How to perform an Oil Change on your Generac Generator | AnthonyJ350

[@williamc2930]

The Generac dealership here in Texas wants to charge $440 a year to change the oil, filter, and plugs. There would be a $220 charge to come out included into the price. The complete oil kit was $77 from Generac. The ($120-140) Interstate battery was not covered under their service contract. They stated that I needed a special pump to drain the oil. After seeing your simple video, and changing my own vehicle's oil, I think I can do this myself for a lot less. I can also toss in a new battery every two years and still come out ahead. Thank You!

[@AnthonyJ350]

Pump would be good, but if you pour fresh oil in and push out the old stuff it'll be pretty clean.

[@gentexelite2021]

where in Texas?

[@vickivassar2294]

I do it myself for less than $200.00 and that is including a battery!

[@throwbackzZ]

I've been a generator tech for 15 years and yes you can save alot of money doing it your self and it's really not that hard but what you pay for is my experience and expertise. These units do fail and my job is to prevent your unit from failing not just change your oil. The big problem comes when a storm hits and many people are looking to get their generator working. My priority will be with my customers not the diy guy who has refused service. Plus when I find a problem with the unit and I'm there performing a maintenance it will be cheaper then if you just call us in on a Saturday after a storm.

[@throwbackzZ]

Im a generator tech and this is a good way of doing it. The only thing i would change is the oil container used to collect oil. If you use a oil containers that has one of those big red caps on top like the ones found in an auto parts store you can slide that red cap under the filter to collect the oil that spills. BTW if you want to use a pump to get the oil out you can use the pump for an inflatable mattress. Just stick it in where you pour the oil release the drain plug and turn that baby on. Your welcome..

[@AnthonyJ350]

Great tip! I use a foldable funnel now underneath the filter to catch the oil now.

[@ktalanguyen]

This is the best video oil change, which I have seen. There are many oil changes videos that were performed by what they claimed to be Generac's pro contractors. They performed oil change terribly, and i felt bad for the generator's owner. They charged the owner somewhere $400 and up for labor without parts. Well, i just want to say thanks for posting this video, and the way you did oil change was much much better than the "Pro Contractor" from Generac. Thanks again, buddy.

[@AnthonyJ350]

@@ktalanguyen Thank you for your kind words! I guess it helps having an automotive background and transferring ideas from our high mileage vehicles to this.

[@SierraOperator]

You saved me so much time and money on this. Thanks dad.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Glad I could help!

[@garycarr7353]

This was a great vid. Learned a lot. I’m going out and buying a filter magnet for my jeep, and generator, and next time I change the oil in either I’m gonna flush it a bit with extra oil. Never thought about that. I always just drain, plug and refil. Not anymore. The extra quart is worth every penny in my opinion. This was great vid.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Glad you found the steps in the video useful! I hope your Jeep and generator last a long time!

[@canadianvapor]

What does the filter magnet do ? Sorry i may have missed that in the video

[@AnthonyJ350]

@@canadianvapor The filter can only catch so much. So the small ferrus particles get caught by the magnet which the filter can't get.

[@canadianvapor]

@@AnthonyJ350 I have a Generac 11K wondering what spark plugs it calls for ..would you happen to know. So i can change my own out ? I can do the oil and filter I’m good for that

[@AnthonyJ350]

@@canadianvapor There should be a parts list in your owner's manual with part numbers.

[@Lisargarza]

I live in an area hit by not one, but two recent storm events in two and a half months. Our jennie ran for seven days straight after the first one. Tried to get our maintenance company to service it, but they are very overworked. Now we’re on disaster number two with almost 2 million people without power. While I could afford to pay someone $400 to change the oil, finding a qualified technician right now is impossible. Thanks so much for posting this clear and concise guide! (I hope I can still find maintenance kits at Lowe’s or Ace…)

[@JohnBaptist-o2f]

Hi Lisa, i'm on generac generator power in the Spring suburb of Houston. Actually, if you dont feel comfortable doing the oil change due to getting past 200-300 hours of service time...Try to at least check the dipstick to make sure that you replace any lost oil and make sure the level is at least in between the 2 holes. Its better than not checking but later finding out you are on dangerously low levels of oil and in danger of blowing up your engine. Wish you the best, Godbless!

[@NisiHa-fp4rk]

I'm assuming you're here in Houston

[@Lisargarza]

@@JohnBaptist-o2f I’m in Cypress. Thanks to this awesome video, I was able to change not only the oil in our generator, but my daughter’s as well! Both were below “full” and the old oil looked like black coffee. I’ve ordered oil filters online since there are none to be had anywhere and will do a second change when they arrive. Good luck to the rest of those reeling from Beryl’s aftermath.

