You will find the recommended oil change intervals in the generator manufacturer's operations manual. For ease of reference, keep detailed records of all scheduled oil changes on the RV generator, as well as receipts of any replacement parts purchased. Resist the temptation to customize suggested service intervals in an attempt to cut costs. The best weapon against generator malfunction is through regular use of the system, and adhering to prescribed service procedures.

Oil changes are generally based on hours of generator use, or a calendar designation such as annually. For monitoring purposes, some systems may include an hour meter located in the monitor panel, or outside at the generator. If an hour meter is not available, you can keep track of operating hours by listing times that the generator is running in a small notebook. RV operators who routinely engage the generator, for example one or two hours each day, can easily calculate hours used on a monthly basis. Over time, oil will break down and lose effectiveness, and during extended periods of non-use, build up a layer of sludge and debris. In the event that the calendar deadline arrives before you have reached the maximum hours between oil changes, perform the oil change to replenish the system.

For compliance with generator warranty guidelines, use only manufacturer approved replacement parts and oil when servicing the RV generator. While less expensive parts are available, oil and oil filters designed for specific use in the RV generator system will insure continued operation of the generator as it performs under the rigorous requirements of RV use. Attempting to cut costs through the use of parts and fluids mass-assembled for all makes and model generators, or moving vehicles such as automobiles and farm equipment, may cost you more money in the long run if an improper replacement part damages the system over a long period of use.

Before undertaking the steps necessary to change the oil in the RV generator system, consult the manufacturer's manual to learn the proper service procedures. Obtain the required amount of approved replacement oil and filter. Freezing winter weather or warm humid climates may require different oil viscosities. Contact the generator manufacturer for further instruction on weather-temperature variations. Wear safety glasses, shoes and clothing appropriate for maintenance work, and if preferred, rubber gloves. Keep a pile of cleaning rags nearby. Park the RV on level ground. Apply the RV parking brake.

Gather the replacement oil, new oil filter, oil filter wrench, drain plug wrench, funnel, and a wide, low pan to catch oil residue. When removing the drain plug, loosen the last turns by hand to prevent the plug from falling to the ground and suffering damage or loss.

Allow adequate time for all oil to drain. Clean the drain plug and inspect the condition of threads and the gasket. Once oil has drained, replace plug, and add new oil in the amount recommended by the generator manufacturer. Move the drain pan under the filter, and remove filter. Wipe the filter mounting plate clean. Apply clean oil to filter gasket. After installing the new filter, recheck positioning to insure tightness. Start and run generator for a few minutes, carefully checking around the oil drain plug and filter for signs of leaks. Immediately discontinue generator operations if a leak is detected.

Once you are satisfied that the drain plug and oil filter are secure, and that there is no sign of leaking, leave the generator on and engage a load using one A/C to exercise the system and warm it up to operating temperatures. Perform a further inspection of the generator area for signs of leaks later in the day, and again the following morning. Prior to putting the generator back into operation following a 24-hour period, check the dipstick to confirm that the oil level is at the full mark.

Avoid prolonged skin contact with oil. Use warm water and soap to remove oil from skin. Attempting to cleanse skin with gas or solvents can cause harmful side effects. Once the job is finished, properly dispose of heavily oil stained materials. Do not cleanse oil stained clothing or cleaning rags in the RV washer/dryer system.

Store used oil in a disposable container. Specially designed containers for discarded oils can be purchased from most auto supply stores. Deposit the used oil at a local oil collection center. Do not throw used oil on the ground or in the trash. Spreading used oil on roadways, or pouring the oil down sewer and storm drains is harmful to the environment, and in most jurisdictions, punishable by law.

Located on the bottom of the generator is the oil drain plug resting within a hole approximately two inches in diameter that is cut into a support plate. You may find it difficult to access the drain plug through the support bracket. If it is necessary to align the drain plug for easier access, loosen four mounting bolts and slide the generator forward or backward about ¼ inch using a large screwdriver or small pry bar. The bolts are slotted, so you may find it more efficient to tighten the bolts in the new location that offers future access to the drain plug.