Generac Power Systems 9344-2 - Manual (Page 13)

CHECKING FLUID LEVELS
■ CHECK ENGINE OIL___________________
Check the engine crankcase oil level at least every 8
hours that you operate the unit, or every time before
you use it (Figure 11).
Figure 11 — Checking Oil Level
• Make sure the generator is as level as possible.
• Remove oil dipstick and wipe dry with a clean, lint
free cloth.
• Install oil dipstick, then remove again.
• Oil should be at dipstick FULL mark. Never operate the
generator with oil level below dipstick ADD mark. DO NOT
FILL CRANKCASE ABOVE DIPSTICK FULL MARK.
■ BATTERY FLUID
Check battery electrolyte fluid at least once weekly. Fluid
should cover separators in ail battery cells. If fluid level is
low, add distilled water to cover tops of separators. DO
NOT USE TAP WATER IN BATTERY.
■ ENGINE COOLANT
Check coolant level in coolant recovery bottle.
• Add the recommended coolant mixture as necessary.
• Periodically remove radiator pressure cap to make sure the
coolant recovery system is functioning properly. Coolant should
be at bottom of radiator filler neck. If coolant level is low,
inspect gasket in radiator pressure cap. Replace cap, if neces­
sary, To have pressure cap tested, contact an authorized
Generac Service Facility. Inspect cooling system and coolant
recovery system for leaks.
INSPECT GENERATOR SET
Once each week inspect the generator set. Look for fuel,
oil and coolant leaks. Check for missing or loose nuts, bolts
and other fasteners. Check for damage. If unit is dirty, it
may be cleaned with a damp cloth or soft brush. Inspect
the exhaust system. NEVER operate the generator with a
defective exhaust.
INSPECT COOLING SYSTEM
Inspect the entire cooling system once each month or every
100 operating hours, whichever occurs first. Check for
leaks, condition of hoses, and tightness of clamps.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL
Refer to PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE for
engine oil and filter change frequencies. You should also
change generator engine oil before placing the vehicle into
storage.
Drain the oil while engine is still warm from running,
which means warm up the engine, shut it down and
drain immediately as follows (Figure 12):
1. Remove OIL DRAIN HOSE from its retaining clip.
2. Loosen and remove OIL DRAIN HOSE CAP. Drain oil
completely into suitable container.
3. When all oil has drained, install and tighten OIL
DRAIN HOSE CAP.
4. Turn OIL FILTER counterclockwise and remove.
Dispose of old filter.
5. Apply a light coating of new engine oil to seal of new
oil filter. Install FILTER and tighten by hand only. DO
NOT OVERTIGHTEN.
6. Remove OIL FILLER CAP, add recommended oil (see
SPECIFICATIONS). DO NOT OVERFILL ABOVE
THE DIPSTICK TULL” MARK. Crankcase oil
capacity is 3.7 U.S. quarts (3.5 liters).
CAUTION! After refilling the crankcase with oil,
always check oil level on dipstick. NEVER OPER­
ATE ENGINE WITH OIL BELOW THE DIPSTICK
“ADD” MARK.
7. Start engine and check for oil leaks.
Figure 12 — Changing Engine Oil
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