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Champion Generator Parts & Accessories: How to Maintain Your Generator

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Whether you own a Champion generator or you're considering purchasing one, becoming familiar with the Champion generator parts and accessories can help you stay a step ahead of maintenance and repairs. Modern generators require less maintenance than ever before, but there are still times when you'll need to change the oil, replace a filter, or maybe even replace a high-use part such as the starter pulley.

Becoming familiar with some of the most common Champion generator parts in advance can help you prepare for any situation and keep downtime to a minimum. In fact, many of the parts are so affordable you may even want to keep them on hand.


Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start
 

Champion Power Equipment Parts and Accessories

If you already own a Champion Generator, one of your motivating buying points may have been emergency prepardness. A generator is a wonderful tool to own in the middle of a power outage, it'll not only give you peace of mind knowing you'll have power to handle your emergency needs, but you'll have the security in being able to provide many of the necessary functions we take for granted in our everyday life.

Even a generator requires regular care and maintenance to continue to operate in top form, and if the time ever comes when you reach for your generator during an emergency, you'll be glad that you took the effort to keep it maintained. Not to mention, having a few extra parts on hand may be especially helpful.  

 

Basic Maintenance Parts & Accessories of a Champion Generator

In order to keep your Champion generator in top condition there are a few things that require your attention:

  • Fuel - The fuel will need to be topped-off, and fresh fuel should always be used.
  • Oil - The oil should be check and topped-off every time you use your generator.
  • Air Filters - Checking and cleaning your air filter on a regular basis is critical.
  • Spark Plugs - Replace the spark plugs annually, or as per manufacturer recommendations.

Let's take a closer look at each of these items.

Fuel Requirements for Champion Generators

It probably doesn't surprise you that your generator requires fuel to operate. But the quality of the fuel you use does make a difference. Before each use be sure to top-off the fuel and always use fresh fuel if possible. If you store a little extra fuel at home, it's a good idea to use it in a timely manner. 

Fuel Stabilizer for Your Champion Portable Generator

One advantage of using a fuel stablizer is their ability to keep generator gas fresh. A high-quality fuel stabilzer can keep the gas fresh for a period of one-to-three years. The exact length of time will depend on the fuel stabilizer used.

Champion offers a fuel stabilizer that can be used when storing fuel at home. Using a fuel stabilizer will even help to clean the fuel system while your Champion generator is running. Fuel stabilizers can be purchased in single packs that are good for one treatment, or multiple packs for long term use.

 
 
 
 
 

Champion Brands Fuel Stablizer

Champion Brands 4205M-1 Fuel Stabilizer 8 oz, 8. Fluid_Ounces

This Champion Brands 4205M-1 Fuel Stabilizer will prevent gum and varnish from developing. It can be used in any 2-cycle, 4-cycle, gas, or diesel engine fuel system.


 

Selecting the Right Oil for Your Generator

When it comes to selecting the right oil for your generator, there are a number of brands that can keep your generator running without causing damage to the engine. Oils for automotive and small engine use are quite similar, but you'll need to make certain you find the correct grade for your climate.

If you want to play it safe and purchase the best possible oil that works in a range of temperatures, then look for synthetic 5W-30 oil. This oil will be suitable for temperatures ranging from -20° Fahrenheit to 100° Fahrenheit.

Synthetic oils are also less destructive to the environment because they aren't based on crude oil. In addition, they typically last longer. Champion Brands manufacturers the SynGold 5W-30 oil, which is suitable for any of their gas-powered generators. It reduces wear and viscosity breakdown while offering excellent levels of fuel economy performance, engine protection and cleaning power.

Another oil option is Briggs & Stratton SAE 5W-30. It meets the same grade as the Champion Brands oil, and is also of premium quality.

However, if you're looking for a more general purpose oil, and if you won't be dealing with significant climate variations, then you could opt for a 10W-30 or 10W-40 oil. A high-quality oil such as the Yamalube 10W-40 has been designed by Yamaha for portable generators and similar devices.

Keep in mind, that your generator's oil should be checked and topped off every time it is used.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Yamalube 10W-40 Oil

Stag RV Trailer Camper Appliances 10W 40 Oil Yamaha Generators LUB-10W40-AP-1

Yamalube makes a great general purpose oil designed specifically for portable generators.


 

Air Filters: Champion Generator Parts

Clean air is essential for the efficient running of any engine, and the air filter on your Champion Generator should be cleaned regularly. Any time dust and debris enters the air-fuel mix, there's potential for performance issues. Not to mention, that overtime, the small particles could even damage the engine of your generator.

If your Champion generator features a replaceable air filter, then it can easily be cleaned with a mild detergent and left to dry before being reinserted into the generator. However, after repeated use, the filter may become visibly clogged. It may even begin to deteriorate and fall apart. When this happens, you'll need to replace the filter with a new one.

Air filters and parts vary from model-to-model, so you should always consult your manual for the exact part number. If you are unsure of which air filter to buy, contact Champion customer service. They'll be able to provide you the detailed information you need to replace your air filter.

Many times it's more affordable to purchase the entire air cleaner assemby. This will allow you to replace the filter foam as well as the plastic housing. As an example, take the JXParts Air Filter Cleaner Housing. It's equivalent to Champion generator parts for the models: C42013, C42412, and C42431.

However, if the housing is still in good condition, and you only  want to replace the foam in your air cleaner, then one option is to cut your own piece of foam from a generic part. Simply follow the pattern of your old filter, and you'll have a brand new insert.

