Craftsman 580.327141 Owner's Manual page 7

HOW TO USE YOUR GENERATOR
If you have any problems operating your generator,
please call the generator helpline at 1-800-222-3136.
Grounding The Generator
The National Electrical Code requires that the frame
and external electrically conductive parts of this
generator be properly connected to an approved earth
ground. Local electrical codes may also require proper
grounding of the unit. For that purpose, a grounding
wing nut is provided on the base of the cradle.
Grounding
Wing Nut
Generally, connecting a No. 12 AWG (American Wire
Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding nut and
to an earth-driven copper or brass grounding rod
(electrode) provides adequate protection against
electrical shock. However, local codes may vary
widely. Consult with a local electrician for grounding
requirements in your area.
Proper grounding of the generator will help prevent
electrical shock in the event of a ground fault condition
in the generator or in connected electrical devices.
Proper grounding also helps dissipate static electricity,
which often builds up in ungrounded devices.
Before Starting The Generator
To operate the engine you will need to do the
following:
Add Engine Oil
NOTE: When adding oil to the engine crankcase in the
future, use only high quality detergent oil rated with API
service classification SF or SG rated SAE 30 weight. Use
no special additives. Select the oil's viscosity grade
according to your expected operating temperature:
colder
5W-30
32°F warmer
SAE 30 or 10W-30
Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30, etc.)
improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity
oils will result in increased oil consumption when used
above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more
frequently to avoid possible damage from running low
on oil.
• Place generator on a level surface and remove the
yellow oil fill cap. Add engine oil until level is at
point of overflowing. Check engine oil level before
starting each time thereafter.
• Install oil fill plug, finger tighten securely.
Add Gasoline
WARNING!
NEVER fill fuel tank indoors.
NEVER fill fuel tank when engine is running or
hot. DO NOT light a cigarette or smoke when
filling the fuel tank.
CAUTION!
Do Not overfill the fuel tank.
Always leave room for expansion.
• Use regular UNLEADED gasoline with the
generator engine. Do Not use premium gasoline.
Do Not mix oil with gasoline.
• Clean area around fuel fill cap, remove cap.
• Slowly add unleaded regular gasoline to fuel tank.
Be careful not to overfill. Allow about 1/2" of tank
space for fuel expansion, as shown here.
• Install fuel cap and wipe up any spilled gasoline.
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum deposits
from forming in fuel system parts such as the
carburetor, fuel hose or tank during storage. Alcohol-
blended fuels (called gasohol, ethanol or methanol)
can attract moisture, which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. See
"Storage" on page 15. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
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