What kind of maintenance will my diesel generator need and how complicated is it for the average homeowner or small business?
A. Diesel engines require routine maintenance for long-life service. The normal maintenance requirements are about the same as owning a diesel powered vehicle – oil, oil filter, air filter and fuel filter. In tropical and cold climates it is advisable to have a water-fuel separation filter system installed. Water or moisture in diesel fuel can be damaging to a diesel engine because the water properties create advanced ignition and accelerated detonation. The engine will need an oil change every 250 to 500 hours depending on the dust conditions or annually in the case of standby generators. Change the oil filter when you change the oil. Air filters need to be changed when they appear dirty. Check air filters whenever you inspect the generator or change the oil. Fuel filters are normally changed every 250 to 300 hours depending on how clean the fuel is. Inspect fuel filters when you fill the tanks, during oil changes and any time you inspect the generator. If the generator has a service
