9
1.10 BATTERY INSTALLATION
Fill the battery with the proper electrolyte fluid if
necessary and have the battery fully charged before
installing it.
Before installing and connecting the battery, complete
the following steps:
1. Set the generator's AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch to
OFF.
2. Turn off utility power supply to the transfer
switch.
3. Remove the 5 amp fuse from the generator con-
trol panel.
If the AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch is not set to its
OFF position, the generator can crank and start
as soon as the battery cables are connected. If
the utility power supply is not turned off, spark-
ing can occur at the battery posts and cause an
explosion.
Battery cables were factory connected at the genera-
tor (Figure 1.5). Connect cables to battery posts as
follows:
4. Connect the red battery cable (from starter con-
tactor) to the battery post indicated by a positive,
POS or (+).
5. Connect the black battery cable (from frame
ground) to the battery post indicated by a nega-
tive, NEG or (—).
6. Replace the 5 amp fuse in the generator control
panel.
NOTE:
Damage will result if battery connections are made
in reverse.
Figure 1.5 – Battery Cable Connections
NOTE:
The generator is equipped with a battery trickle
charger that is active when the unit is set up for
automatic operation. With the battery installed
and utility power source voltage available to the
transfer switch, the battery receives a trickle
charge while the engine is not running, to prevent
self-discharge. The trickle charger is designed to
help extend the life of the battery by maintain-
ing the battery when the unit is not running. The
trickle charge feature cannot be used to recharge
a discharged battery.
1.11 THE BATTERY
Servicing of the battery is to be performed or super-
vised by personnel knowledgeable of batteries and
the required precautions. Keep unauthorized person-
nel away from batteries.
When replacing the battery, use the following type of
battery: Group 26/26R 12-volt battery with a rating
of 350 cold-cranking amps minimum for 7 kW; 525
cold-cranking amps minimum for 12 and 15 kW at
-18º C (0º F) minimum. When using a maintenance -
free battery, it is not necessary to check the specific
gravity or electrolyte level. Have these procedures
performed at the intervals specified in the “Service
Schedule.” A negative ground system is used. Battery
connections are shown on the wiring diagrams. Make
sure the battery is correctly connected and terminals
are tight. Observe battery polarity when connecting
the battery to the generator set.
DANGER
Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery is capable of exploding.
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; and
• Disconnect charging source prior to connecting or
disconnecting battery terminals.
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.
Section 1 — General Information
Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators