#133

[@FrankieWellman]

I can't believe the amount of rude people and their inconsiderate comments. The guy said he wasn't an expert. He is simply an owner of the generator and wanted to help others with an issue he has dealt with. I for one appreciate the video and appreciate him sharing what he has learned about owning this unit.

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks Frankie. I appreciate it very much. Interesting breadth of comments from the very helpful and kind, right through to the opposite. But hopefully, it has helped a few folks out along the way. A lot of comments have certainly helped me out tremendously and for that I am very grateful. Cheers and thanks again good sir!

[@mikelkiparski638]

STICK YOUR NECK OUT and some RUDE oxygen thief takes a chop at it TOOO USELESS 2contribute

[@martymahem236]

The mentally ill are always drawn to online comments sections where they can hide in their anonymity. So many people are full of so much hatred and bitterness the only thing that makes them happy is the thought that they have made at least one other person's life a little bit more miserable. "Misery loves company" you know.

[@williambeck6039]

My sentiments exactly. I believe there are a lot of people (AKA trolls) who have nothing better to do than spend the day flapping their gums about whatever, just to make themselves look intelligent (pun intended) and hijack other people threads. It never ends.

[@BIGBADWOOD]

Lots of Trolls on you tube !

[@davidlozano2130]

If it was more people like this gentleman it would be a better world

[@frankornelas9227]

This dude only showed an issue and never resolved it lmao the world would be fucked if it was run by people like him

[@davidlozano2130]

See people like you made my point foul mouth and Hellbound

[@srice8959]

Damn Right about that.

[@itstheotherwhitemeat]

where do you live. on earth most people are like this. i really think folks like you put down all people do to the fact your people are pos. every video on youtube has people like you who comment that people are bad, they are not. stop watching the idiot box and go outside and talk to your neighbors. how fucked up are your people to think everyone is bad.

[@davidlozano2130]

@@itstheotherwhitemeat Lord come quickly?

[@botant500]

Snow, flannel shirts, and a polite, thoughtful human. So Canadian!

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks kindly Alex! All the best to you.

[@doghairdontcarelindaniel7531]

Handsome too.

[@NSNorfolk]

We don't send kind words and thoughts to our most excellent Canadian neighbors quite enough. I am VERY thankful for having Canada and Canadians share our northern border! Thank you, good friends!

[@klodoen1]

When we're in hockey gear , the whole story changes. Hahaha

[@artsmith103]

Also, listen to the temperature of that snow. Sounded like below 20F. Cold for no gloves to clean the Generac deficiency.

[@JohnSmith-fh1rx]

I don’t have a house generator back up system but i learned something from your video. Thank you for taking the time to make it.

[@destroygaryfunky7053]

Thank God there are guys like this that can save people a lot of grief,....and money.

[@menlomenlo851]

I’m just going to applaud this guy’s efforts to keep that thing clean. 👏

[@stankornsey7525]

Could you put in a drain line to help relieve moisture build

[@josephrobinson2342]

Ok

[@enduser1982]

Not to mention to throw the frozen oil onto the ground..

[@surinamel5708]

Thanks bud

[@tommytmt]

@@stankornsey7525 that too would most likely freeze. Unless it was a small heated line.

[@alanballard7466]

I agree with Frankie about his assessment on this man video all the man tried to do was give some helpful advice no need for anyone to be rude I think what he showed was very helpful and I appreciate I thank you.

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks very kindly Alan. Was all I wanted to offer. Factual truth on it. Cheers and all the best!!

[@mikecheck1229]

I'm here because I live in Texas, and am tired of getting caught in these severe weather situations and depending on the local government for help.

[@GPOutdoors]

So sorry to hear about you and your community down there. Hope you are safe and finding warmth and food.

[@rohaltom]

Power back on here in Houston. I am definitely getting a standby generator after this BS!

[@nickonickster1]

Dont get a generac.. you will be let down

[@mikecheck1229]

@@nickonickster1 What's a better alternative that you suggest?

[@kg7jev671]

@@nickonickster1 How so? Feedback would be great.

[@georgewhitehead8185]

This man is genuine. He is meticulous, a real fit and finish man...look how carefully he cleaned up his unit. Listen to him and give him good comments. We need more people like him in this world, Thank you sir, for your well done video. Side note. This is NOT my problem, since I live in San Diego County USA, but we do have very strong Santa Anna Winds, also spelled Santana, and it knocks out our power very often, so Ii use my unit nearly every "wind storm." Thanks again, but yikes, I am glad that I don't have to kneel down in the snow to remove "ice plugs." Warmly Dr. George Whitehead

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks very kindly Dr. Happy New Year!

[@vincehughes]

Would drilling a small whole in the bottom help ?

[@richardbarker2505]

😅​@@vincehughes

[@edwardkenny2356]

Good morning... I'm betting you just saved someone from much frustration. Sharing information like that is worth its weight in gold. Thanks. 😊

[@GPOutdoors]

Good day and thanks Edward. I hope it helps a few folks. They are not bad generators overall but just wish they would resolve that one issue. The point of the generator is to be reliable in severe conditions when power goes out, and of course, that's when this happens. LOL. Have to laugh. Keeps me sane. Thanks again and have a great week!

[@michaelmactavish1728]

@@GPOutdoors I'm kinda looking at the Kubota SQ and J and SJ lowboy generators plus they have feul and oil guage with low engine oil light and feul gauge and glowplugs wich pretty smart design plus same oil filters used from kubota tractor

[@rupe53]

I'm a factory trained tech on these things and I have to say that over my 20 plus years in the field we never saw this problem till the EPA got involved and asked for certain changes. They asked for a shorter exercise period with the idea that it saves fuel, (about 5 minutes) then asked for a slower speed during that time to cut noise. That one might be a marketing ploy but I know for a fact certain areas have noise limits during non emergency use. Bottom line is if the engine doesn't fully warm up you get condensation, which we never had with the older sets. A hot engine doesn't make condensation so we can already figure the answer is a longer full speed exercise. The quick fix here is to get into the menu and change the speed for "quiet test" exercise and select "off" to get full speed. Next go to the options for how often it runs and change from weekly to monthly. (less cold runs) Last but not least, go out and manually start it for 15 minutes a few times per month to fully warm it up. Hearing through the grape vine you may see new units going back to a 10+ minute exercise option to dry things out internally.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good morning Rupe, and thanks so very kindly for the detailed explanation. This makes a lot of sense to me. I will try that during this coming winter and see if that helps. I also had my local techs install the vent pipe heating kit on it as well, so I am hopeful these things will help resolve it. The techs have told me that several customers up in this area have the same issue. Thanks again for taking the time to explain and for your suggestion. Cheers and all the best!

