had removed the cover and noticed there was some oil residue on top of the engine but no obvious leaks when I tested it. It still is full of oil so I don’t think it’s burning or losing much. The stain on the floor mostly disappears after it dries. There is the faintest stain on the spot but isn’t wet or sticky after it dries. I will disconnect the fuel line and run ethanol free gas in it with lots of seafoam to help clear the carb. It’s been particularly cold and wet this season but is this normal? TIA
Thank you. I was really surprised by the amount though. The van exhaust which is next to it doesn’t produce anywhere near as much let alone enough to stain the ground. Glad it’s nothing to worry about though.
Yes
I’ve dealt with condensation in potable generators in the fuel system. Being infrequently run, the daily heat up/cool down of ambient temp can lead to condensation in the fuel tank or in the bowl of the carb. Most of the portable generators I’ve seen have a drain plug that let’s you drain the bowl. Worst case, close the fuel cutoff, drop the bowl and dump it, then reinstall.
Source: Condensation in exhaust? Is this normal? Notes in comments
