Generac Power Systems 05176-0 owner manual Battery Installation

Section 2 — Installation

Connect power source load conductors to clearly marked transfer mechanism terminal lugs as fol- lows

1.Connect UTILITY (NORMAL) power source cables to switch terminals N1, N2.

2.Connect customer LOAD leads to switch termi- nals T1, T2.

Conductors must be properly supported, of approved insulative qualities, protected by approved conduit, and of the correct wire gauge size in accordance with applicable codes.

Be sure to maintain proper electrical clearance between live metal parts and grounded metal. Allow at least 1/2 inch for 100-400 amp circuits.

2.2BATTERY INSTALLATION

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.

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, immediately flush thoroughly 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.

Air-cooled 15 kW Generators

Lead-acid batteries present a risk of fire because they generate hydrogen gas. The

following procedures are to be followed:

•DO NOT SMOKE when near the battery;

•DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area; and

•Discharge static electricity from body before touch- ing the battery by first touching a grounded metal surface.

Be sure the AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch is set to the OFF position before connecting the battery cables. If the switch is set to AUTO or MANUAL, the generator can crank and start as soon as the battery cables are connected.

Be sure the utility power supply is turned off, or sparking may occur at the battery posts as the cables are attached and cause an explosion.

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 2.4). 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.

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