[@Guillotines_For_Globalists]

For the newer Generac generators with the lower speed, quieter exercise option, that can be turned off. That is what I did since it was recommended to use full speed for colder climes like here in Chicagoland. It is also interesting to note that the exercise frequency can either be decreased or increased with the newer generators. On the older models it was also fixed to once per week.

[@mikecubes1642]

the EPA wants those things because they know it makes the generator not last as long. all environmental laws are made for that reason from lawn mowers to 18 wheelers. the job of the EPA is to slow all production in the US. you dont see any emissions crap on military machines or any jets do you?

[@rupe53]

@@mikecubes1642 … Actually there have been changes to military stuff and commercial jets that we're not aware of. Most of it is to get better fuel economy and reduce weight. Of course anything to do with planes has to pass muster with the FAA as well. Not so with most consumer products. The buck stop with the EPA.

[@Guillotines_For_Globalists]

@@mikecubes1642 The government is always exempt from the laws they create. The very opposite of our constitutional republic as it was created.

[@chadkincham]

Get a “duck bill” one way drain valve - it’s a simple rubber check valve that lets condensate drain in air filters, but won’t let it suck dirty air into the engine.

[@GrayLensman51]

Doesn't a "duck bill" valve have to have some pressure to push the condensate out thru the "duck bill" itself? I think the air filter box is operating on negative pressure inside the box "inhaling" air thru the filter and box into the engine intake. I suspect a "duck bill" would not work in this instance.

[@Zomby_Woof]

@@GrayLensman51 You could use with a small pump with a limit switch, or even simpler a small cheap pump and a heating coil on a timer. "Frost free" refrigerators are a lie - they just turn on a heating coil periodically using s simple rotary timing switch - it literally just rotates a contactor around and during part of the rotation closes the circuit. ( Side note: Super cheap switch and they last for years and years - until they don't. I had one get jammed and as luck would have it, it jammed with the circuit closed and turned my freezer section into a small oven by the time I got home from work and wondered what the weird smell was. I didn't even replace the switch - just nudged it and it worked fine for another couple years until I moved.) With one of those switches, the heating coil would turn on periodically, melt the ice and run the pump and switch off. Wouldn't hurt anything to run when the plenum is dry. You could probably just use an aquarium pump and let it run 24/7 without a heat source at all - with slight constant airflow you shouldn't have any condensate to freeze.

[@koroba01]

@@GrayLensman51 …what you say makes sense but the duckbill rubber is very light and flexible and is long enough to hold a bit of water allowing the weight of the water to dribble out as it collects. The light thin rubber opens easily with sufficient water and closes just as easily keeping out dirt and pesky insects (I am a retired product manager for a light construction equipment manufacturer).

[@greatlakespowerstrokefx4]

This right here. It should have had it to start with

[@123456bpb]

@@GrayLensman51 It will work as there are heavy pulses of air flow caused by the 2 cylinder engine cyclic intake suction. Good suggestion!

[@alexdelgado4662]

Im moving to Canada, this guy is GENUINELY nice and caring...

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks very kindly Alex! Have a wonderful week!

[@overout429]

We go to Canada periodically and have found being friendly is a way of life. Course we are from Texas and they may just feel sorry for us. Visit Prince Edward Island. Worth the trip. Rude awakening ......compare the Canadian side of Nigeria Falls and the State side. Daylight and dark.

[@XX-166]

Too dam cold

[@deborahpinkey1264]

@@overout429 Niagara, not Nigeria.

[@Joe-sn6ir]

don't let the door hit yer ass on the way out! goodbye!

[@trustme7731]

It's not exhaust. It's the crankcase ventilation. Its allows any pressure in the crankcase to neutralize and any gasses to be sent back through the intake to be burned. The source of the water is from the engine not being run long enough to get hot and eliminate its own moisture. It needs a longer exercise time. DO NOT put any holes in the air box. Dirt and insects have direct access to the inside of the engine

[@fliegenmann2562]

Trust Me I think so too! But I would drill a 0,04 inch hole in the bottom... Car air intakes have those too. Or install a one way valve 🤷‍♂️

[@drew738]

I don't trust you. source is moist intake air. Crank case water goes out the exhaust.

[@trustme7731]

@@drew738 All crankcase vapors, moisture included, goes to the filtered side of the air box and is drawn right back into the intake to be burned again. Been this way since the '60's. The water you see dripping from a tailpipe is not from the same source.

[@flynja]

@@fliegenmann2562 I would try drilling install a port then attach fish tank air hose to route water away and use fiberglass door screen to cover the hole if bugs are a problem

[@fliegenmann2562]

flynja that sounds a bit fishy.. 🤷‍♂️

[@Kenlynjay]

I am a Generac service dealer in central Ohio and have been installing and servicing units for 17 years. I have seen this problem several times with really cold weather. A few additional comments to what is in the video is that the breather mechanism (not exhaust) is under the shroud that is around the flywheel. This can ice up even without the exposed tube icing up. On the newer Evolution controller generators, I would advise taking the short rubber air intake tube off of the air cleaner cover when running in below 0 deg F weather so that the engine can breath in warmer air from the inside of the generator box. This will help prevent ice from forming.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good morning and thanks very much for the helpful advice Ken! I will give it a try this coming winter and see if that makes a difference. I had the technicians come and put the additional heater kit on that vent pipe at the end of last winter. So we will see how both do - again, very much appreciate you taking the time to write this out. Cheers and all the best!

[@AzzKicker-bz1cb]

@Kenlynjay Just a curiosity question, but what if an owner of these Generac generator units put like a tablespoon of engine anti-freeze in the bottom of that reservoir??? That should prevent condensation from freezing like that, right???

[@Kenlynjay]

@@AzzKicker-bz1cb I guess it would be worth a try but some of the condensation comes from the breather mechanism and comes up through the tube while the engine is running, so it could still freeze up. Part of the problem lies in the engine temp being to low during cold weather. You could try putting a piece of cardboard across part of the air inlet on the right side of the unit when temp is really low to slow the air circulation. Also, as other people have posted, there is a cold weather electric heat tape that goes around the breather tube that will help.

[@DwaynePeterson]

Ken I also service Generac but deal pretty much exclusively in portables and refer most onsite standby unit to another guy in town that does mainly standby units. I don't have familiarity with standby unit other than most are propane or natural gas and that they self operate periodically as a self test. I am curious how long that self test runs on the norm. I would think that in a cold climate situation, the unit might not run long enough to cook off moisture. Especially since propane and/or natural gas burn efficiently which usually will equate to more water vapor as a byproduct in the blow by gases and build up in the air box. Another not so good side effect is moisture build in the crankcase. Interesting side note is this unit looks pretty darn close to the 17.5 kw portable save the lack exhaust heat to a carb and exhaust header layout.

