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

NFES #
000709
Category
Small Engine Equipment
Updated
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.

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! S-212, Intermediate Faller (Online) Course Available Now 

Date:  April 23, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Hazard Tree and Tree Felling Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce that the new S‑212, Intermediate Faller (Online), course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). This second course in the series provides students with the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of an Intermediate Faller (FAL2), as described in the FAL2 Incident Position Description. This course is intended for individuals seeking to advance from Basic Faller (FAL3) to FAL2.

S‑212, Intermediate Faller is a fully online, self‑paced training program consisting of 13 units. Learners will engage with interactive, scenario‑based content designed to progressively build foundational skills and knowledge essential for the FAL2 role.

Students must be qualified as a Basic Faller (FAL3) prior to enrolling in S‑212, Intermediate Faller course.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2027.

References:

S-212 Intermediate Faller (Online)

RMC Memo 26-01: Transition Plan for Implementing Updates to Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Qualifications

Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Page

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212

New Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

Date:  April 17, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: National Coordination System Committee

A new publication from the National Coordination System Committee (NCSC) is now available. The NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249, will be used for aviation crews and dispatch to share flight information that is needed for resource tracking, and if needed, for emergency procedures.

For further details, please contact your NCSC representative. 

References:

NCSC Memo 26-01: Implementation of NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

New Glossary Term for Review

Date:  April 15, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Data Standards and Terminology Board (DSTB)

The Data Standards and Terminology Board is requesting feedback on a new glossary term: Resource Protection Measure (RPM).

The proposed definition is: Practical guidance provided for incident personnel in a manner in which incident objectives can be achieved while reducing impacts to identified resources across the landscape. RPMs are informed by, but not restricted to, Minimum Impact Strategies and Tactics (MIST).

Please review, share with your subgroups, and provide feedback as appropriate through the following form: Request Feedback The comment period will close May 10, 2026.

Thank you for your engagement in the NWCG glossary process – your participation is key to our success.

References:

Glossary Request Feedback

Quarter Three Materials for the 2025-2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign Now Available

Date:  April 1, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that Quarter Three materials for the 2025/2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign are now available. This annual initiative offers all students of leadership and wildland fire management an opportunity to engage with essential leadership skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

Quarter Three materials focus on Leadership Level 3: Leader of People (Develop Intent). Leadership Level 3 is where your values, your team, and your influence come together. Leaders of People put their teams first, build trust, and lead with authenticity. They mentor future leaders and shape decisions up and down the chain.

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Committee