PART 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
Page 20
Section 1.6
General Maintenance
INTRODUCTION
Performing proper maintenance on a Generator will ensure
proper function during a Utility failure. Once a Generator has
failed, it is already too late. Ensuring the proper oil changes and
inspections have been completed at the specified times will
help keep the Generator reliable.
ENGINE OIL
Modern oils play vital functions in protecting the engine.
Lubricating oil acts to reduce friction and wear, cool engine
parts, seal combustion chambers, clean engine components,
and inhibit corrosion. See Table 1 “Service Schedule” for
specific inspection items and interval
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS
All oil should meet minimum American Petroleum Institute (API)
Service Class SJ, SL or better. Do not use special additives.
Select the oil’s viscosity grade according to the expected
operating temperature.
SAE 30 Above 32º F
10W-30 Between 40ºF and -10ºF
Synthetic 5W-30 10ºF and below
AIR FILTER
Air is necessary for successful combustion in the engine. Clean
air (almost 100% pure) is critical to engine survival and vital to
its performance. There are operational signs when an air filter
has become completely plugged. The engine begins to lose
power, and fuel consumption increases. Black smoke may blow
from the exhaust. Continued operation with a plugged air filter
may cause severe damage to the engine.
SPARK PLUGS
Good spark is essential to properly maintaining the engine.
Although replacement may not be required, inspection of the
plugs during routine maintenance is critical. Always verify
that spark plugs are gapped according to the specifications.
Improperly gaped spark plugs will effect the operation of the
engine.
See Test 65 for diagnosing spark plug related problems.
See “Specifications” for specific spark plug gaps.
VISUAL INSPECTION
During all service intervals, a proper visual inspection must be
conducted to ensure proper function, airflow, and to prevent
fire hazards.
Air inlet and outlet openings in the Generator compartment
must be open and unobstructed for continued proper operation.
This includes such obstructions as high grass, weeds, brush,
leaves, and snow.
AIR OUTLET
AIR OUTLET
AIR INTAKE
AIR INTAKE
Figure 12. Cooling Vent Locations
CORROSION PROTECTION
Spray engine linkages with a light oil such as WD-40.
CAUTION! Do not spray flammable oils on a hot or
running engine.
VALVE CLEARANCE
Proper valve clearance is vital to ensuring longevity of the
engine. After the first 6 months of operation, check the engine
valve clearance and adjust as necessary. Checking of the
engine valve clearance thereafter periodically will increase
reliability of the Generator. Refer to Test 70 for Specification and
adjustment procedure.
Some symptoms of an engine with valves in need of adjustment
are:
•Hard starting
•Smoke out of the exhaust
•Rough running
•Lack of horse power
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