[@Kenlynjay]

Dwayne, the older units will do weekly exercise for around 12 minutes. The newer Evolution controller units will exercise for around 5 minutes when it is warm but I believe that they are supposed to exercise longer in cold weather since they have a temp sensor in the controller to tell it to do so. The times that the breather ices up is usually when the unit runs for a while in super cold weather, so longer exercise time probably wouldn't help.

[@billyrock8305]

Thank you sir. Your kindness, information and advice is very appreciated and valuable. A knowledgeable gentleman and a Canadian 🇨🇦 of course.

[@GPOutdoors]

Happy Holidays and all the best!

[@dj6769]

Great video that explains the problem and solution that he’s found! I’m not a generator expert but I’ve been a technician for 40+ years and I’ve see these rubber weep valves in the bottom of many air filter housings. It’s designed to automatically open and discharge foreign material at the slightest positive pressure and automatically contract with negative vacuum while the engine is running to allow crankcase purge. It is round at the top and converges to a “vee” shape at the bottom where the two sides form the flap valve. I would not drill and leave an open hole, unless you have one of these rubber weep valves to insert. Hope it was a help!

[@talusranch990]

Drill a small hole ......that is a solution

[@w.s.2102]

I own a Generac….great tip to know, Thanks👍

[@SJCDAVE]

Well done sir. I learned something and will be a more educated buyer when it comes time to purchase a backup generator.

[@forfreedom67]

I've had a generac generator for 6 years and absolutely no issues. I have the oil changed every three months. I totally recommend this generator.

[@chrisrobinson6288]

Unit is a one size fits all good for Florida where it is warm good for Northern Canada where it is cold. This shows a small flaw for colder places the comments here show some of good solutions. Thanks for the posting this problem and thanks to the people who offered solutions in the comments. You have helped me out.

[@jb85]

Generac offers a cold weather kit. Part of that kit is a small heater that you wrap around that breather hose to prevent it from freezing.

[@petewerner1494]

If Generac knows about this problem, then this option should be standard when selling this unit in cold weather areas....... cheep bunch!!!!!!!!

[@jb85]

@@petewerner1494 or.....because Generac sells through dealers the local dealers should recommend the kits.

[@Joe-sn6ir]

@@petewerner1494 the number of people that need it is much lower. damn...do you need EVERYTHING fed to you???? trying thinking for once. O.o

[@JohnLittleJr]

@@petewerner1494 not needed in warm weather. So why charge the customer for something not needed?

[@bart3531]

Excellent for all of us in cold weather climates using this Generac generator. Great and well done educational videos. Thanks you from Colorado.

[@elinzmeyer3550]

That is the most Canadian thing I've seen all year! Thanks for the video, I am considering a Generac for my South Carolina home. You just sold me on the concept with your video. Thanks for being so nice, Canada!

[@paullittle4040]

Having worked on Generac home standby generators I will agree with the statement that you need to check on them on a regular basis. In the winter depending on the outside temperature and exercise frequency maybe as much as weekly after the exercise to clean out the water and ice. 15 minutes today will save an hour or more later. Give it a good run so the engine heats up to operating temp and gets the moisture out of the crankcase. A 6 minute exercise time is too short.

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

I worked with a somewhat larger industrial generator. It had a 750 horsepower Caterpillar diesel with twin turbochargers. Doing the routine check fluids and monthly start up, it ran for a minimum 10 minutes. We had a status panel for the generator in the computer room so we could monitor if it was running if there was a problem. Those one light that was labeled in a way that didn't make much sense and we didn't know what it was until one Saturday, generator over crank. I was heading out the door to go home early which was extremely rare. I would let my hourly employees go home with pay before I would take time off and go home and make them stay. As I was leaving I heard the generator tried to start three times and it did not start. I literally ran back into the building badged into the computer room went out the fire exit with the keys and opened up the UPS from and flipped it from generator and batteries to utility power. I went back in looked at the status panel and the light was lit next to over crank! I now knew what that light meant. It took about a week for them to fix that generator and it don't recall what was wrong with it but yeah it would have been really ugly if I hadn't reset the breakers. It would power off a dozen mainframes and probably 80 to 100 peripheral devices. As I said very ugly.

[@robertt9342]

I am no expert, I just pay the bills. Monthly is what is used in other commercial environments, so that should be suitable for home use.

[@waynebinky]

Generac knows this test run is too short and doesn't seem to care or they would have put out a firmware update for a longer run time. We're in a cold area and get condensation in the oil cap and the oil gets a bit milky. Generac says it's synthetic oil so it's fine. Why would they say that? Water does not belong in the crankcase.

[@ahardrocker]

People may put this generator down, but it has served us well keeping nothing in our refrigerator and freezer from spoiling. As well as staying worm or cool in the summer. Talk shit about it because you more than likely have NEVER used one. This guy gave us a very useful idea and could save a service call.

[@kirkstinson7316]

No, I talk shit about it because I service and repair them. Brand new you have a 50/50 chance that they will need warranty work. I've replaced several governor stepper motors on these units, some more then once. And all most all of them will have water in the oil when it's changed due to condensation because the controller only let's it run 12 minutes per exercise. And they've had a spate of bad control boards. Bad to the point that all the guys carry an $800 control in the van because chances are that it will be a bad control at 3 am in a storm when the thing quits.

[@okramw1]

You have been very lucky. My engine block cracked within the first six hours of operation. & that's very typical of these units. Best of luck to you.

[@MPGunther1]

A clean Generac is a happy Generac. Well done Sir

[@MrBugman2525]

Texas needs these generator's

[@opinioncounts5490]

Generac 22K, I have had one for 7 years now, I love it, it has saved me several times, just keep tuned up !

[@keithdailey2473]

Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) not exhaust port. Nice video. 👍🏻

[@chainring]

Thanks keithdailey2473, that clears it up for me. I thought, "Why is the exhaust going into the intake area?"

[@43mackmobile]

Raising the PVC port/relocating it would seem to be the fix.

[@madhatter9001]

Bought a 22kw 3 years ago and I am very happy with it so far. I've only had to run it for 9 hours in the Texas 100 degree heat once but it kept the house cool and freezer cold.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good stuff! Cheers!

[@pensive69]

Agreed with anyone suggesting the water should be weeped or drained away from the air box. Also some supplemental heating will help. Thanks for the video Sir. A genset is a critical part of our existence.

