SPARK PLUG CHECK |
Engine spark plugs are an important part of the engine ignition system. Worn or incorrectly adjusted spark plugs can negatively affect engine starting and operation. Therefore, it is important to inspect and regap, or replace the engine spark plugs as indicated in the service interval table. The listed steps are recommended to access and service the engine spark plugs.
WARNING
•Before performing any maintenance, make sure the Mode switch is in the OFF position, the circuit breaker is in the OFF position and the positive (red) battery cable is disconnected.
1.To gain access to the spark plug on the rear side of the engine, some disassembly of the generator cabinet is required. Begin the disassembly by carefully removing the lid from the enclosure. First remove the ground strap by removing the screw holding it to the lid. Push in the hinge retaining stop (A), then slide the lid (B) to the left to free it from the rest of the enclosure as shown in Fig G. Set the lid aside on a soft surface to avoid scratching the paint.
2.Open the battery access panel by removing the 3 screws and rotating the panel outward (see Fig. E on page 28).
3.Remove the 2 screws (C) fastening the exhaust chamber to the rear engine firewall (see Fig H). Slide the exhaust chamber panel (D) upward to free it from the enclosure and carefully set it aside.
4.Locate and remove the screws (E) retaining the spark plug access cover (F). Remove the cover to gain access to the rear spark plug (G) as shown in Fig H.
5.Remove the enclosure inlet fasteners (H) and front panel (I) as indicated in Fig I to access the front engine spark plug (J).
6.Pull the spark plug boots loose, then clean any dirt from the area around the spark plugs. Remove the spark plugs with a 13/16" spark plug wrench.
7.Inspect the spark plugs for fouling or abnormal wear like excessively worn electrodes or cracked or chipped insulator material. If abnormal wear is indicated, replace the spark plugs. Fouled plugs indicate the need for engine service by a qualified engine service technician.
New spark plugs or plugs that do not display any abnormal characteristics should be checked for proper gap using a suitable spark plug gauge. Adjust the gap to 0.012 - 0.016 inches (0.30 - 0.40 mm) by carefully bending the grounding electrode.
8.Reinstall the spark plugs by hand until they begin to seat to avoid
spark plugs. If a torque wrench is available, tighten all plugs to 13
9.Finish the procedure by reassembling the enclosure front panel (I), spark plug access cover (F), exhaust chamber (D) and enclosure lid (B).
Fig. G |
Fig. H
Fig. I
30 |
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