Storing The Generator
Proper storage is essential for preserving top generator performance and reliability when the generator
cannot be exercised regularly and will be idle for more than 120 days.
Gasoline
1.
Fill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline and add a fuel preservative (stabilizer), for the proper amount
to add simply follow the instructions on the container label. Unless a fuel preservative
(stabilizer) is added the gasoline in the fuel system will begin to deteriorate and cause fuel
system corrosion, gum formation and varnish-like deposits which can lead to difficulty starting
and general rough operation. Run the generator for about 10 minutes at about half load, after
adding the preservative to fill the fuel lines and carburetor with the preservative.
2.
Change the engine oil and attach a tag indicating oil viscosity. See Engine Oil Recommendations.
3.
Remove the air filter and restart the generator. While the generator is running, spray an engine
fogger intended for small engines, into the carburetor, following the manufacturer’s instructions,
then stop the generator.
4.
Disconnect all appliances, push the AC output circuit breaker(s) on the front control panel to OFF
and stop the generator.
5.
Disconnect the battery cables (negative cable first) from the starting battery and store the battery
according to the battery manufacturer’s recommendations. See Maintaining the Battery and
Connections.
6.
Plug the exhaust tail pipe to keep out dirt, moisture, insects or small animals.
7.
Close the fuel supply valve if so equipped.
Note:
Adding more fuel preservative than the manufacturer’s recommendation may phase separate from the
gasoline and occlude the small passages inside the carburetor and is not recommended.
Do not open the carburetor bowl drain when the engine is hot. Close the drain immediately after
draining. Failure to heed this warning can lead to fire resulting in severe personal injury or death.
8.
Drain the carburetor bowl (Fig. 12) to prevent deposits of gum from clogging the small passages in
the carburetor as the gasoline in the carburetor evaporates during storage. Drain the carburetor
bowl as follows:
A.
Let the engine cool down thoroughly.
B.
Place a container under the drain to capture the fuel.
C.
Open the drain valve by turning the screw counter-clockwise with a screwdriver.
D.
After draining the carburetor, close the drain valve by turning the screw clockwise with a
screwdriver until snug, do not over tighten the screw.
31