[@randycrump5464]

I would just drill a 1/16 hole in bottom of filter box so water would leak out and not build up like I have done on others, it works. Better than always having to take it apart and clean it out.

[@wesman7837]

@@randycrump5464 wouldn't it just suck unfiltered air through the hole?

[@timsager6153]

Randy Crump Oh well, little won't matter in the big picture.

[@trustme7731]

@@randycrump5464 What about all the ice build up inside the cabinet? Running the engine for an hour is the ONLY solution.

[@AzzKicker-bz1cb]

@@trustme7731 Just a possible suggestion, install a one way valve that will only open when the engine is not running, pulling air through the filter box, yet will allow the water to drain out of the filter box upon shut down of that generator. It would need to be a port large enough to allow the water to drain without freezing inside the drain opening causing the same issue. Maybe a 1/16 hole isn’t large enough to allow a lot of unfiltered air to flow through the air box(filter box), but if there wasn’t that concern, then the engineers would have made drain holes in the filter box! Maybe the pressure exhaust port needs to be moved higher in the filter box to keep it out of the reach of condensation build up!!!

[@scottcampbell8482]

I was grateful for finding this video since I live in WNY. The temperature was zero or below each night for several days and didn't rise above freezing for over two weeks. After reading this I immediately checked my generator. Thankfully there is absolutely no evidence of frozen condensation. I will continue to be diligent of this possibility over the next weeks of winter. A week ago, however, I discovered 36" of snow drifted over the end vents. After clearing that I decided building deflection walls on either side but allowing for proper ventilation would be an appropriate summer project. Before starting the generator 2 years ago I had built a roof over it to protect from snow and ice sliding off my barn roof. That has proved to be important, but now need to attend to protection for the side vents. Thank you for this valuable video.

[@AJDIYNetwork]

Thank for the tip. Having one installed within the next two months under a carport in my home in Binghamton. I will look into protecting the sides, but still allowing good air circulation.

[@MariktheWolf]

Fredonia here...

[@seditiouslibel]

A very well organized and thought out video. Thank you. I might make a suggestion or two. Northern Pa winters can be cold. I installed the following on my Stand-by Generac 20KW: A battery heater pad, an oil filter wrap around heater and finally some heat trace tape below the air filter housing. Since I took these measures I have had no issues through the years with any potential ice build-up and lends itself to an easier start-up. Stay well (and warm)

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks very much for the great suggestions. I have 3 heaters on it currently and had aded the last one -which was a new kit they offered this past winter, which wraps on the vent port to stop the water from freezing back into it. The water still builds and freezes in the filter box but at least it is not blocking the vent port any longer. Thanks again and all the best to you!

[@linzierogers7479]

I have one but I have a maintenance agreement with the company. They monitor the unit 24/7. It saved me when we had that cold weather in Texas a few days ago.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good stuff Linzie. I have it now as well and it is worth the money. The tech has been able to re-start it remotely a few times for me. Happy you had it during the outages we heard about down there. All the best!

[@jeffmaness7683]

Very recent Generac owner in NC. This will be the first winter with my unit. The power grid here is fairly stable and winters are not usually too severe; so I don't expect this to be a problem, but it is good information to have. Thanks for posting!

[@flaminraymin8]

Jeff, you have to remember your unit will "exercise" itself once a week and you still may have this issue result. Please be watchful. This is a bad design flaw.

[@jeffmaness7683]

@@flaminraymin8 Okay, thanks, Ray!

[@JeffreyMcGovern-nr1ng]

I have a Generac 14 kw and this happened to me today and I wasn't sure where to look for the problem. This video was right on the money, I removed the ice block and problem solved. I will be checking this regulary from now on. From Nova Scotia Canada, -24 C / -11F with high winds and blowing snow and a power outage... not a nice day to be working on a generator! Thank you very much for posting this video, it was spot on.

[@WornoutRNPARAMEDIC]

I have a newer model Generac stand by generator without that problem. I'm in west part of Tennessee where it generally doesn't get nearly that cold for a long time like up in Canada where he is. Thanks so this nice helpful man for sharing his knowledge with us.

[@Mikeschmidt61]

Being a new owner I appreciate the advice.

[@NOLAgenX]

Thanks for the info! Considering getting one here in Louisiana. Even though I won’t have the frozen reservoir problem, I still found it very informative from a preventative maintenance point of view.

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks and best of luck!

[@latreciafrancis9092]

@NOLAgame Did you purchase one, yet?if so, how's it working out for you? Is it worth it?

[@CC-te5zf]

I just ordered one and we live in a cold climate. This is extremely valuable information! Thank you!!!

[@m.cooper1854]

This confirms the comments I have heard from other Generac users up here in Ontario cottage country -- namely "Buy a Kohler". Great channel, always enjoy watching! Keep it up.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good morning M. Well it certainly gets a little frustrating sometimes.Overall they are good units. Just wish this didn't happen. But I have a few good solutions from subscribers now that should fix the problem. Cheers and have a great week!

[@DontStopBrent]

I like you. I don’t know you, but I like you. Thanks for putting in the effort to train me.

[@seansysig]

Great tips! I have the same 16kw gen set works great. I live in a very rural area at 1300 feet above sea level. Several power outages per year sometimes for 3-5 days. FYI when ever you open the generator cabinet always 1. inspect battery for swelling from overcharging. 2. Inspect wires & terminals for rodent damage and corrosion. 3. Check battery voltage on the panel & with a multimeter. 4. Check battery charging voltage & amperage.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good day Sean. Thanks for the great tips! Cheers and all the best!

[@gym_bob]

WOW! I just bought a generac and am waiting for the propane to be delivered. I am so glad I saw this! Thankyou for sharing!

[@mgallus]

Pay very close attention to the warranty guidelines I just left a generac production facility and they are letting so much garbage and poor quality units go through its disgusting. To top that most the people assembling the units don't know how to do it or use the proper components. Just some advice from someone witnessing the assembly of the units.

[@gym_bob]

@@mgallus How long are they warrentied for? The company I purchased mine from, wanted to sell me an extended warrenty which was quite pricey so I am leaning against it.

[@mgallus]

@@gym_bob not exactly sure but I wouldn't buy one myself, unless the competition is somehow worse. There have been places I've worked that I'd recommend buy their products but not generac at least the units that come out of the whitewater location.

[@andromeda4515]

The exhaust port is actually a crankcase breather. Blowby from the engine is routed into the air intake to be burned in the engine. Since blowby has a high moisture content from the combustion of fuel and air it will condense and freeze. You may want to ask Generac if they offer a cold weather kit that warms the intake air to prevent the moisture buildup. I have an Onan genset and it has a cold weather kit installed for issues like his.. Otherwise very good video, many thanks!

