Periodic generator maintenance routine


If you usually carry out the servicing and maintenance of your generating set by yourself, then this post is meant for you. In this post, listed out are the periodic maintenance routines that have to be carried out in order to enable your generator function properly and have a long life span. Especially for those who don't have the instruction manual that comes with any newly purchased generator which contains maintenance routines and other servicing instructions.

So here are the periodic maintenance routines that should be carried out on a generating set. Especially one that is used frequently.

1. Spark Plug 

• Check condition, adjust gap and clean; replace if necessary.

Frequency: Every 3 months.

Spark Plug inspection. 

- Remove spark plug with the plug spanner supplied.

- Inspect the spark plug, it should be a tan colour.

- Adjust the gap: 0.7-0.8mm (0.028-0.031in).

- Replace the spark plug with correct torque

- Replace spark plug if required.


2. Engine Oil

• Check oil level.

Frequency: Daily.

• Replace oil.

Frequency: Every month.

Engine Oil Replacement

- Warm up the engine on a level surface.

- Remove filter cap.

- Open drain plug and let oil drain completely into a pan placed under the engine.

- Check gaskets; replace if required; refit drain plug and refill engine with a clean oil.

- Replace filter cap.


3. Air filter

• Clean, replace if necessary.

Frequency: Every 3 months.

Air Filter Cleaning

- Unscrew the air filter cover.

- Remove filter element and wash well in solvent.

- Pour a small quantity of oil onto the filter element and gently squeeze out any excess oil.

- Replace the filter element and air filter cover.

- Ensure the filter cover seals properly all around.


4. Fuel Filter

• Clean fuel cock and fuel tank filter; replace if necessary.

Frequency: Every 6 months.

Fuel Cock Cleaning
- To remove the fuel cock filter, simply undo the cup at the bottom of the fuel cock using a small spanner.

- Clean and wash out the filter and cup, then replace.

Fuel Tank Filter Cleaning

- A plastic filter is fitted below the fuel tank cap.

- Remove filter with your fingers and wash it in solvent.

- Replace when completely clean.


5. Valve Clearance

• Check and adjust when engine is cold.

Frequency: Every 12 months.


6. Fuel Line

• Check fuel hose for cracks or other damage; replace if necessary.

Frequency: Daily.


7. Exhaust System

• Check for leakage; retighten or replace gasket if necessary.

Frequency: Daily.

• Check muffler screen; clean/replace if necessary.

Frequency: Every 6 months.

Muffler Screen Inspection
- Wait for muffler to cool.

- Muffler screen may be blocked up with carbon deposits.

- Undo the screw cap and remove the muffler screen.

- Clean the screen with a wire brush and refit.

- Replace muffler screen if damaged.


8. Carburetor

• Check choke operation.

Frequency: Daily.


9. Cooling System

• Check for fan damage.

Frequency: Every 12 months.


10. Starting System

• Check recoil starter operation.

Frequency: Daily.


11. Fittings/ Fasteners

• Check, replace if necessary.

Frequency: Every 6 months.


Generator won't start? What you can do.

Basic Checks:

• Make sure engine switch is on

• Make sure the fuel cock is on

• Make sure the oil level is correct

• Remove spark plug, connect to spark plug lead and earth it to the generator. Pull starter cord gently and look for a spark

• replace spark plug if there is no spark

Spark plug ok, but engine still won’t start?

• Ensure that the fuel cock filter is clean

• Check if the fuel line is clear of any obstruction

• Ensure the carburetor is not clogged

Engine still won’t start?

• Clean or replace spark plug

• Check ignition system. If faulty, contact a repair man

• Check the compression. If low, contact a repair man
• Check for loose cylinder head, tighten bolts.

• Check for damaged cylinder head gasket; replace if necessary

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