14
• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush
thoroughly and immediately with water and seek
medical attention; and
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an
acid neutralizing agent. A common practice is to
use a solution of 1 pound (500 grams) bicarbonate
of soda to 1 gallon (4 liters) or water. The bicar-
bonate of soda solution is to be added until the
evidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The
resulting liquid is to be flushed with water and the
area dried.
3.9 MAJOR SERVICE MANUAL
To obtain a service manual for the generator, contact
the nearest Authorized Service Dealer. Make sure to
identify the MODEL NUMBER and SERIES.
3.10 EXERCISING THE GENERATOR
The manufacturer recommends starting and operat-
ing the generator at least once every seven days. Let
the unit run for at least 30 minutes to “exercise” the
engine.
3.11 OUT OF SERVICE PROCEDURE
3.11.1 REMOVAL FROM SERVICE
If the generator cannot be exercised every seven days,
and it is to be out of service longer than 30 days, pre-
pare the generator for storage as follows:
1. Start the engine and let it warm up.
2. Close the fuel shutoff valve in the fuel supply line
and allow the unit to shut down.
NOTE:
Using a fuel additive such as STA-BIL fuel stabi-
lizer, or an equivalent, will prevent gum deposits
from forming in the engine’s fuel system.
3. While the engine is still warm from running, drain
the oil completely. Refill the crankcase with SAE
10W-30 oil having API classification “For Service
SF.”
4. Attach a tag to the engine indicating the viscosity
and classification of the oil in the crankcase.
5. Remove the spark plug and pour two or three
tablespoons of clean, fresh engine oil into the
spark plug threaded openings. Reinstall and
tighten the spark plug.
6. Remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry
room on a wooden board. Never store the battery
on any concrete or earthen floor.
7. Clean and wipe the entire generator.
3.11.2 RETURN TO SERVICE
To return the unit to service after storage, proceed
as follows:
1. Check the tag on the engine for oil viscosity and
classification. Verify that the correct recommend-
ed oil is used in the engine (see Specifications). If
necessary, drain and refill with the proper oil.
2. Check the state of the battery. Fill all cells of
unsealed batteries to the proper level with dis-
tilled water. DO NOT USE TAP WATER IN THE
BATTERY. Recharge the battery to 100 percent
state of charge, or, if defective, replace the battery.
3. Clean and wipe the entire generator.
4. Reconnect the battery. Observe battery polarity.
Damage may occur if the battery is connected
incorrectly.
5. Turn OFF all electrical loads. Add fuel if neces-
sary and then start the engine.
6. Allow the unit to run for several minutes to warm
up.
7. Apply electrical loads to at least 50 percent of the
unit’s rated wattage capacity.
8. When the engine is thoroughly warmed up, shut
it down.
9. The generator is now ready for service.
3.12 ADJUSTING VALVE CLEARANCE
After the first 50 hours of operation, adjust the valve
clearance in the engine.
When adjusting valve clearance, the engine should be
at room temperature and the piston should be at Top
Dead Center (TDC) of its compression stroke (both
valves closed). Correct clearance is 0.001-0.003 inch
(0.03-0.07mm). Adjust valve clearance as follows:
1. Loosen the rocker arm jam nut. Use an allen
wrench to turn the pivot ball stud while checking
clearance between the rocker arm and the valve
stem with a feeler gauge (Figure 3.6).
Figure 3.6 — Adjusting Valve Clearance
Section 3 – Maintenance
Recreational Vehicle Generator
