Periodic Maintenance; Test Standby Generator System Operation And Components; Inspect Battery; Check Fluids - Generac Power Systems 006071-0 Owner's Manual

Maintenance

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE

A rigorous program of scheduled periodic maintenance should
be established and maintained. Such a program, if adhered to
diligently, will provide added assurance that the power system
functions properly when it is needed.
Keeping a "Maintenance Log" is highly recommended. Such a
log should be a continuous record of repairs, parts replacements,
gauge and instrument readings during operational tests, etc.
The manufacturer requires that a "Scheduled Maintenance Plan"
be established between the user of this equipment and the install-
ing Authorized Service Dealer. Under this agreement, (Part No.
053263), an Authorized Service Technician performs prestart and
engine running tests and checks at six-month and one-year inter-
vals. Ask an Authorized Service Dealer about this agreement.
The tasks listed in the "Service Schedule" cover the minimum
recommended maintenance requirements for this equipment.
Note that many of the tests and checks listed in the schedule are
to be performed only by an Authorized Service Technician. Fluid
capacities and recommendations, as well as other applicable
specifications, are listed in "Specifications".
TEST STANDBY GENERATOR SYSTEM OPERATION AND
COMPONENTS
An authorized operator should test the operation of the standby
generator system and inspect its components monthly (or 100
hours). This should include inspecting the transfer switch for evi-
dence of arcing, and pitted or burned contacts; inspecting wiring
and grounding connections (see "Grounding the Generator"); and
ensuring that starting devices are operational. During this opera-
tional test, all instrument and gauge readings should be recorded
in a "Maintenance Log." The transfer system also should be tested
at this time; the engine should be run at least 30 minutes and any
discrepancies corrected immediately.
Every six months (or 200 hours), an Authorized Service Technician
should perform a system operational test.

INSPECT BATTERY

Standby generators installed with automatic
‹
transfer switches will crank and start auto-
matically when NORMAL (UTILITY) source
voltage is removed or is below an acceptable
preset level. To prevent such automatic start-
up and possible injury to personnel, do not
connect battery cables until certain that nor-
mal source voltage at the transfer switch is
correct and the system is ready to be placed
into operation.
14
$
Storage batteries give off explosive hydrogen
gas. This gas can form an explosive mixture
around the battery for several hours after
charging. The slightest spark can ignite the
gas and cause an explosion. Such an explo-
sion can shatter the battery and cause blind-
ness or other injury. Any area that houses a
storage battery must be properly ventilated.
Do not allow smoking, open flame, sparks or
any spark producing tools or equipment near
the battery.
Battery electrolyte fluid is an extremely
‹
caustic sulfuric acid solution that can cause
severe burns. Do not permit fluid to contact
eyes, skin, clothing, painted surfaces, etc.
Wear protective goggles, protective clothing
and gloves when handling a battery. If fluid
is spilled, flush the affected area immedi-
ately with clear water.
$ Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery is capable of exploding.
Do not open or mutilate the battery.
‹
Released electrolyte can be toxic and harm-
ful to the skin and eyes.
+
The battery represents a risk of high short
circuit current. When working on the battery,
always remove watches, rings or other metal
objects, and only use tools that have insulated
handles.
An authorized operator should inspect the engine battery system
monthly (or 100 hours). The AGM battery that comes with the
generator is maintenace free. Therefore, only the cables and con-
nections need only to be checked for cleanliness and corrosion.

CHECK FLUIDS

An authorized operator should check the levels of engine oil, and
engine coolant monthly (or 100 hours). The oil level should be
maintained between the "FULL" and "ADD" marks on the engine
dipstick. Recommended fluids are listed are in the "Specifications"
section.
Once annually (or at every 600 hour intervals), an authorized ser-
vice technician should completely drain and refill the gearbox (if so
equipped) using the following procedure (Figure 4.1):
1. Remove panel fuse and negative battery cable.
2. Remove the oil filler/vent cap.
3. Remove the drain plug and drain the oil into an appropriate
container. Dispose of or recycle the oil properly.
4. Reinstall the oil drain plug.
5. To add oil to the gearbox, remove the oil level check plug.
6. Add the recommended oil until it just starts to flow from the
oil level check plug opening.