Standby Generator Owner's Manual
Figure 10.1 - Oil Dipstick and Oil Fill Cap
Oil Fill Cap
Oil
Dipstick
BATTERY FLUID
Check battery electrolyte fluid based on the 
Maintenance Schedule. Fluid should cover separa-
tors in all battery cells. If fluid level is low, add dis-
tilled water to cover tops of separators. DO NOT USE 
TAP WATER IN BATTERY.
ENGINE COOLANT
Check coolant level in coolant recovery bottle. See 
Specifications.
•  Add recommended coolant mixture as necessary.
• Periodically remove radiator pressure cap (only 
when engine has cooled down) to make sure the 
coolant recovery system is functioning properly. 
Coolant should be at bottom of radiator filler neck. 
If coolant level is low, inspect gasket in radiator 
pressure cap. Replace cap, if necessary. To have 
pressure cap tested, contact an Authorized Service 
Dealer. Inspect cooling system and coolant recov-
ery system for leaks.
 MAINTENANCE OWNER/
OPERATOR CAN PERFORM
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
Refer to “Checking Fluid Levels”.
CHECK BATTERY
•  See “Checking Fluid Levels”.
• Check battery cables for condition, tightness, cor-
rosion or damage. Clean, tighten or replace as 
necessary.
EXERCISE SYSTEM
Start the generator engine at least once every seven 
days and let it run at least 20 minutes. See “Weekly 
Exercise Cycle”.
INSPECT COOLING SYSTEM
• Inspect engine cooling system. See “Maintenance 
Schedule”.
•  Check hoses for damage, deterioration, leaks, etc. 
Correct any discrepancies found.
•  Check hose clamps for tightness.
CHECK ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL
See “Checking Fluid Levels”.
PERFORM VISUAL INSPECTION
Complete a thorough visual inspection of the entire 
engine-generator monthly. Look for obvious damage, 
loose, missing or corroded nuts, bolts and other fas-
teners. Look for fuel, oil or coolant leaks.
INSPECT EXHAUST SYSTEM
Inspect the exhaust system at least once every three 
months. Check all exhaust system pipes, mufflers, 
clamps, etc. for condition, tightness, leaks, security, 
damage.
CHECK FAN BELT
• Inspect fan belts every three months. Replace any 
damaged, deteriorated, worn or otherwise defec-
tive belt.
• Check fan belt tension. Thumb pressure, exerted 
midway between pulleys, should deflect about 3/8 
to 5/8 of an inch. Adjust belt tension as required.
INSPECT ENGINE GOVERNOR
Visually inspect electronic governor.
DANGER
 Do not attempt to adjust the governor. Only 
qualified service facilities should adjust the 
governor. Excessively high operating speeds 
are dangerous and increase the risk of personal 
injury. Low speeds impose a heavy load on the 
engine when adequate engine power is not 
available and may shorten engine life. Correct 
rated frequency and voltage are supplied only 
at the proper governed speed. Some connected 
electrical load devices may be damaged by incor-
rect frequency and/or voltage. Only qualified 
service technicians should adjust the governed 
speed.
Standby Generator Sets
Maintenance
10-2
Maint010 Rev. 0 02/06