[@edmckinney8457]

I've been repairing power generation equipment for 45 years in the Industrial world . A friend wanted me to recommend a generator brand for his own use . I strayed away from the reliable brands I knew and bought 2 each 15 KW Generac's , one for him and one for myself because of the low price . Both units required major repairs costing more than half the original price in less than 2 years because of circuit board failures . Spend the money to buy a Onan or Kohler or go with a cheap Predator brand . I'm stuck with this Generac hoping to recover my losses and eating crow for ever recommending them ....

[@NHseacoast]

Ed Mckinney Ed Doesn't Generac have a 5 or 6 year warranty's and is this issue covered? Id contact the manufacturer.

[@edmckinney8457]

NHseacoast 1 year warranty ..

[@NHseacoast]

Ed Mckinney I’m sorry To year that Ed where did you buy your most have “For a period of three years from the date of original sale, Generac Power Systems, Inc. (Generac) warrants that its standby generator will be free from defects in material and workmanship for the items and period set forth below.This Scheduled Maintenance should be performed by an Authorized/Certified Generac Dealer” you can get 5 year warranty on certain promo days too.

[@edmckinney8457]

NHseacoast Mayer Electric Anniston Alabama

[@overdalimit]

AWESOME.... I'm in Louisiana... don't think I'd have this issue... but if this were to happen... I can fix it... THANKS to you!!

[@williammunro1226]

I live in Canada and thinking about one of these units. I have a portable Honda standby but not automatic. We are not home for several weeks in the winter and power is essential to keep the pipes from freezing and the freezer freezing. Thanks, very good video and I will keep this in mind.

[@WesleyHyden]

Huge recall this past week...it did not give details, but I'd be willing to bet that it is about this very problem. Thanks for posting and perhaps getting the attention that this needed,

[@chrisdemott6614]

When saying exhaust port, he's referring to the crankcase breather. Its function is to introduce any crankcase vapor into the air intake to be burned thus reducing emissions

[@commerce-usa]

Thanks for the added detail.

[@joenaylor34]

Why not just vent the crankcase to the atmosphere and dont tell the EPA

[@iowapanner2223]

@@joenaylor34 That's how we er I mean some fellows in the 60's and 70's did it on cars. When putting on a custom air cleaner it was a must. Also, you can exhaust it in the vicinity of the out side air intake if you want to burn it, but it gets your air filter dirty faster. I'm looking at getting one of these and it should be interesting to see what can be done with the crankcase gasses.

[@tundrabear01]

I had a similar issue with my 20kw Generac gen as well the first winter we had it. Found the winterizing kit eliminates the issue quite good. Still have to check it from time to time, and no issues since. There is a low heating 3rd party attachment you can get to put in the air filter container.....very small and does a great job.

[@blueboat9581]

Does your cold weather kit have a air filter warmer? Just order a generac 24kw and it's a 3-6 month lead time but I am getting the cold weather kit. Home depot rep didn't explain what's in the kit.

[@InsideOutside2013]

Not sure why there’s so many rude comments. If I lived up north and had a generator, I’d be glad if I saw your video and got mine going again in the middle of winter.

[@norain31]

You did well identifying the problem .now you need video with a fix . drill a hole in bottom of air box install a 1 way drain valve and water will empty soon as engine shuts off .not freezing and plugging the manifold pressure port. good job Gp .bet you saved people a lot of service calls .and sitting in the dark cause they dont know whats wrong.

[@taylorsutherland9447]

I install these units, and they are generally pretty good for what you pay for them. The crank case breather has a heater which is part of the cold weather kit. The kit has 3 heaters, one for the battery, one for the oil filter, and one for the breather. The breather heather is only energized when the generator is running. The other two run when the temp is below approx 30F.

[@staind288]

WHT good is it if it only operates when it's running? It would still puke oil out until it melts... Maybe still all of it down to the oil switch

[@silverbankruptcy]

You got it right! This generator needs a heater. I installed them on my Briggs generator, see my videos.. They work when gen is not running and temp is below 32F or so. Not having it will wear out the engine as the engine oil will be Jello when started in that cold temp. I installed the oil filter heater in my video on a generac and that may be enough, but a heater wrap there may help. Is it possible to drill a drain hole? Anyway good video, KZbin critics just complain. Keep up the Good work!

[@TheWilferch]

Quote,,,,, " The breather heater is only energized when the generator is running." This has to be the most idiotic design... if it's true. Truly amazing. For a generator that is supposed to work in emergencies.

[@silverbankruptcy]

@@TheWilferch That cant be true. The whole purpose is to ensure start up. Once running the engine heats itself. Watch my generac video with a friend. There was an electric always hot bar to connect power for the oil heater. I believe that the breather heater connects to that too. They come with a temp sensor that only allows electricity to flow when under around 32F.

[@TheWilferch]

@@silverbankruptcy ,read the original poster's statement ( Taylor Sutherlan), that I am simply quoting....so I still stand by my statement...it is a most idiotic dessign if this is true. We don't have such pre-heater complications on PCV valves on cars...and they run in severely cold weather.

[@richardbowers3647]

Thanks for your help! Once again things require MAINTENANCE! Body, car, home, etcetera!

[@scubaman6]

If as someone said that is a crankcase vent, it may have two functions, one to warm the air and also to vent the crankcase, I would put a small tube to elevate the exhaust higher in the air intake to alleviate the problem or drill a small hole to run off water. I have installed these units and they perform quite well not saying other manufacturers don't have good units. I do appreciate knowing about this cold weather issue.

[@michaelrice500]

Got it in one, Thomas.

[@909One92]

First. It’s a pleasure to listen to a gentleman. They are in short supply. I live in Southern California. The entire state is under constant threat of power outages because of years of politically motivated infrastructure neglect. In 2019 I installed a 22KW. Best thing I ever did. I don’t think I’ll have to be concerned with this issue. It’s something the manufacturer should be aware of.

[@PeterRollins-mj5db]

You might think about disconnecting the crankcase breather hose from the airbox and putting a filter on the end. Don't forget to plug the hole in the airbox. Your aren't reburning the exhaust fumes to save the environment but the engine will like it better and you wont have an issue blocking the vent.

[@Rayzermatic]

instead of plugging the hole in the airbox, put a one way check valve in there to drain any condensation buildup so that the airbox doesn't fill up with water.

[@BunkerhillRanch]

Thanks! Seems like the Generac engineering dept needs to see this, and address the problem.

