This is a query about my day-to-day working generator, ie it's not a recreational thing but I hope you lot can help.
I have a genset built around a Lister SL1, it has a Start-o-Matic system which starts it up when a load is applied. This is partly achieved by two solenoids. The first flicks the fuel switch lever, then the engine is turned over and once it is running up to speed and there is 230V being put out a second solenoid switches the compression lever to the on position. This is the theory and this is how it works with our other generator the ST1.
The other day it had problems starting, it would start but then shut itself down just as it got to speed. I noticed that the compression lever wasn't being switched from the off position. The second solenoid appears not to be working though there is 230V across it just before the shutdown.
Anyway, while looking at it I disconnected the compression lever from the solenoid and because of gravity the compression lever falls naturally into the on position. However, the generator starts okay from this position and runs fine.
My question is whether starting it in this way is likely to be damaging? I am looking to replace the solenoid but if it works fine without it then that would be useful. If it isn't damaging then what is the lever for?
As you may be able to guess I know very little about these thing but having moved to a house off the grid I'm having to learn.
As an aside are there any books that would be suitable as primers for engines of these designs (we have SL1, ST1 and ST3) not specific workshop manuals but more general stuff not aimed at modern turbocharged-fuel-injected-four-by-four type stuff?
Colin