Oxygenated Fuels - Homelite HGCA3000 Series Operator's Manual

APPLICATIONS
This generator is designed to supply electrical power for
operating compatible electrical lighting, appliances, tools,
and motor loads.
BEFORE OPERATING THE UNIT
 Only use OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors,
and vents.
 NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors and
windows are open.
 Always position the generator on a flat firm surface.
CAUTION:
Attempting to start the engine before it has been properly
filled with lubricant will result in equipment failure.
CHECKING/ADDING LUBRICANT
See Figure 8.
Engine lubricant has a major influence on engine perfor-
mance and service life. For general, all-temperature use,
SAE 10W-30 is recommended. Always use a 4-stroke motor
lubricant that meets or exceeds the requirements for API
service classification SJ.
NOTE: Non-detergent or 2-stroke engine lubricants will
damage the engine and should not be used.
 Unscrew the oil cap/dipstick and remove.
 Wipe dipstick clean and re-seat in hole; do not re-
thread.
 Remove dipstick again and check lubricant level. Lubri-
cant level should fall between the hatched areas on the
dipstick.
 If level is low, add engine lubricant until the fluid level rises
to the upper portion of the dipstick.
 Replace and secure the oil cap/dipstick.
CHECKING/ADDING FUEL
See Figure 9.
 Remove the fuel cap.
 Fill the fuel tank to 1 in. below the top of the fuel neck.
 Replace and secure the fuel cap.
NOTE: Always use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane
rating of 86 or higher. Never use old, stale, or contaminated
gasoline, and do not use an oil/gas mixture. Do not allow
dirt or water into the fuel tank.
USING FUEL STABILIzER
Fuel gets old, oxidizes, and breaks down over time. Adding
a fuel stabilizer (not included) extends the usable life of fuel
and helps prevent deposits from forming that can clog the
fuel system. Follow fuel stabilizer manufacturer's directions
for correct ratio of stabilizer to fuel.
OPERATION
 Add stabilizer to fuel tank, then fill with gasoline following
previous instructions.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer and gasoline can be mixed prior
to filling the tank by using a gas can or other approved
fuel container and shaking gently to combine.
 Replace and secure the fuel tank cap.
 Start and run the engine for at least 5 minutes to allow
stabilizer to treat the entire fuel system.

OXyGENATED FUELS

Some conventional gasolines are blended with alcohol or an
ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred
to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some
areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels
to help reduce emissions.
If using an oxygenated fuel, make sure it is unleaded and
meets the minimum octane rating requirements. Before using
an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some
states/provinces require this information to be posted on the
pump. The following are the EPA approved percentages of
oxygenates:
Ethanol (ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% by volume. You
may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume.
Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the
name "Gasohol." Do not use E85 fuel.
MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) 15% by volume. You
may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.
Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) 5% by volume. You
may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume
as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibi-
tors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more
than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or
performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber,
and plastic parts of the generator or your fuel system.
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another
service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.
NOTE: Fuel system damage or performance problems re-
sulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more
than the percentages of oxygenates stated previously are
not covered under warranty.
CAUTION:
On a level surface with the engine off, check the lubricant
level before each use of the generator.
AIR INTAKE VALVE
See Figure 10.
This unit is equipped with an air intake valve to help improve
engine performance during colder winter temperatures. As
shown in figure 10, the air intake valve lever should be closed
(horizontal) raised during summer months and open (vertical)
during winter months. Pull the lever slightly toward you to
allow it to move over the holding pins, then move the lever
to the desired position and release.
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