GENERAL
The generator should be started at least once every
seven days and 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.
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 alcohol-blended fuels (called gasohol,
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture, which leads
to separation and formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
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
(15ml) of engine oil into each cylinder.
CAUTION!
Avoid spray from spark plug hole
when cranking engine.
STORAGE
•
Cover spark plug holes with rag. Crank the engine
for 2-3 seconds and reinstall the spark plugs.
Do Not connect spark plug wires.
•
Remove the negative battery cable from the battery
to prevent the battery from being depleted.
DANGER
The battery is water based. If you are storing the
generator in an area that will go below freezing,
you must remove the battery and store it
separately in an area that will not freeze. If you
allow the battery to freeze, the water in it will
expand and crack open the battery, spilling the
contents. Battery electrolyte fluid is an extremely
caustic sulfuric acid solution that can cause
severe burns. The spilled solution may also give
off hydrogen gas, which can ignite at the
slightest spark or flame and cause an explosion.
•
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, frost–free area.
OTHER STORAGE TIPS:
•
Do Not store gasoline from one season to another.
•
Replace your gasoline can if the can starts to rust.
Rust and/or dirt in the gasoline will cause
problems.
•
If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to
give protection from dust and dirt. BE SURE TO
EMPTY THE FUEL TANK.
•
Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that
does not retain moisture.
DANGER!
engine and exhaust area are warm.
16
! Fire, explosion and burn hazard!
Never cover your generator while