Long Term Storage; Other Storage Tips; 3.10 Spark Arrestor Service - Generac Power Systems 0065141C Owner's Manual

Maintenance
3.8

LONG TERM STORAGE

It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in essential fuel
system parts such as the carburetor, fuel hose or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that 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, as follows:
1. Add a quality gasoline stabilizer to the fuel per the manufacturer's
specifications, and run the unit for 10-15 minutes.
2. After engine cools down, remove all gasoline from the fuel tank.
Use a commercially available, non-conductive vacuum siphon.


Drain fuel into approved container outdoors, away from
open flame. Be sure engine is cool. Do not smoke.
3. Start and run engine until engine stops from lack of fuel.
4. After engine cools down, drain oil from engine. Refill with
recommended grade.
5. Remove spark plug and pour about 1/2 ounce (15 ml) of engine
oil into the cylinder. Cover spark plug hole with rag. Pull the recoil
starter a couple times to lubricate the piston rings and cylinder
bore. A fogging agent can also be used in the place of oil.
n
Avoid spray from spark plug hole when cranking engine.
6. Install and tighten spark plug. Do not connect spark plug wire.
7. Clean the generator outer surfaces. Check that cooling air slots
and openings on generator are open and unobstructed.
8. Store the unit in a clean, dry place.
3.9

OTHER STORAGE TIPS

• Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
• Replace the gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in the
gasoline will cause problems with the carburetor and fuel system.
• If possible, store the unit indoors and cover it to give protection
from dust and dirt. BE SURE TO EMPTY THE FUEL TANK.
• If it is not practical to empty the fuel tank and the unit is to be stored
for some time, use a commercially available fuel stabilizer added
to the gasoline to increase the life of the gasoline. Run the unit for
10-15 minutes, turn off the fuel valve and allow to run until engine
stops from lack of fuel.
• Cover the unit with a suitable protective cover that does not retain
moisture.
n
NEVER cover the generator while engine and exhaust
areas are warm.
14

3.10 SPARK ARRESTOR SERVICE

If the engine exhaust muffler has a spark arrestor screen (Figure 16).
Inspect and clean the screen at least annually. If unit is used regularly,
inspect and clean more often.
  I f using the generator on any forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-covered unimproved land, it must be
equipped with a spark arrestor. The spark arrestor must
be maintained in good condition by the owner/operator.
Clean and inspect the spark arrestor when the engine is at ambient
temperature as follows:
1. Remove the spark arrestor screen from the muffler by loosening
the clamp and removing the screw.
2. Inspect screen and replace if torn, perforated or otherwise
damaged. DO NOT USE a defective screen. If screen is not
damaged, clean it with commercial solvent.
3. Replace the spark arrestor and secure with the clamp and screw.
Figure 16 - Spark Arrestor Screen
MUFFLER
CONE
SCREEN
CLAMP