Oil Change for a Generator

Apr 10
08:23

2012

Ace Abbey

Ace Abbey

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Oil change needs to happen on small generators just as it needs to happen on cars. There are several levels of maintenance that must happen regularly and some less regularly and all should be left to a professional.

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Most people are pretty diligent about maintaining the condition of their car or truck. They know that it runs on fuel and contains moving parts and internal combustion and so there is a chance and indeed a risk of something bad happening or of the system becoming contaminated and damaged. What is interesting to think then is that a generator,Oil Change for a Generator Articles which is essentially the same basic machinery, hardly ever gets the sort of maintenance it needs. Fortunately, there are a number of things that can be done, like getting an oil change occasionally, that will keep it putting out power for years to come.

First of all there are several things to do every day that the generator is running. First of all inspect it in a general way. Just give it the once over and make sure that it is not rusty or having an accumulation of debris or carbon. Look for corrosion on the other parts as well not just the metal. Also, check the level of the fuel is sufficient for the amount of work it is going to be doing and that the coolant levels are acceptable and if not add more of either fluid. Also, check to see that the level of the lubricant has not dropped since the last oil change.

Every week there should be a little more extensive attention given to a generator. A person should check the battery charger and look at the voltage reading to make sure it is at the right level. If not adjust the voltage so that it is producing more efficiently. Also, be sure to check the air filter for debris and clean it out. Finally drain water from the fuel system. There should be a valve for releasing accumulated fluids just open it until a small amount of diesel comes out.

There are also things that must be done every month. The coolant needs to be monitored not just to make sure there is an adequate level but also that it is at the right concentration. This requires a special meter called a hydrometer but once it is checked it is easy to determine if it is correct by referring to the manufacturer's manual. Also, during this monthly inspection the tightness of belts should be checked. Simply ensure that it is still taught and that it is not at risk of wearing out. Next, check the battery that is used for starting the generator. It should be close to fully charged and also well connected. Finally, drain the liquid that has accumulated in the condensate trap. Many of these things are not something that should necessarily be done by an amateur. Instead a certified inspector should be hired to come out and perform this work.

Finally there are a few things that a generator needs on a semiannual basis. Whether it has been used or not the unit needs to have an oil change and the filter replaced in case it is needed in an emergency. Also the filter of the coolant system needs to be replaced. Finally change the filter for the fuel system.

While all of this may seem like a lot of work it is not something that a layperson needs to do. It is highly recommended to hire a technician to perform the oil change and other maintenance on a scheduled basis. They can simply come out and check its condition and be gone with out a person even knowing they were there.

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