Generac GP 3250 Portable Generator 005982-0 - Manual (Page 12)

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3.3 GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty of the generator does not cover items that have been
subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value
from the warranty, the operator must maintain the generator as
instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly
maintain the generator.
All adjustments in the Maintenance section of this manual should
be made at least once each season. Follow the requirements in the
"Maintenance Schedule".
NOTICE:
Once a year replace the spark plug and replace the air filter.
A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper fuel-air
mixture and help the engine run better and last longer.
3.3.1 GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
Generator maintenance consists of keeping the unit clean and dry.
Operate and store the unit in a clean dry environment where it will
not be exposed to excessive dust, dirt, moisture or any corrosive
vapors. Cooling air slots in the generator must not become clogged
with snow, leaves, or any other foreign material.
Check the cleanliness of the generator frequently and clean when
dust, dirt, oil, moisture or other foreign substances are visible on
its exterior surface.
n Never insert any object or tool through the
air cooling slots, even if the engine is not
running.
NOTICE:
DO NOT use a garden hose to clean generator. Water can enter
the engine fuel system and cause problems. In addition, if water
enters the generator through cooling air slots, some water will
be retained in voids and crevices of the rotor and stator winding
insulation. Water and dirt buildup on the generator internal
windings will eventually decrease the insulation resistance of
these windings.
3.3.2 TO CLEAN THE GENERATOR
Use a damp cloth to wipe exterior surfaces clean. •
A soft, bristle brush may be used to loosen caked on dirt, oil, •
etc.
A vacuum cleaner may be used to pick up loose dirt and •
debris.
Low pressure air (not to exceed 25 psi) may be used to •
blow away dirt. Inspect cooling air slots and openings
on the generator. These openings must be kept clean and
unobstructed.
3.3.3 ENGINE MAINTENANCE
 When working on the generator, always
disconnect the spark plug wire from spark
plug and keep wire away from spark plug.
3.3.4 CHECKING OIL LEVEL
See the “Before Starting the Generator” section for information on
checking the oil level. The oil level should be checked before each
use, or at least every eight hours of operation. Keep the oil level
maintained (Figure 9).
3.3.5 CHANGING THE OIL
Change the oil after the first 20 hours of operation, then every 50
hours thereafter. If running this unit under dirty or dusty conditions,
or in extremely hot weather, change the oil more often.
n Hot oil may cause burns. Allow engine to
cool before draining oil. Avoid prolonged
or repeated skin exposure with used oil.
Thoroughly wash exposed areas with soap.
Use the following instructions to change the oil while the engine
is still warm:
Clean area around oil drain plug (Figure 12). •
Remove oil drain plug from engine and oil fill plug to drain oil •
completely into a suitable container.
When oil has completely drained, install oil drain plug and •
tighten securely.
Fill engine with recommended oil. (See “Before Starting the •
Generator” for oil recommendations).
Wipe up any spilled oil. •
Dispose of used oil at a proper collection center. •
Figure 12 - Oil Drain, Check & Fill
Maintenance