Northern Lights M864W Operator's Manual - page 9
OM864W 09/07
9
BEFORE STARTING
1. Check the water level by removing the
pressure cap from the expansion tank. In order
to give the cooling water an opportunity to
expand, the level should be about 1 in. (2.5
cm) below the fi ller cap sealing surface when
the engine is cold.
CAUTION: Use protective clothing
and open the fi ller cap carefully when the
engine is warm to prevent burns.
2. Check the oil level in the crankcase with the
dipstick. The oil level must be between high
and low marks on the stick. Never allow the
level to go below this area. Always add the
same viscosity of oil as is already in the
crankcase.
3. Check the fuel tank level and open any fuel
valves on the tank and at the secondary fuel
fi lter.
4. Close the sea-cock, check and clean the sea
strainer, and re-open the sea-cock.
5. Place the battery switch in the ON position.
NOTE: The battery switch must always be
kept ON while the engine is running. If
the switch is turned OFF while the
engine is running, the battery charging
alternator could be damaged.
BREAK-IN PERIOD
1. The
fi rst 100 hours on a new or reconditioned
engine are critical to its life and performance.
2. Constantly check the engine temperature and oil
pressure gauges.
3. Oil consumption is greater during break-in as
piston rings take time to seat.
4. Break-In Oil Changes: Change engine oil and
fi lter at 50 hours. Change oil and fi lter again at
100 hours (consult Lubricants section for oil
recommendation).
Operating Instructions:
Maintain at least a 75% load on your generator
set for the fi rst 100 hours. If this is not possible,
maintain no less than a 50% load to ensure
proper seating of the piston rings. Vary the load
to help seat the rings.
Operating Procedures