Owner`s manual

SF 345
43
frequently charged by a battery charger, the electrolyte level will have to be checked more often. The correct
fluid level in the cells is usually approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch above the plates. If fluid is needed, fill to the
proper level with distilled water. Do not over fill!
Please note that some batteries are sealed and cannot be filled. Keep the battery tops clean and dry. Dirt and
water can conduct electricity from one post to the other causing the battery to discharge.
The battery posts should be kept free of corrosion. Wing nut connections should not be used to attach
battery cables. Remove the cables and clean the posts and cable clamps with a battery post cleaner or
sandpaper as required. Coating the battery posts and cable clamps with petroleum jelly or silicone grease will
protect them and reduce corrosion. Battery cables, both positive and ground, must be replaced when they show
signs of corrosion or fraying. Deteriorated cables cause a considerable voltage loss when high currents are
drawn, as for starting the engine.
NEVER USE AN OPEN FLAME IN THE BATTERY STORAGE AREA. AVOID STRIKING
SPARKS NEAR THE BATTERY. A BATTERY CAN EXPLODE IF A FLAME OR SPARK
IGNITES THE HYDROGEN GAS THE BATTERY EMITS WHILE BEING CHARGED.
AC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Periodically inspect all wiring for nicks, chafing, brittleness, improper support, etc. Examine the shore power
cord closely for cracks in the insulation and corrosion in electrical connectors. Spraying receptacles and
electrical connections with an electrical contact cleaner or a metal and electrical protector will reduce corrosion
and improve electrical continuity.
Inspect all wiring for proper support, sound insulation, and tight terminals, paying particular attention to
portable appliance cords and plugs.
The entire AC circuitry, especially the shore power cord, should be seasonally tested for proper continuity
by an experienced electrician. This will detect any shorts, open wires or ground faults. Ground fault
interrupters should be tested periodically to ensure proper operation by pressing the test/reset buttons in the
center of face plate. The polarity indicator system also should be inspected for proper operation.
The engine maintenance required on the generator is similar in many ways to the main engines. The most
important factors to the generator's longevity are proper ventilation, maintenance of the fuel system, ignition
system, cooling system, lubrication system and the AC alternator.
Maintenance schedules and procedures are outlined in your generator owner’s manual. They should be
followed exactly.
CORROSION ALLOWED TO BUILD ON THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS CAN CAUSE A
POOR CONNECTION RESULTING IN SHORTS, GROUND FAULTS OR POOR GROUND CON-
NECTIONS. ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS SHOULD BE CHECKED AT LEAST ANNUALLY
AND CLEANED AS REQUIRED. DO NOT ALLOW CORROSION TO BUILD ON CONNEC-
TIONS.
THE AC AND DC ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS ALWAYS SHOULD BE DISCONNECTED FROM
THE POWER SOURCE BEFORE INSPECTING OR SERVICING THE SYSTEM. NEVER SER-
VICE ANY COMPONENT OF AN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WHILE IT IS ENERGIZED.