ARMY TM 9-6115-604-12
NAVY NAVFAC P-8-633-12
SECTION III. OPERATION UNDER UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
2-10. OPERATION IN COLD (40°F to -25°F) (40C to -320C).
Avoid contacting metal items with bare skin In extreme cold weather. Failure to ob-
serve this warning can result in personal injury.
a.
General. The generator set operates in temperatures down to -25°F (-320C) To operate successfully down to this
temperature, the engine Is heated by an integrally mounted preheat system which receives auxiliary power from an
external source. The generator and switchgear are heated by integrally mounted strip heaters which also require
auxiliary power from an external source.
b.
Fuel System. Be sure to use proper grade of fuel for existing temperatures. Refer to Table 3-1 Service fuel filters
and strainers more frequently than normal (every 200 hours instead of every 300 hours). Remove ice, snow, and
moisture from the filler cap and filler neck.
c.
Engine Electrical. System Clean storage batteries BT1 through BT4 and cables and Inspect for cracked or
damaged cases Be sure the battery terminals are tight, clean, and lightly greased. See that the battery cap vent
holes are open The electrolyte level must be 3/8 inch (9 5 mm) above the plates To prevent the batteries from
freezing, see that they are kept fully charged. Inspect all electrical wiring for cracks, breaks, and fraying Tighten
loose connections.
NOTE
After adding water to the batteries In freezing temperatures, charge the batteries for at least 1 hour.
d.
Lubrication Inspect level of oil in crankcase by checking sight glass. Lubricate in accordance with Instructions In
Chapter 3, Section II.
e.
Cooling System Inspect level of coolant In radiator by checking sight glass. Inspect cooling system for leaks,
paying particular attention to gaskets and hose connections. Use a hydrometer to verify that antifreeze mixture is
in accordance with Table 3-1 and Table 4-1. When starting the generator set, keep shutters closed until engine
reaches operating temperature Ensure that drifting snow does not obstruct normal cooling or combustion air flow.
2-11.
OPERATION IN EXTREME HEAT (UP TO 125°F) (52°C).
a.
Cooling System. Keep the cooling system free from rust and scale by changing water filters every 300 hours.
Keep cooling system filled with clean coolant. Avoid use of alkaline water or salt water, which causes the
accumulation of rust and scale Inspect belt for proper tension. Be sure generator set is free of dust and dirt.
Check obstruction in radiator cooling fins and make sure shutters are kept open.
b.
Lubrication. Lubricate In accordance with the Instructions In Chapter 3, Section II.
c.
Inspect battery electrolyte level daily. The plates should be covered with 3/8 Inch (9 5 mm) of water. Add water If
necessary.
d.
Be sure generator set is free of airflow restrictions. When operating Indoors, make provisions for adequate
ventilation and the venting of exhaust fumes to the outside
e.
Keep external surface of engine clean.
f.
Allow sufficient space for fuel expansion when filling fuel tank.
g.
Change engine oil and oil filter frequently.
h.
Store oil and fuel In dust-free containers.
i.
Ensure that generator set ground connections are free of dust and sand and connections are tight before starting
the unit.
j.
Prior to shutdown, run generator set at no load for 5 minutes to allow engine temperature to stabilize and cool.
2-49