No matter if you’re using your Caterpillar diesel generator set as a primary or emergency power source, it is important to maintain it regularly to make sure that it gives quality performance throughout its lifespan. Huge companies that own a lot of generators—as well as those that depend on gensets heavily for their main power—may need to have an in-house engineer to maintain these generator units. But smaller companies or those that use their generator only for emergency power can easily maintain their gensets by establishing a maintenance contract with their generator supplier. In both instances, the routine maintenance for power generators is pretty straight-forward. Following the schedule provided by the generator’s manufacturer is the best maintenance practice.
You can usually acquire a reliable maintenance schedule from the manufacturer, and the maintenance can be carried out by your Caterpillar generator dealer or engineers/electrical contractors. Following this schedule will assure proper operation and maximum service time. The primary duties of maintenance contractors are to study technical data given by the manufacturers, inspect systems, keep records, and take safety measures as suggested by the manufacturer.
Here are some of the key steps to be taken in order to ensure a smooth operation of your Caterpillar generator:
• Upgrade the components and remove worn out parts in a timely manner
• Check fluid levels
• Clean the connections and inspect the battery
• Test the load bank
• Verify indicators and control panel readings
• Change air and fuel filters
Making small investments in the replacement of components and regularly maintaining your generator can save you from the hassle and unnecessary expenses in the future. As you perform routine maintenance, you should log each action you take and record various parameters and readings alongside the date of inspection. Other factors that need to be periodically checked are utility phase sensing, start signal continuity, and timing and starting relays.
