Metamask Transfer Error: Troubleshooting
As a MetaMask user, you are probably familiar with its features and ease of use. However, when issues arise, it can be frustrating to troubleshoot. In this article, we will look at what can cause an error when trying to transfer assets on Metamask using Web3.
Error: “Error 4: Not enough gas left after previous transaction.”
When you are trying to create a button that triggers the Transfer() method in your application, but you are unable to resolve the error message. This issue is usually caused by a lack of gas available for subsequent transactions on the Ethereum network.
Why is this happening?
The main reason behind this error is that Web3.js does not have an inherent way to pause or stop the execution of gas-consuming operations like Transfer(). When you try to do the button click action in your application, it starts executing immediately. If your application has not completed its previous transaction (e.g. sending assets), there is no gas left for the next operation.
How can we solve this problem?
To overcome the above limitations:
1.
Introduce a delay between transactions
A possible solution is to introduce a small delay between the initial and subsequent transactions using Web3.js methods like eth.waitForTransaction or web3.eth.wait. This allows the transaction to process before attempting another one.
// Initial transaction (not yet executed)
function handleButtonClick() {
// ... handle the button click logic ...
// Introduce a delay between transactions
setTimeout(() => {
if (!isTransactionExecuted) {
isTransactionExecuted = true; // Set a flag to indicate that the transaction is executed
// Try to execute the next transaction (Transfer())
try {
web3.eth.sendTransaction({
from: '0xYourAddress',
to: '0xRecipientAddress',
value: web3.utils.toWei('1', 'ether'),
gas: 100000, // Set a high amount for this transaction
})
.then((result) => {
console.log(result); // Transfer successful
})
.catch((error) => {
console.error(error);
});
} catch (e) {
console.error(e);
}
}
}, 5000); // Wait 5 seconds before attempting the next transaction
}
2.
Use Web3’s built-in transfer function with a delay
Another approach is to use MetaMask’s built-in transfer method, but introduce a small delay between transactions by calling it immediately after the initial action is executed:
// Initial transaction (not yet executed)
function handleButtonClick() {
// ... handle the button click logic ...
// Introduce a small delay before transferring assets
setTimeout(() => {
web3.eth.sendTransaction({
from: '0xYourAddress',
to: '0xRecipientAddress',
value: web3.utils.toWei('1', 'ether'),
gas: 100000, // Set a large amount for this operation,
})
.then((result) => {
console.log(result); // Transfer successful
})
.catch((error) => {
console.error(error);
});
}, 5000); // Wait 5 seconds before attempting the next transaction
}
3.
Consider using a more advanced wallet or library
If you are experiencing persistent issues, it may be worth considering switching to another wallet or library that allows for better control over gas usage and execution.
Additional tips:
- Make sure your MetaMask settings allow for faster transactions (e.g.
gasLimit> 20).
- See the Metamask documentation for best practices and troubleshooting steps.
- Check the Web3.js Community Forums if you are still having problems after trying these solutions.