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Section 3 – Post-Installation Start-up Adjustments
Recreational Vehicle Generator
3.1 POST INSTALLATION TESTS
The air-cooled generator set was factory tested and
adjusted. It should not be required to adjust the unit
any further except under special circumstances.
Do not make any unnecessary adjustments.
Factory settings are correct for most applica-
tions. When making adjustments, however, be
careful to avoid overspeeding the engine.
3.2 BEFORE INITIAL START-UP
Before starting, complete the following:
1. Check the engine crankcase oil level and, if nec-
essary, fill to the dipstick “FULL” mark (cross-
hatched area) with the recommended oil. Do not
fill above the FULL mark.
2. Check the fuel supply. Gas fuel lines must have
been properly purged and leak tested in accor-
dance with applicable fuel codes. All fuel shutoff
valves in the fuel supply lines must be open.
DANGER
If a liquid propane (LP) gas fuel system has been
installed, it must be properly tested for leaks
before operating the system in compliance with
ANSI A119.2/NFPA 501C. No leakage is permit-
ted. Be sure that no gasoline fuel vapors enter
the vehicle interior.
3.3 INITIAL START
When absolutely certain that the unit has been prop-
erly installed and prepared for use, start the engine
as follows:
1. Turn off all electrical loads. Do this by setting the
generator’s main circuit breakers to their “OFF”
(or OPEN) position.
2. Refer to Part I, “Starting the Generator”, for
cranking and starting instructions. The engine
may require more cranking for initial starting
since the fuel lines have to be primed (use of the
primer switch will shorten this time).
3. Let the engine warm up for about five minutes to
allow internal temperatures to stabilize.
4. Carefully inspect the engine/generator for fuel, oil
and exhaust system leaks. Before proceeding to the
next step, correct any leakage immediately.
5. When all tests and adjustments at no-load are
completed, apply electrical loads and check for
proper operation under load (see "Testing Under
Load"). Run the unit at least 30 minutes with
loads applied.
6. Turn off all electrical loads by setting the gener-
ator’s main circuit breakers to their “OFF” (or
OPEN) position.
7. Let the unit run at no-load for a few minutes to
stabilize internal engine/generator temperatures.
Then, shut down the engine.
NOTE:
The generator set was thoroughly tested and
adjusted at the factory before shipping. No addi-
tional adjustment should be necessary. Only quali-
fied service technicians who have been trained
should perform adjustments outlined in this
manual.
3.4 TESTING UNDER LOAD
Apply electrical loads equal to about 75 to 100 per-
cent of the unit's rated wattage/amperage capacity.
Let the unit run at least 30 minutes with load applied.
During this part of the test, check that the unit is not
running excessively hot and that adequate cooling
airflow is available. Do not allow the unit to overheat
during prolonged operation.
NOTE:
The generator engine is equipped with a high tem-
perature switch. The switch has normally closed
(N.C.) contacts. When the engine temperature is
too high, switch contacts close, and the engine
shuts down automatically.
THE MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDS THAT THE
GENERATOR BE TESTED FOR ADEQUATE COOL-
ING.
