Whirlpool gas dryer wont start

I am using a 4000W generator to run our appliances, they all work with the exception of the gas dryer. It hums and the drum turns slowly but wont reach operating revs. The generator really stumbles during the start cycle. I had been told that a gas dryer normally pulls 2500W on startup. Is my generator just underpowered or is there a problem with the dryer?