[@feisty1188]

@@JohnBaptist-o2fthanks for this info! I’m also in Spring and still on generator power. I have a service contract, but can’t get an appointment. I will be checking my oil today.

[@Gbishop34]

Right there with you guys! Got my Generac after the last storm and it’s still humming today. Really great video.

[@waynebinky]

Great video. Only thing I do differently is I use an aluminum foil pan under the oil filter so there's less mess to clean-up later. And also use synthetic oil due to being in a cold area.

[@AnthonyJ350]

I have a moldable funnel now. The oil used in the video was full synthetic.

[@ZimorKilled]

Excellent video! As a mechanical engineer, you dont need a magnet to catch filings from the engine. Assuming you change oil filter and oil frequently and choose top-quality filters. Maintenance on these machines is very easy, but adjusting the valves is a stretch for people who have never performed mechanics. But doable. Many videos out there. This is a good video for maintenance, thanks for posting.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Thanks for watching!

[@JamieoftheNorth]

Well explained steps, thank you for the video!

[@AnthonyJ350]

Glad it made sense and helped you!

[@falcon4548]

Just performed the maintenance as you have shown… thank you for the great video 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🤩

[@AnthonyJ350]

Glad to hear the video helped you!

[@TheUniversalEyes]

Thanks for the video, I have a 32kw unit, probably time for an oil change here soon.

[@AnthonyJ350]

You're welcome 🙂

[@deniserezabek4665]

Thank you for your video. I was trying to get my wi-fi to sync up with my phone and when I turned off the generator I noticed there was oil on the bottom of the generator, which I wiped up. I had this serviced on an annual maintenance and I was glad to see your video on how the oil and filter is changed. I didn't know the panels were that easy to remove. My generator tests every Sat. and once it tests again, I'll check to see if there is standing oil. I'll also check the dip stick. Can you tell me where you get filter mags? Thank you again.

[@AnthonyJ350]

I got the Filtermags from Summit Racing.

[@1992corvette1]

Spoke with Generac after seeing the manual call out 5w-30 for my unit but their website now says 5w-20. Tech said testing has shown 5w-20 is better for the unit so that is what they now recommend. Primary difference in 30 vs 20 is viscosity at operating temperature and also when it is cold.

[@AnthonyJ350]

But if the manual was printed with 5W30. Didn't they design and test initially with 5W30 for performance and durability? I'll stick with 5W30 synthetic in mine.

[@michaelb1478]

They recommend 5w-30 for break in period and 5w-20 full synthetic thereafter. If you look at the manual online that’s what it now says.

[@gmlover82]

Crazy they are saying 5w20 now. We’ve been on backup power for 4 days with temps in mid to upper 90s. Lots of heat for a thin weight oil, I will stick with a 30w synthetic over a 20w.

[@jeffreyevans6892]

Nice thank you. Buying 18K next week.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Super exciting!

[@dennisku3709]

I like to take the magnet off before I start removing the filter. Helps keep it clean.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Thanks for sharing

[@ralphedelbach]

I just had the same unit installed and pland it for 24 hours UNDER LOAD before changing the break-in oil to the recommended weight synthetic oil. You mentioned letting the generator warm up before changing the oil but didn't mention either why it is important to do that or how long it should run in order to warm it up sufficiently. That would be a good idea IMO. Other wise well done.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Thanks for watching! Warmer oil will flow out easier.

[@ralphedelbach]

@@AnthonyJ350 Of course! I know that but it would be a good idea to share that info with your audience and also give some idea of how long it takes to reduce the oiil's viscosity in different ambient temperature conditions. Can't hurt.

[@AnthonyJ350]

@@ralphedelbach No it wouldn't hurt

[@throwbackzZ]

@ralphedelbach you run the unit so that it can get hot and the oil will pour out easily. If it don't worm up you will sit there watching it come out super slow.

[@ralphedelbach]

@@throwbackzZ SURE! I've maintained and rebuilt many engines over the years and know that hot oil drains better than cold, viscous oil. I suggested it be mentioned in the video for anyone who wasn't aware of that fact. I suspect there are some folks who never had the joy of having hot oil run up their arm when on the ground under a car doing an oil change. Ah, the good old days. Bet there are not many folks who change their car's oil themselves anymore.

[@cubano678]

Thanks, were did you get those oil filter magnets?

[@AnthonyJ350]

eBay has them

[@Virginia-n6i]

Still on generator power close to Hobby Airport. Did anyone have trouble reading the dipstick? I have a blob of darker oil close to the lower hole but lighter color oil along the rest. I just added a half quart to be sure but not confident. Its been running since Beryl came through. Suggestions?

