Generac 04164-3 Portable Generator User Manual


 
10
Section 2 – Operation
Recreational Vehicle Generator
NOTE:
If starting from the generator control panel, turn OFF loads
by setting the generator’s main circuit breaker to the OFF (or
OPEN) position. If starting from a remote panel, turn OFF loads
using the means provided in the vehicle (such as a main circuit
breaker). Electrical load circuits will be turned ON after the
generator has started, stabilized and warmed up.
2. If the engine has not been started in more than two weeks,
press the Fuel Pump Primer switch and hold it for about 10 to
15 seconds to prime the fuel system. However, if the engine
is warm, skip Step 2.
3. Hold the engine Start/Stop switch in the START position to
crank the engine. Release the switch when the engine starts.
If the engine does not start after it has been
cranking for 15 seconds, release the Start/Stop
switch and try again. Holding the switch for
longer than 15 seconds can damage the starter
motor.
4. Let the engine run at no-load for a few minutes to stabilize and
warm up.
5. Turn ON electrical loads using the means provided (such as a
main circuit breaker or transfer switch).
2.6 STOPPING THE GENERATOR
1. Turn OFF all electrical loads using the means provided (such
as a main circuit breaker or transfer switch).
2. Let generator run at no-load for a few minutes, to stabilize inter-
nal engine generator temperatures.
3. Place the Start/Stop switch in its STOP position.
2.7 APPLYING LOADS TO
GENERATOR
When applying electrical loads to the generator, observe these
guidelines:
Before applying electrical loads, let the generator stabilize and
warm up for a minute or two.
DO NOT overload the generator.
2.7.1 LETTING THE ENGINE STABILIZE
The generator supplies correct rated voltage only at the proper
governed speed. Some electrical appliances may be extremely
sensitive to voltage. Incorrect voltages can damage such appli-
ances.
If electrical loads are applied at reduced operating speeds, such
loads imposed on the engine when sufficient power is not available
may shorten engine life. Never turn ON electrical loads until after the
generator engine has started and stabilized at no-load.
2.8 SUMMER/WINTER HEAT
RISER SYSTEM
Under certain weather conditions, it is possible for ice to form
in the venturi area of the carburetor. This condition can be very
dangerous because it can prevent the governor system from func-
tioning properly, which results in a “runaway” engine.
The most common weather conditions leading to this problem are
temperatures in the range of 25° F to 35° F (-4° C to 1.7° C), along
with high humidity. This ice formation also can be attributed to the
load being applied during these weather conditions. Generators
running with no-load or light loads applied usually have the most
problems.
The Summer/Winter Lever (Figure 2.3) should be in the WINTER
position for ambient temperatures below 40° F (4.4° C) and in the
SUMMER position for ambient temperatures above 40° F (4.4°
C).
Figure 2.3 – Heat Riser System
When the heat riser is in the SUMMER (down) position (Figure
2.2), air is drawn into the air cleaner from the upper intake tube.
When the heat riser is in the WINTER (up) position, air is drawn
from the lower intake tube, which is positioned to draw the heated
air near the exhaust manifold.
To prevent carburetor icing, the owner/operator should physically
position the heat riser to the proper position dependent on the
temperature.