Why did my Honda Generator do me like that?

Why did my Honda Generator do me like that?

Added (1). I pulled the rope, it started on the first pull. But the rope pulls became suddenly tension free but would not start the engine.

Added (2). I pulled and pulled but could not get a catch. Finally, I took it to the shop. The repair people call me up a week later and say it started first pull when they tried it. It works every time. They said sometimes when it sets around unused it can do that

Doesn't like you man

When was the last time you used the generator? How old for the gas? Does it has spark? Have you check the compression? At least how it feel at the spark plug hole? Any pressure or vacuum feeling at all? We call it compression stroke feeling. Lol.

One of the common cause is old gas. Empty the tank, clean or replacing the plug. The carburetor has gum up. You can dis-assemble it to clean with carburetor cleaner or buying a rebuild kit, it's cheap in comparison to replace the whole carburetor. Probably gummed up and won't run even with the fuel additive or even completely empty out of old fuel. Before doing it: Try this:

Get some fresh gas, put in a little, not too much, try again starting it. You may have to get a spray can of starting fluid and spray a shot burst in the air filter, if that doesn't work, tap on the side of the carb float bowl to see if it loosen up the float.

If still nothing spray carburetor cleaner in the air filter and make sure the choke is partially open, work the throttle linkage, last resort is pulling the carburetor apart and clean or put a rebuild kit in and try the above steps again. Btw: Leave the air filter off, is it dirty and clogging up? It could be the cause.

Have you ever heard of the "SeaFoam" treatment? Try it before you rebuild the carburetor or replacing it:
http://seafoamsales.com/sea-foam-motor-treatment/

I'm not an expert on small engines, just the guy who's taking care of anything that run on gas, diesel or kerosene around the house.HTH

Edit: Have fun. I did whenever I've left old gas in any unit.

The ratchet had stuck a thump will free it. If you understand how it works then an easy fix. Just a bit of dirt.