Generac Power Systems 004709-0 owner manual Battery Maintenance, Exercising the Generator

3.9 BATTERY MAINTENANCE

All lead-acid batteries will discharge when not in use. The generator battery should be inspected as follows:

‹3.9.1 WEEKLY

•Inspect the battery posts and cables for tightness and corrosion. Tighten and clean as necessary.

•Check the battery fluid level of unsealed batteries and, if necessary, fill with Distilled Water Only. Do not use tap water in batteries.

‹3.9.2 EVERY SIX MONTHS

•Have the state of charge and condition checked. This should be done with an automotive-type bat- tery hydrometer.

NOTE:

Servicing of the battery is to be performed or supervised by personnel knowledgeable of batter- ies and the required precautions. Keep unauthor- ized personnel away from batteries.

Damage will result if the battery connections are made in reverse.

DANGER

Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The battery is capable of exploding. Storage batter- ies give off explosive hydrogen gas. This gas can form an explosive mixture around the battery for several hours after charging. The slightest spark can ignite the gas and cause an explo- sion. Such an explosion can shatter the battery and cause blindness or other injury. Any area that houses a storage battery must be properly ventilated. Do not allow smoking, open flame, sparks, or any spark producing tools or equip- ment near the battery. Discharge static electric- ity from body before touching the battery by first touching a grounded metal surface.

A battery presents a risk of electrical shock

and high short circuit current. The following pre- cautions are to be observed when working on batteries:

•Remove watches, rings or other metal objects;

•Use tools with insulated handles;

•Wear rubber gloves and boots;

•Do not lay tools or metal parts on top of the battery;

•Disconnect any charging source prior to connecting or disconnecting battery terminals; and

•Do not use any jumper cables or booster battery to crank and start the generator engine. If any battery has discharged, remove it for recharging.

Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released electrolyte has been known to be harmful to the skin and eyes, and to be toxic.

The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically conductive and corrosive. The following procedures are to be observed:

•Wear full eye protection and protective clothing;

•Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off immediately with water;

•Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thoroughly and immediately with water and seek medical attention; and

•Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an acid neutralizing agent. A common practice is to use a solution of 1 pound (500 grams) bicarbonate of soda to 1 gallon (4 liters) or water. The bicar- bonate of soda solution is to be added until the evidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The resulting liquid is to be flushed with water and the area dried.

3.10 MAJOR SERVICE MANUAL

To obtain a service manual for the generator, contact the nearest Authorized Service Dealer. Make sure to identify the MODEL NUMBER and SERIES.

3.11 EXERCISING THE GENERATOR

The manufacturer recommends that the generator be started and operated at least once every seven days. Let the unit run for at least 30 minutes to “exercise” the engine.

3.12 OUT OF SERVICE PROCEDURE

‹3.12.1 REMOVAL FROM SERVICE

If the generator cannot be exercised every seven days, and it is to be out of service longer than 30 days, pre- pare the generator for storage as follows:

1.Start the engine and let it warm up.

2.Close the fuel shutoff valve in the fuel supply line and allow the unit to shut down.

Note:

Using a fuel additive such as STA-BIL fuel stabi- lizer, or an equivalent, will prevent gum deposits from forming in the engine’s fuel system.

3.While the engine is still warm from running, drain the oil completely. Refill the crankcase with SAE 10W-30 oil having API classification “For Service SF.”