MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical replacement
parts. Use of any other parts could create a hazard
or cause product damage.
WARNING:
Before inspecting, cleaning, or servicing the
machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts
to stop, and disconnect spark plug wire and move
it away from spark plug. Allow 30 minutes of cool
down time before performing any maintenance.
Failure to follow these instructions can result in
serious personal injury or property damage.
NOTICE:
Periodically inspect the entire product for
damaged, missing, or loose parts such as screws,
nuts, bolts, caps, etc. Tighten securely all fasteners
and caps and do not operate this product until all
missing or damaged parts are replaced. Please call
1-866-539-1710 or contact an authorized service
center for assistance.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Keep the generator in a clean and dry environment where it
is not exposed to dust, dirt, moisture, or corrosive vapors.
Do not allow the cooling air slots in the generator to become
clogged with foreign material such as leaves, etc.
Do not use a garden hose to clean the generator. Water
entering the fuel system or other internal parts of the unit can
cause problems that will decrease the life of the generator.
To clean the unit:
Use a soft bristle brush and/or vacuum cleaner to loosen
and remove dirt and debris.
Clean air vents with low pressure air that does not exceed
25 psi.
Wipe the exterior surfaces of the generator with a damp
cloth.
CHECKING/CLEANING AIR FILTER
See Figure 18.
For proper performance and long life, keep air filter clean.
Release latches on side of air filter cover. Remove cover
and set aside.
Remove the filter element.
If the filter element is dirty, clean with warm, soapy water.
Rinse and let dry.
Apply a light coat of engine lubricant to the element, then
squeeze it out.
Replace the element in the air filter unit.
Replace the air filter cover and latch to secure.
NOTE: Do not run the generator without the air filter. Rapid
engine wear will result.
CHANGING ENGINE LUBRICANT
See Figure 19.
Remove the oil cap/dipstick.
Place a container underneath the oil drain plug to collect
used lubricant as it drains.
Unscrew the oil drain plug and remove.
Allow lubricant to drain completely.
NOTE: Drain the lubricant while the engine is still warm but
not hot. Warm lubricant will drain quickly and more com-
pletely.
WARNING:
Do not change engine lubricant while it is hot.
Accidental contact with hot engine lubricant could
result in serious burns.
Reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten securely.
Refill with lubricant following the instructions in the
Checking/Adding Lubricant section. For amount of
lubricant needed to refill, see Product Specifications
earlier in this manual or the accompanying engine manual,
if applicable.
Reinstall the oil cap/dipstick.
NOTE: Used lubricant should be disposed of at an approved
disposal site. See your local oil retailer for more information.
SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE
See Figure 20.
The spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits
in order to ensure proper engine operation. To check:
Remove the spark plug cap.
Clean any dirt from around base of spark plug.
Remove spark plug using wrench (not included).
Inspect spark plug for damage, and clean with a wire
brush before reinstalling. If insulator is cracked or chipped,
spark plug should be replaced. For replacement spark
plug, see Product Specifications earlier in this manual
or the accompanying engine manual, if applicable.
Measure plug gap. The correct gap is 0.028−0.031 in.
(0.7-0.8 mm). To widen gap, if necessary, carefully bend
the ground (top) electrode. To lessen gap, gently tap
ground electrode on a hard surface.
Seat spark plug in position; thread in by hand to prevent
cross-threading.
Tighten with wrench to compress washer. If spark plug
is new, use 1/2 turn to compress washer appropriate
amount. If reusing old spark plug, use 1/8 to 1/4 turn for
proper washer compression.
16 — English