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SPARK PLUGS
Reset the spark plug gap or replace the spark plugs
as necessary (Figure 10.4).
1. Clean the area around the base of the spark plugs
to keep dirt and debris out of the engine. Clean
by scraping or washing using a wire brush and
commercial solvent. Do not blast the spark plugs
to clean.
2. Remove the spark plugs and check the condition.
Replace the spark plugs if worn or if reuse is
questionable. See the “Service Schedule,” Section
6, for recommended inspection.
3. Check the spark plug gap using a wire feeler
gauge. Adjust the gap to 1.07-1.17 mm (0.042-
0.046 inch) by carefully bending the ground elec-
trode (Figure 10.4).
Figure 10.4 – Setting the Spark Plug Gap
COOLANT CHANGE
Every year, have an Authorized Service Facility drain,
flush and refill the cooling system. See “Specifications”
for cooling system recommendations.
MISCELLANEOUS MAINTENANCE
CLEANING THE GENERATOR
Keep the generator as clean and as dry as possible.
Dirt and moisture that accumulates on internal gen-
erator windings have an adverse effect on insulation
resistance.
Periodically clean generator exterior surfaces. A soft
brush may be used to loosen caked on dirt. Use a
vacuum system or dry, low pressure air to remove
any accumulations of dirt. The generator is housed
inside an all-weather enclosure, clean the enclosure
with a soft, damp cloth or sponge and water.
Once each year have the generator cleaned and
inspected by an Authorized Service Dealer. That
dealer will use dry, low pressure air to clean internal
windings. Parts inside the control console should be
cleaned and inspected at this time as well.
Finally, have the insulation resistance of stator and
rotor windings checked. If insulation resistances are
excessively low, the generator may require drying.
BATTERY
All lead-acid storage batteries discharge when not in
use. Refer to specific instructions and warnings that
accompany the battery. If such information is not
available, observe the following precautions when
handling a battery:
• DO NOT use jumper cables and a booster battery
to crank or start the generator engine.
• DO NOT recharge a weak battery while it is
installed in the generator. Remove battery from
generator and recharge in a well-ventilated area,
away from fuel vapors, sparks, heat or flames.
• Battery electrolyte fluid is an extremely caustic
sulfuric solution that can cause severe burns. DO
NOT permit fluid to contact eyes, skin, clothing,
painted surfaces, wiring insulation, etc. If any bat-
tery fluid is spilled, flush the affected area with
clear water immediately.
• Always wear safety glasses, rubber apron and
gloves when handling a battery.
• Batteries give off explosive hydrogen gas while
charging. The gas can form an explosive mixture
around the battery for several hours after charging.
Any spark, heat or flames can ignite the gas and
cause an explosion which can shatter the battery,
causing blindness or other serious injury.
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
The battery should be inspected per Section 4.7,
Scheduled Maintenance. The following procedure
should be followed for inspection:
1. Inspect the battery posts and cables for tightness
and corrosion. Tighten and clean as necessary.
2. Check the battery fluid level of unsealed batteries
and, if necessary, fill with DISTILLED WATER
ONLY. DO NOT USE TAP WATER IN BATTER-
IES.
3. Have the state of charge and condition checked.
This should be done with an automotive-type bat-
tery hydrometer.
DANGER
Storage batteries give off explosive hydrogen
gas. This gas can form an explosive mixture
around the battery for several hours after charg-
ing. The slightest spark can ignite the gas and
cause an explosion. Such an explosion can shat-
ter the battery and cause blindness or other
injury. Any area that houses a storage battery
must be properly ventilated. Do not allow smok-
ing, open flame, sparks or any spark producing
tools or equipment near the battery.
Standby Generator Sets
Maintenance
10-4
SET PLUG GAP AT 1.07 - 1.17 mm
(0.042 - 0.046 inch)
Maint005 Rev. 0 08/05