Briggs & Stratton PowerBoss 30228 User Manual

Manual No. 196675GS Rev. 1 (04/26/2005)

BRIGGS & STRATTON POWER PRODUCTS GROUP, LLC

JEFFERSON,WISCONSIN, U.S.A.

Owner’s Manual

Manual del Propietario

Questions? Help is just a moment away!

Preguntas? La ayuda es justa un momento lejos!

Call: Generator Helpline / Llamada: Generador Helpline

1-800-743-4115 M-F 8-5 CT

web: www.briggsandstratton.com

PowerBOSS™ is a trademark of Briggs & Stratton Power Products.

PowerBOSS™ es una marca registrada de Briggs & Stratton Power Products.

Model / Modelo

030228

(8000W)

Before using this product, read this manual and follow all

Safety Rules and Operating Instructions.

CAUTION

Antes de utilizar el producto, lea este manual y siga todas las

Reglas de Seguridad e Instrucciones de Uso.

PRECAUCIÓN

2

PowerBOSS™ 8000W Portable Generator SAFETY RULES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Safety Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Know Your Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

EQUIPMENT

DESCRIPTION

Read this manual carefully and become familiar
with your generator. Know its applications, its
limitations and any hazards involved.

This generator is an engine–driven, revolving field,
alternating current (AC) generator. It was designed to
supply electrical power for operating compatible electrical
lighting, appliances, tools and motor loads.The generator’s
revolving field is driven at about 3,600 rpm by a twin­cylinder engine.

CAUTION! DO NOT exceed the generator’s

wattage/amperage capacity. See “Don’t Overload
Generator”.

Every effort has been made to ensure that information in
this manual is accurate and current. However, we reserve
the right to change, alter or otherwise improve the product
and this document at any time without prior notice.

The Emission Control System for this generator is
warranted for standards set by the Environmental
Protection Agency. For warranty information refer to the
engine owner’s manual.

SAFETY RULES

This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to
alert you to potential personal injury hazards.
Obey all safety messages that follow this
symbol to avoid possible injury or death.

The safety alert symbol ( ) is used with a signal word
(DANGER, CAUTION,WARNING), a pictorial and/or a
safety message to alert you to hazards. DANGER indicates
a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury. WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might
result in minor or moderate injury. CAUTION, when used
without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could
result in equipment damage. Follow safety messages to
avoid or reduce the risk of injury or death.

Hazard Symbols and Meanings

The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

WARNING

Fire

Explosion

Toxic Fumes

Hot Surface

Electrical Shock

Electrocution

Electrical Shock

Kickback

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Copyright © 2005 Briggs & Stratton Power Products
Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this material
may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any
means without the express written permission of Briggs &
Stratton Power Products Group, LLC.

3

SAFETY RULES 8000W Portable Generator PowerBOSS™

3

• When using generator for backup power, notify utility
company. Use approved transfer equipment to isolate
generator from electric utility.

• DO NOT touch bare wires or receptacles.

• DO NOT use generator with electrical cords which are worn,
frayed, bare or otherwise damaged.

• DO NOT operate generator in the rain.

• DO NOT handle generator or electrical cords while standing
in water, while barefoot, or while hands or feet are wet.

• DO NOT allow unqualified persons or children to operate or
service generator.

Generator produces powerful voltage.
Failure to isolate generator from power utility

can result in death or injury to electric utility
workers due to backfeed of electrical energy.

WARNING

• This generator does not meet U. S. Coast Guard Regulation
33CFR-183 and should not be used on marine applications.

• Failure to use the appropriate U. S. Coast Guard approved
generator could result in bodily injury and/or property
damage.

WARNING

WHEN ADDING OR DRAINING FUEL

• Turn generator OFF and let it cool at least 2 minutes before
removing fuel cap.Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in
tank.

• Fill or drain fuel tank outdoors.

• DO NOT overfill tank.Allow space for fuel expansion.

