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Section 2 – Operation
Recreational Vehicle Generator
2.4.2 ENGINE LUBRICATION
Have the engine crankcase properly serviced with the
recommended oil before starting. Refer to Section
1.5.4, and Sections 3.1 and 3.2 for oil servicing proce-
dures and recommendations.
Any attempt to crank or start the engine before
it has been properly serviced 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 suffi-
cient 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 con-
tinued proper operation. Without sufficient cooling
and ventilating airflow, the engine/generator quickly
overheats, which causes it to shut down and may
damage the generator.
2.4.5 ENGINE EXHAUST GAS
Before starting the generator engine, 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 vehicle that, if open,
might permit exhaust gases to enter the vehicle.
DANGER
The generator engine releases DEADLY carbon
monoxide gas through its exhaust system. This
dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient con-
centrations, 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 SYSTEM IS LEAKING OR HAS BEEN
DAMAGED. SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE
POISONING ARE (a) inability to think coher-
ently, (b) nausea, (c) vomiting, (d) twitching
muscles, (e) throbbing temples, (f) dizziness,
(g) headaches, (h) weakness, and (i) sleepiness.
IF EXPERIENCING ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS,
MOVE INTO FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY. IF
SYMPTOMS PERSIST, GET MEDICAL HELP. Shut
down the generator and do not operate it until
it has been inspected and repaired.
DANGER
Never sleep in the vehicle while the genset is
running unless the vehicle has a working carbon
monoxide detector. The exhaust system must be
installed in accordance with the genset installa-
tion manual. Make sure there is ample fresh air
when operating the genset in a confined area.
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.
To start the generator from either the generator con-
trol panel or from the optional remote panel, proceed
as follows:
1. Turn OFF electrical loads using the means pro-
vided in the vehicle (such as a main line circuit
breaker or transfer switch).
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, stabi-
lized 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, wait one minute and try again. Holding
the switch for longer than 15 seconds can dam-
age 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 pro-
vided (such as a main circuit breaker or transfer
switch).