Restarting or recovering a portable generator that has lost its residual magnetism—resulting in an engine that runs normally but produces zero electrical output at the receptacles—requires a simple procedure known as "flashing the field" using an external DC voltage source. First, shut down the generator engine completely and unplug all electrical loads and cords from the control panel receptacles to protect attached equipment. Second, access the generator's brush holder assembly behind the alternator cover or locate the DC output terminals. Third, take a standard 12-volt automotive battery or drill battery, connect a jumper wire from the positive battery post to the positive generator brush terminal, and briefly touch a second wire from the negative battery post to the negative brush terminal for one to two seconds until you see a small electrical spark. You can troubleshoot generator output safety safely by standing on a dry rubber mat and wearing insulated gloves. You can verify that your corrective action is successful when restarting the generator engine causes the alternator rotor to re-excite its magnetic field, instantly restoring a stable 120-volt AC output at the panel receptacles.
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