How to Prolong the Life of Your Honda® Generator
Just like any piece of equipment, your generator requires regular maintenance to stay in good working order. Invest some time and effort in regular upkeep, and your Honda Power generator will reward you with many years of faithful service. This guide from Cycles of Jacksonville covers all the basic tasks of generator maintenance.
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Proceed with Caution
Before we get started, it’s worth noting that conducting maintenance on your generator comes with a few safety risks. Make sure your generator has had plenty of time to cool down before doing any maintenance task, and only work on your generator outdoors or in a well-ventilated space. Turn off the engine, disconnect all the wiring, and place your generator on a solid, level surface to prevent fuel spills and balance issues.
Stay on Schedule
Your generator will function best when given plenty of regular attention. Sticking to a maintenance schedule will ensure optimum fuel efficiency and smooth, quiet performance for years to come. Your schedule will revolve around the following routine tasks.
Change the Oil
Honda recommends checking engine oil levels each time your generator is used. Your oil will need to be replaced after the first 20 hours of use, and every six months after that. The procedure is similar to checking the oil in your car. Remove the maintenance cover and oil cap, and read the oil level on the dipstick. Generally speaking, 10W30 oil is a good choice for Honda engines, but that can vary depending on your climate and other factors.
Clean the Air Filter
Always check your air filter before operating your generator. You can clean the filter using warm water and a mild detergent, such as dish soap. Cleaning should be performed after 50 hours of use or every 3 months, whichever comes first. If your air filter ever becomes damaged, replace it right away with an OEM filter.
Adjust the Spark Plugs
Spark plugs will need replacement once per year, or after 200 hours of use. In the meantime, adjust your spark plugs every 100 hours. Any damaged spark plugs should be removed immediately and replaced with a compatible OEM spark plug. When it’s time for a full replacement, go with the CR5HSB spark plug model.
Clean the Spark Arrester
This key component of your generator will need service and cleaning after 100 hours of use or every six months, whichever comes first. The spark arrester is located near the muffler, so double check that the muffler has cooled completely before handling it. Carefully remove the muffler and the spark arrester, then use a stiff brush to clear any dirt and carbon deposits from the surface of the spark arrester. Inspect the part for damage and replace as needed.
Run It Regularly
Prolonged periods of disuse can cause your generator to deteriorate. Fluid buildup can harm its inner workings and lead to serious maintenance problems, so run your generator at least half an hour once every couple of months to keep the oil and lubricant flowing.
Do you have any more questions about generator maintenance? Feel free to ask the qualified staff at Cycles of Jacksonville. We’re your trusted powersports dealer in Jacksonville, FL.