Craftsman 580.327141 owner manual How To Use Your Generator, Grounding The Generator, Add Gasoline

HOW TO USE YOUR GENERATOR

If you have any problems operating your generator, please call the generator helpline at 1-800-222-3136.

Grounding The Generator

The National Electrical Code requires that the frame and external electrically conductive parts of this generator be properly connected to an approved earth ground. Local electrical codes may also require proper grounding of the unit. For that purpose, a grounding wing nut is provided on the base of the cradle.

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Grounding

Wing Nut

Generally, connecting a No. 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding nut and to an earth-driven copper or brass grounding rod (electrode) provides adequate protection against electrical shock. However, local codes may vary widely. Consult with a local electrician for grounding requirements in your area.

Proper grounding of the generator will help prevent electrical shock in the event of a ground fault condition in the generator or in connected electrical devices. Proper grounding also helps dissipate static electricity, which often builds up in ungrounded devices.

Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30, etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more

frequently to avoid possible damage from running low on oil.

•Place generator on a level surface and remove the yellow oil fill cap. Add engine oil until level is at point of overflowing. Check engine oil level before starting each time thereafter.

•Install oil fill plug, finger tighten securely.

Add Gasoline

_ ARNING! NEVER fill fuel tank indoors. NEVER fill fuel tank when engine is running or

hot. DO NOT light a cigarette or smoke when filling the fuel tank.

Always leave room for expansion.

,_ CAUTION! Do Not overfill the fuel tank. Use regular UNLEADED gasoline with the generator engine. Do Not use premium gasoline. Do Not mix oil with gasoline.

•Clean area around fuel fill cap, remove cap.

Slowly add unleaded regular gasoline to fuel tank. Be careful not to overfill. Allow about 1/2" of tank

space for fuel expansion, as shown here.

1/2" Air Space Tank

Fuel

Before Starting The Generator

To operate the engine you will need to do the

following:

Add Engine Oil

NOTE: When adding oil to the engine crankcase in the future, use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SF or SG rated SAE 30 weight. Use no special additives. Select the oil'sviscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature:

colder32°Fwarmer

5W-30SAE 30 or 10W-30

•Install fuel cap and wipe up any spilled gasoline.

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel hose or tank during storage. Alcohol- blended fuels (called gasohol, ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture, which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. See "Storage" on page 15. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.