Engine Maintenance
Oil
Oil Recommendations
NOTE:
Use a high quality detergent oil classified “For Service
SF, SG, SH, SJ” or higher. DO NOT use special additives.
1. Choose a viscosity according to the table below:
NOTE:
Synthetic oil meeting ILSAC GF-2, API certification
mark and API service symbol with “SJ / CF ENERGY
CONSERVING” or higher, is an acceptable oil at all
temperatures. Use of synthetic oil does not alter required oil
change intervals.
SAE 30:
40°F and higher (5°C and higher)
is good for all
purpose use above 40°F, use below 40°F will cause hard
starting.
10W-30:
0 to 100°F (-18 to 38°C)
is better for varying
temperature conditions. This viscosity improves cold
weather starting, but may increase oil consumption above
80°F (27°C).
*Check oil level frequently at higher temperatures.
Synthetic 5W-30:
-20 to 120°F (-30 to 40 °C)
provides the
best protection at all temperatures as well as improved
starting with less oil consumption.
5W-30:
40°F and below (5°C and below)
is recommended
for winter use and works best in cold conditions.
Checking Oil Level
Oil level should be checked prior to each use or at least
every 5 hours of operation. Keep oil level maintained.
1. Make sure generator is on a level surface.
2. Clean area around oil fill and remove oil fill cap.
3. Verify oil is at the point of overflowing at oil fill
opening.
4. Replace and tighten oil fill cap.
Adding Engine Oil
1. Make sure generator is on a level surface.
2. Check oil level as described in
Checking Oil Level
.
3. If needed, slowly pour oil into oil fill opening to the
point of overflowing at oil fill.
4. Replace and tighten oil fill cap.
Changing Engine Oil
Change the oil after the first 5 hours of operation. Change oil
every 50 hours thereafter. If you are using your generator
under extremely dirty or dusty conditions, or in extremely
hot weather, change the oil more often.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. DON’T
POLLUTE. CONSERVE RESOURCES. RETURN
USED OIL TO COLLECTION CENTERS.
Change the oil while the engine is still warm from running,
as follows:
1. Make sure unit is on a level surface.
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and
place the wire where it cannot contact spark plug.
3. Clean area around oil drain plug (
A
). The oil drain plug
is located at base of engine, opposite carburetor.
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A
B
C
WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or
electric shock.
WHEN ADJUSTING OR MAKING REPAIRS TO YOUR GENERATOR
• Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and place
the wire where it cannot contact spark plug.
WHEN TESTING FOR ENGINE SPARK
• Use approved spark plug tester.
• DO NOT check for spark with spark plug removed.
CAUTION
Avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact with used motor
oil.
• Used motor oil has been shown to cause skin cancer in certain
laboratory animals.
• Thoroughly wash exposed areas with soap and water.
