1. Pay attention to the generator airflow direction, and avoid impeding it – airflow can be greatly
hindered by curbs and hills. Watch how close the generator is to the ground, and avoid placing
camping equipment such as coolers or chairs under the generator.
2. Pay attention while leveling the RV as well, as sometimes this can cause it to be pushed closer to
the ground or near something, blocking airflow.
3. Watch what is next to the RV as well; parking next to a wall or leaning something along the side of
the RV can block necessary ventilation under the chassis of the RV, and prevent hot air from
escaping.
4. Monitor how much dirt and debris the generator is kicking up while running. Picking up debris can
block necessary cooling areas for the generator, in addition to clogging the air filter.
5. Wind direction can affect hot air from escaping the generator area. Orient the RV (when possible)
to ensure that hot air is removed and cool air is continuously supplied.
6. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is appropriate for the ambient temperature. See Engine Oil
Recommendations.
7. Keep the generator clean.
8. Perform scheduled maintenance as recommended. See Periodic Maintenance.
It is important to do what you can to minimize all of these concerns, and re-park the RV if necessary.
Remember that the generator needs space to breathe, and give it what you can to make sure this happens.
Operating the Generator in a Motorized RV When Not Moving
In some applications, the generator may be mounted within a motorized RV which contains a motor for
general propulsion, and would include its own catalytic converter and exhaust system which can produce
substantial heat. When the RV is in motion, this is usually not an issue as the movement of air across the RV
will ensure that hot air from the RV motor and its exhaust can be removed from the area. However, in some
situations the RV may remain stationary even though the RV motor is continuing to run (along with the
generator). These are special situations and typically only occur for a few minutes, but they do occur, and
when this happens there may be hot air from the RV motor and exhaust trapped under the RV.
If the RV vehicle motor continues to run even though the RV is not moving, the door for the generator
compartment can be opened to allow additional cooling air into the generator compartment to cool the
generator. If this is done, the compartment door MUST be closed before the RV is moved in any fashion.
NEVER remove the service door of the generator itself when experiencing overheating as this will only make
the overheating worse.
Some events, such as a bad gust of wind, generator overload condition, or other event can cause a generator
to experience a hot situation and shut down suddenly due to overheating. This can happen from time to time
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