Guardian Technologies 02010-2, 04164-3 Fuel Filter Gasoline only, Spark Arrestor Muffler

Section 3 – Maintenance

Recreational Vehicle Generator

3.6FUEL FILTER (GASOLINE ONLY)

Remove and replace the fuel filter (Figure 3.5) once each year or every 100 hours of operation, whichever comes first.

Figure 3.5 – Fuel Filter

Fuel Filter

3.7SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER

If the generator is not equipped with a spark arres- tor exhaust muffler and is to be used on any forest covered, brush covered or grass covered unimproved land, a spark arrestor may need to be installed. The spark arrestor must be maintained in effective work- ing order by the vehicle owner/operator.

For assistance in ordering, installing and maintaining spark arrestor exhaust mufflers, contact the nearest Authorized Service Dealer.

Exhaust mufflers supplied by the manufacturer are spark arrestor types. The manufacturer's exhaust mufflers for recreational vehicle generators do not have a spark arrestor screen, but are of the more effi- cient “toroid” or “swirl” type. To remove carbon and combustion deposits from such mufflers, remove the plug from the muffler and run the engine for approxi- mately 15 minutes. Shut down the engine, let the muffler cool and install the plug.

Be sure to reinstall the muffler plug tightly. Engine vibration could cause a loose plug to fall out. Without the plug in place, hot engine exhaust is directed out the opening. This hot exhaust, depending on the installation, could be directed to areas not able to withstand the extreme heat such as wooden floor boards or other flammable material. This could result in a fire.

3.8CLEANING THE GENERATOR

Keep the generator set as clean and dry as possible. Protect the unit against excessive dust, dirt, corrosive vapors, road splash, etc. Permitting dirt and mois- ture to accumulate on generator windings will have an adverse effect on the insulation resistance of those windings.

When moisture is allowed to remain in contact with windings, some of the moisture will be retained in voids and cracks in the insulation. This causes a reduced insulation resistance and will eventually cause problems. Dirt will make the problem worse, since dirt tends to hold moisture in contact with windings. Salt (as from sea air) also will worsen the problem since it tends to absorb moisture from the air. Salt and moisture, when combined, form a good electrical conductor.

Do NOT use a forceful spray of water to clean the generator. Water will enter the generator interior and cause problems, and may also con- taminate the generator fuel system.

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 corrosion. Tighten and clean as necessary.

•Check the battery fluid level of unsealed batteries and, if necessary, 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 bat- tery hydrometer.

NOTE:

Servicing of the battery is to be performed or supervised by personnel knowledgeable of batter- ies and the required precautions. Keep unauthor- ized personnel away from batteries.

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

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