Generac Power Systems 00862-2 - Manual (Page 17)

Section 3 - Maintenance
Series QP55-G Recreational Vehicle Generator
MAINTENANCE
3.9 BATTERY MAINTENANCE
All lead-acid batteries will discharge when not in
use. The generator battery should be inspected as
follows:
♦ Î.9.1 WEEKLY
® Inspect the battery posts and cables for tightness
and corrosion. Tighten and clean as necessaiy.
• Check the batteiy fluid level of unsealed batteries
and, if necessary, fill with Distilled Water Only.
Do not use tap water in batteries.
♦ 5.9.2 EVERY SIX MONTHS
• Have the state of charge and condition checked.
This should be done with an automotive-type
battery hydrometer.
NOTE:
Servicing of the battery is to be performed or
supervised
by personnel knowledgeable of bat­
teries and the required precautions. Keep mnau-
thorized personnel away from batteries.
Damage will result if the battery connections
are made in reverse.
-A
WARNING
A-
DANGER
A Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery is capable of exploding. Storage batter­
ies give off explosive hydrogen gas. This gas
can form an explosive mixture around the bat­
tery for several hours after charging. The
slightest spark can ignite the gas and cause an
explosion. Such an explosion can shatter the
battery and cause blindness or other injury.
Any area that houses a storage battery must be
properly ventilated. Do not allow smoking,
open flame, sparks, or any spark producing
tools or equipment near the battery. Discharge
static electricity from your body before touch­
ing the battery by first touching a grounded
metal surface.
A battery presents a risk of electrical shock
and high short circuit current. The following
precautions are to be observed when working
on batteries:
• Remove watches, rings or other metal objects;
• Use tools with insulated handles;
• Wear rubber gloves and boots;
• Do not lay tools or metal parts on top of the
battery;
• Disconnect any charging source prior to connecting
or disconnecting battery terminals; and
• Do not use any jumper cables or booster battery to
crank and start the generator engine. If any battery
has discharged, remove it for recharging.
A
A Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released
electrolyte has been known to be harmful to
the skin and eyes, and to be toxic.
A The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is
harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically
conductive and corrosive. The following
procedures are to be observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing;
• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off
immediately with water;
• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush
thoroughly and immediately with water and seek
medical attention; and
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an
acid neutralizing agent. A common practice is to
use a solution of 1 pound (500 grams) bicarbonate
of soda to 1 gallon (4 liters) or water. The bicar­
bonate of soda solution is to be added until the
evidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The
resulting liquid is to be flushed with water and the
area dried.
3.10 MAJOR SERVICE MANUAL
To obtain a service manual for your generator, con­
tact Generac or your nearest Generac Authorized
Service Dealer. Make sure to identify your MODFIL
NUMBER and SERIES.
3.11 DRIVE BELT
The engine drives the generator rotor by means of a
pulley and drive belt arrangement. Tire drive belt and
pulleys are warranted for the life of the generator.
Drive belt tension was properly adjusted before the
unit was shipped from the factoiy. If you suspect that
drive belt tension is incorrect, contact a Generac
Authorized Service Dealer.
3.12 EXERCISING THE GENERATOR
Generac recommends that you start and operate
the generator at least once every seven days. Let
the unit run for at least 30 minutes to “exercise”
the engine.
Generac® Power Systems, Inc. I 5