• Keep fuel away from sparks,open flames, pilot lights, heat, and
other ignition sources.

• DO NOT light a cigarette or smoke.

WHEN STARTING EQUIPMENT

• Ensure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air cleaner are in place.

• DO NOT crank engine with spark plug removed.

• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine.

WHEN OPERATING EQUIPMENT

• Do not tip engine or equipment at angle which causes fuel to
spill.

• This generator is not for use in mobile equipment or marine
applications.

WHEN TRANSPORTING OR REPAIRING
EQUIPMENT

• Transport/repair with fuel tank EMPTY or with fuel shutoff
valve OFF.

• Disconnect spark plug wire.

WHEN STORING FUEL OR EQUIPMENT WITH FUEL
IN TANK

• Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters, clothes
dryers or other appliances that have pilot light or other
ignition source because they can ignite fuel vapors.

Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and
explosive.

Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or
death.

WARNING

• Operate generator ONLY outdoors.

• Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes or other openings.

• DO NOT operate generator inside any building or enclosure,
including the generator compartment of a recreational vehicle (RV).

Running generator gives off carbon monoxide,
an odorless, colorless, poison gas.

Breathing carbon monoxide will cause nausea,
fainting or death.

WARNING

4

PowerBOSS™ 8000W Portable Generator SAFETY RULES

• DO NOT tamper with governed speed. Generator supplies
correct rated frequency and voltage when running at governed
speed.

• DO NOT modify generator in any way.

Excessively high operating speeds increase risk of injury
and damage to generator.

Excessively low speeds impose a heavy load.

CAUTION

• See “Don’t Overload Generator”.

• Start generator and let engine stabilize before connecting
electrical loads.

• Connect electrical loads in OFF position, then turn ON for
operation.

• Turn electrical loads OFF and disconnect from generator
before stopping generator.

Exceeding generators wattage/amperage capacity can
damage generator and/or electrical devices connected
to it.

CAUTION

• Use generator only for intended uses.

• If you have questions about intended use, ask dealer or call
1-800-743-4115.

• Operate generator only on level surfaces.

• DO NOT expose generator to excessive moisture, dust, dirt,
or corrosive vapors.

• DO NOT insert any objects through cooling slots.

• If connected devices overheat, turn them off and disconnect
them from generator.

• Shut off generator if:

-electrical output is lost;

-equipment sparks, smokes, or emits flames;

-unit vibrates excessively.

Improper treatment of generator can damage it and
shorten its life.

CAUTION

WHEN ADJUSTING OR MAKING REPAIRS TO YOUR
GENERATOR

• Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and place
the wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

WHEN TESTING FOR ENGINE SPARK

• Use approved spark plug tester.

• DO NOT check for spark with spark plug removed.

Unintentional sparking can result in fire or
electric shock.

WARNING

• DO NOT touch hot surfaces.

• Allow equipment to cool before touching.

• The generator must be at least 5 feet from structures having
combustible walls and/or other combustible materials.

• Keep at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides of generator for
adequate cooling, maintenance and servicing.

• In the State of California a spark arrester is required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal
lands. If you equip the muffler with a spark arrester, it must be
maintained in effective working order.

Running engines produce heat.Temperature of
muffler and nearby areas can reach or exceed
150°F (65°C).

Severe burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush,

ect. can catch fire.

WARNING

5

FEATURES 8000W Portable Generator PowerBOSS™

KNOW YOUR GENERATOR

Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before operating your generator.

Compare the illustrations with your generator, to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and
adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

120 Volt AC, 20 Amp Duplex Receptacles — May be
used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120Volt
AC, 20 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting, appliance,
tool and motor loads.

120 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle — May be
used to supply electrical power for the operation of
120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting,
appliance, tool and motor loads.

120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle — May
be used to supply electrical power for the operation of
120 and/or 240 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz
electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads.

240 Volt AC, 50 Amp Receptacle — May be used to
supply electrical power for the operation of 240 Volt AC,
50 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.

