Product Manual

2-7
BREAKING IN A NEW ENGINE
Proper engine break-in on a new genset or on one
with a rebuilt engine is essential for top engine per-
formance and acceptable oil consumption. Run the
genset at approximately 1/2 rated power for the first
2 hours and then at 3/4 rated power for 2 more
hours. See LOADING THE GENSET (Page 2-5).
Proper engine oil and oil level are especially critical
during break-in because of the higher engine tem-
peratures that can be expected. Change the oil if not
appropriate for the ambient temperatures during
break-in. See ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS
(Page 2-1). Check oil level twice a day or every
4 hours during the first 24 hours of operation and
change the oil and oil filter after the first 50 hours of
operation.
EXERCISING THE GENSET
Exercise the genset at least 2 hours each month if
use is infrequent. Run the genset at approximately
1/2 rated power. See LOADING THE GENSET
(Page 2-5). A single two hour exercise period is
better than several shorter periods.
Exercising a genset drives off moisture, re-lubri-
cates the engine, replaces stale fuel and removes
oxides from electrical contacts. The result is better
starting, more reliable operation and longer engine
life.
STORING THE GENSET
Proper storage is essential for preserving top gen-
set performance and reliability when the genset
cannot be exercised regularly and will be idle for
more than 120 days.
Storing the Genset
1. Disable the automatic genset starting feature of
an inverter-charger or other automatic starting
device.
WARNING
CARBON MONOXIDE is deadly
and can accumulate to dangerous levels in
garages and other confined spaces. Dis-
able the automatic genset starting feature
of an inverter-charger or other automatic
starting device before storing the vehicle.
2. Push the genset line circuit breaker OFF
(Page 2-6).
3. Change the engine oil and attach a tag indicat-
ing oil viscosity. See ENGINE OIL REC-
OMMENDATIONS (Page 2-1).
4. Disconnect the battery cables (negative [−]
cable first) from the starting battery and store
the battery according to the battery manufac-
turer’s recommendations. See MAINTAINING
THE BATTERY AND BATTERY CONNEC-
TIONS (Page 3-4).
5. Plug the exhaust tail pipe to keep out dirt, mois-
ture, bugs, etc.
6. Close the fuel supply valve (if so equipped).
Returning the Genset to Service
1. Check the oil tag on the genset and change the
oil if the viscosity indicated is not appropriate for
the temperatures expected. See ENGINE OIL
RECOMMENDATIONS (Page 2-1).
2. Reconnect the starting battery (negative [−]
cable last). See MAINTAINING THE BATTERY
AND BATTERY CONNECTIONS (Page 3-4).
3. Remove the plug from the exhaust tailpipe.
4. Change the air filter element if it is dirty
(Page 3-4).
5. Open the fuel supply valve (if so equipped).
6. Inspect the genset. See GENERAL INSPEC-
TION (Page 3-2).
7. Push the genset line circuit breaker ON
(Page 2-6) when the genset is ready to power
appliances.
8. Enable the automatic genset starting feature of
an inverter-charger or other automatic starting
device following the device manufacturer’s in-
structions and safety precautions.