[@aaronkellar6583]

Don’t buy a generac. Generacs are the most unreliable generators on the market. I’m a fully trained military generator tech who trains on hundreds of different types and brands, don’t do it.

[@tonyhemingway7980]

@@aaronkellar6583 What brand would you suggest?

[@aaronkellar6583]

@@tonyhemingway7980 literally anything.

[@talbertadams6586]

@@aaronkellar6583 WHAT WOULD YOU SUGGEST BUYING THAT WOULD COMPARE IN PRICE?

[@raymondmorales8252]

Luckily the people who live in the carribean like me don’t have this issue with our standby gas generators because we have warm weather all year round but this is a good advice for those who live in this type of environment.

[@FtLivingRoomHomestead]

I just bought a home with this unit, in a cold climate. This is GREAT to know! Thank you!

[@99aace]

I have had my 22kw for 4 years with no issues. Best investment I ever made.

[@Less1leg2]

you don't live in northern ontario do you. its freaking cold

[@mattb9444]

I live in Austin , would this be worth a buy for a 22kw?

[@99aace]

@@mattb9444 , yes

[@ronwilken5219]

I'm responsible for five Genrac units all around 10 kW capacity. They're used for standby power at radio stations I service in South Western Ontario. Bar batteries failing I've had few occasions when they didn't start and service their duty. I've never encountered the water problem. Maybe because all mine run on propane. If this gentleman has an on going problem I would suggest the answer is a 1/8" hole or two, drilled in the bottom of the air filter housing, put a split pin in the holes with the legs partly spread so they rattle when the engine runs and keeps the holes open to drain but keep the bugs out. The other thing we've done from the start is to have a heater sleeve around the oil filter and one around the battery to counter sluggish starting in the cold of Canadian winter .

[@trustme7731]

I think propane and natural gas have much more water in them than gasoline.

[@jake733]

The heater sleeve is just to insulate right as u cannot run power to it ?

[@ronwilken5219]

@@jake733 No the sleeves are actually heaters. They are connected to the "sample 120 voltage" in the control housing. Installation instructions are supplied with the heaters. They each have a thermostat built into the sleeve so they only heat below about 10*C so they're not on all the time. When the power fails and the generator starts, if the ambient temperature is below 10*C then the oil with be warm and the battery will be more efficient for cranking the motor. The thermostats are not accessible and therefore not adjustable. Hope this helps.

[@carlinsullivan]

This is a great example of why you follow the directions. Both Generac and Kohler, require you install a Cold Weather Kit in climates like this. Part of the kit is a small electric heater that wraps around that exact hose that he's having a problem with, and it prevents exactly his problem.

[@Basilidesthehermit]

Sir, we Montana Generac owners sure do appreciate the advice. Thank you, very much!

[@AutoAuctionRebuilds]

Excellent video, thank you for taking the time to make it.

[@aaronkellar6583]

Don’t buy a generac. Generacs are the most unreliable generators on the market. I’m a fully trained military generator tech who trains on hundreds of different types and brands, don’t do it.

[@horsepowerjunkie9040]

@@aaronkellar6583 Hey Aaron, what brands would you recommend that run on natural gas?

[@davelevy4394]

@@aaronkellar6583 I don't know about all that. Mine is 18 years old, original battery, only have had to do routine maintenance, no issues. This is in Central Maine, where we lose power all the time, and not for just a few hours, but sometimes for 2 weeks depending on the storms.

[@1Ascanius]

Here in Canada these things cost about 5-6K and for that price I am not dealing with BS like thus. Thank you for your input it’s much appreciated

[@michaelholt3721]

Looking at all that snow and issues that arise from extreme cold make me glad I’m from Texas.

[@JeffMTX]

me too eh, its good to be a hoser from tx

[@michaelholt3721]

J M hhhh

[@Unmutuall]

I just got a Generac Standby Generator installed, and the install tech warned me of this issue. Its nice to see how to check it.

[@glennjackson3253]

I don't have that problem nor will I ever have it.When I had my Generac installed the tech advised me to spend $150 extra and have a heating element installed in the case to keep the engine warm when the temperature goes below 30 it comes on automatically and keeps the engine warm no matter how low the temperature goes and the engine fires up in an instant .That was great advise from the Generac tech.

[@philllsxga.7737]

Spend an extra 150?? That thing is expensive as it is. I would be on the phone with generac everyday till they fix their design flaw..

[@Tsamokie]

@@philllsxga.7737 YAGODATSHITRITE

[@jesses1589]

The Tech forgot to say thank you for the Commission he earned on that upsale.

[@chadschafer3890]

@@philllsxga.7737 so you spend 8k to install and you worry about 150?

[@philllsxga.7737]

@@chadschafer3890 Exactly!!! 8 thousand dollars!! Think about that... That is a lot of money to pay for a flaw...

[@houndsmanone4563]

Good advice and good how-to video, GP. My suggestions were listed below in many of your viewers' comments. I'd have the unit high up on a slab, have the unit sheltered so no snow/water can get inside, a light-bulb lamp inside the shelter to keep it warmer than outside temperature, and store clean-up wipes, cleaning solution, oil and parts in the protective shed for easy access. The precautions I mentioned are not going to stop the unit from the condensation build-up but just how I'd like it set up. Your video is definitely spot-on for generator owners. I wonder if other brands have PCV issues. As you recall, I recently went through hurricane Florence and said I was going to get a generator and your video definitely taught me something. As always, your videos hit a home run. Later and thanks much.

[@GPOutdoors]

Hey good evening Houndsman. Thanks for the suggestions. The Generac is a good unit overall and not sure if it is just the climate we have here but have spoken with a couple of the techs here and will have Generac's latest Kit installed soon which should help. Cheers and all the best!

[@josephsierra7295]

Knock on wood, I havent run into that here in New England. I have had a 22kW unit going on 5 years now on a gen pad outside and it has been flawless in the 3 to 4 events we get every year. Granted, weather typically not as severe. That said, I will keep an eye out for that. Thank you for the video and the good tips!

[@242sp]

When I saw the Spray Nine I knew you were serious, even Covid craps its pants when it sees Spray Nine, its great stuff!

[@JimHoward]

I'm shopping for a standby generator, so this video was helpful. Thankfully, I live in central Texas. We had your weather for a week last February. We pretty much all almost died, more from shock and awe as much as anything else. Both our water and power systems failed almost at once, so we lived like savages for a solid week. Even though your kind of cold is a 200 year event down here, I decided to try and not relive the experience.

[@lavellweathersby985]

I hope Generac is watching this. The next generation may have some heating elements & other sensors, thanks to you, sir.

