FOLLOW ULTIMATE WASHER

Questions and Resolutions for Generator Maintenance & Usage

Generator Usage

Question #1
How do i check the oil in the engine?

Resolution: Most gas engines come with a dipstick to check the oil level, fill to FULL mark on dipstick. If a dipstick does not exist, remove oil fill cap; fill to where the oil is just dripping on to the ground.

Question #2
What are your "hard start" instructions?

Resolution: If your portable home generator has been sitting around for a long time, it may be hard to start. Try these easy steps before calling:

Check oil level.
Replace old fuel.
Change spark plug.
Make sure fuel valve is open.
Check all generator parts for integrity.
Clean carburetor (see engine manual).

Question #3
What grade of gasoline should I use?

Resolution:

Unleaded gasoline (at least 85 octanes) should be used with your gasoline driven generator.
Allow engine to cool approximately 2 minutes before refueling.
Never refuel while the engine is running.

Question #4
What kind of oil should I add to the engine?

Resolution: This question depends on the engine manufacturer's specifications. Generally, high quality 30-weight detergent is acceptable for summer conditions; high quality 10W-30 is acceptable for winter conditions, but refer to your engine manual for oil recommendations.

Question #5
Why should I add oil to the engine before starting it?

Resolution: You should check the oil level prior to starting. Operating the unit without oil will ruin the engine. Remember to check engine oil level before every use.

Question #6
Can I connect my portable generator to my house?

Resolution: Yes. If your generator is to be used as a stand-by power source in case of utility power failure, it should be installed by a licensed and registered electrician and in compliance with all applicable local electrical codes, generally some types of manual generator transfer switch is required. Back feeding electricity is extremely hazardous. Do not plug your generator into your home through a dryer outlet. For Emergency power to appliances it is recommended to use a 12 ga. Outdoor Extension Cord and a multi-outlet power strip with a minimum of 100 joules rating.

Question #7
Can I run my generator in the house?

Resolution: No. Engines produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas, if breathed causes serious illness and possible death.

Question #8
Can I run my portable generator in rain or snow?

Resolution: No. The generator uses air to cool the generator section. Running it in rain or snow could cause it to short out.

Question #9
Can you supply generators larger than 12,000 watts?

Resolution: Yes. We can also supply permanently installed emergency backup power systems, ranging from 10kW to 461kW.

Question #10
How often should I shut the generator down?

Resolution: Your generator must be shut down during refueling and when checking and adding oil.

Question #11
When should I apply a load to the generator?

Resolution: Have the generator running before a load is applied. Likewise, remove the load before shutting the unit down. Do not tamper with engine speed. The RPM are factory set.

Generator Maintenance

Question #1
How do I add engine oil through the spark plug hole?

Remove the spark plug.
Pour one teaspoon of engine oil through the spark plug hole.
Pull the recoil starter several times and replace the plug. Pull the starter slowly until you feel the increased pressure, indicating the piston is on its compression stroke and the intake and exhaust valves are closed.

Question #2
How often do I need to run my generator?

Resolution: We recommend running the generator once a month with a load.

Question #3
When should I drain the gasoline from the engine?

Resolution: You should always remove the gasoline from the engine if you plan to store the unit in your basement or garage. You should never store combustible materials in your home or vehicle. Remember never operate your generator in confined spaces especially inside your home. Carbon Monoxide can cause death.

Question #4
Why should I use a fuel stabilizer?

Resolution: The use of a fuel additive will minimize the formulation of fuel gum deposits during storage. Such an additive may be added to the gasoline in the fuel tank of the engine, or to the gasoline in a store container.

Question #5
Why should I add engine oil through the spark plug hole?

Resolution: Adding oil inside the cylinder will prevent it from rusting. This should be done if you don't plan to use your generator for a long duration.

Question #6
Where is the best place to store my generator?

Resolution: Store your generator in a clean, dry place that is well ventilated away from open flames or sparks. If you plan to store it in a basement, you should remove all gasoline from the engine. Remember never operate your generator in confined spaces especially inside your home. Carbon Monoxide can cause death.

Question #7
Where can I obtain generator maintenance / service parts or warranty for the engine?

Resolution: Parts can be sourced from Ultimate Washer. Warranty for your engine is available exclusively through the Engine Manufacture. You can check the Yellow Pages (Small Gas Engines or similar) for engine shops servicing your product. In many cases warranty work can be performed by that location as well. If you are unable to locate a warranty repair location call on us and we will gladly provide an engine warranty contact.