Product Manual

12
OPERATING IN DUSTY ENVIRONMENTS
Pay particular attention to the following items when
operating the genset in dusty environments:
1. Do not let dirt and debris accumulate inside the
genset compartment. Keep the genset clean.
2. Perform air cleaner maintenance more often
(Page 19).
3. Change engine oil every 50 hours.
4. Keep containers of engine oil that have been
opened tightly closed to keep out dust.
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
1 hour and then at 3/4 rated power for 1 more hour.
See LOADING THE GENSET (Page 9).
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 6). 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 1 hour each month if
use is infrequent. Run the genset at approximately
1/2 rated power. See LOADING THE GENSET
(Page 9). A single 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.
Storing Genset
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
approximately 1/2 rated power to fill the fuel
lines with the fresh fuel and preservative.
WARNING
Gasoline preservatives (stabi-
lizers) are toxic. Follow the instructions on
the container. Avoid skin contact. Wash
hands with soap and water after using.
2. Change the engine oil (Page 18) and attach a
tag indicating grade of oil viscosity (Page 6).
3. Remove the air filter (Page 19) and restart the
genset. While the genset is running, spray an
engine fogger (OnaGard
TM
) into the carburetor,
following the instructions on the container la-
bel, and stop the genset. The fogger leaves a
protective coat of oil on the internal surfaces of
the engine.
OnaFresh and OnaGard are trademarks of Onan Corporation.