How to Effectively Clean Diesel Generator Set

When you are buying used diesel generators, it is important that you understand both, the importance of generator maintenance as well as the process of keeping the generators clean at all times. There are a number of best practices when cleaning used diesel generators for sale including the use of proper cleaning fluids, adoption of appropriate cleaning methods as well as the use of recommended cleaning materials.

Use Recommended Cleaning Materials

There are different types of materials that adhere to the parts and each one requires a special type of cleaning.

Organic solvents

Organic Solvents degrease the surface by dissolving dirt from the generator set. It does not damage the metal but removes all types of grease. You do not have to heat the solvent and it effectively cleans the diesel generator. Most solvents are flammable and expensive, but they are great for smaller generators.

Alkaline solvents

Alkaline solvents have a chemical reaction to oil on the surface of the generator. When it mixes with the oil, it creates a soap that dissolves in water. It rinses off easily with hot water. Alkaline solvents can corrode metals at different degrees, depending on the metal. After rising off the solvent, there may be residual lye on the parts that must be removed to avoid corrosion.

Carburetor Cleaner for Generator

To begin with, you must vacuum away any loose dirt, dust, debris, and grime, on the surface of the carburetor with a handheld and cordless vacuum. While doing so, make sure to place a rag at the carburetor’s base, as it’ll help catch any runoffs. After this, you can make use of the carburetor cleaner in thin, even coats and wait for it to settle.

Spark Plug Cleaner

Maintaining the cleanliness of the spark plug is a crucial aspect of generator maintenance. Thankfully, it can be easily taken care of by using a spray-on plug cleaner that is distinctly curated to help clean this ignition part. In addition to using the spark plug cleaner, you can also make use of a knife or a wire brush to scrape off the deposits, if any.

Alkaline Cleaning Solution

Oil stains are often found on the surface of the generator parts. You should scrape off as much of it as possible. You should use a hot cleaning solution, such as a synthetic detergent or alkaline cleaning liquid, to remove the rest of the oil from the parts. Once the parts are removed from the solution, you should rinse them with clean water and blow them dry with compressed air.

Metal Brush or Spatula

Carbon deposits and metallic particles can be effectively removed by heating the parts and then using a metal brush or spatula to scrape off the carbon. Scale, on the other hand, is best removed with the help of chemical solutions.

Fuel Additives

A fuel stabilizer can prove to be of significant help when it comes to preventing the carburetor from gumming up, especially at the time of extended storage periods.

Chemical cleaning solutions are water-based cleaners that reduce tension, penetrate, and disperse. They are non-toxic, non-corrosive, pollution-free, and rust-proof. They tend to be really affordable.

Adopt Proper Cleaning Methods

Always remember, when cleaned properly, used diesel generators can easily last a lifetime. There are a number of ways to use cleaning fluids to properly clean used generators for sale.

You can scrub the diesel generator set parts in a container with cotton yarn or a scrub brush. This is a simple way to clean equipment, but it may not be the most effective way to clean the parts. This is the best way to clean a small amount of smaller-sized parts.

You can boil the parts in a tank full of the cleaning solution. You can spray the parts with the cleaning solution. The spray must be at a certain temperature and pressure to remove the oil. This is a great way to clean the generator parts because it is fast and effective. It works best for parts that are not bulky and covered in grease.

You can put the parts in a basket in a cleaning machine that is immersed in the cleaning solvent and the basket vibrates. The vibration simulates an artificial rising that cleans the oil off the parts.

Pro Tip – While it may be exceptionally tempting to use a pressure washer to clean your generator, our expert at Swift Equipment Solutions strongly advise against it. A pressure washer could cause more harm to the engine parts than good. Instead, it is in your best interest to make use of an air compressor to blow off any dust, after which you can use a clean rag with a degreaser to give it that much-needed final cleaning touch.

