GENERATOR

Portable Generator Familiarization & Troubleshooting Guide
Section 2 • Generator Components & Systems
A TYPICAL LOW OIL LEVEL
SYSTEM
Figure 2.74 is typical of the low oil level shutdown system
used on Briggs & Stratton engines.
Figure 2.74 — Typical Low Oil Level System
Should the engine oil level drop below a specified level, the
switch will actuate and ground the engine ignition circuit,
causing the engine to shut down. If the oil level is low, the
light will flash while the engine is cranking.To reset the float
switch and allow the engine to start, fill the crankcase to the
proper level with the recommended oil
THE V-TWIN ENGINE SYSTEM
The V-Twin engine has an oil pressure switch mounted on its
oil filter adapter.The switch is normally-closed (NC) but is
held open by engine oil pressure during operation
(Figure 2.76).
Figure 2.76 — The V-Twin Engine Pressure Switch
The system consists of:
• A float switch
• Interconnecting wires
The light is mounted on the engine blower housing. Some
models may have the light mounted on the generator cradle
frame. It is desirable to have the light located where it is
visible while cranking the engine.
The float switch (Figure 2.75), along with a gasket, is installed
in a mounting boss on the engine cylinder block.
Figure 2.75 — Float Switch And Gasket
Should oil pressure drop below approximately 4.5 psi (0.32
kg per cm2), the switch contacts will close and engine
shutdown will occur.
A thermostatic time delay relay is also part of the
V-Twin low oil pressure system.The relay allows ignition to
occur when cranking is first initiated by keeping the oil
pressure switch from grounding the ignition.When 120VAC
is applied to the relay’s heater coil, the relay’s contacts close
in approximately eight seconds. Reset delay time is also
about eight seconds (Figure 2.77).
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