If the generator is not installed immediately, store the generator in a clean area. This area should also have the following conditions: low humidity, stable humidity, and stable temperature. Space heaters must be energized to keep condensation from the windings. All accessory equipment that is supplied with the unit should be stored with the generator. The combined unit should be covered with a durable cover to protect against the following contaminants:
- Dust
- Dirt
- Moisture
- Other airborne abrasive substances
If the engine will not be started for several weeks, the lubricating oil will drain from the cylinder walls and from the piston rings. Rust can form on the cylinder liner surface, which will increase engine wear which can reduce engine service life.
To help prevent excessive engine wear, use the following guidelines:
- Complete all the lubrication recommendations that are listed in this Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Maintenance Interval Schedule" (Maintenance Section).
- If freezing temperatures are expected, check the cooling system for adequate protection against freezing. See this Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Refill Capacities and Recommendations" (Maintenance Section).
If an engine is out of operation and if use of the engine is not planned, special precautions should be made. If the engine will be stored for more than one month, a complete protection procedure is recommended.
Your Caterpillar dealer will have instructions for preparing the engine for extended storage periods.
For more detailed information on engine storage, see Special Instruction, SEHS9031, "Storage Procedure for Caterpillar Products".
A storage period more than six months should be preceded by the following preparation:
- Install desiccant bags inside the exciters cover.
- Seal the unit in a covering of plastic or other material that has been designed for that purpose.
- Adequately tag the generator to ensure that preservative greases and desiccant bags are removed before the generator is placed in operation.
New bearings are greased at the manufacturer. This grease is designed for long life, but the grease may deteriorate under certain conditions in storage.
Ball bearing generators use synthetic grease. This grease is subject to deterioration. If the generator is stored for more than one year and the bearings are not turned during the year, new ball bearings may be required.
Measure the insulation resistance of each winding if the generator was exposed to the following conditions:
- Rapid changes in temperature
- Freezing
- Wet climate during storage
Note: These tests should be conducted prior to any power connections that are being made. These tests should be conducted prior to any control connections that are made.
Refer to the Generator Maintenance section of this manual to measure the following items:
- Exciter Field (Stator)
- Exciter Armature (Rotor)
- Generator Field (Rotor)
- Generator Armature (Stator)
For additional information on generator storage, consult your Caterpillar dealer for assistance.