8
Generac
®
Power Systems, Inc.
Section 2 – Operation
CENTURION 3500 Home Standby Generator
2.2
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
NOTE:
Instructions and information in this manual
assume the generator has been properly installed
and connected.
2.2.1 ENGINE LUBRICATION
Have the engine crankcase properly serviced with the
recommended oil before starting. Refer to Section
1.6.2 and Sections 3.1 and 3.2, for oil servicing pro-
cedures and recommendations.
Any attempt to crank or start the engine before
it has been properly serviced with the recom-
mended oil may result in an engine failure.
2.2.2 FUEL SUPPLY
The engine must have an adequate supply of proper
fuel to operate. Before starting it, check that sufficient
fuel is available.
2.2.3 COOLING AND VENTILATING AIR
Air inlet and outlet openings in the generator com-
partment must be open and unobstructed for contin-
ued proper operation. Without sufficient cooling and
ventilating airflow, the engine/generator overheats,
which causes it to shut down and may damage the
generator.
2.2.4 ENGINE EXHAUST GAS
Before starting the generator engine, be sure there is
no way for exhaust gases to endanger people or ani-
mals. Close windows, doors near the generator that,
if open, might permit exhaust gases to do so.
The generator engine releases DEADLY carbon
monoxide gas through its exhaust system. This
dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient concen-
trations, can cause unconsciousness or even
death. Never operate the generator set inside
any enclosed area. make sure THE EXHAUST
SYSTEM IS not LEAKING AND HAS NOT BEEN
DAMAGED. SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOX-
IDE POISONING ARE (a) inability to think coher-
ently, (b) nausea, (c) vomiting, (d) twitching
muscles, (e) throbbing temples, (f) dizziness, (g)
headaches, (h) weakness, and (i) sleepiness. IF
EXPERIENCING ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS,
MOVE INTO FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY. IF SYMP-
TOMS PERSIST, GET MEDICAL HELP. Shut down
the generator and do not operate it until it has
been inspected and repaired.
2.3
BATTERY CONNECTION
Before connecting the battery, complete the following
steps:
1. Set the generator's AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch to
OFF.
2. Make sure the Power Transfer Monitor’s sensing
cord (6 foot) is not plugged into an electrical out-
let.
If the AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch is not set to
its OFF position, the generator can crank and
start as soon as the battery cables are connect-
ed. If the utility power supply is not disabled
by unplugging the 6 foot sensing cord from
electrical outlet, sparking can occur at the bat-
tery posts and cause an explosion.
Battery cables were factory connected at the genera-
tor (Figure 2.2). Connect the cables to the battery
posts using the hardware supplied in the manual bag
as follows:
3. Slide the red battery terminal boot over the bat-
tery cable, then connect the cable (from the
starter contactor) to the battery post indicated by
a positive, POS or (+).
4. Connect the black battery cable (from frame
ground) and the two green grounding wires (from
the control panel) to the battery post indicated by
a negative, NEG or (-).
NOTE:
Damage will result if battery connections are made
in reverse.
Figure 2.2 — Battery Cable Connections
DANGER
!
DANGER
!
