Generac
®
Power Systems, Inc. 15
4.2 COOLING SYSTEM
Air intake and outlet openings in the generator com-
partment must be open and unobstructed for contin-
ued proper operation. This includes such obstruc-
tions as high grass, weeds, brush, leaves and snow.
Without sufficient cooling and ventilating air flow, the
engine/generator quickly overheats, which causes it
to shut down. (See Section 7 for installation drawings
and vent locations.)
The exhaust system parts from this product get
extremely hot and remains hot after shutdown.
High grass, weeds, brush, leaves, etc. must
remain clear of the exhaust. Such materials may
ignite and burn from the heat of the exhaust
system.
4.3 OVERLOAD PROTECTION FOR
ENGINE DC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Engine cranking, start up and running are controlled
by a solid state Engine Controller circuit board.
Battery voltage is delivered to that circuit board via a
15 amp fuse. These overcurrent protection devices
will open if the circuit is overloaded.
If a circuit breaker opens or a fuse element
melts, find the cause of the overload before
resetting the circuit breaker or replacing the
fuse.
4.4 CHECKING FLUID LEVELS
4.4.1 CHECK ENGINE OIL
Check engine crankcase oil level (Figure 4.1) at least
every 20 hours of operation, or prior to use.
• Remove oil dipstick and wipe dry with a clean,
lint-free cloth.
• Install oil dipstick, then remove again.
• Oil should be between FULL and ADD marks.
• If oil level is below the dipstick ADD mark, remove
oil fill cap. Add the recommended oil to bring oil
level up to the FULL mark. DO NOT FILL ABOVE
THE “FULL” MARK. See Section 1.14 for recom-
mended oils.
Figure 4.1 - Oil Dipstick and Oil Fill Cap
4.4.2 BATTERY FLUID
Check battery electrolyte fluid at least once weekly.
Fluid should cover separators in all battery cells. If
fluid level is low, add distilled water to cover tops of
separators. DO NOT USE TAP WATER IN BATTERY.
4.4.3 ENGINE COOLANT
Check coolant level in coolant recovery bottle. See
Specifications, Section 1.10.
• Add recommended coolant mixture as necessary.
• Periodically remove radiator pressure cap to make
sure the coolant recovery system is functioning
properly. Coolant should be at bottom of radiator
filler neck. If coolant level is low, inspect gasket in
radiator pressure cap. Replace cap, if necessary.
To have pressure cap tested, contact an authorized
Generac Service Dealer. Inspect cooling system
and coolant recovery system for leaks.
4.5 MAINTENANCE OWNER/
OPERATOR CAN PERFORM
4.5.1 CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
Refer to “Checking Fluid Levels” in Section 4.4.
4.5.2 CHECK BATTERY
• Check battery fluid level each week as outlined
under “Check Fluid Levels”.
• Check battery cables for condition, tightness, cor-
rosion or damage. Clean, tighten or replace as
necessary.
4.5.3 EXERCISE SYSTEM
Start the generator engine at least once every seven
days and let it run at least 20 minutes. See Section
3.5, “Weekly Exercise Cycle”.
OIL DIPSTIC
K
!
Section 4 — Maintenance
Guardian Liquid-cooled 15 kW, 20 kW and 25 kW Generators