[@drumccarty]

-25 degrees outside. Canadian: "I should put on my long sleeves."

[@michaelrice500]

-45: Alaskans zip up their vests.

[@robwatts4623]

-25 ...going to be getting cold soon..still don't need a coat! Lindsay Ontario Canada..

[@steiny3353]

@@michaelrice500 Bloody hell !!! -45 ! No wonder the generator is freezing up. I noticed he only had on overalls and a flanno shirt. I was cold just watching this video. He speaks very clearly and well. very easy to listen to. I might be getting a portable generac for camping, but I wont have to worry about THIS sort of cold.

[@michaelrice500]

@@steiny3353 You have to be tough in the North, Graham. In fact, I once went an entire month in 1978 in Alaska with no internet! Bloody hell indeed! 🤨

[@dfdemt]

Texan from the US: it’s +30°F. I need to put on my long johns, and my thickest Carhartt jacket.

[@udavidism]

There are many people talking about being a first time generator owner. Be aware that owning a generator is only half of the problem in an emergency, you also have to fuel it. In a widespread disaster you are probably not going to be able to get fuel from your local fuel station, you need to already have it. Propane is the only fuel that you can keep for years and you need a large, full tank. Too much capacity in a generator results in heavy fuel consumption so don't install any larger generator than you really need. Great video and good luck!

[@meko1896]

Diesel also will last forever with the right preparation and is by far the least expensive to operate, but is problematic in cold weather. Propane is a great choice if cold is of a concern but is expensive. Natural Gas has been the long time fuel of choice, but as people are finding out lately, it will be shut off in many disasters for various reasons.

[@jmabs5096]

It's actually crank case vent, not an exhaust port, 2 very different things. The crank case vent is vital. I would just disconnect it from the air box and put it w somewhere safe from moving parts. It's the vent that releases pressure built from the lower end (crank) and it needs somewhere to go

[@danodamano2581]

Generac needs to redesign that and send service changes to owners. Those things aren't cheap and oil can be a fire hazard.

[@ericgruner5614]

I work on these machines on a daily basis. Happens a lot of time in the winter. Do to the amount of venting on the intake side they will actually suck snow into the airbox. It will Melt the snow while running, then freeze. For the most part if you keep the snow away from it this doesn't happen.

[@wesman7837]

@@ericgruner5614 I would suggest to owners to build a vented doghouse to protect the units from this problem

[@aaronkellar6583]

Don’t buy a generac. Generacs are the most unreliable generators on the market. I’m a fully trained military generator tech who trains on hundreds of different types and brands, don’t do it.

[@kathleenmaddox2346]

@@aaronkellar6583 which would you suggest, and why?

[@trustme7731]

Sounds like they did redesign it to EPA regs. Hence the problem.

[@ironseabeelost1140]

We have had one insulted just a couple of months ago and the installers were totally professional and did an outstanding job. We leave in the panhandle of Florida, home of the Blue Angels, and this unit has an awesome warranty and we purchase an excellent maintenance package. A neat note, six days after the install the power dropped for a few hours. The only inconvenience was resetting clocks!

[@spdwebdotnet]

Sheesh that's a fire waiting to happen right there. Oil mist and vapor flying all around in an enclosed cabinet. I'm sure it runs quite a while until the low oil alarm trips. As others have suggested, you need to relocate that PCV breather to another location on the intake or just let it vent into the atmosphere. Letting this happen to many times will eventually blow out an oil seal as quite a bit of blow by and expansion pressures are building up in the crankcase. Thanks for making this video to alert others to the design problem.

[@robtakers]

I have a Generac 20kw and live in Atlanta - and have had NO PROBLEMS. Owned it since May 2012.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good stuff!

[@davidfrank2824]

Whenever it gets real cold here's a little trick that I have used in the past to keep my boat engine compartment extra warm in the winter when it gets real cold. Get yourself a 40 or a 60 watt light bulb it has to be the good old-fashioned kind that puts out a lot of heat. Just run yourself a extension cord and plug-in whatever you're going to use the power your light bulb. I use an old-fashioned drop light.It's the kind that the mechanics used to use and you can pick them up pretty cheap. Or you can get yourself on old lamp. Just make sure it's not touching anything. And when you know the temperatures are dropping just plug in your light and you're good to go. One of the good things it does not require a lot of electricity as would a electric heater. Thank you for the information on this.I've been thinking about getting the exact model that you have and where I'm at we do get some pretty cold Winters. Thank you for sharing your experience with this.

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks David. I appreciate the suggestion. I have all 3 heating kits on it now so will see how this coming winter works out. Good luck and all the best!

[@hgdaneyboy]

You can buy a little potable heater like the ones used in a motorhome they kick on when the temp goes below freezing so pipes and hoses won't freeze. They are like $25 and very tiny it would fit in that box easy

[@DangerClose13E]

It's really the crankcase breather. I would put a small hole opposite of the breather hose at the bottom of the cover. It should be enough to drain the condensation but not let anything large enter the air filter.

[@dustbat]

Had one of the 16k units for 15 years in Va. No such problem. If I had not seen it, would not have believed that could happen. Sorry a guy like you who is a neat and clean type had to go through that. I had to move mine 100 feet into the woods a bit due to monoxide getting in my house. They offered me a fair deal on a 22 k and I took it. Man This was a video! Somewhat similar story short version Had a 64 Ford truck that would just slow down and stop. After lots of wasted money found it was ice in carb due to heat passage in manifold being blocked by carbon.

[@jimfowler5930]

Thank you for the heads-up, whew, in Florida my extremes are the 90+degree Fahrenheit temps, not freezing temps. Great video tip nonetheless, and cheers to you also sir!!

[@RickMason-yj7pv]

How 'bout the 'canes? Not an extreme?

[@d.a.ballou9740]

Nice video GP! I agree with you, generac should install the fix for free, especially since it is a known problem.

[@chrisminblkdiamond]

Cold weather kit will stop that from happening. Save battery life and prevent hard cold starts.

[@tomkarafa8605]

You call it an exhaust port but I'm pretty sure it's the crankcase ventilation port which sends crankcase vapors through the intake to be burned off . That being blocked would also build up pressure and push out the dip stick . Thanks for the video , I'm considering getting one . Retired heavy equipment mechanic . There should be a one way drip valve one the intake housing .

[@GPOutdoors]

Yes very sorry _ I am not very mechanical - you are right - crankcase vent. Thanks and all the best sir!

[@springchop]

Install a 90 degree plastic elbow pipe in air box breather so it stays above any water that may accumulate

[@srice8959]

That’s a great idea. I was going to to say put a drain hole with either a screen or one way valve to keep water out, but yours sounds good too

[@peach495]

I've seen different video on this subject where they covered the fact that modifying the breather in any way nullifies the warranty.

