We'd converted an older manual Perkins unit to full auto standby (glow plug cycle and all) with a Deep Sea 3110, some additional relays and some CTs. Quick check and the DSE3110 is under $200 pretty much anywhere.
Without the 2 wire start you're probably looking at building a box with a controller (gen specific or vehicle style remote start), timer, relays and landing some wires (glow, start, fuel, voltage sense). Depends on how much work you want to put in and if it's worth it for the end result.