To help prevent sparks from igniting combustible gases that are produced by some batteries, the negative "−" jump-start cable should be connected last from the external power source to the negative "−" terminal of the starting motor. If the starting motor is not equipped with a negative "−" terminal, connect the jump-start cable to the engine block.
Check the electrical wires daily for wires that are loose or frayed. Tighten all loose electrical wires before the engine is started. Repair all frayed electrical wires before the engine is started. See the Operation and Maintenance Manual for specific starting instructions.
In any generator set installation, the frame of the generator must be connected to an earth ground. The power module includes a solid connection from the load cable ground bus to the generator frame. The load cable ground bus must be connected to an on site earth ground. Ensure that the following are true:
- The connection from the ground bus to the earth ground must be the first connection that is made at the installation.
- The connection from the ground bus to the earth ground must be the last connection to be removed.
- The ground connection must be flexible in order to avoid possible breakage in later operation.
- Ground connection cable or straps must have the current carrying capacity of the largest line lead to the connected load.
- Joints in cables or straps must be clean, free of electrical resistance, and protected from possible oxidation.
Note: Bolted ground connection joints eventually oxidize. The joints are frequent sources of radio frequency interference (RFI).
The following types of joints are mechanically and electrically stable:
- Bolted
- Silver soldered