Air Cleaner — Protects engine by filtering dust and
debris out of intake air.

Battery Float Charger — Use battery float charger jack
to keep the starting battery charged and ready for use.

Choke Lever — Used when starting a cold engine.
Circuit Breakers (AC) — Each receptacle is provided

with a "push to reset" circuit breaker to protect the
generator against electrical overload.

Data Tag (not shown) – Provides model, revision and
serial number of generator. Please have these readily
available if calling for assistance.

Fuel Tank — Capacity of eight (8) U.S. gallons.
Ignition Switch — Press to start the engine.

Grounding Fastener — If required, please consult a

qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or local agency
having jurisdiction.

Oil Fill Cap — Add oil to engine here.
Run/Stop Switch — Must be in “Run” position to start

engine. Set to “Stop” to stop a running engine.
Spark Arrester Muffler — Exhaust muffler lowers engine

noise and is equipped with a spark arrester screen.

120 Volt AC, 20 Amp
Duplex Receptacles

Choke Lever

Ignition Switch

120 Volt AC, 30 Amp
Locking Receptacle

240 Volt AC, 50 Amp
Receptacle

Circuit Breakers (AC)

120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp
Locking Receptacle

Spark Arrester Muffler

Battery Float Charger

Grounding Fastener

Air Cleaner

Fuel Tank

Oil Fill Cap

Run/Stop Switch

6

PowerBOSS™ 8000W Portable Generator ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY

Your generator requires some assembly and is ready for
use after it has been properly serviced with the
recommended oil and fuel.

If you have any problems with the assembly of your
generator, please call the generator helpline at
1-800-743-4115. If calling for assistance, please have the

model, revision, and serial number from the data tag available.
IMPORTANT: Any attempt to run the unit before it has

been serviced with the recommended oil will result in an
engine failure.

Remove Generator From Carton

1. Set palleted carton on a rigid flat surface.

2. Carefully cut bands around shipping carton.

3. Lift carton off generator.

4. Remove all packing material, carton fillers, etc.

5. Remove generator from shipping pallet.

Install Wheel Kit

The wheel kit is designed to greatly improve the portability
of your generator.

NOTE:Wheel kit is not intended for over-the-road use.

You will need a socket wrench with 1/2" or 13mm sockets
and a needle-nose plier to install this kit.

Refer to Figure 1 and install the wheel kit as follows:

1. Place generator on a hard flat surface.

2. Stand at control panel end of generator and gently tilt
generator up, high enough to place wooden blocks
beneath cradle.This will allow you to add wheels.

3. Slide axle through holes in brackets provided on
generator cradle.

4. Slide a wheel and flat washer on one end of axle. Make
sure air inflation valve is outward. Place e-ring onto
groove in axle.

5. Place one end of needle nose pliers on bottom of axle
and other end of pliers on top of e-ring. Seat e-ring by
pressing pliers closed.

6. Slide axle through until wheel is tight against bracket.

7. Slide a wheel and flat washer on other end of axle.
Make sure air inflation valve is outward.

8. Install e-ring on in same manner as steps 4 & 5.
Remove wooden blocks.

9. Attach vibration mounts to support leg with 1/4-20 x
1” capscrews and 1/4-20 lock nuts.

10. With wheels on, secure support leg assembly to cradle
with M8 x 20 mm long capscrews and lock washers.

Support Leg

Axle

20mm Cap Screw

Hex Nut

Wheel

E-Ring

1/4-20 x 1”

Cap Screw

Flat Washer

Vibration

Mount

Lock Washer

Nut

Handle Pin

Handle

Flat Washers

45 mm Cap Screw

Nylon Washers

Figure 1 — Install Wheel Kit

7

ASSEMBLY 8000W Portable Generator PowerBOSS™

11. Attach handles to handle brackets on generator frame,
as shown in Figure 1, with M8 x 45 mm capscrews, flat
washers, nylon washers, and M8 lock nuts.

