Product Manual

2-5
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 2-2).
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 1-3). Check oil level twice a day or every
4 hours during the first 20 hours of operation and
change the oil after the first 20 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 2-2). 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 in fuel lines and
carburetor and removes oxides from electrical con-
tacts and generator slip rings. 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.
1. Gasoline Models Only − Fill the fuel tank with
fresh fuel and add a fuel preservative (Ona-
Fresh
TM
), following the instructions on the con-
tainer label. Unless a preservative (stabilizer) is
added, the gasoline in the fuel system will dete-
riorate causing fuel system corrosion, gum
formation and varnish-like deposits which can
lead to hard starting and rough operation. Then
run the genset for about 10 minutes at approxi-
mately 1/2 rated power to fill the fuel lines with
the fresh fuel and preservative.
WARNING
Gasoline preservatives (stabil-
izers) are toxic. Follow the instructions on
the container label. Avoid skin contact.
Wash your hands with soap and water after
dispensing the fluid.
2. Change the engine oil and attach a tag indicat-
ing oil viscosity. See ENGINE OIL REC-
OMMENDATIONS (Page 1-3).
3. Remove the air filter and restart the genset.
While the genset is running, spray an engine
fogger (OnaGard
TM
) into the carburetor, follow-
ing the instructions on the container label, and
then stop the genset. The fogger leaves a pro-
tective coat of oil on the internal surfaces of the
engine.
4. Disconnect all appliances, push the genset line
circuit breaker to OFF (Page 2-3) and stop the
genset.
5. 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 3-5).
6. Plug the exhaust tail pipe to keep out dirt, mois-
ture, bugs, etc.
7. Close the fuel supply valve (if so equipped).
8. LPG Models − Check the local ordinances if
the vehicle is to be garaged. Generally, ordi-
nances require that the LPG system be leak-
free, that the LPG container not be filled beyond
specified limits, that the container shutoff valve
be closed and that the vehicle not be parked
near sources of heat or ignition.
WARNING
LPG leaks can lead to explosive
accumulations in pits, sumps or other be-
low-grade locations. Comply with all local
ordinances regarding the garaging of ve-
hicles with LPG engine fuel systems.
OnaFresh and OnaGard are trademarks of Onan Corporation.
Redistribution or publication of this document
by any means, is strictly prohibited.