[@razony]

You would have figured the manufacturer thought of this before hand...no problem. I'll just fix it myself. That's what men do!

[@brianmcgovern6119]

@@peach495 Reliable generator... no warranty... reliable generator... no warranty. Lets be honest. If you're dependent on the generator, and it has a habit of icing up and blowing its oil out all over the place, I'm not sure the warranty has any value. If its a toy for you, maybe you're ok with sitting in the dark. I was going to say until the spring thaw, but honestly, the water is still there... so it could be late spring until its warm enough to both thaw the ice and evaporate any collected condensation. The unit really needs a simple drain.

[@peach495]

@@brianmcgovern6119 Most people aren't "dependent" on a generator but want it to work when it's supposed to. I get that the warranty isn't going to do anything for you if the unit fails. Nevertheless, I expect the fucking thing to work as designed without the need for me to intervene by checking it every week.

[@imgettinby]

When he says "exhaust port" he really means the breather port of the crankcase. Just like your PCV valve on your car, if it isn't allowed to vent that pressure build up in the bottom of the engine, something's gotta give. In his case it blew out his dipstick and made a mess. I have also seen (in other engines) that it can push the oil seals right out of the lock and then you have a real major problem. This is something Generac should address with some kind of heating element or something. Especially if they are selling in that kind of cold region.

[@joebessette6565]

I also thought about drilling some holes as a solution when watching this. I would have to look closer but seems like a sound idea to me.

[@joebessette6565]

@Phil Perri For sure, probably help you to not void your warranty as well

[@williamgleaves1954]

Don't forget about government energy savings mandates! HA! I'm guessign it has no heater at all.

[@atacrew]

Had my Generac over two years after 2 tornados in 2 years. No issues, no problems. Starts up every week for 5 minutes for test and keep moisture out of lines.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good stuff!

[@michaelrice500]

Also note: Generac's generally do not cause tornadoes, and if they do, warrantees are void! : /

[@raymondmorales8252]

Here in the carribean I live in Puerto Rico, for some unknown reason almost all these Generac standby gas generators voltage regulators burnt and need to be replaced. What the professional technician who installed my Champion standby gas generator told me that he do to avoid this issue for happening he recommend to all his customers to install a “power delay” that goes inside their ATS and this issue never happens again.

[@marktoldgardengnome4110]

We have a 5yr old 11k Generac and live in Maine. Gets cold here. It's on a schedule to test run for 10 minutes, once a week and only had a problem once. It didn't start one day, cranked wouldn't start. Pulled the dipstick and was right on the "low/add" mark. Added oil, hoping that it was a low oil sensor that did it's job. Once oil was at the full mark, it started right up. There was some oil on the floor of the pan of the unit, not a lot. Cleaned that mess up in the Spring when it was warmer and just monitored the oil level the rest of that Winter. Hasn't lost a drop since. The device in your video that froze up is a PCV valve, not exhaust related at all. In the old days, pre 70's was just a pipe that released gases from the crankcase area into the air. In the 70's those gases were rerouted into the intake system to be reburned. PCV valve was one of the earliest pollution control devices. Due to your video though, I'm going to have a closer look at that. I haven't had any other problems AT ALL, with our Generac. It's kept us warm during outages, and saved us 1000's of dollars with no food spoilage keeping our freezers running. I'd recommend them without hesitation. I'm retired now. Lifelong mechanic. Never would have thought to check my PCV valve. TYFS this very simple fix. Great video my friend. Stay Safe and Warm

[@squatch2461]

Good on ya, and this is quite possibly the most Canadian video I've seen.

[@thingstosell]

I have a Generac 16KW, older though from 2005. I never knew of this issue, but I live in NJ and not as cold as Canada. It has worked without issues for 8 days when we had a power outage during Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The only advice I will give any Generac owner --I was told this by their technical helpdesk is to shut it down once a day for 5-10 min and check the oil level. And yes, you may need 1/5 to 1/4 quart per day. So keep a few extra quarts of oil (I just store 1 gallon when on sale at Walmart). Good for 2 years of oil changes. And I also think it is worthwhile service kit on hand (oil & air filters + spark plugs). Besides that, I also keep 2 spare oil filters on me so I can change the oil after 8 days of running as per recommendation.

[@GPOutdoors]

Thanks very much! Some great helpful advice for folks. Have a great week!

[@gerryd9606]

Pour a little RV antifreeze in reservoir to stop freezing - exhaust pressue should be able to displace liquid. As video suggests, it is always a good idea to routinely inspect your backup system to ensure operation when it is needed.

[@HHIMgary]

It is not the exhaust port, it is the crank case breather. And yes pressure will build up and push the dipstick out if the crank case cannot breathe. Another symptom of a blocked crank case breather is the engine main oil seals will leak oil. I is very important to pinpoint where oil is leaking from before you make any repairs. This is where many go wrong, what they think is leaking is not always what is leaking. A leak can travel along the oil pan rail an drip at one end of the engine when the actual leak is at the other end of the engine. I have made these mistakes and have learned from them. LOL Good video, its great that we can share knowledge and help other people.

[@alberthowes3639]

The exhaust outlet the poster references looks like a crankcase ventilation inlet to the air box. If one were to insert a 90 deg elbow into the vent tube and get the opening higher in the air box, I think this problem could be easily solved. Perhaps that could be a modification provided by Generac.

[@bobsimpson3661]

Exactly. It a crankcase ventilation port back to the air filter housing. I had a car that did this also.. Just simply removed it from the air filter housing and placed a small filter on the end of the hose. The generac compartment is ventilated so if you did this it would simply blow the fumes out with the ventilation system. Some 20 HP honda engines did the same thing by freezing this crankcase breather tube.

[@trustme7731]

@@bobsimpson3661 Great idea, if you're ok with air pollution.

[@johnkuzyk7952]

Great video. Always do preventive maintenance. Especially if you're getting heavy usage. At least once a week.

[@rstephe]

Thanks for the info. Living in FL I would have never though this would be an issue. We had a Generac 12K standby. Sold it and got a Generac a 12.5K run / 18K start portable that I connect when needed. This thing is a beast. I have found the portables to be more durable and with a circuit panel interlock I can power any circuit I want, including AC after hurricanes and with a carburetor kit I can still run off Propane.

[@scotthughes2633]

Ontario transplant now living in TX. Thank you for the very infirmative video. Love the snow, but glad we dont get much :) Cheers

[@GPOutdoors]

LOL!