Generators are not viewed as high-maintenance equipment. None-theless, like any other machine, proper care is essential to maximize productivity and return on investment.
Here are some tips that can help your service personnel perform more effective generator maintenance. The following schedule is based on normal operating conditions. In the event unusual environmental operating conditions exist, the schedule should be adjusted accordingly. Also, different models of machines, from different manufacturers, may require different levels of service. Your operator's manual should always be consulted.
* Daily, check for loose wire-routing clamps. Clamps must be secure and properly mounted. Check wiring for wear, deterioration and vibration abrasion.
* Daily, check for evidence of arcing around the electrical terminals.
* Daily, check that the grounding circuit is in accordance with codes. Check to ensure continuity between the grounding stud, the frame, generator and engine block.
* Daily, check for loose or frayed wiring insulation or sleeving.
* Daily, check for water in the fuel filter/water separator unit. Some engines have a translucent bowl for visual indication; others have a drain valve below the primary element.
* Daily, clean air vents of any obstruction or debris.
Each month, the intake hoses from the air cleaner and all flexible hoses used for water and fuel should be inspected for the following:
* All rubber hose joints and screw-type hose clamps must be tight and the hoses should show no signs of wear, abrasion or deterioration.
* All flexible hoses must be free of wear, deterioration and vibration abrasion. Routing clamps must be secure and properly mounted.
* The bowl elements should be replaced every six months or 500 hours, or less if fuel is of poor quality or contaminated.
* Air cleaner: Proper maintenance of the air cleaner provides maximum protection against airborne dust. This unit is equipped with an air filter service indicator on the air cleaner housing. This should be checked daily. Squeeze the rubber valve periodically to ensure that it is not clogged. If theflag in the service indicator shows red when the unit is operating at full speed and remains in the red with the engine shut down, that means proper servicing of the filter element is necessary.
Make sure the air cleaner mounting bolts and clamps are tight and the air cleaner is mounted securely. Check the air cleaner housing for dents or damage to the cleaner, which could lead to a leak.
* Tires: Weekly, check the condition of the tires, and gauge the air pressure. Tires that have cuts or cracks or little tread should be repaired or replaced.
* Engine radiator: Check the coolant level in the radiator regularly - at least every six months, or before freezing temperatures. The coolant must cover the tubes in the top tank. Replenish with a fresh mixture of water and ethylene glycol every 12 months.
Each month, inspect the radiator exterior for obstructions, dirt and debris. If present, blow water or compressed air containing a nonflammable solvent between the fins in a direction opposite the normal air flow. Should the radiator be clogged internally, reverse flushing, using a commercial product, may correct the problem.
* Each month, diagnostic lamps should be tested.
* Each month, check the operation of the emergency stop switch.
Interlock switches should be checked every three months or 250 operating hours.
The operation of the engine protection shutdown system should be checked monthly.
