TP-5606 6/02 Scheduled Maintenance 3-3
Lubrication System
Oil Selection
The selection of engine oil is very important to a diesel
engine. If an unsuitable oil is used or an oil change is
neglected, damage and a shorter engine life may result.
Oil must meet the American Petroleum Institute (API)
classification of CC or CD. Avoid mixing different brands
of oils and lubricants; oils of different manufacturers may
be incompatible and deteriorate when mixed.
Recommended SAE viscosity designations for given
temperature ranges in which the generator set will be
operated are listed in Figure 3-1.
NOTE
Failure to observe these standards may cause
inadequate oil pressure and cold-starting difficulties.
S.A.E. Service
Grade
°C
°F
--30 --20 --10 0 10 20 30 40
0 20 40 60 80 100
Operating Temperature
Recommended Value
Usable Limit
5W
10W
20W
SAE 20
SAE 30
SAE 40
°C
°F
5W
10W
20W
20
30
40
5W20
10W30
20W40
Figure 3-1. Engine Oil Selection
Oil Check
Check crankcase oil level daily or before each start to
insure that the level is in the safe range. To check oil
level, remove oil dipstick and wipe dipstick clean (see
Figure 3-2). Reposition dipstick in crankcase and push it
all the way down into the tube. Remove dipstick and
check the level. Oil level should read between MIN and
MAX marks on dipstick. Do not operate set if oil level
exceeds the MAX mark or registers below the MIN mark
on dipstick.
1-933
1. MAX Level 2. MIN Level
1
2
Figure 3-2. Oil Level Check
NOTE
Do not check oil level when the set is in operation. The
engine must be stopped and on a level surface when
checking oil. Most accurate oil reading is obtained by
shutting down the generator and waiting several
minutes before checking oil.