How to Change the Oil in a Powermate Generator

Generators are marked by hours run for maintenance.

Regular maintenance for a generator is as important as maintenance on any other type of engine. Keeping up with regular oil changes is one way to insure the generator will last for a long time. Typically, generators should have their oil changed every 40 hours of operation. Keeping a log of how often the generator was run and for how long will help to plan when to change the oil in a Powermate Generator.

Things You'll Need

• Small pan
• Socket set
• 1 quart motor oil (of appropriate weight)

Instructions

1. Start the generator and let it reach operating temperature. Shut the generator off.

2. Remove the oil fill cap from the engine block. The cap is marked with the word "Oil" and is located on the side opposite the generator control panel.

3. Slide a pan under the the oil pan at the bottom of the generator engine. The oil pan is a smooth "pan" that is bolted to the bottom of the engine with a drain bolt set in the center. Make sure the drain pan is centered on the drain bolt on the oil pan.

4. Remove the drain bolt with a socket set and let the oil drain out of the engine. When no more oil comes out of the engine, replace the drain bolt.

5. Pour in 1 quart of motor oil into the engine through the oil fill hole. Replace the oil fill cap and start the engine. Let the engine run for a minute to move the oil through the block and turn the engine off.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a motor oil weight (i.e. 10w, 20w and so on) that is appropriate for the temperature of the season the generator is used in, with heavier weights used in warmer seasons and lighter weights used when it is cold.

• Use caution when draining hot oil, it can cause burns to the skin.

References

• Coleman Portable Generators: Simple Periodic Maintenance Coleman Generator
• Powermate: 5,000 Watt Portable Generator Manual Start

Resources

• Department of Toxic Substances Control: Managing Used Oil Filters for Generators