Introduction; Read This Manual Thoroughly; Rules For Safe Operation; Before Operating - Generac Power Systems GTH - 990 Owner's Manual

INTRODUCTION

READ THIS MANUAL THOROUGHLY

If any portion of this manual is not understood, contact the nearest
Dealer for starting, operating and servicing procedures.
Throughout this publication, and on tags and decals affixed to the
equipment, DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and NOTE blocks are
used to alert personnel to special instructions about a particular
operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or care-
lessly. Observe them carefully. Their definitions are as follows:
INDICATES A HAZARDOUS SITUATION OR ACTION WHICH, IF
NOT AVOIDED, WILL RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action which, if not
avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
Notes contain additional information important to a procedure
and will be found within the regular text body of this manual.
These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards that they
indicate. Common sense and strict compliance with the special
instructions while performing the action or service are essential to
preventing accidents.
Four commonly used safety symbols accompany the DANGER,
WARNING and CAUTION blocks. The type of information each
indicates is as follows:
This symbol points out important safety information that,

if not followed, could endanger personal safety and/or
property of others.


This symbol points out potential explosion hazard.

This symbol points out potential fire hazard.

This symbol points out potential electrical shock hazard.
The operator is responsible for proper and safe use of the equip-
ment. The manufacturer strongly recommends that the operator
read this Owner's Manual and thoroughly understand all instruc-
tions before using this equipment. The manufacturer also strongly
recommends instructing other users to properly start and operate
the unit. This prepares them if they need to operate the equipment
in an emergency.
NOTE:

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

Study these RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION carefully before
operating or servicing this equipment. Become familiar with the
OWNER'S MANUAL and with the engine. The engine can operate
safely, efficiently and reliably only if it is properly operated and
maintained. Many accidents are caused by failing to follow simple
and fundamental rules or precautions.
The manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible circumstance
that might involve a hazard. The warnings in this manual and
on tags and decals affixed to the equipment, are therefore, not
all-inclusive. If using a procedure, work method or operating
technique the manufacturer does not specifically recommend,
ensure that it is safe for others. Also make sure the procedure,
work method or operating technique utilized does not render the
engine to be unsafe.
DO NOT tamper with the engine governed

speed. High operating speeds are danger-
ous and increase the risk of personal injury
or damage to the equipment. Operating at
low speeds with heavy load may shorten the
engine's life.

BEFORE OPERATING

• Gasoline is highly FLAMMABLE and its vapors are EXPLOSIVE.
Do not permit smoking, open flames, sparks or heat in the area
while handling gasoline. Avoid spilling gasoline on a hot engine.
Comply with all of the laws regulating storage and handling of
gasoline.
• Store gasoline and other fuels only in containers designed and
approved for the storage of such materials.
• Pressure can build up in the fuel tank. Loosen the fuel cap
slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank.
• Add gasoline and other fuels in a clean, well-ventilated area.
Wipe up any spilled gasoline immediately. If gasoline has been
spilled, let it dry completely before starting the engine.
• Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always allow room for fuel expan-
sion. If the tank is overfilled, the fuel can overflow onto a hot
engine and cause a FIRE or an EXPLOSION.
• Thoroughly inspect the engine for loose or damaged parts
before each use. Do not use the engine until adjustments or
repairs are made.
• Check the oil level in the engine before each use.
• Inspect the engine periodically. Repair or replace all damaged or
defective parts immediately.
• Inspect fuel system frequently for leaks or damage. Repair or
replace any damaged or leaking component immediately. Never
attempt to change, alter or modify the engine fuel system in
any way that might affect safety or compliance with applicable
codes and standards.
Safety Rules
1