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NOTE:
This list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are the frequently
asked questions pertaining to ALL portable models
Some questions may not be applicable to the model covered in
this publication.
FUEL INFORMATION
Q: What is the proper fuel to use in my generator?
A: We recommend regular unleaded gasoline. Do not use E85
gasoline or mix oil with gasoline. Premium grade fuel can be
used, but is not required and will not improve performance or
output.
Q: What needs to be done to the fuel before extended storage?
A: Fuel that is not going to be used- even for short periods of
time should be treated with fuel stabilizer to slow the rate
of deterioration, gumming or varnish formation. Following
the manufacturer’s recommendations, treat the quantity of
fuel remaining in the fuel tank. Open the fuel valve, start and
operate the engine for 30 minutes. Close the fuel valve and
operate until the engine stops. This circulates treated fuel
through lines and carburetor. The fuel can be drained or left in
the tank.
Q: Can I convert my portable generator to run on a different fuel
besides gasoline?
A: We do not offer any type of fuel conversion kit for our portable
generators. Aftermarket conversion kits are available on the
Internet. However, if a customer decides to convert the fuel
using an aftermarket kit, the warranty is void.
Q: Can I use any type of gasoline?
A: Gasoline with an octane rating of 87, with no more than 10%
ethanol is preferred. Never use an E85 fuel or a mixture of
oil and gasoline designated for two cycle engines. Utilizing a
higher grade fuel will not yield any increase in power output.
Q: The fuel capacity in my owner’s manual seems incorrect.
A: The fuel capacity listed is the total interior volume for the
fuel tank. Air space is required to allow for expansion of the
gasoline during warmer temperatures. So the actual amount of
gasoline that will fit in the tank is typically less than the stated
fuel tank capacity.
Q: How do I drain the fuel?
A: Actually, treating the fuel for storage is a better option. The
treated fuel can then be left in the tank. Fuel can be removed
through the fill opening using an automotive style siphon.
Exercise all appropriate cautions when handling fuel.
MAINTENANCE & OIL INFORMATION
Q: I am out of the recommended oil, but I need to operate my
generator. What are my options?
A: In an emergency, oil with an API rating of SH, SJ, SK, CF-4,
ILSAC, GF-1, GF-2 or GF-4 can be used. It can be mineral,
semi-synthetic or synthetic. Any of the following viscosities
are permissible: SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40, 20W-50,
30 or 40 weight. Change the oil as soon as possible using
Generac oil, per the owner’s manual recommendations.
Q: If no dipstick is included on my model’s engine. How do I
know when I have put enough oil in my portable generator?
A: The customer should fill the oil to the bottom of the cap’s
threads on the crankcase. The oil should always be checked
and filled when your engine has cooled completely.
Q: Should I screw the oil cap/ dipstick all the way down when
checking the oil level?
A: When checking the oil, the oil fill cap/ dipstick should be
screwed in all the way. The oil level should be checked and
filled when the engine has cooled completely.
Q: The manual says the oil capacity is 1.7 quarts. When I add 1.7
quarts, it doesn’t reach the threads on the crankcase.
A: Add enough oil to reach the bottom the threads on the
crankcase, even if it is more than the manual recommends.
OPERATION
Q: The hourmeter said it was time to service the air filter. After the
service has been performed, does anything need to be done to
the hourmeter?
A: The hourmeter will alert the owner continuously for one hour
before and until one hour after scheduled maintenance has
been reached. This includes oil changes (at 100 hours) or air
filter service (at 200 hours). As hours of operation continue
to accumulate, the hourmeter will automatically reset itself
until the next 100 or 200 hour service interval is reached. See
the Hourmeter section of your owner’s manual for additional
information. The hourmeter on some generator models have
a reset button that allows the operator to move between
maintenance intervals and reset intervals by holding the reset
button for nine seconds. NOTE: Not all generator models have
the reset button.
Q: How do I adjust the valve clearance?
A: Valve clearance adjustment is critical to proper engine
operation and requires special tools and training. Instructions
are covered in the Valve Clearance Adjustment section of
your owner’s manual. However, if you are uncomfortable
performing this service procedure, have your dealer maintain
the generator’s valve clearance at the intervals specified.
Frequently Asked Questions