NOTE: Be sure to install the nylon washers between the
handle brackets on the generator frame and the brackets
on the handle assembly.

12. Loop handle pins to generator frame as shown in
Figure 1. Raise handles and insert handle pins to move
generator.

13. Check each fastener to ensure it is secure and the
tires are inflated between 15-40 PSI.

Check Battery / Attach Negative

Battery Wire

The sealed battery on the generator is fully charged and
pre–installed except for the negative (black) battery cable.

To install:

1. Cut off tie wrap securing loose end of negative (black)
cable.

2. Remove nut and washer on negative battery terminal.

3. Slide negative battery cable over screw on negative
terminal (Figure 2).

4. Reattach washer and nut and tighten.

5. Verify that connections to battery and generator are
tight and secure.

BEFORE STARTING THE

ENGINE

Add Engine Oil

• Place generator on a level surface.

• Refer to engine owner’s manual and follow oil

recommendations and instructions.

NOTE: Check oil often during engine break–in. Refer to
engine owner’s manual for recommendations.

NOTE:The generator assembly rotates on a prelubricated
and sealed ball bearing that requires no additional
lubrication for the life of the bearing.

Add Fuel

NOTE:This gasoline engine is certified to operate on

gasoline. Exhaust Emission Control System: EM (Engine
Modifications).

1. Use clean, fresh, regular UNLEADED fuel with a
minimum of 85 octane. DO NOT use fuel which
contains Methanol. DO NOT mix oil with fuel.

2. Clean area around fuel fill cap, remove cap.

3. Slowly add regular unleaded fuel to fuel tank. Be careful
not to overfill.Allow about 1.5" of tank space for fuel
expansion (Figure 3).

4. Install fuel cap and wipe up any spilled fuel.

Figure 2 — Negative Battery Connection

Negative

Battery Cable

CAUTION

• Refer to engine manual for oil fill information.

• Damage to equipment resulting from failure to follow this
instruction will void warranty.

Any attempt to crank or start the engine before it has
been properly filled with the recommended oil will result
in equipment failure.

WHEN ADDING FUEL

• Turn generator OFF and let it cool at least 2 minutes before
removing fuel cap.Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.

• Fill fuel tank outdoors.

• DO NOT overfill tank.Allow space for fuel expansion.

• Keep fuel away from sparks,open flames, pilot lights, heat, and
other ignition sources.

• DO NOT light a cigarette or smoke.

Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and
explosive.

Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or
death.

WARNING

Fuel

Tank

1.5” Air Space

Figure 3 - Fuel Expansion

8

PowerBOSS™ 8000W Portable Generator OPERATION

USING THE GENERATOR

System Ground

The generator has a system ground that connects the
generator frame components to the ground terminals on
the AC output receptacles.The system ground is connected
to the AC neutral wire (see “Equipment Description”,
earlier in this manual).

Special Requirements

There may be Federal or State Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, local codes, or
ordinances that apply to the intended use of the generator.
Please consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or
the local agency having jurisdiction.

• In some areas, generators are required to be registered
with local utility companies.

• If the generator is used at a construction site, there may
be additional regulations which must be observed.

Connecting to a Building’s Electrical

System

Connections for standby power to a building’s electrical
system must be made by a qualified electrician.The
connection must isolate the generator power from utility
power, and must comply with all applicable laws and
electrical codes.

Generator Location

Generator Clearance

The generator must be at least 5 ft. (152 cm) from
structures having combustible walls and/or other
combustible materials. Leave at least 3 ft. (92 cm) all around
generator including overhead, for adequate cooling,
maintenance and servicing.

Place generator in a well ventilated area, which will allow
for removal of deadly exhaust gas. DO NOT place
generator where exhaust gas could accumulate and enter
inside or be drawn into a potentially occupied building.
Ensure exhaust gas is kept away from any windows, doors,
ventilation intakes or other openings that can allow exhaust
gas to collect in a confined area (Figure 4). Prevailing winds
and air currents should be taken into consideration when
positioning generator.