[@AnthonyJ350]

When was the oil changed last? You can do an oil change and confirm how much oil you put in. Then see how the dipstick reads.

[@throwbackzZ]

@Virginia-n6i that is a sign of the oil or oil filter not being changed properly. Run the generator so that the oil becomes hot and pours out easily. That way you know you got most of the oil out. Change the filter and refill to the line. Problem should be solved. The old dirty and burnt oil is that black blob. Every thing on the top that looks clean is new oil. They don't mix well.

[@stacymilligan5761]

Very well explained very well illustrated thank you

[@AnthonyJ350]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheMelaniebarber1]

How much oil did you end up putting in. Did you do the recommended 1.9 quarts or a little less because there may be some in the crank?

[@AnthonyJ350]

Almost 2 quarts with the filter.

[@michaelburke5750]

Would you please add the filter magnets to your store or leave a link? Thanks.

[@AnthonyJ350]

I'll look into it. I know you can get them on Summit Racing.

[@scottchristian6624]

Excellent video very nicely done

[@AnthonyJ350]

Thank you very much!

[@gentexelite2021]

Whats all the extra wires on the - battery post?

[@AnthonyJ350]

Upgraded ground wires to chassis (casing) and the motor.

[@christopherlutz8877]

Fantastic video!

[@AnthonyJ350]

Thank you very much!

[@Wlh4022]

Well after a year did you find out why your oil would not drain out? My gen has been running non stop since beryl. Last night got a low oil. Added oil and ram fine rest of the night. I could not get oil to drain either. Next morning I received a low pressure warning. Pulled the oil filter off. It was completely clogged up with a tar substance. After marvel mystery oil and multi oil changes. Pushing dip stick down the drain tube. Finally got it unplugged Now fresh 10w-30 and wix filter. I did notice my oil cooler was not even warm. Being open 10-15 minutes. I have a messy to clean up from the oily tar.

[@AnthonyJ350]

I run 5W30 synthetic in mine.

[@throwbackzZ]

@Wlh4022 oil should always drain out, especially if it's hot. If there is something built up in there those are sign that maintenance is not being performed correctly or on a timely manner. If your diy-ing you need to do a better job of doing it right and more often. If you have a company doing it, fire them and find someone new.

[@Kachina425]

What model battery do you have installed?

[@AnthonyJ350]

Put in an Oddessey AGM group 35. I didn't want to mess around in an emergency.

[@anythinggoes9705]

It'll be nice if you have links where to buy oil jug and oil filter magnet.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Filtermag is from Summit. Oil is from Lordco Autoparts.

[@mammoth123.]

Would you recommend changing the spark plugs and air filter every oil change i'm pretty sure those items would real not need to be change that frequently

[@AnthonyJ350]

It depends on how many hours you put on it every year.

[@mammoth123.]

last year it ran a 5 min test once a week for 52 weeks I'm pretty sure it not worth doing

[@Clkirk23]

@AnthonyJ350 Do you have an amazon link to the filter magnets?

[@AnthonyJ350]

Sorry no. Summit racing has them. Just measure the diameter of the filter and buy the appropriate size

[@urielelias3059]

Is your air filter K&N as well or just the oil filter? If so what’s the part number for the air filter

[@AnthonyJ350]

Just the oil filter. I've been trying to find the K&N equivalent but haven't found one yet.

[@betoxyz68]

I like the magnets, I will order some for mine.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Anything to aid in filtration will definitely make the engine last longer.

[@justinprince9507]

How much oil did you end up putting in?

[@AnthonyJ350]

What the service manual recommends.

[@Erod_]

Perfect, thanks 🙏🏻

[@AnthonyJ350]

You're welcome!

[@joetho-znr]

Where did you get your oil filter magnets is there a part number

[@AnthonyJ350]

I just got them on Amazon. Measure the diameter of your filter and find the appropriate part based on the diameter.

[@danw.7454]

Can you post link for that oil pan?

[@AnthonyJ350]

I just bought it from my local auto parts store like 15 years ago

[@danw.7454]

@@AnthonyJ350 thanks for the reply!

[@VenLup]

When I cross reference 070185E, I only get three results. When I search 070185 only, then I get a lot of results, including the K&N. Is that what you did?

[@AnthonyJ350]

I just used a K&N HP-1003

[@condor5635]

Seems like you might drain it directly into a empty 5 quart oil jug instead of messing up a drain pain and then transfering that oil to another container. I have both but it is the jugs i take to the advance auto to recycle. Glad you are happy with the magnet I'm not a believer :)

[@AnthonyJ350]

I put a magnet on my air compressor drain plug. You wouldn't believe how much metal it captures.