Make sure to use a high-quality filter foam from a reputable manufacturer if you choose to go with this option. A fine sheet of Uni Filter Foam can be used for generators and other small engines. It comes in a 12" x 16" sheet which can be cut to size. If the filter you're replacing is coarse, then you can use the Uni Filter BF-2, which is a coarse filter foam.

Remember, when replacing the filter foam by cutting your own sheet, you should always swap like-for-like materials. In other words, don't replace a fine filter foam with a coarse foam. 

 

Spark Plugs for Champion Generators

If you're not using the right spark plug, you run the risk of your generator misfiring, stuttering, or not running at all. A poor quality or incorrect spark plug could reduce the efficiency of your generator and may even reduce the power output, which is why selecting the right spark plug is critical.

Fortunately, spark plugs is one of the easiest Champion generator parts to find, and they're also one of the most affordable. Spark plugs should be replaced annually, and coincide with a full oil change. 

The design and size of your Champion generator will determine the type of spark plug you'll need. They are not a one-size-fits-all part. Check your manual for the type of spark plug you need for your generator. If you've misplaced your manaul, you can find one online.

A common spark plug used for Champion generators is the NGK BPR6ES. It's also used for Honda and other manufacturers and can be purchased in singles or as a set. If you own a Champion 310 Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator, this is the spark plug you'll need.

Spark plugs are an inexpensive part, and most, such as the NGK (7131-4PK) spart plug set can be purchased in sets. We recommend keeping a few extra spark plugs on hand in case of a failure, or for future maintenance.

 
 
 
 
 

NGK Spark Plugs

NGK 7131 BPR6ES Standard Spark Plug, Pack of 4

These standard spark plugs by NGK come in an inexpensive 4-pack. 


 

Replacement Pull-Cord System for Champion Generators

Champion generators' come with a three-year limited warranty. You can expect that the majority of the parts will typically exceed that lifetime. But if you keep your generator for longer than three years, you may find that the pull cord system is one of the first Champion generator parts to fail.

Although, this may sound like a quality or design issue, the truth is, the pull cord is one of the most often used and highly stressed parts. Poweka manufacturers a Recoil Starter which is an affordable, third-party equivalent. It'll work perfectly on your 3000, 3500, and 4000-watt Champion generator. Keeping a spare pull cord onhand will prevent any delays in using your generator should you have an issue.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Poweka Recoil Starter

Poweka New Recoil Starter for Champion Power Equipment 3000 3500 4000 Watts Gas Generator

The Poweka Recoil Starter is inexpensive enough to keep onhand, and compatiable with most Champion Generators


Champion 3100-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator
 

Maintenance Schedule for a Champion Generator

Performing basic maintenance on your Champion Generator is relatively easy and it'll help prolong the service life of your investment. Inexperienced users shouldn't have a problem performing basic maintenance tasks such as replacing spark plugs, changing filters, changing the oil and adding fuel stabilizers.

More advanced maintenance and repairs, such as engine component replacements, should be done by a Champion authorized repair person.

Recommended Maintenance Schedule

  • If you're using your generator daily, then the oil level should be checked every 8-hours. Generators can burn oil even when they are running well. By checking your oil every 8-hours you'll ensure that the oil is topped-off and your generator won't be damaged.
  • Oil needs to be topped-off on the first use and replaced within the first 5-hours. This will remove any residual debris from the first start-up of the engine.
  • Air filters should be replaced every 50-hours, or annually; whichever comes first. Keep notes of how often (and for how long) you use your generator so that you can keep within the maintenance schedule.
  • Oil should be changed every 100-hours or annually; whichever comes first. Oil should also be changed more regularly if you are operating your generator in an extremely hot environment.
  • The spark plug should be cleaned, adjusted, and checked every 100-hours or annually. A corroded or degraded spark plug should be replaced immediately. A spark plug can be replaced before this time if it becomes damaged or if your generator engine is stuttering, misfiring, or otherwise showing signs of poor ignition. In most cases, the spark plug gap should be adjusted to 0.7mm - 0.8mm. You can confirm this measurement in your specific user manual.

By sticking to a maintenance schedule, and knowing the right Champion Generator parts to purchase, you'll be able to enjoy your generator for many years to come.

Champion 4000-Watt DH Series Open Frame Inverter with Wireless Remote Start
 

Champion Generator FAQ

What is the Warranty for a Champion Generator?

The Warranty covers the original purchaser for the mechanical and electrical components of the generator to ensure that they are free of defects. It's in effect for one-year for parts and labor and two-years from the orignial purchase date for a total of three-years.

What are the Exclusions on the Champion Warranty?

The warranty excludes any typical wear-and-tear to the generator, as well as issues resulting from the end of the unit's lifecycle. Additionally, if you fail to perform regular maintenance, the warranty may be voided. It's important to stay on top of the spark plugs, air filters, adjustments, and fuel system cleanings to keep your warranty intact.

How Much Maintenance is Required on a Champion Generator?

Just as you would perform regualr maintenance on your car, you'll want to do the same for your generator. Regular tune-ups, oil changes, and filter changes are required to keep the generator running in optimal condition.

How Do I Select the Right Generator?

When shopping for the best generator for your needs, you'll want to consider what the generator will be used for; and how much emergency backup power you'll need? You can then match your system to the existing circuits in your electrical panel, which helps take the guesswork out of finding the correct size.

If you're looking for your first generator, then you may want to check out Top RV Generator post

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