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Power Systems, Inc. 19
4.6 SPARK PLUG(S)
Reset the spark plug(s) gap or replace the spark
plug(s) as necessary. See Section 4.13 for mainte-
nance requirements.
1. Clean the area around the base of the spark
plug(s) 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
plug(s) to clean.
2. Remove the spark plug(s) and check the condi-
tion. Replace the spark plug(s) if worn or if reuse
is questionable. See Section 4.13 for recom-
mended inspection.
3. Check the spark plug gap using a wire feeler
gauge. Adjust the gap to 0.76 mm (0.030 inch) for
7 kW and 0.50 mm (0.020 inch) for 12/15 kW by
carefully bending the ground electrode (Figure
4.8).
Figure 4.8 – Setting the Spark Plug Gap
4.7 BATTERY MAINTENANCE
The battery should be inspected per the “Service
Schedule,” Section 4.13. 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 BATTERIES.
3. Have the state of charge and condition checked.
This should be done with an automotive-type bat-
tery hydrometer.
Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery is capable of exploding.
A battery presents a risk of electrical shock
and high short circuit current. The following
precautions are to be observed when working
on batteries:
• Remove watches, rings or other metal objects;
• Use tools with insulated handles;
• Wear rubber gloves and boots;
• Do not lay tools or metal parts on top of the
battery; and
• Disconnect charging source prior to connecting or dis-
connecting battery terminals.
Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released
electrolyte has been known to be harmful to
the skin and eyes, and to be toxic.
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is
harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically
conductive and corrosive. The following
procedures are to be observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing;
• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off
immediately with water;
• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, immediately
flush thoroughly with water and seek medical
attention; and
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an
acid neutralizing agent. A common practice is to
use a solution of 1 pound (500 grams) bicarbonate
of soda to 1 gallon (4 liters) or water. The bicar-
bonate of soda solution is to be added until the
evidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The
resulting liquid is to be flushed with water and the
area dried.
Lead-acid batteries present a risk of fire
because they generate hydrogen gas. The
following procedures are to be followed:
• DO NOT SMOKE when near the battery;
• DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area; and
• Discharge static electricity from body before touch-
ing the battery by first touching a grounded metal
surface.
Be sure the AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch is set to
the OFF position before connecting the battery
cables. If the switch is set to AUTO or MANUAL,
the generator can crank and start as soon as
the battery cables are connected.
Be sure the utility power supply is turned off,
and the 5A fuse is removed from the generator
control panel, or sparking may occur at the bat-
tery posts as the cables are attached, causing
an explosion.
!
!
!
DANGER
Section 4 — Maintenance
Generac Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators
SET PLUG GAP AT 0.76 mm/0.50 mm
(0.030 inch/0.020 inch)