Generac Power Systems 04390-1 - Manual (Page 11)

Generac ® Power Systems, Inc. 9
1.10 BATTERY INSTALLATION
Fill the battery with the proper electrolyte fluid if nec-
essary and have the battery fully charged before
installing it.
Before installing and connecting the battery, complete
the following steps:
1. Set the generator's Auto/Off/Manual switch to OFF.
2. Turn off utility power supply to the transfer
switch.
3. Remove the 5A and 15A fuses from the generator
control panel.
If the Auto/Off/Manual switch is not set to its
OFF position, the generator can crank and start
as soon as the battery cables are connected. If
the utility power supply is not turned off,
sparking can occur at the battery posts and
cause an explosion.
Battery cables were factory connected at the genera-
tor (Figure 1.5). Connect cables to battery posts as
follows:
4. Connect the red battery cable (from starter con-
tactor) to the battery post indicated by a positive,
POS or (+).
5. Connect the black battery cable (from frame
ground) to the battery post indicated by a nega-
tive, NEG or (—).
NOTE:
Damage will result if battery connections are made
in reverse.
Figure 1.5 – Battery Cable Connections
NOTE:
The generator is equipped with a battery trickle
charger that is active when the unit is set up for
automatic operation. With the battery installed
and utility power source voltage available to the
transfer switch, the battery receives a trickle
charge while the engine is not running, to prevent
self-discharge. The trickle charger is designed to
help extend the life of your battery by maintaining
the battery when the unit is not running. The
trickle charge feature cannot be used to recharge
a discharged battery.
1.11 THE BATTERY
Servicing of the battery is to be performed or super-
vised by personnel knowledgeable of batteries and
the required precautions. Keep unauthorized person-
nel away from batteries.
When replacing the battery, use the following type of
battery: Group 26/26R 12-volt DC, negative ground
battery with a rating of 350 cold-cranking amps min-
imum for 7 kW; 550 cold-cranking amps minimum
for 12 and 15 kW at -17.8º C (0º F) minimum. When
using a maintenance-free battery, it is not necessary
to check the specific gravity or electrolyte level. Have
these procedures performed at the intervals specified
in the “Service Schedule.” A negative ground system
is used. Battery connections are shown on the wiring
diagrams. Make sure the battery is correctly connect-
ed and terminals are tight. Observe battery polarity
when connecting the battery to the generator set.
Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery is capable of exploding.
A battery presents a risk of electrical shock
and high short circuit current. The following
precautions are to be observed when working
on batteries:
• Remove the 5A and 15A fuses from the generator
control panel.
• Remove watches, rings or other metal objects;
• Use tools with insulated handles;
• Wear rubber gloves and boots;
• Do not lay tools or metal parts on top of the
battery; and
• Disconnect charging source prior to connecting or dis-
connecting battery terminals.
Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released
electrolyte has been known to be harmful to
the skin and eyes, and to be toxic.
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is
harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically
conductive and corrosive.
The following procedures are to be observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing;
• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off
immediately with water;
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DANGER
Section 1 — General Information
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators