How to Maintain Your Camping Generator
Camping generators are a great way to power your devices and appliances while you're out in the wilderness. However, it's important to maintain your generator to ensure that it lasts for many years. Here are some tips on how to maintain your camping generator:
Maintaining a gas powered generator
Maintaining a gas powered generator is much different than maintaining a battery powered portable camping generator. Below we will go over how to maintain both.
Choose the Right Generator Maintenance Kit
There are a variety of generator maintenance kits available on the market. When choosing a maintainance kit, make sure the kit is a perfect match for your generator. This way you will avoid having to return parts that do not fit your generator.
Maintenance Kit |
Rating |
Number of Ratings |
Price |
Generac 0J93220SSM Maintenance Kit w/ 5W-30 Synthetic Oil |
4.7/5 |
140 |
$74.95 |
Generac Power Systems 6484 16KW HSB Maintenance Kit |
4.5/5 |
38 |
$41.00 |
Generac 0J93230SSM 20Kw-22Kw SM 999 Maintenance Kit |
4.7/5 |
437 |
$74.95 |
Kohler GM62346 Maintenance Kit for 12/14 kW Residential Generators |
4.6/5 |
201 |
$71.99 |
GPS GENERATOR PARTS SPECIALIST Tune Up Kit for Cummins Onan RV Generators 5500 and 7000, HGJAB, HGJAC and commercial HGJAE with ONAMAX 15W40 Oil for use in Specs A - E |
4.8/5 |
26 |
$119.00 |
Generac 6485 Scheduled Maintenance Kit for 20kW and 22kW Standby Generators with 999cc Engine , Black |
4.7/5 |
1777 |
$29.99 |
Generac Maintenance Kit for 20kw and 22kw with Oil (2013+ Evolution Models) Model: 0j932300 |
4.8/5 |
226 |
$66.99 |
Generac 6484 Scheduled Maintenance Kit for Home Standby Generators with 12-18 kW 760cc-990cc Engines |
4.6/5 |
1039 |
$26.99 |
Change the Oil in Your Camping Generator
The oil in your camping generator should be changed regularly, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Changing the oil will help to keep your generator running smoothly and prevent it from overheating. To change the oil, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire.
- Remove the oil drain plug.
- Allow the oil to drain into a container.
- Replace the oil drain plug.
- Add new oil to the crankcase.
- Replace the oil filler cap.
Clean the Air Filter in Your Camping Generator
The air filter in your camping generator should be cleaned regularly, according to the manufacturer's instructions. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can lead to decreased performance and increased fuel consumption. To clean the air filter, follow these steps:
- Remove the air filter cover.
- Remove the air filter.
- Clean the air filter with some type of mild soapy water.
- Allow the air filter to dry completely.
- Reinstall the air filter.
Note: If you clean the air filter and it looks to have gotten deformed, replace the filter.
Check the Spark Plugs in Your Camping Generator
The spark plugs in your camping generator should be checked regularly, according to the manufacturer's instructions. A dirty or fouled spark plug can cause misfires and decreased performance. To check the spark plugs, follow these steps:
- Remove the spark plugs.
- Inspect the spark plugs for signs of wear or damage.
- Clean the spark plugs with a wire brush.
- Gap the spark plugs according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Reinstall the spark plugs.
Change the Fuel Filter in Your Camping Generator
The fuel filter in your camping generator should be changed regularly, according to the manufacturer's instructions. A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow to the engine, which can lead to decreased performance and increased fuel consumption. To change the fuel filter, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the fuel line from the fuel filter.
- Remove the old fuel filter.
- Install the new fuel filter.
- Connect the fuel line to the new fuel filter.
Store Your Camping Generator
When you're not using your camping generator, it's important to store it properly. Storing your generator in a cool, dry place will help to prevent it from corroding or rusting. If you're going to store your generator for an extended period of time, be sure to drain the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer.
Maintaining a battery powered camping generator
Some of the best camping generators are battery powered. Here are some tips on how to maintain a portable battery powered camping generator:
- Charge the battery regularly. Most battery powered generators come with a built-in battery charger, but you can also purchase a separate charger if needed. Charging the battery will keep it in a healthy state.
- Inspect the battery for damage. Look for cracks, leaks, or corrosion. If you see any damage, replace the battery immediately.
- Clean the battery terminals. Over time, the battery terminals can build up corrosion. This can prevent the battery from charging properly. To clean the terminals, use a wire brush and a baking soda solution.
- Store the generator in a cool, dry place. This will help to extend the life of the battery and other components.
- Replace the battery every 3-5 years. Even if the battery is still holding a charge, it will eventually start to lose capacity. Replacing the battery will ensure that your generator is always ready to use.
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Conclusion
Camping generators produce a lot of heat, and if not maintained properly, this heat can cause serious damage to your generator. Keep your generator clean. Dirty parts will absorb more heat, which can shorten its life. regularly clean allmoving parts, the exhaust grill, and the air filter with a hose and Bernice Baptist oil-free cleaner.