6 fuel filter (gasoline only), 7 spark arrestor muffler, 8 cleaning the generator – Guardian Technologies 04164-3 User Manual
Page 16: 9 battery maintenance, Fuel filter

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3.6 FUEL FILTER (GASOLINE ONLY)
Remove and replace the fuel filter (Figure 3.5) once 
each year or every 100 hours of operation, whichever 
comes first.
Figure 3.5 – Fuel Filter
Fuel Filter
3.7 SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER
If the generator is not equipped with a spark arres-
tor exhaust muffler and is to be used on any forest 
covered, brush covered or grass covered unimproved 
land, a spark arrestor may need to be installed. The 
spark arrestor must be maintained in effective work-
ing order by the vehicle owner/operator.
For assistance in ordering, installing and maintaining 
spark arrestor exhaust mufflers, contact the nearest 
Authorized Service Dealer.
Exhaust mufflers supplied by the manufacturer are 
spark arrestor types. The manufacturer's exhaust 
mufflers for recreational vehicle generators do not 
have a spark arrestor screen, but are of the more effi-
cient “toroid” or “swirl” type. To remove carbon and 
combustion deposits from such mufflers, remove the 
plug from the muffler and run the engine for approxi-
mately 15 minutes. Shut down the engine, let the 
muffler cool and install the plug.
Be sure to reinstall the muffler plug tightly.
Engine vibration could cause a loose plug to 
fall out. Without the plug in place, hot engine 
exhaust is directed out the opening. This hot 
exhaust, depending on the installation, could 
be directed to areas not able to withstand the 
extreme heat such as wooden floor boards or 
other flammable material. This could result in a 
fire.
3.8 CLEANING THE GENERATOR
Keep the generator set as clean and dry as possible. 
Protect the unit against excessive dust, dirt, corrosive 
vapors, road splash, etc. Permitting dirt and mois-
ture to accumulate on generator windings will have 
an adverse effect on the insulation resistance of those 
windings.
When moisture is allowed to remain in contact with 
windings, some of the moisture will be retained in 
voids and cracks in the insulation. This causes a 
reduced insulation resistance and will eventually 
cause problems. Dirt will make the problem worse, 
since dirt tends to hold moisture in contact with 
windings. Salt (as from sea air) also will worsen the 
problem since it tends to absorb moisture from the 
air. Salt and moisture, when combined, form a good 
electrical conductor.
Do NOT use a forceful spray of water to clean
the generator. Water will enter the generator 
interior and cause problems, and may also con-
taminate the generator fuel system.
3.9 BATTERY MAINTENANCE
All lead-acid batteries will discharge when not in 
use. The generator battery should be inspected as 
follows:
3.9.1 WEEKLY
Inspect the battery posts and cables for tightness
and corrosion. Tighten and clean as necessary.
Check the battery fluid level of unsealed batteries
and, if necessary, fill with Distilled Water Only. Do 
not use tap water in batteries.
3.9.2 EVERY SIX MONTHS
Have the state of charge and condition checked.
This should be done with an automotive-type bat-
tery hydrometer. 
NOTE:
Servicing of the battery is to be performed or 
supervised by personnel knowledgeable of batter-
ies and the required precautions. Keep unauthor-
ized personnel away from batteries.
Damage will result if the battery connections are 
made in reverse.
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Section 3 – Maintenance
Recreational Vehicle Generator
