2.10 Additional Information; Section 3 - Maintenance; Checking The Engine Oil Level - Generac Power Systems 02010-2, 04164-3 Installation And Owner's Manual

2.9.4 OVERVOLTAGE PROTECTION
A solid-state voltage regulator (Figure 2.6) controls
the generator's AC output voltage. This regulator sup-
plies an excitation current to the rotor. By regulating
the rotor's excitation current, the strength of its mag-
netic field is regulated and, in turn, the voltage deliv-
ered to connected electrical loads is controlled. When
the AC frequency is 60 Hertz, voltage is regulated at
120 volts (voltage-to-frequency ratio is 2-to-1).
Figure 2.6 – 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.

2.10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

2.10.1 ATTENTION REQUIRED
AFTER SUBMERSION
If the recreational vehicle generator has been sub-
merged in water, it MUST NOT be started and oper-
ated. Following any submersion in water, have an
Authorized Service Dealer thoroughly clean and dry
the generator.
2.10.2 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 materials 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.
Section 3 – Maintenance
Recreational Vehicle Generator
2.10.3 EFFECTS OF MOISTURE AND DIRT
Keep the generator set as clean and dry as possible.
Protect the unit against excessive dust, dirt, corrosive
vapors, road splash, etc. Permitting dirt and mois-
ture to accumulate on generator windings will have
an adverse effect on the insulation resistance of those
windings.
When moisture is allowed to remain in contact with
windings, some of the moisture will be retained in
voids and cracks in the insulation. This causes a
reduced insulation resistance and will eventually
cause problems. Dirt will make the problem worse,
since dirt tends to hold moisture in contact with
windings. Salt (as from sea air) also will worsen the
problem since it tends to absorb moisture from the
air. Salt and moisture, when combined, form a good
electrical conductor.
3.1

CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL

For oil capacities and requirements, see section
"Engine Oil Requirements". Check the engine crank-
case oil level at least every eight hours of operation,
or before use. 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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