How to Change Your Generator's Voltage Regulator (AVR)

The following video and step by step instructions will teach you how to change your generator's carbon voltage regulator. Make sure your generator is off before starting and never perform maintenance on a running generator. Make sure the fuel valve is in the OFF position to stop the flow of fuel to the carburetor.

Be sure to refer to your operator's manual for specific instructions for your generator. This guide should be used as a source for additional information; not as an alternative to the manual. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us.

If your generator turns on, but doesn’t generate any power, here are a few quick and easy steps to help diagnose and fix the problem. First, we’ll be checking the carbon brushes to see if they look corroded or broken. If this isn’t the problem, then we will be swapping out the voltage regulator in order to get our generator up and running again. 

Note: The voltage regulator is found in the bottom, left hand side of your generator head. Although WEN generators come in a variety of shapes and sizes, the instructions given below will be fairly similar for all generator models.

1. Remove the cover from the generator head. You will find the carbon brush holder located in the top, center of this compartment. 

2. Detach the positive and negative connections from the holder and then remove the screw. 

3. Remove the carbon brush holder. You now have a clear view of the carbon brushes. If your brushes look corroded or stuck in a downwards position, then they are probably the root of your generator’s problems. For a video guide on changing your generator’s carbon brushes, click here. If your brushes don't look corroded or worn down, then the problem probably lies in the voltage regulator, and you should continue on to the next step.

3. Locate the voltage regulator, it is on the bottom, left hand side of the generator head. Remove the screws holding the regulator in place. Disconnect the quick connector in order to free the regulator.

Note: There are no physical signs to show that the voltage regulator isn't working, as all of its problems will exist internally. 

4. Reattach the new voltage regulator to its quick connector. Make sure that it fully snaps into place.

5. Screw the regulator into place. 

6. Replace the cover on the generator head.

Keep in mind, this is a general overview for generators of all shapes, styles and sizes. For a more specific breakdown of recommended starting and troubleshooting guidelines, refer to the manual of your specific model of generator. After all this, if you are still having trouble getting your generator to generate power, feel free to give us a call at 1-847-429-9263 (M-F 8AM to 5PM CST) or drop us a message here to talk to our friendly and knowledgable technical support team.