Section 3 – Maintenance

3.9BATTERY 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 corro- sion. Tighten and clean as necessary.

•Check the battery fluid level of unsealed batteries and, if nec- essary, 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 battery hydrometer.

NOTE:

Servicing of the battery is to be performed or supervised by personnel knowledgeable of batteries and the required precau- tions. Keep unauthorized personnel away from batteries.

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

DANGER

Recreational Vehicle Generator

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.

Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The battery is capable of exploding. Stored batteries 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 explosion. 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 equipment near the battery. Discharge static electricity 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.

3.10 MAJOR SERVICE MANUAL

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

3.11 DRIVE BELT

The engine drives the generator rotor by means of a pulley and drive belt arrangement. The drive belt and pulleys are warranted for the life of the generator. Drive belt tension was properly adjusted before the unit was shipped from the factory. If suspecting that the drive belt tension is incorrect, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.

3.12 EXERCISING THE GENERATOR

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

15