National Wildfire Coordinating Group

Generator – Gasoline Engine, 3 to 6 KW w/Ground Rod

NFES Number: 
000709
Category: 
Small Engine Equipment
Updated: 
2017-05
Storage and Shelf Life Checks: 
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure: 
Date Last Tested (DLT) not to exceed 12 months.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visually inspect for evidence of use (dust, oil, starter seal broken), damage or missing parts.
  2. Return to stock if there is no sign of use or damage and date last tested (DLT) does not exceed 12 months.
  3. Refurbish as necessary if unit has been used or fueled, damaged, or shelf life is exceeded.
  4. Dispose of the unit if it is not economically repairable.

Refurbishment procedures

A. Cleaning

  • Remove dirt and oil using compressed air or detergent and shop towels as necessary

B. Repair

  1. Check condition of engine oil. If engine is equipped with an engine oil filter; replace the filter at each oil change.
  2. Check condition of spark plug and air filter, clean or replace as needed. Foam type air filters can be cleaned, re-oiled with “foam filter oil” and reinstalled.
  3. Inspect power-head (engine) for freeness of all moving parts, ensuring that the crankshaft, piston/cylinder and all engine bearings are not damaged.
  4. Check for loose and/or missing parts or mounting hardware; tighten or replace where needed.
  5. Inspect exhaust system; make sure there are no cracks and or leaks.
  6. Clean spark arrestor screen of excess carbon build up, replace if screen is damaged.
  7. Inspect fuel tank, filler cap, fuel line and fuel filter; clean, repair and/or replace as needed.
  8. Ensure that the recoil starter operates properly and that the rope is not frayed or Ensure proper condition of battery (if equipped).
  9. Ensure all decals (operations and warning) are affixed and legible.

C. Test for Performance

  1. Refer to the owner’s manual for operations and specifications information specific to generator model.
  2. Ensure gasoline is fresh prior to starting the engine. Use a fuel stabilizer in fuel during testing to help ensure proper operation of engine at post storage start up.
  3. Ensure recoil starter functions properly. Check for damage or fraying of pull cord; repair or replace as necessary.
  4. Engine should start easily, run smoothly, be free from fuel leaks, and provide sufficient power to the electrical generator.
  5. Ensure all engine operational controls are functioning properly; stop switch, throttle and choke.
  6. Test for engine performance and electrical output (see owner’s manual for specific performance data).
  7. Should any function fail a test, refer to the manufacturer’s repair manual and troubleshooting guide to correct the problem.
  8. Remove all gasoline from fuel tank and run engine until carburetor is completely empty of fuel.

D. Repackaging

  1. Ensure grounding rod is attached to frame.
  2. Use a nylon “zip-tie” to tie off (seal) starter rope to the frame. 
  3. Attach a certification tag that indicates date last tested (DLT), property #, and name of inspector certifying the performance.
  4. Ensure that all identification (property #, serial #, owner ID) is affixed and legible.

 

Page Last Modified / Reviewed: 
2019-02-26