Service Manual, 20-300 kW FR II (TP-5353) - ImageEvent

Check the following items before each startup of
manually controlled generator sets and at regular
intervals on sets equipped with automatic transfer
switches. See your engine operation/maintenance
manual for specific service procedures.
Oil Level. Keep the oil level at or near the full mark on
dipstick but not over. Keep the oil level in the governor (if
applicable) is at or near the full level.
Fuel Level. Make sure there is adequate fuel supply;
keep tanks full to allow operation for extended periods.
Battery. Check battery connections and level of battery
electrolyte.
Air Cleaner. Keep air cleaner element clean and
correctly installed to prevent unfiltered air from entering
engine.
Drive Belts. Check belt condition and tension of
radiator fan, water pump, and battery charging
alternator belt(s).
Operating Area. Check for obstructions that could
block the flow of cooling air. Keep the area clean. Do not
leave rags, tools, or debris on or near the generator set.
Coolant Level. Maintain coolant level at just below the
overflow tube on the radiator filler neck when the engine
is cold. Open air bleed petcocks if equipped when filling
radiator. Close air bleed petcock when coolant begins to
flow from petcock. Keep level in tank between 1/3 full
(cold) and 2/3 full (hot) if the unit is equipped with a
If the generator set is not equipped with an automatic
transfer switch or the transfer switch does not have the
automatic exercise option, run the generator set under
load once a week for one hour with an operator present.
Make all prestart checks before starting the exercise
Section 2. Operation
Prestart Checklist
Exercising the Generator Set
coolant recovery tank. A coolant solution of 50%
ethylene glycol and 50% clean, softened water is
recommended to inhibit rust/corrosion.
A coolant solution of 50% ethylene glycol will provide
freezing protection to --34F (--37C) and overheating
protection to 265F (129C). A coolant solution with
less than 50% ethylene glycol may not provide
adequate freezing and overheating protection. A
coolant solution with more than 50% ethylene glycol can
cause damage to engine and components. Do not use
alcohol or methanol antifreeze or mix them with the
specified coolant. Consult the engine manufacturer’s
operation manual for specific engine coolant
specifications.
Do not add coolant to an engine that has overheated
until engine has cooled. Adding coolant to an extremely
hot engine can cause a cracked block or cylinder head.
NOTE
Do not turn on block heater before filling cooling system.
Before energizing block heater, run engine until warm
and refill radiator to purge air from the system. Block
heater failure will result if heater element is not
immersed in water.
Exhaust System. Keep the exhaust outlet clear;
silencer and piping must be tight and in good condition.
Lamp Test. Press the lamp test button (if equipped) to
verify all controller lamps are operational.
procedure. Start the generator set according to the
procedure given for the generator controller. See the
appropriate controller section for specific starting
instructions.
TP-5353 8/94 Operation 2-1