Checking Oil Level/Filter; To Clean Generator; Replacing Spark Plug - Generac Power Systems XP4000 Professional Owner's Manual

3.3.1 GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
Generator maintenance consists of keeping the unit clean and dry.
Operate and store the unit in a clean dry environment where it will
not be exposed to excessive dust, dirt, moisture or any corrosive
vapors. Cooling air slots in the generator must not become clogged
with snow, leaves, or any other foreign material.
Check the cleanliness of the generator frequently and clean when
dust, dirt, oil, moisture or other foreign substances are visible on
its exterior surface.

Never insert any object or tool through the air
cooling slots, even if the engine is not running.
DO NOT use a garden hose to clean generator. Water can enter
the engine fuel system and cause problems. In addition, if water
enters the generator through cooling air slots, some water will
be retained in voids and crevices of the rotor and stator winding
insulation. Water and dirt buildup on the generator internal
windings will eventually decrease the insulation resistance of
these windings.
3.3.2 TO CLEAN THE GENERATOR
• Use a damp cloth to wipe exterior surfaces clean.
• A soft, bristle brush may be used to loosen caked on dirt, oil,
etc.
• A vacuum cleaner may be used to pick up loose dirt and
debris.
• Low pressure air (not to exceed 25 psi) may be used to
blow away dirt. Inspect cooling air slots and openings
on the generator. These openings must be kept clean and
unobstructed.
3.3.3 ENGINE MAINTENANCE
DANGER

When working on the generator, always
disconnect negative cable from battery. Also
disconnect spark plug wires from spark plug
and keep wire away from spark plug.
3.3.4 CHECKING OIL LEVEL
See the "BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR" section for
information on checking the oil level. The oil level should be
checked before each use, or at least every eight hours of operation.
Keep the oil level maintained.
3.3.5 CHANGING THE OIL AND OIL FILTER
Change the oil and filter after the first 30 hours of operation.
Change the oil every 100 hours or every season thereafter. If
running this unit under dirty or dusty conditions, or in extremely
hot weather, change the oil more often.
10
Section 3 — Maintenance
Portable Generator System
NOTE:

Hot oil may cause burns. Allow engine to cool
before draining oil. Avoid prolonged or repeated
skin exposure with used oil. Thoroughly wash
exposed areas with soap.
Whenever possible, run engine for approximately 5 minutes to
get the engine oil hot. This will aid in draining the oil.
Use the following instructions to change the oil while the engine
is still warm:
• Clean area around oil drain plug.
• Remove oil drain plug from engine and oil fill plug to drain oil
completely into a suitable container.
• When oil has completely drained, install oil drain plug and
tighten securely.
• Place a suitable container beneath the oil filter and turn
filter counterclockwise to remove. Discard according to local
regulations.
• Coat gasket of new filter with clean engine oil. Turn filter
clockwise until gasket contacts lightly with filter adapter. Then
tighten an additional 3/4 turn.
• Fill oil sump with recommended oil. (See "Before Starting the
Generator" for oil recommendations).
• Wipe up any spilled oil.
• Dispose of used oil at a proper collection center.
3.3.6 REPLACING THE SPARK PLUG
Use Champion RC14YC spark plug or equivalent. Replace the
plug once each year. This will help the engine start easier and
run better.
1. Stop the engine and pull the spark plug wire off of the spark
plug.
2. To gain access, remove the four (4) Torx screws "T27" and
take off side panel.
3. Clean the area around the spark plug and remove it from the
cylinder head.
4. Set the spark plug's gap to .76 mm (0.030 in.). Install the
correctly gapped spark plug into the cylinder head (Figure
12).
5. Push the boot firmly on the spark plug and install side panel.
Figure 12 - Spark Plug Gap
NOTE: