Generac Power Systems XG4000 Owner's Manual page 13

Once a year replace the spark plug and replace the air filter.
A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper fuel-air
mixture and help the engine run better and last longer.
3.3.1 GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
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.
Check the cleanliness of the generator frequently and clean when
dust, dirt, oil, moisture or other foreign substances are visible on
its exterior surface.
Never insert any object or tool through the air
cooling slots, even if the engine is not running.
DO NOT use a garden hose to clean generator. Water can
enter the engine fuel system and cause problems. In addition,
if water enters the generator through cooling air slots, some
water will be retained in voids and crevices of the rotor
and stator winding insulation. Water and dirt buildup on the
generator internal windings will eventually decrease the
insulation resistance of these windings.
3.3.2 TO CLEAN THE GENERATOR
• Use a damp cloth to wipe exterior surfaces clean.
• A soft, bristle brush may be used to loosen caked on dirt, oil,
etc.
• A vacuum cleaner may be used to pick up loose dirt and
debris.
• Low pressure air (not to exceed 25 psi) may be used to
blow away dirt. Inspect cooling air slots and openings
on the generator. These openings must be kept clean and
unobstructed.
3.3.3 ENGINE MAINTENANCE
When working on the generator, always

disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and
keep the wire away from the spark plug.
3.3.4 CHECKING OIL LEVEL
See the "BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR" section for
information on checking the oil level. The oil level should be
checked before each use, or at least every eight hours of operation.
Keep the oil level maintained.
NOTE:
NOTE:
3.3.5 CHANGING THE OIL AND OIL FILTER
Change the oil and filter after the first 30 hours of operation.
Change the oil every 100 hours or every season thereafter. If
running this unit under dirty or dusty conditions, or in extremely
hot weather, change the oil more often.
Hot oil may cause burns. Allow engine to
cool before draining oil. Avoid prolonged
or repeated skin exposure with used oil.
Thoroughly wash exposed areas with soap.
Use the following instructions to change the oil while the engine
is still warm:
• Clean area around oil drain plug.
• Remove oil drain plug from engine and oil fill plug to drain oil
completely into a suitable container.
• When oil has completely drained, install oil drain plug and
tighten securely.
• Place a suitable container beneath the oil filter and turn
filter counterclockwise to remove. Discard according to local
regulations.
• Coat gasket of new filter with clean engine oil. Turn filter
clockwise until gasket contacts lightly with filter adapter. Then
tighten an additional 3/4 turn.
• Fill engine with recommended oil. (See "Before Starting the
Generator" for oil recommendations).
• Wipe up any spilled oil.
• Dispose of used oil at a proper collection center.
3.3.6 REPLACING THE SPARK PLUG
Use Champion RC14YC spark plug or equivalent. Replace the
plug once each year. This will help the engine start easier and
run better.
1. Stop the engine and pull the spark plug wire off of the spark
plug.
2. To gain access, remove the four (4) screws and remove the
side panel.
3. Clean the area around the spark plug and remove it from the
cylinder head.
4. Set the spark plug's gap to .76 mm (0.030 in.). Install the
correctly gapped spark plug into the cylinder head (Figure
12).
5. Push the boot firmly on the spark plug and install side panel.
Figure 12 - Spark Plug Gap
Maintenance
11