[@CCCC-tq8yo]

What about changing the spark plugs

[@AnthonyJ350]

Haven't made a video yet

[@JJG84679]

The oil drained look very clean / translucent

[@AnthonyJ350]

Yup, it was a premature oil change. Motor is new and just breaking in. I like changing oil early to get all the metal debris out.

[@javierrodriguez9911]

How many quarts of oil did it take?

[@AnthonyJ350]

I would consult your owner's manual to verify.

[@tahoe6182]

How much oil it take and need video of the setting on the generator

[@AnthonyJ350]

Please check your owner's manual for capacities.

[@robertingram5600]

@@AnthonyJ350 The 22kw takes 1.9 quarts, according to the owners manual.

[@AnthonyJ350]

@@robertingram5600 Thank you for this 👍

[@jch9916]

You didn't change the spark plugs ?

[@AnthonyJ350]

No, why would I? It's an oil change video on a new generator. You change you plugs with every oil change?

[@jch9916]

@@AnthonyJ350 Yes, I was told my the dealer that this was part of the yearly maintenance. The maint. kit I bought off of Amazon also includes 2 new plugs and air filter to replace.

[@AnthonyJ350]

@jch9916 If you're putting 100 hours on them yes change them.

[@TheMcmechanic]

Filter mag. What is the brand name

[@AnthonyJ350]

The brand name is Filter Mag.

[@throwbackzZ]

@TheMcmechanic useless.... if you change your oil and oil filter regularly you don't need magnets to the job your oil filter is already doing.

[@bikes7777]

Shouldn't you have pulled those switches and breakers before doing the warmup??

[@AnthonyJ350]

How can I do the warm up if I pull those safety switches that prevent the engine from running?

[@bikes7777]

@AnthonyJ350 when done do you just push the auto button to get it back to standby mode?

[@AnthonyJ350]

@bikes7777 When everything is complete and verified yes I do.

[@Unclerukus210]

I thought you can only use 5w20 full synthetic oil?

[@AnthonyJ350]

Manual says 5W30

[@williamc2930]

@@AnthonyJ350 I have a 24KW and it appears that the oil kit offered for that model is only 5w-20. 22KW featured may be different and may call for 5W-30.

[@waynebinky]

We live in a colder area and always use synthetic oil especially with the condensation issues with the short weekly test runs. Installed a Genmon Pi system and now run it for 30 minutes instead of 20. With 20 minutes, we were getting moisture build-up that could be seen on the inside of the oil filler cap.

[@throwbackzZ]

@@Unclerukus210 generac has performed testing and is now saying 5w-20 for all

[@bikes7777]

How much oil?

[@AnthonyJ350]

Refer to your owner's manual.

[@richardbarkley9909]

GREAT video!! However MY 22kw unit (all of the stand-by units as far as I know) call for 5w20 oil. Its the portable units that call for the 5w30 oil.....

[@AnthonyJ350]

That's what my manual calls for.

[@Big_ol_bass]

Talked with Generac last week and they said 10W-30 was fine.

[@lucasmakowski1939]

Can you explain the need for the oil supplement? Great video and clearly explained otherwise.

[@AnthonyJ350]

I just add it because all these new oils are geared towards fuel economy vs protection.

[@lucasmakowski1939]

@@AnthonyJ350understood. And this is combined with the 1.9 or to make up the 1.9 qts?

[@AnthonyJ350]

@lucasmakowski1939 I just add it on top. Or prefill the oil filter with the stuff.

[@lucasmakowski1939]

@@AnthonyJ350awesome. Thanks again for a solid video and explanation!

[@AnthonyJ350]

@lucasmakowski1939 You're welcome! Thank you for taking the time to watch it!

[@theagent530]

Great video! I could eat off of that thing. Something tells me you may iron your underwear too but it’s all good! Thank you!!

[@AnthonyJ350]

OCD is a blessing and a curse.

[@theagent530]

So true! I believe the benefit far outweighs the bad. Thanks for making greet vids!

[@rickss69]

After the original battery fails go back with a lithium battery instead of a lead acid AGM.

[@AnthonyJ350]

Why? Is the onboard charger designed to charge a lithium ion battery? Lithium ion I believe doesn't fair well in cold climates where you need cold cranking amps the most.

[@frankruczynski6591]

Dealer wants $300.00 just to change the oil!

[@AnthonyJ350]

Do it yourself

[@toolconcert2014]

Because they're not in business to do favors

[@frankruczynski6591]

@@AnthonyJ350 complete oil change kit,minus oil $30.00 Do it myself.

[@AnthonyJ350]

@@frankruczynski6591 What oil and filter did you use?

[@aron352352]

Squeeze cheeze

[@AnthonyJ350]

Thank you for the comment