8 Generac
®
Power Systems, Inc.
Section 2 – Operation
PRIMEPACT 50 Recreational Vehicle Generator
2.3 AUTOMATIC CHOKE (GASOLINE ONLY)
The engine is equipped with an automatic choke that
consists of two main components: a choke solenoid
and prechoke.
2.3.1 CHOKE SOLENOID
During engine cranking (Start/Stop switch at
START), a solid-state choke module signals the
choke solenoid to activate and cycle (choke on/choke
off) until the engine starts. The choke solenoid thus
opens and closes the carburetor choke valve only
when the engine is cranking. When the engine starts,
the choke stops cycling.
2.3.2 PRECHOKE
The choke system also has a temperature-sensitive
metal strip that adjusts choke valve angle according
to ambient temperatures (i.e., in cold ambient tem-
peratures, choke valve closes more). Once the engine
starts, an element heats the temperature-sensitive
strip to a normal operating condition, opening the
choke valve. This may take about three minutes in
cooler weather.
2.4 BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
NOTE:
Instructions and information in this manual
assume the generator has been properly installed,
connected, serviced, tested and adjusted by a
qualified installation technician or installation
contractor.
2.4.1 INSTALLATION
Generator installation must have been properly com-
pleted so it complies with all applicable codes, stan-
dards and regulations and with the manufacturer's
recommendations.
2.4.2 ENGINE LUBRICATION
Have the engine crankcase properly serviced with the
recommended oil before starting. Refer to Section 1.5.4
(Page 6) and Sections 3.1 and 3.2 (Page 12) for oil ser-
vicing procedures and recommendations.
Any attempt to crank or start the engine before
you have properly serviced it with the recom-
mended oil may result in an engine failure.
2.4.3 FUEL SUPPLY
The engine must have an adequate supply of proper
fuel to operate. Before starting it, check that sufficient
fuel is available.
NOTE:
Depending on the installation, the generator may
have either a separate fuel tank, or it may “share”
the vehicle engine’s fuel tank.
2.4.4 COOLING AND VENTILATING AIR
Air inlet and outlet openings in the generator com-
partment must be open and unobstructed for contin-
ued proper operation. Without sufficient cooling and
ventilating airflow, the engine/generator quickly over-
heats, which causes it to shut down and may damage
the generator.
2.4.5 ENGINE EXHAUST GAS
Before starting the generator engine, you should be
sure there is no way for exhaust gases to enter the
vehicle interior and endanger people or animals.
Close windows, doors and other openings in the vehi-
cle that, if open, might permit exhaust gases to enter
the vehicle.
The generator engine gives off DEADLY carbon
monoxide gas through its exhaust system. This
dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient concentra-
tions, can cause unconsciousness or even death.
Never operate the generator set with the vehicle
inside any garage or other enclosed area. DO NOT
OPERATE THE GENERATOR IF THE EXHAUST SYS-
TEM IS LEAKING OR HAS BEEN DAMAGED. SYMP-
TOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING ARE
(a) inability to think coherently; (b) vomiting; (c)
twitching muscles; (d) throbbing temples; (e) dizzi-
ness; (f) headaches; (g) weakness; and (h) sleepi-
ness. IF YOU FEEL ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS,
MOVE INTO FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY. IF SYMP-
TOMS PERSIST, GET MEDICAL HELP.
2.5 STARTING THE GENERATOR
NOTE:
Read the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions. The
owner/operator should become familiar with the
vehicle in which this generator is installed.
Differences exist between vehicles. For example,
some vehicles may use a transfer switch to isolate
dockside power from the generator, while other
vehicles may use an isolating receptacle. Some
vehicles may be equipped with a DC converter,
which allows the generator to power certain DC
lighting and other DC loads.
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DANGER
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