Oil  You must check the engine crankcase oil level before operating the generator set. The engine dipstick (fig. 3-1, view B) is the crankcase oil level gauge. The dipstick in the generator engine is the shielded type, which allows checking the oil level while the engine is either stopped or running. The dipstick is stamped on both sides to indicate the two different oil levels. The

engine running side is stamped as follows: "ADD," "FULL," and "RUNNING." The engine stopped side is stamped as follows: "ADD," "FULL," and "STOPPED." Be sure to use the appropriate add and full marks, depending on whether the engine is stopped or running. Also, ensure that the appropriate side of the dipstick is up when inserting it since the underside will be wiped in the gauge tube when the dipstick is removed, therefore, indicating a false oil level reading.

To check the oil level, first remove and wipe the oil from the dipstick. Loosen and remove the oil filler cap (fig. 3-1) to allow the pressure to escape. Reinsert the dipstick (with the appropriate side up) and remove it to observe the oil level. Add oil through the fill tube, as required, to obtain the "full" level on the dipstick. Be sure to use the proper grade of oil. A lubricant chart in the instruction manual furnished with each generator will show the proper grade of oil to use at the operating temperature. 

Water Check that the level of coolant is within 2 inches (51 mm) of the top of the radiator.

WARNING Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap until the radiator has cooled to a point where there will be no built-up steam pressure. Failure to observe this warning could result in second-or third-degree bums.

Using an antifreeze solution tester, check that the antifreeze content is sufficient for the existing ambient temperature. Add antifreeze as required.

Whenever you fill the radiator with coolant after it has been drained, fasten a tag near the radiator cap. The tag should indicate the type of coolant and the degree of protection the coolant gives.

Regardless of the air temperature, be sure to use an antifreeze solution in the proportions recommended in the instruction manual for the generator.

Fuel The fuel tank should be filled with clean fuel oil, strained if necessary. Service the fuel tank as follows:

WARNING Always maintain constant metal-to-metal contact between the fuel tank filler neck and the spout of the fuel supply. That will prevent the possibility of sparking caused by static electricity.

Remove the fuel tank filler cap (fig. 3-1, view B), and fill the fuel tank with the proper fuel. (Refer to the instruction manual.) Replace the filler cap and wipe up any spilled fuel.

Remove the cap from the fuel tank drain valve and open the valve. Let water and sediment drain into an approved nonflammable container. When clean fuel runs out of the tank, close the drain valve and install the cap on the valve. A day tank is one of the major components of the fuel system. It has a capacity to permit engine operation for a minimum of 5 minutes. The day tank also provides a settling point for contaminants (to prevent their entry into the engine) and supplies fuel to the engine fuel pump.

The day tank contains a dual type of float switch. The upper float operates in conjunction with the fuel solenoid valve to maintain a predetermined fuel level in the tank. The lower float initiates an engine shut-down sequence. This sequence is initiated in the event that the fuel level in the tank will permit operation of the generator set at the rated load for only 1 minute. You must drain sediment and water from the day tank as you did from the fuel tank. Remove the cap from the day tank drain valve and open the valve. (Refer to fig. 3-1, view B, for the location of the tank and its drain valve.) Drain water and sediment into a container. Close the valve when clean fuel runs out of the tank, and install the cap back on the valve. 

VENTILATION

WARNING Do not operate the generator set in an enclosed area unless the exhaust gases are piped to the outside. Inhalation ofexhaust gases will result in serious injury or death.

Keep the area around an operating generator set well ventilated at all times so that the generator set will receive a maximum supply of air. Consider ventilation when you install the units inside a building. Every internal combustionengine is a HEAT engine. Although heat does the work, excess amounts of it must be removed if the engine is to function properly. This can be accomplished by setting the radiator grille of the engine near an opening in the wall and providing another opening directly opposite the unit. In this manner, cool air can be drawn in and the hot air directed in a straight line outdoors. These openings can be shielded with adjustable louvers to prevent the entrance of rain or snow. In addition, when the generator is operating in extremely cold weather, the temperature in the room can be controlled by simply closing a portion of the discharge opening. Additional doors or windows should be provided in the shelter if the plants are installed in localities where the summer temperatures exceed 80 F at any time.