Guardian Technologies 004702-0, 004703-0, 004704-0, 004705-0, 004706-0, 004707-0 owner manual

Section 3 – Maintenance

Recreational Vehicle Generators

‹2.8.4 OVERVOLTAGE PROTECTION

A solid-state voltage regulator (Figure 2.5) controls the generator’s AC output voltage. This regulator supplies an excitation current to the rotor. By regulat- ing the rotor’s excitation current, the strength of its magnetic field is regulated and, in turn, the voltage delivered to connected electrical loads is controlled. When the AC frequency is 60 Hertz, voltage is regu- lated at 115 volts.

Figure 2.5 – Solid State Voltage Regulator

‹2.8.6 25-HOUR CHECK-UP

After the 25-hour break-in period, contact an Authorized Service Dealer for the following mainte- nance. (The vehicle owner is responsible for any charges relating to normal unit maintenance.)

•Change the engine crankcase oil and oil filter.

•Check all fluid levels.

•Inspect the cooling and ventilation openings.

•Check the engine ignition system.

•Inspect the entire electrical system.

•Inspect the engine exhaust system.

The voltage regulator also incorporates a “voltage surge protection circuit.” This circuit prevents trou- blesome surges in the generator AC output voltage. Voltage surge is a common cause of damage to elec- tronic equipment.

‹2.8.5 25-HOUR BREAK-IN PERIOD

The first 25 hours of operation is the break-in period for the generator. Properly breaking in the genera- tor is essential to minimize fuel consumption and provide maximum engine performance. During this

25-hour break-in period, follow this procedure:

•Run the unit at varying electrical loads to help seat the engine piston rings properly.

•Check the engine oil level frequently. Add oil if needed. It is normal for the generator engine to consume more oil than is normal until the piston rings have properly seated.

•For the 75-hour operation following the break-in period, avoid light electrical loads. Load the gen- erator at 50 percent (or more) of its rated watt- age capacity. Repeated light loads during these 75 hours can cause improper seating of engine piston rings, resulting in blowby and high oil consump- tion.

•After operating the unit for 25 hours, complete the tasks recommended under Section 2.8.6.

‹2.8.7 OPERATION IN HIGH GRASS OR BRUSH

Never operate the generator while the vehicle is parked over high grass, weeds, brush, leaves or any other combustible substance. Such mate- rials can ignite and burn from the heat of the exhaust system. The generator exhaust system becomes extremely hot during operation and remains hot for a long time after it has shut down.

3.1CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL

LEVEL

For oil capacities and requirements, see “Engine Oil Requirements,” Section 1.6.2. Check the engine crankcase oil level at least every eight hours of opera- tion, or before it is used. To check the engine oil level, proceed as follows (see Figure 3.1):

1.Be sure the generator is as level as possible.

2.Remove the dipstick and wipe it dry with a clean, lint-free cloth.

3.Install and tighten the dipstick cap; then, remove it again. The oil level should be at the dipstick “Full” mark.

4.If necessary, remove the oil fill cap on the rocker cover and slowly add oil until it reaches the dip- stick “Full” mark. DO NOT FILL ABOVE THE “FULL” MARK.

Never operate the engine with the oil level below the “Add” mark on the dipstick. Doing this could damage the engine.

5.Install and tighten the oil fill cap and the dipstick before operating the engine.

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