• When using generator for backup power, notify utility
company. Use approved transfer equipment to isolate
generator from electric utility.

• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in any damp or
highly conductive area, such as metal decking or steel work.

• DO NOT touch bare wires or receptacles.

• DO NOT use generator with electrical cords which are worn,
frayed, bare or otherwise damaged.

• DO NOT operate generator in the rain.

• DO NOT handle generator or electrical cords while standing
in water, while barefoot, or while hands or feet are wet.

• DO NOT allow unqualified persons or children to operate or
service generator.

Generator produces powerful voltage.
Failure to isolate generator from power utility

can result in death or injury to electric utility
workers due to backfeed of electrical energy.

WARNING

• Operate generator ONLY outdoors.

• Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes or other openings.

• DO NOT operate generator inside any building or enclosure,
including the generator compartment of a recreational vehicle (RV).

Running generator gives off carbon monoxide,
an odorless, colorless, poison gas.

Breathing carbon monoxide will cause nausea,
fainting or death.

WARNING

Figure 4 — Generator Clearance

Exhaust Port

Typical Generator Shown

9

OPERATION 8000W Portable Generator PowerBOSS™

OPERATING THE

GENERATOR

IMPORTANT: Always unplug the battery float charger

before starting the generator.

Starting the Engine

Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator. Use the
following start instructions:

1. Make sure unit is on a level surface.
IMPORTANT: Failure to start and operate unit on a level

surface will cause the unit not to start or shut down during
operation.

2. Turn the fuel valve to the “On” position (Figure 5).The

fuel valve handle should be vertical (pointing toward
the ground) for fuel to flow.

3. Set Run/Stop switch to “Run” position (Figure 6).

4. Follow start instructions given in engine owner’s manual.
Push and hold the Ignition switch in start position
(Figure 7) until generator starts.To prolong the life of
starter components, DO NOT hold Ignition switch in
start position for more than 15 seconds, and pause for
at least 1 minute between starting atempts.

NOTE:If engine starts but fails to run, or if unit shuts
down during operation, make sure unit is on a level surface
and check for proper oil level in crankcase.This unit may be
equipped with a low oil protection device. See engine
manual.

Jump Start Procedure

If generator’s starting battery fails, use following instructions
to jump start generator.You can jump start generator using
any 12 Volt automotive or utility style storage battery.

1. Unscrew fuse holder and remove generator’s 10 Amp
in-line fuse (Figure 8).Verify fuse is good or replace
with a known good fuse. Reinstall fuse in fuse holder.

Figure 5 — Fuel Valve

Fuel Valve is shown
in “On” position

• See “Don’t Overload Generator”.

• Start generator and let engine stabilize before connecting
electrical loads.

• Connect electrical loads in OFF position, then turn ON for
operation.

• Turn electrical loads OFF and disconnect from generator
before stopping generator.

Exceeding generator’s wattage/amperage capacity can
damage generator and/or electrical devices connected
to it.

CAUTION

Figure 6 — Run/Stop Switch

• DO NOT touch hot surfaces.

• Allow equipment to cool before touching.

• The generator must be at least 5 feet from structures having
combustible walls and/or other combustible materials.

• Keep at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides of generator for
adequate cooling, maintenance and servicing.

• In the State of California a spark arrester is required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal
lands. If you equip the muffler with a spark arrester, it must be
maintained in effective working order.

Running engines produce heat.Temperature of
muffler and nearby areas can reach or exceed
150°F (65°C).

Severe burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush,

ect. can catch fire.

WARNING

Figure 7 — Ignition Switch

Figure 8 — In-Line Fuse

10

PowerBOSS™ 8000W Portable Generator OPERATION

2. Slide red rubber boot off generator’s battery terminal
and push it onto red wire, thus uncovering POSITIVE
battery terminal.

