Maintenance - Homelite HGCA4500 Operator's Manual

WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical Homelite replacement
parts. Use of any other parts may create a hazard or
cause product damage.
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended to be
repaired or replaced by the customer. All other parts should
be replaced at an authorized service center.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Before each use, inspect the entire product for damaged,
missing, or loose parts such as screws, nuts, bolts, caps, etc.
Tighten securely all fasteners and caps and do not operate
this product until all missing or damaged parts are replaced.
Please call 1-800-242-4672 or contact an authorized service
center for assistance.
Keep the generator in a clean and dry environment where it
is not exposed to dust, dirt, moisture, or corrosive vapors.
Do not allow the cooling air slots in the generator to become
clogged with foreign material such as leaves, etc.
Do not use a garden hose to clean the generator. Water en-
tering the fuel system or other internal parts of the unit can
cause problems that will decrease the life of the generator.
To clean the unit:
 Use a soft bristle brush and/or vacuum cleaner to loosen
and remove dirt and debris.
 Clean air vents with low pressure air that does not exceed
25 psi.
 Wipe the exterior surfaces of the generator with a damp
cloth.
CHECKING/CLEANING AIR FILTER
See Figure 11.
For proper performance and long life, keep air filter clean.
 Open the clasp on the air filter cover. Remove cover and
set aside.
 Remove the filter element.
 Remove the filter gasket. Wipe with a clean cloth and
replace in the air filter unit.
 If the filter element is dirty, clean with warm, soapy water.
Rinse and let dry.
 Apply a light coat of engine lubricant to the element, then
squeeze it out.
 Replace the element in the air filter unit.
 Replace the air filter cover and close the clasp to
secure.
NOTE: Do not run the generator without the air filter or
gasket. Rapid engine wear will result.

MAINTENANCE

CHANGING ENGINE LUBRICANT
See Figure 12.
 Remove the oil cap/dipstick.
 Place a container underneath the oil drainage bolt to
collect used lubricant as it drains.
 Unscrew the oil drainage bolt and remove.
 Allow lubricant to drain completely.
 Reinstall the oil drainage bolt and tighten securely.
 Refill with lubricant following the instructions in the
Checking/Adding Lubricant section.
 Reinstall the oil cap/dipstick.
NOTE: Used lubricant should be disposed of at an
approved disposal site. See your local oil retailer for more
information.
SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE
See Figure 13.
The spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits
in order to ensure proper engine operation. To check:
 Remove the spark plug cap.
 Clean any dirt from around base of spark plug.
 Remove spark plug using wrench (not included).
 Inspect spark plug for damage, and clean with a wire
brush before reinstalling. If insulator is cracked or
chipped, spark plug should be replaced.
NOTE: If replacing, use the following recommended
spark plug or equivalent: Champion F7TC.
 Measure plug gap. The correct gap is 0.028−0.031 in.
(0.7-0.8 mm). To widen gap, if necessary, carefully bend
the ground (top) electrode. To lessen gap, gently tap
ground electrode on a hard surface.
 Seat spark plug in position; thread in by hand to prevent
cross-threading.
 Tighten with wrench to compress washer. If spark plug
is new, use 1/2 turn to compress washer appropriate
amount. If reusing old spark plug, use 1/8 to 1/4 turn for
proper washer compression.
NOTE: An improperly tightened spark plug will become
very hot and could damage the engine.
Page 14 — English