Generator Maintenance Tips

In addition to the aforementioned cleaning methods and materials, it is also crucial that you ensure the regular maintenance of your generator to ensure the engine running smoothly over long periods of time. Wondering how to do so? Well, simply follow these tips –

• Run your portable generator every few months
• Routinely check the fuel in your portable generator
• Check each fuel line for dirt or dust
• Stock up on extra oil
• Routinely replace the fuel filter
• Replace or clean the dirty air filter
• Check-in on your spark plugs
• Check the coolant level during shutdown periods at the specified interval
• Make sure to have an annual inspection conducted for all the parts conducted
• Regularly inspect for any leak in the fuel system
• Always store the generator in a cool, dry place
• In case of extended periods of storage, make sure to drain the gasoline and add in new fuel when you power up the generator

We hope that you are now more than prepared for both generator maintenance as well as keeping your generator clean so as to increase its life span substantially. Of course, if you still have any doubts regarding the same, or wish to seek professional assistance for generator maintenance and cleaning, feel free to reach out to us at Swift Equipment Solutions. Our team of trained technicians will be more than willing to help you!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Generator Cleaning

1.Why is it important to keep the generator fuel tank clean?

Jeeping the fuel tank as well as fuel lines clean is an important part of generator maintenance. The use of dirty fuel due to improper storage conditions, or dusty tanks can cause irreparable damage to the fuel system. Some of the most effective ways to ensure that the fuel tank remains clean include –

• Storing the fuel in an OSHA-approved receptacle
• Using a fuel strainer
• Avoid refilling tanks during windy conditions
• Keeping the fuel away from high traffic areas

2.Should I turn on my generator if I have not used it for a while?

Yes! In case your generator has not been in use for over a month, make sure to run it with load. Not only will it prevent the gasoline from accumulating gum on the carburetor, but will also enable the preventive maintenance of the generator.

3.Should I use a fuel stabilizer for my generator?

Generally speaking, you should drain your generator before storing it away. However, if you are storing the generator with the gasoline, adding a fuel stabilizer is highly recommended.

4.Why is it important to clean diesel generators frequently?

Cleaning the generator regularly and properly maintaining it increases the equipment’s longevity. Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of dirt, dust, and other debris, which can damage critical components or even lead to hazards if they are easily flammable.

5.How often should I clean the diesel generator set?

In generic terms, cleaning the generator once a quarter or biyearly will be ideal. However, this question has no simple answer since every generator has unique requirements.

Depending on factors like the environment it is used in, the frequency of usage, and the health of the equipment, you should make a rational decision. For older materials, cleaning the generator as frequently as every three months is recommended.

6.What should I clean my generator with?

There are different materials and equipment that you should be using to properly clean up a diesel generator and ensure that each part is adequately taken care of.

These materials include organic solvents, a vacuum to clean off loose dirt or debris, an alkaline cleaning solution, a metal brush, a spatula, and others.

Avoid using high-pressure water to clean up the generator, as it can force water into sensitive components and lead to long-term damage or corrosion.

7.Are there any specific safety precautions to follow when cleaning the diesel generator?

Everyone must follow some safety precautions when cleaning up a diesel generator:

1. Ensure the generator is turned off and disconnect it from all power sources. If the generator has been used, give it enough time to cool down before you start cleaning.
2. Wear protective equipment and safety gear like gloves and safety goggles when cleaning the generator.
3. Exercise caution around moving parts or electrical connections, as these may cause hazards.

8.What parts of the diesel generator should I focus on when cleaning it?

Ideally, the entire equipment needs to be correctly cleaned and maintained. In particular, pay attention to cleaning air intake vents, cooling fins, and radiator surfaces.

The spark plug is also crucial for generator cleaning and should be done carefully using a spark plug cleaner. In addition, you can use a wire brush or vacuum to remove any deposits, debris, or grime.

9.Besides cleaning, are there any generator maintenance tips to be aware of?

In addition to the mentioned cleaning protocols, maintenance is a crucial aspect of ensuring the generator runs smoothly over a long period.

Some of the regular checks that you should do include the following:

• A routine check on the fuel in the generator
• Checking fuel line for dirt or dust
• Stocking up the generator with extra oil as necessary
• Replacing and cleaning fuel filters or dirty air filters regularly
• Timely checks on spark plugs
• Running the generator every few months or allowing it to cool down after extended usage