Bardahl products for generators & how to use them

In Zimbabwe, a generator is an absolute necessity for homes and businesses alike. Whether you are running a company during power cuts or keeping the lights on at home, your generator needs to be reliable. However, variable fuel quality and irregular usage patterns, like running nonstop for days and then sitting idle for weeks, can take a toll on the engine.

To protect your generators, Cutting Edge recommends Bardahl – a world leader in fuel additive technology. Bardahl products are designed to clean, protect, and extend the life of your engines and machines.

The four essential Bardahl products for generators

Bardahl 5‑in‑1 Cleaner – These petrol additives help clean injectors, combustion chambers, and prevent the build-up of carbon and varnish on all internal surfaces of the engine. That improves combustion and makes your generators more efficient and reliable

Bardahl B2 Oil Treatment – This oil additive is beneficial when your generator’s engine is older or working hard. It improves oil viscosity and performance, and helps prevent excessive oil burn or leaks. 

Bardahl Fuel Stabilizer – If you store your generator for long periods (common with backup generators), this fuel additive helps prevent petrol degradation, oxidation, varnish formation and water contamination. Simply pour it in the fuel tank when you’re storing your gennie.

Bardahl Engine Flush – This oil additive helps to clean the internal components of the oil system to remove deposits. Use it before an oil change to flush out sludge, varnish and carbon from the engine. This gives you a cleaner start for fresh oil.

Step-by-step: Your 12-month generator maintenance plan

Using these products correctly is just as important as buying them. Here is a simple 12-month guide to using Bardahl products to keep your generator running smoothly. 

Phase 1: The annual service (Month 1)

Best performed during your scheduled oil change.

Step 1: Deep clean with Bardahl Engine Flush

1. Check the current oil level; ensure it is safe to run.
2. Pour Bardahl Engine Flush into the old oil while the engine is warm (Do not exceed 10% of the oil capacity).
3. Start the generator and let it idle for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not apply a heavy load; just let it idle.
4. Turn off the engine and drain the oil immediately while it is still hot. The sludge will drain out with the old oil.
5. Replace the oil filter.

Step 2: Protect with Bardahl B2 Oil Treatment

1. Fill the engine with fresh, high-quality oil (leave a little space).
2. Add Bardahl B2 Oil Treatment to the fresh oil. Ratio: Add approximately 10% of the sump capacity (e.g., if your generator holds one litre of oil, use 100ml of B2).
3. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to mix the treatment thoroughly.

Phase 2: Fuel maintenance (ongoing)

Use this whenever you buy fuel or fill the tank.

Step 1: Preserve with Bardahl Fuel Stabilizer

When to use: Every time you fill your jerry cans or bulk storage tank, especially if you suspect the fuel will sit for more than 30 days.

How to use:

1. Pour the stabiliser into the empty jerry can or tank before filling. This ensures it mixes well. Ratio: Check the bottle for specific dosage (typically extremely concentrated, e.g., 250ml treats 250 litres).
2. If adding to a generator that already has fuel, pour it in and run the engine for 10 minutes to pull the treated fuel through the carburettor/injectors.

Phase 3: Performance cleaning (every 3-6 months)

Use this periodically to keep the system clean.

Step 4: Revitalise with Bardahl 5-in-1 Cleaner

When to use: Every third or fourth tank fill, or if the generator sounds rough.

How to use:

1. Wait until your generator is low on fuel.
2. Pour the 5-in-1 additive into the tank.
3. Add approximately 20 litres of fuel (or fill the tank for smaller units).
4. Run the generator as normal. The concentrated mixture will chemically clean the injectors and valves as it runs.

Complete one-year generator kit

Here is the recommended kit for 12 months of maintenance:

Don’t wait for your generator to fail during a power cut. Preventative maintenance is always cheaper than repairs. Visit Cutting Edge to find out more about our range from Bardahl to get your generator in top shape or contact us today.

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Cutting Edge is the leading supplier of Husqvarna, GARDENA and Bardahl products in Zimbabwe. We bring you the best tools in the business with world-class service and after sales care. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and product offerings from our brands.