Read the manual thoroughly and understand all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings before using this equipment. If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns. 

Selecting generator oil

Generac home standby generators ship from the factory with oil already in the engine. This article provides guidance on what oil should be used after oil changes, and how often it should be changed.

Environment

This article applies to air cooled and liquid cooled home standby generators.

Which oil?

We recommend using Generac 5W-20 full synthetic oil for all home standby generators, no matter the temperature.

If the owner doesn't have access to the 5W-20 oil, it is acceptable to use SAE 30, 10W-30, or 5W-30 synthetic oil that has an API service class of SJ, SL, or better. Use the chart below to determine the best oil for the expected temperature range:

Note: While it is common practice to use heavier oils for warmer temperatures, synthetic oils are better suited for a wider range of temperatures.

Oil changes

• Oil changes are a critical maintenance task to help prolong the life of the generator's engine. 
• Oil changes should be performed according to the generator's maintenance schedule detailed in the owner's manual: Where can I find a user manual or other documentation for my home standby generator?
• The first oil and oil filter change should be performed when the generator reaches the end of its break-in period, which is defined as its first 25 hours of operation: How do I find out how many run hours are on my home standby generator?
• The end of the break in period for the 7.5kW PowerPact is its first 20 hours of operation.
• The end of the break in period of liquid cooled generators varies. Consult the owner's manual for specifics. 
• When the generator's break in maintenance interval has been reached, an oil change and oil filter change is required: How do I perform the break-in maintenance for a home standby generator?
  

See also 

• How Do I Change the Oil and Oil Filter in a Generac Air-Cooled Home Standby Generator?
• What Would Cause My Generator Oil to Turn a Milky Color?