How to Bypass Low Oil Sensor on Generator? – [8 Steps Guide]

Learn how to bypass low oil sensor on generator with this 8-step guide. Keep your power supply running smoothly with these helpful tips and tricks.

While low oil sensors are designed to protect the generator from damage due to insufficient lubrication.

If the generator keeps on running on low oil, internal friction can permanently damage the internal components.

While low oil sensor is an incredible safety feature, they can also be a nuisance if they are triggered unnecessarily.

Fortunately, there are ways to bypass the low oil sensor and keep your generator running smoothly.

In this article, I’ll share some tips and tricks for bypassing the low oil sensor on your generator.

I have explained one general method, one for my champion generator, and one for my Generac generator.

So let’s dive in and learn how to bypass that pesky low oil sensor!

Tools Required:

The tools required to bypass the low oil sensor on a generator may vary depending on the make and model of the generator, but some common tools that may be needed include:

How to Bypass Low Oil Sensor on Generator in 8 Steps?

Before attempting to bypass the low oil sensor on your generator, it’s important to understand that doing so may void your warranty and could potentially cause damage to your generator if you’re not careful.

However, if you’re experiencing issues with a faulty low oil sensor or simply want to bypass it for some other reason, here are some general steps I want you to follow:

Step 1: Locate the Low Oil Sensor on Your Generator

This will typically be a small device located near the oil reservoir. It may be labeled as a “low oil switch” or “oil level sensor.”

Read the user manual or manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on where to find the low oil sensor on your particular model of generator.

Step 2: Remove the Sensor

Using a screwdriver or wrench, remove the sensor from the generator. This step will vary depending on the type of sensor and the make and model of your generator.

Be sure to follow any instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid damaging the sensor or other components of your generator.

Step: 3 Disconnect Electrical Connection

Once the sensor is removed, disconnect any electrical connections that are attached to it.

The low oil sensor will typically be connected to two wires, which should be disconnected before proceeding to the next step.

Step: 4 Take a Reading with a Multimeter

Use a multimeter to test the electrical continuity of the two wires that were attached to the sensor.

Set your multimeter to the “continuity” setting and touch the probes to the two wires that were attached to the low oil sensor.

You should get a reading of “closed” or “continuity” when the wires are connected, and “open” when they are disconnected.

Step 5: Connect Two Wires

Connect the two wires together using electrical tape or wire connectors.

Once you have determined which wires were connected to the low oil sensor, connect them together using electrical tape or wire connectors. This will create a closed circuit that bypasses the low oil sensor.

Step 6: Put Back the Sensor

Replace the sensor back into its original location and reattach any bolts or screws that were removed earlier.

Carefully replace the low oil sensor back into its original location on the generator and secure it in place using any bolts or screws that were removed earlier.

Step 7: Check the Oil level.

Before starting up your generator, be sure to check the oil level to ensure that it is at the appropriate level. If the oil level is too low, it can cause damage to your generator even if the low oil sensor has been bypassed.

Step 8: Start up your generator

Turn on your generator and run it for a few minutes to ensure that it is running smoothly and that the low oil sensor has been successfully bypassed.

If the generator runs without shutting off due to low oil, then you have successfully bypassed the low oil sensor.

Check my articles on generator pull cord replacement and generator polarization as well if you are going to open the generator cover.

How to Bypass Low Oil Sensor on a Champion Generator?

1. Low-oil sensors on most Champion generators are located near the oil cap and dipstick. Just near the fill cap.
2. It will be either two red wires or two yellow wires.
3. Disconnect both wires.
4. Start the generator.
5. Let it start for a minute or so.
6. Now connect both wires.
7. Turn OFF the generator and let it rest for a minute or so.
8. Now start the generator with both wires connected to each other.
9. If the generator starts normally, the troubleshooting is successful.
10. If it doesn’t, just bypass the low oil sensor by disconnecting the wires.

NOTE: If you know how to replace that little green sensor, replace it. If you don’t know, hire a mechanic to prevent further damage.

Recommended Read: How to Bypass CO Sensor on Generator?

How to Bypass Low Oil Sensor on a Honda Generator?

1. Low-oil sensors on Honda generators are located between the switch and the coil.
2. With the help of a male/female switch, two blacks are connected together.
3. Disconnect the wires as we did with the Champion generator.
4. Start the generator and let it run for a few minutes.
5. Now connect both wires.
6. Now start the engine with the wires connected.
7. If the generator starts, troubleshooting is successful.

Safety Instructions

If your generator doesn’t start even after bypassing the low-oil sensor, you should learn how to test your generator to pinpoint the problem.

What are the Effects of Low-Oil Sensor Malfunctioning?

Engine Damage:

The engine of a generator is designed to operate with a certain amount of lubrication provided by the oil. If the oil level drops below this point, the engine can suffer damage due to increased friction and heat.

Without the protection provided by the low-oil sensor, the engine can suffer serious damage that may require costly repairs or replacement.

Overheating:

When the oil level is too low, the engine can overheat due to increased friction and heat. This can cause the generator to shut down, which can be frustrating if you’re relying on it for power.

Reduced Efficiency:

A generator that is running with low oil may experience reduced efficiency, which can cause it to consume more fuel than it would if it were running with the appropriate level of oil. This can lead to increased fuel costs over time.

Increased Maintenance Costs:

A low-oil sensor malfunction can lead to increased maintenance costs due to the increased wear and tear on the engine.

Regular oil changes and engine maintenance can help mitigate these costs, but a malfunctioning low-oil sensor can make it more difficult to keep your generator in good working order.

Pros Bypassing Low Oil Sensor

Cons Bypassing Low Oil Sensor

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)