General; Long Term Storage - Generac Power Systems XP Series Owner's Manual

Figure 16 - Valve clearance adjustment

3.5 GENErAL

The generator should be started at least once every 30 days and
be allowed to run at least 30 minutes. If this cannot be done and
the unit must be stored for more than 30 days, use the following
information as a guide to prepare it for storage.
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NEVEr store engine with fuel in tank indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas where fumes may reach
an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a furnace, water
heater, clothes dryer or other gas appliance.
Allow unit to cool entirely before storage.
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3.6 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.
• 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.
To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied
before storage of 30 days or longer, as follows:
1. Remove all gasoline from the fuel tank. Use a commercially
available, non-conductive vacuum siphon.
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Drain fuel into approved container outdoors, away from
open flame. Be sure engine is cool. Do not smoke in the
vicinity or light a cigarette.
2. Start and run engine until engine stops from lack of fuel.
3. After the engine cools down, drain oil from crankcase. Refill
with recommended grade.
4. 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.
Avoid spray from spark plug hole when cranking engine.
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5. Install and tighten spark plug. Do not connect spark plug wire.
6. Clean the generator outer surfaces. Check that cooling air
slots and openings on generator are open and unobstructed.
7. Store the unit in a clean, dry place.
8. Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
9. Cover the unit with a suitable protective cover that does not
retain moisture.
NEVEr cover the generator while engine and exhaust
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area are warm. Allow unit to cool entirely.
Maintenance
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