Section 3 — Maintenance
Residential Portable Generator System
3.7 GENERAL
The generator should be started at least once every seven days and be allowed to run at least 30 minutes. If this cannot be done and you must store the unit for more than 30 days, use the following information as a guide to prepare it for storage.
DANGER! NEVER store engine with fuel in tank indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer or other gas appliance.
3.8 LONG TERM STORAGE
It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in essential fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel hose or tank during storage. Also, experience indicates that
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer, as follows:
• Remove all gasoline from the fuel tank.
DANGER! Drain fuel into approved container outdoors, away from open flame. Be sure engine is cool. Do not smoke.
•Start and run engine until engine stops from lack of fuel.
•While engine is still warm, drain oil from crankcase. Refill with recommended grade.
• Remove spark plugs and pour about 1/2 ounce (15 ml) of engine oil into the cylinders. Cover spark plug hole with rag. Press the “Start” button and allow engine to crank for 2 seconds. Then press the “Stop” button.
CAUTION! Avoid spray from spark plug holes when cranking engine.
•Install and tighten spark plugs. Do not connect spark plug wires.
•Clean the generator outer surfaces. Check that cooling air slots and openings on generator are open and unobstructed.
•Store the unit in a clean, dry place.
3.9 OTHER STORAGE TIPS:
•Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
•Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems with the carburetor and fuel system.
•If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to give protection from dust and dirt. BE SURE TO EMPTY THE
FUEL TANK.
•If it is not practical to empty the fuel tank and the unit is to be stored for some time, use a commercially available fuel stabilizer added to the gasoline to increase the life of the gasoline.
•Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that does not retain moisture.
DANGER! NEVER cover your generator while engine and exhaust area are warm.
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