Six Essential Tips for Proper Use of Small Gasoline Generators
To ensure safe and efficient operation, here are six key recommendations for using small gasoline generators:
1. Starting and Stopping the Engine
Starting:
- Turn the fuel valve to "ON."
- Adjust the choke.
- Gently push the throttle lever to the left.
- Start the engine:
- Recoil start: Turn the engine switch to "ON," pull the starter handle until resistance is felt, then pull quickly. Avoid sudden rebounds.
- Electric start: Turn the switch to the start position (hold for ≤5 seconds). If unsuccessful, wait 10 seconds before retrying. After starting, move the choke to "OPEN" and adjust the throttle.
Stopping:
- For emergencies, turn the engine switch to "OFF."
- Normal shutdown:
1. Close the throttle (push lever to the right).
2. Turn the engine switch to "OFF."
3. Turn the fuel valve to "OFF."
Always refer to the manual for model-specific instructions.*
2. Ignition System
- Battery ignition: Use a 12V/35A+ battery. Connect positive first, then negative; disconnect in reverse. Ground the generator properly.
- Magneto ignition: Check breaker point gap (0.02–0.05mm). Clean contacts with sandpaper if dirty. Test spark (6–8mm, blue-white preferred).
3. Generator Wiring
- Avoid overloading or connecting to household circuits.
- If no output due to lost residual magnetism, briefly apply ~6V DC to the exciter winding (remove once voltage restores).
4. Air Intake & Exhaust
- Air filter: Never run the engine without it. Clean/replace:
- *Paper filter:* Replace if dirty or damaged.
- *Oil-bath filter:* Wash with detergent, dry, and re-oil (avoid excess oil to prevent smoke).
- Throttle: Adjust for optimal air-fuel mix (lean = unstable; rich = smoke/sluggishness).
- Exhaust: Remove carbon deposits from the muffler periodically.
5. Fuel & Lubrication
- Fuel: Use automotive gasoline. Filter while refueling (e.g., with medical gauze). Refuel only when the engine is cool in a ventilated area.
- *Carburetor adjustment:* Main jet (base) and idle jet (top). Turn in to lean, out to enrich. Ideal mixture (α = 0.4–1.4).
- Oil: Use 4-stroke or SG/SF-grade oil (e.g., SAE 10W-30). Check levels with the dipstick; change oil regularly.
6. Cylinder & Piston Maintenance
- Clean carbon deposits from the spark plug. Adjust gap per manual (e.g., 0.7–0.8mm for KIPOR, 0.3–0.4mm for LD75). Tighten securely to prevent overheating.
*Follow these guidelines to extend your generator’s lifespan and prevent accidents.*
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