MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Use of any other parts may create a hazard or cause product damage.
WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1. Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes, resulting in possible serious injury.
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended to be repaired or replaced by the customer. All other parts should be replaced at an authorized service center.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Keep the generator in a clean and dry environment where it is not exposed to dust, dirt, moisture, or corrosive vapors. Do not allow the cooling air slots in the generator to become clogged with foreign material such as leaves, etc.
Do not use a garden hose to clean the generator. Water en- tering the fuel system or other internal parts of the unit can cause problems that will decrease the life of the generator.
To clean the unit:
Use a soft bristle brush and/or vacuum cleaner to loosen and remove dirt and debris.
Clean air vents with low pressure air that does not exceed 25 psi.
Wipe the exterior surfaces of the generator with a damp cloth.
CHECKING/CLEANING AIR FILTER
See Figure 12.
For proper performance and long life, keep air filter clean.
Locate the latch under the air filter and pull to release.
Remove the air filter cover.
Remove the filter element.
If the filter element is dirty, clean with warm, soapy water. Rinse and let dry.
Apply a light coat of engine lubricant to the element, then squeeze it out.
Replace the element in the air filter unit.
Replace the air filter cover and lock the latch.
NOTE: Do not run the generator without the air filter or gasket. Rapid engine wear will result.
CHANGING ENGINE LUBRICANT
See Figure 13.
Remove the oil cap/dipstick.
Place a container underneath the oil drainage bolt to col- lect used lubricant as it drains.
Unscrew the oil drainage bolt and remove.
Allow lubricant to drain completely.
Reinstall the oil drainage bolt and tighten securely.
Refill with lubricant following the instructions in the
Checking/AddingLubricant section.
Reinstall the oil cap/dipstick.
NOTE: Used lubricant should be disposed of at an approved disposal site. See your local oil retailer for more information.
SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE
See Figure 14.
The spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits in order to ensure proper engine operation. To check:
Remove the spark plug cap.
Clean any dirt from around base of spark plug.
Remove spark plug using wrench (not included).
Inspect spark plug for damage, and clean with a wire brush before reinstalling. If insulator is cracked or chipped, spark plug should be replaced.
NOTE: If replacing, use the following recommended spark plug or equivalent: Champion RL86C.
Measure plug gap. The correct gap is 0.02−0.03 in.
(0.6−0.7 mm). To widen gap, if necessary, carefully bend the ground (top) electrode. To lessen gap, gently tap ground electrode on a hard surface.
Seat spark plug in position; thread in by hand to prevent
Tighten with wrench to compress washer. If spark plug is new, use 1/2 turn to compress washer appropriate amount. If reusing old spark plug, use 1/8 to 1/4 turn for proper washer compression.
NOTE: An improperly tightened spark plug will become very hot and could damage the engine.
Page 14 — English