Guardian Technologies 04164-3 - Manual (Page 10)

8
Section 2 – Operation
Recreational Vehicle Generator
2.4 BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
NOTE:
Instructions and information in this manual
assume the generator has been properly installed,
connected, serviced, tested and adjusted by a
qualified installation technician or installation
contractor.
2.4.1 INSTALLATION
Generator installation must have been properly com-
pleted so it complies with all applicable codes, stan-
dards and regulations and with the manufacturer's
recommendations.
NOTE
Be sure the installation complies with all stan-
dards and codes listed in the "Standards Booklets"
section of this manual.
2.4.2 ENGINE LUBRICATION
Have the engine crankcase properly serviced with the
recommended oil before starting. Refer to the "Engine
Oil Requirements" section and "Checking the Engine
Oil Level" and "Changine the Engine Oil and/or Oil
Filter" sections for oil servicing procedures and rec-
ommendations.
 Any attempt to crank or start the engine before
it hase been properly serviced with the recom-
mended oil may result in an engine failure.
2.4.3 FUEL SUPPLY
The engine must have an adequate supply of proper
fuel to operate. Before starting it, check that suffi-
cient fuel is available.
NOTE:
Depending on the installation, the generator may
have either a separate fuel tank, or it may “share”
the vehicle engine’s fuel tank.
2.4.4 COOLING AND VENTILATING AIR
Air inlet and outlet openings in the generator com-
partment must be open and unobstructed for con-
tinued proper operation. Without sufficient cooling
and ventilating airflow, the engine/generator quickly
overheats, which causes it to shut down and may
damage the generator.
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2.4.5 ENGINE EXHAUST GAS
Before starting the generator engine, be sure there is
no way for exhaust gases to enter the vehicle interior
and endanger people or animals. Close windows,
doors and other openings in the vehicle that, if open,
might permit exhaust gases to enter the vehicle.
DANGER
 The generator engine releases DEADLY carbon
monoxide gas through its exhaust system. This
dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient con-
centrations, can cause unconsciousness or even
death. Never operate the generator set with
the vehicle inside any garage or other enclosed
area. DO NOT OPERATE THE GENERATOR IF THE
EXHAUST SYSTEM IS LEAKING OR HAS BEEN
DAMAGED. SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE
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
SYMPTOMS PERSIST, GET MEDICAL HELP. Shut
down the generator and do not operate it until
it has been inspected and repaired.
DANGER
 Never sleep in the vehicle while the genset is
running unless the vehicle has a working carbon
monoxide detector. The exhaust system must be
installed in accordance with the genset installa-
tion manual. Make sure there is ample fresh air
when operating the genset in a confined area.
2.5 STARTING THE GENERATOR
NOTE:
Read the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions.
The owner/operator should become familiar with
the vehicle in which this generator is installed.
Differences exist between vehicles. For example,
some vehicles may use a transfer switch to isolate
dockside power from the generator, while other
vehicles may use an isolating receptacle. Some
vehicles may be equipped with a DC converter,
which allows the generator to power certain DC
lighting and other DC loads.
To start the generator from either the generator con-
trol panel or from the optional remote panel, proceed
as follows:
1. Turn OFF electrical loads using the means pro-
vided in the vehicle (such as a main line circuit
breaker or transfer switch).
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