Well, thank you for the very helpful advise. The inline gas valve is open. When I was turning it over I could smell propane. I did pull the plug and it was all wet with fuel. I dried it off but I did not check for spark, so that will be my next move. My next step is to take the plug out and put a new plug in there. The oil level is fine because I just changed the oil. It was very cold when I was trying to start it, so hearing your words of advise, that might have something to do with it. I have been trying to find an online manual, but have no engine or generator manufacture info to go on because all of the tags have faded. I am assuming it is old, so maybe it is time to upgrade and get a new generator and a new automatic transfer switch. The manual transfer switch is such a bad idea. It really defeats the purpose of having a back up generator because you have to be home to throw the switch. Thanks for you help.......Karl
The Briggs engines have the Model number Stamped into the Flywheel cover/housing/shroud. Unless it is rusted out, you can read it.
If it is a older model that uses points, then the Points Plunger may need replaced. The plunger swells up and sticks, then the points will not close, so no spark.
You can get a kit that includes the Plunger and points.
Most of the newer engines have electronic spark modules. They do go bad, but replacement is cheaper than a new motor.
Like Rich was saying, It sounds like you have water in the cylinder, and on the plug.
You can remove the spark plug, then turn the engine over, that will blow out any moisture in the cylinder.
You should make sure that you do not kill the battery by cranking it to long. If the battery voltage gets Lower than 12.0 Volts, then you should recharge it, or it can freeze up and bust.
Good Luck.