Maintenance
3.3 GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty of the generator does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, the operator must maintain the generator as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain the generator.
All adjustments in the Maintenance section of this manual should be made at least once each season. Follow the requirements in the "Maintenance Schedule".
NOTICE:
Once a year replace the spark plug and replace the air filter. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper
3.3.1 GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
Generator maintenance consists of keeping the unit clean and dry. Operate and store the unit in a clean dry environment where it will not be exposed to excessive dust, dirt, moisture or any corrosive vapors. Cooling air slots in the generator must not become clogged with snow, leaves, or any other foreign material.
Check the cleanliness of the generator frequently and clean when dust, dirt, oil, moisture or other foreign substances are visible on its exterior surface.
nNever insert any object or tool through the air cooling slots, even if the engine is not running.
NOTICE:
DO NOT use a garden hose to clean generator. Water can enter the engine fuel system and cause problems. In addition, if water enters the generator through cooling air slots, some water will be retained in voids and crevices of the rotor and stator winding insulation. Water and dirt buildup on the generator internal windings will eventually decrease the insulation resistance of these windings.
3.3.2 TO CLEAN THE GENERATOR
•Use a damp cloth to wipe exterior surfaces clean.
•A soft, bristle brush may be used to loosen caked on dirt, oil, etc.
•A vacuum cleaner may be used to pick up loose dirt and debris.
•Low pressure air (not to exceed 25 psi) may be used to blow away dirt. Inspect cooling air slots and openings on the generator. These openings must be kept clean and unobstructed.
3.3.3 ENGINE MAINTENANCE
When working on the generator, always disconnect the spark plug wire from spark plug and keep wire away from spark plug.
3.3.4 CHECKING OIL LEVEL
See the “Before Starting the Generator” section for information on checking the oil level. The oil level should be checked before each use, or at least every eight hours of operation. Keep the oil level maintained (Figure 9).
3.3.5 CHANGING THE OIL
Change the oil after the first 20 hours of operation, then every 50 hours thereafter. If running this unit under dirty or dusty conditions, or in extremely hot weather, change the oil more often.
nHot oil may cause burns. Allow engine to cool before draining oil. Avoid prolonged or repeated skin exposure with used oil.
Thoroughly wash exposed areas with soap.
Use the following instructions to change the oil while the engine is still warm:
•Clean area around oil drain plug (Figure 12).
•Remove oil drain plug from engine and oil fill plug to drain oil completely into a suitable container.
•When oil has completely drained, install oil drain plug and tighten securely.
•Fill engine with recommended oil. (See “Before Starting the Generator” for oil recommendations).
•Wipe up any spilled oil.
•Dispose of used oil at a proper collection center.
Figure 12 - Oil Drain, Check & Fill
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