Section 3 - Maintenance; Checking The Engine Oil Level - Generac Power Systems 004702-0, 004703-0, 004704-0, 004705-0, 004706-0, 004707-0 Owner's Manual

2.8.4 OVERVOLTAGE PROTECTION
A solid-state voltage regulator (Figure 2.5) controls
the generator's AC output voltage. This regulator
supplies an excitation current to the rotor. By regulat-
ing the rotor's excitation current, the strength of its
magnetic field is regulated and, in turn, the voltage
delivered to connected electrical loads is controlled.
When the AC frequency is 60 Hertz, voltage is regu-
lated at 115 volts.
Figure 2.5 – Solid State Voltage Regulator
The voltage regulator also incorporates a "voltage
surge protection circuit." This circuit prevents trou-
blesome surges in the generator AC output voltage.
Voltage surge is a common cause of damage to elec-
tronic equipment.
2.8.5 25-HOUR BREAK-IN PERIOD
The first 25 hours of operation is the break-in period
for the generator. Properly breaking in the genera-
tor is essential to minimize fuel consumption and
provide maximum engine performance. During this
25-hour break-in period, follow this procedure:
• Run the unit at varying electrical loads to help seat
the engine piston rings properly.
• Check the engine oil level frequently. Add oil if
needed. It is normal for the generator engine to
consume more oil than is normal until the piston
rings have properly seated.
• For the 75-hour operation following the break-in
period, avoid light electrical loads. Load the gen-
erator at 50 percent (or more) of its rated watt-
age capacity. Repeated light loads during these 75
hours can cause improper seating of engine piston
rings, resulting in blowby and high oil consump-
tion.
• After operating the unit for 25 hours, complete the
tasks recommended under Section 2.8.6.
Section 3 – Maintenance
Recreational Vehicle Generators
2.8.6 25-HOUR CHECK-UP
After the 25-hour break-in period, contact an
Authorized Service Dealer for the following mainte-
nance. (The vehicle owner is responsible for any
charges relating to normal unit maintenance.)
• Change the engine crankcase oil and oil filter.
• Check all fluid levels.
• Inspect the cooling and ventilation openings.
• Check the engine ignition system.
• Inspect the entire electrical system.
• Inspect the engine exhaust system.
2.8.7 OPERATION IN HIGH GRASS
OR BRUSH

Never operate the generator while the vehicle
is parked over high grass, weeds, brush, leaves
or any other combustible substance. Such mate-
rials can ignite and burn from the heat of the
exhaust system. The generator exhaust system
becomes extremely hot during operation and
remains hot for a long time after it has shut
down.
3.1 CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL
LEVEL
For oil capacities and requirements, see "Engine
Oil Requirements," Section 1.6.2. Check the engine
crankcase oil level at least every eight hours of opera-
tion, or before it is used. To check the engine oil level,
proceed as follows (see Figure 3.1):
1. Be sure the generator is as level as possible.
2. Remove the dipstick and wipe it dry with a clean,
lint-free cloth.
3. Install and tighten the dipstick cap; then, remove
it again. The oil level should be at the dipstick
"Full" mark.
4. If necessary, remove the oil fill cap on the rocker
cover and slowly add oil until it reaches the dip-
stick "Full" mark. DO NOT FILL ABOVE THE
"FULL " MARK.

Never operate the engine with the oil level
below the "Add" mark on the dipstick. Doing
this could damage the engine.
5. Install and tighten the oil fill cap and the dipstick
before operating the engine.
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