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Small generators are typically run by small, 4-stroke gasoline engines. The engines are lubricated by straight 30 weight, non-detergent motor oil. These engines do not use oil filters, but rely on the magnet in the drain plug to remove metal salt from the oil supply. Detergent type oil will interfere with the settling out of the metal salt, and allow the salt to circulate through the engine, causing damage, and so this type of oil should be avoided. Most small generators come equipped with an oil-pressure safety switch that kills the ignition when oil pressure is lost. This is usually indicative of a low oil level.

1. Position the drain pan under the drain plug at the bottom of the oil pan/engine case. Remove the drain plug with the crescent wrench. Remove the oil fill plug by hand. Discard the old drain plug gasket and drain the oil fully. Inspect the drain plug magnet for signs of metal salt.
2. Wipe any oil or debris from the drain with a clean shop rag. Install the new drain plug gasket onto the drain plug. Install the drain plug into the engine and tighten it down firmly.
3. Insert the funnel into the fill hole. Ensure that the generator is level, and fill the engine until oil comes back out of the fill hole.
4. Wipe any oil or debris from the fill hole and the fill hole plug. Install the fill hole plug and tighten it down firmly by hand.

Brand new engines will produce a large amount of metal salt during their break-in period and over the first two or three oil changes. This is not indicative of a problem. Large amounts of metal salt in older engines is cause for alarm. You must consider rebuilding or replacing older motors in which you find large deposits of metal salt.