Section 3 – Maintenance
Recreational Vehicle Generator
•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.
3.9MAJOR 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.
3.11.2 RETURN TO SERVICE
To return the unit to service after storage, proceed as follows:
1.Check the tag on the engine for oil viscosity and classification. Verify that the correct recommend- ed oil is used in the engine (see Specifications). If necessary, drain and refill with the proper oil.
2.Check the state of the battery. Fill all cells of unsealed batteries to the proper level with dis- tilled water. DO NOT USE TAP WATER IN THE BATTERY. Recharge the battery to 100 percent state of charge, or, if defective, replace the battery.
3.Clean and wipe the entire generator.
4.Reconnect the battery. Observe battery polarity. Damage may occur if the battery is connected incorrectly.
3.10 EXERCISING THE GENERATOR
The manufacturer recommends starting and operat- ing the generator at least once every seven days. Let the unit run for at least 30 minutes to “exercise” the engine.
3.11 OUT OF SERVICE PROCEDURE
5.Turn OFF all electrical loads. Add fuel if neces- sary and then start the engine.
6.Allow the unit to run for several minutes to warm up.
7.Apply electrical loads to at least 50 percent of the unit’s rated wattage capacity.
8.When the engine is thoroughly warmed up, shut it down.
9.The generator is now ready for service.
3.11.1 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
3.While the engine is still warm from running, drain the oil completely. Refill the crankcase with SAE
4.Attach a tag to the engine indicating the viscosity and classification of the oil in the crankcase.
5.Remove the spark plug and pour two or three tablespoons of clean, fresh engine oil into the spark plug threaded openings. Reinstall and tighten the spark plug.
6.Remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry room on a wooden board. Never store the battery on any concrete or earthen floor.
7.Clean and wipe the entire generator.
3.12 ADJUSTING VALVE CLEARANCE
After the first 50 hours of operation, adjust the valve clearance in the engine.
When adjusting valve clearance, the engine should be at room temperature and the piston should be at Top Dead Center (TDC) of its compression stroke (both valves closed). Correct clearance is
1.Loosen the rocker arm jam nut. Use an allen wrench to turn the pivot ball stud while checking clearance between the rocker arm and the valve stem with a feeler gauge (Figure 3.6).
Figure 3.6 — Adjusting Valve Clearance
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