I am looking for help in getting my Generac RS 5500 running. It only has about 6 hours on the machine. Last week I started to get ready for Hurricane Milton and attempted to start the generator.

• I attempted to start the generator, but the pull cord appeared locked, and I was unable to budge it.
• I removed the cover and turned the flywheel nut with a socket, and it all was well.
•  I then attempted to pull start the generator and the generator just wouldn’t start. It didn’t give any indication of wanting to start,

• I checked the gas tank, and it had minimal fuel.
• The fuel smelled bad
• I emptied the tank and drained the carb. I eventually put in non-ethanol fuel.
• I removed the carb and took it apart.
• There was fuel which was gummed up and in the main jet and the extrusion tube.
• I thoroughly cleaned the jets, tube, and all orifices of the carb.
• I cleaned all holes in the jets, tube, fuel drain bolt, and all other areas.
• I changed the spark plug.
• I tested for spark by grounding the plug on the metal of engine and did receive very good spark.

• I put everything back together and it still wouldn’t start. It didn’t even attempt to turn over.
• I disconnected the low oil wire and attempted to start the generator, and still nothing.

 
I have very limited knowledge of working on gas engines. I was wondering if there is anything else I could look at. Is there something I overlooked?
Just as a reference, there is no power switch and only a fuel vent dial. The fuel is getting into the carb bowl, so it’s flowing.  
 
Any help would be appreciated!!!

Are you using the choke? Then spray a squirt of carb cleaner or starting fluid into carb, does it try to start?

I am sorry, I forgot to mention, I used carb cleaner in the carb and still nothing. I even tried carb cleaner down the spark plug passage.
 
It just doesn't even attempt to start, and I have tested for spark. Could it be something, because I spinned the flywheel and knocked it out of time?

It may still be under warranty. You can check flywheel key, can also take off valve cover and check the valve travel. May as well check valve clearances after checking

I am familiar with the terms, but have no experience with doing it. Do you know of a video or reference where I can get familiar with what I am looking at?

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=raRLGFtc6QU

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=OkucZvAR8TE

Check compression.  
 
With it sitting and locking up, the rings may be froze up/damaged.
 
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Thanks for posting those videos. It seems a little above my knowledge and skill level. Not sure if I want to try this by myself. I can at least look to make sure the magnet lines up when the piston is at top dead center.
 
The shame of it is, it would cost more than the cost of a machine for someone to look at the Generator and fix it.
 
Do you think it's worth a shot to order a new carb from Amazon, perhaps something is just not right on the old one?
 
TY

If it was the carb though it should temporarily start with starting/carb fluid into carb or thru spark plug hole. Probably some long wait times at small engine shops with Helene and Milton damages.

Yeah, Good point!!! I may look at the flywheel and magnets.