Maintenance
Maintenance Schedule
Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occurs first. More frequent service is
required when operating in adverse conditions noted below.
First 5 Hours
• Change engine oil
Every 8 Hours or Daily
• Clean debris
• Check engine oil level
Every 25 Hours or Yearly
• Service engine air cleaner†
Every 50 Hours or Yearly
• Change engine oil †
Every 100 Hours or Yearly
• Service fuel valve
• Service spark plug
• Inspect muffler and spark arrester
• Clean cooling system †
† Service more often under dirty or dusty conditions.
General Recommendations
Regular maintenance will improve the performance and extend the life of the generator.
See any authorized dealer for service.
The generator's warranty does not cover items that have been subjected to operator
abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, the operator must
maintain the generator as instructed in this manual.
NOTICE Improper treatment of generator could damage it and shorten its life.
• NEVER operate generator without protective housing or covers to assure proper
cooling.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your generator.
All service and adjustments should be made at least once each season. Follow the
requirements in the Maintenance Schedule chart above.
NOTICE Once a year you should clean or replace the spark plug and replace the air
filter. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper fuel-air mixture and help your
engine run better and last longer.
Generator Maintenance
Generator maintenance consists of keeping the unit clean and dry. Operate and store
the unit in a clean dry environment where it will not be exposed to excessive dust, dirt,
moisture, or any corrosive vapors. Cooling air slots in the generator must not become
clogged with snow, leaves, or any other foreign material.
NOTICE DO NOT use water or other liquids to clean generator. Liquids can enter
engine fuel system, causing poor performance and/or failure to occur. In addition, if
liquid enters generator through cooling air slots, some of the liquid will be retained in
voids and cracks of the rotor and stator winding insulation. Liquid and dirt buildup on
the generator internal windings will eventually decrease the insulation resistance of
these windings.
Cleaning
Daily or before use, look around and underneath the generator for signs of oil or fuel
leaks. Clean accumulated debris from inside and outside the generator. Keep the linkage,
spring and other engine controls clean. Keep the area around and behind the muffler free
from any combustible debris. Inspect cooling air slots and openings on generator. These
openings must be kept clean and unobstructed.
Engine parts should be kept clean to reduce the risk of overheating and ignition of
accumulated debris:
• Use a damp cloth to wipe exterior surfaces clean.
NOTICE Improper treatment of generator could damage it and shorten its life.
• DO NOT expose generator to excessive moisture, dust, dirt, or corrosive vapors.
• DO NOT insert any objects through cooling slots.
• Use a soft bristle brush to loosen caked on dirt or oil.
• Use a vacuum cleaner to pick up loose dirt and debris.
Fuel System Maintenance Figure
WARNING Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive which
could cause burns, fire or explosion resulting in death,
serious injury and/or property damage.
• Keep fuel away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat, and other ignition
sources.
• Check fuel lines, tank cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if
necessary.
• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine.
How to Clean/Replace the Debris Strainer
1. Remove the fuel cap (11,A).
2. Remove the debris strainer (11,B).
3. If the debris strainer is dirty, clean it. If the debris strainer is torn or otherwise
damaged, replace it. If you replace the debris strainer, make sure to use an
original equipment replacement debris strainer.
How to Clean the Fuel Sediment Cup
The fuel valve is equipped with a fuel sediment cup that can be cleaned as follows:
1. Move the fuel valve to the off position.
2. Remove the sediment cup (8,A) from the fuel valve.
3. Wash the sediment cup in a nonflammable solvent. Dry thoroughly.
4. Install the sediment cup and tighten securely.
5. Move the fuel valve to the on position and check for leaks. If the fuel valve
leaks, replace with an original equipment replacement fuel valve.
Battery Maintenance
There is no required maintenance for the starting battery, if equipped. Keep battery and
terminals clean and dry.
NOTICE The starting battery charges only while the generator is operating.
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