3. Using standard automotive jumper cables, connect
RED jumper cable clamp to generator’s POSITIVE
battery terminal (Figure 9).

4. Connect the other RED jumper cable clamp to the
starting battery’s POSITIVE battery terminal.

5. Connect the BLACK jumper cable clamp to the
starting battery’s NEGATIVE battery terminal.

6. Using standard automotive jumper cables, connect
BLACK jumper cable clamp to generator’s NEGATIVE
battery terminal (Figure 9).

7. Start the generator as described in “Starting the
Engine” and remove jumper cables in reverse order of
connections.

8. Slide the red rubber boot back onto the generator’s
POSITIVE battery terminal.

If you have any questions, please call the Generator

Helpline at 1-800-743-4115, M-F 8-5 CT.
IMPORTANT: When jump starting, always wear proper eye

protection and never lean over battery.Inspect both
batteries before connecting booster cables. DO NOT jump
start a damaged battery. Be sure vent caps are tight and level.

Connecting Electrical Loads

• Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after

starting.

• Plug in and turn on the desired 120 and/or 240 Volt AC,

single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.

• DO NOT connect 240 Volt loads to the 120 Volt

receptacles.

• DO NOT connect 3–phase loads to the generator.

• DO NOT connect 50 Hz loads to the generator.

• DO NOT OVERLOAD GENERATOR. See “Don’t

Overload Generator”.

Stopping the Engine

1. Turn off and unplug all electrical loads from generator

panel receptacles. NEVER start or stop engine with
electrical devices plugged in and turned on.

2. Let engine run at no–load for 30 seconds to stabilize
internal temperatures of engine and generator.

3. Move Run/Stop switch to “Stop” position.

4. Close the fuel shut–off valve.

How to Use the Battery Charger

Use battery float charger jack to keep the starting battery
charged and ready for use. Battery charging should be done
in a dry location, such as inside a garage.

1. Plug charger into unit’s “Battery Float Charger” jack,
which is located on starter switch (Figure 10). Plug
battery charger into a 120 Volt AC wall receptacle.

2. Unplug charger from unit and wall outlet when
generator is being started and while it is in operation.

3. Keep this charger plugged in when generator is not in
use to prolong battery life.The charger has a built in
float equalizer and will not overcharge battery, even
when plugged in for an extended period of time.

IMPORTANT: See “Battery Maintenance” on page 15 for
additional information.

Figure 10 — Battery Charger Jack

Figure 9 — Jumper Cable Connections

Negative
Cable

11

OPERATION 8000W Portable Generator PowerBOSS™

COLD WEATHER

OPERATION

Under certain weather conditions (temperatures below
40°F [4°C] combined with high humidity), your generator
may experience icing of the carburetor and/or the
crankcase breather system.To reduce this problem, you
need to perform the following:

1. Make sure generator has clean, fresh fuel.

2. Open fuel valve (turn valve to open position).

3. Use SAE 5W-30 oil (synthetic preferred, see engine
manual).

4. Check oil level daily or after every eight (8) hours of
operation.

5. Maintain generator following “Maintenance Schedule”
in engine manual.

6. Shelter unit from elements.

In an emergency, use the original shipping carton as a
temporary shelter:

7. Cut off all carton flaps.

8. Cut out one long side of carton to expose muffler side
of unit as shown in Figure 11.

IMPORTANT: The generator must be at least 5 ft.
(152 cm) from structures having combustible walls and/or
other combustible materials. Leave at least 3 ft. (92 cm) all
around generator including overhead, for adequate cooling,
maintenance and servicing.

9. Cut appropriate slots to access receptacles of unit.

10. Start unit, then place carton over it.
IMPORTANT: Remove shelter when temperatures are

above 40°F [4°C].
For a more permanent shelter, build a structure that will

enclose three sides and the top of the generator.

7. Make sure entire muffler-side of generator is exposed,
as shown in Figure 11.

IMPORTANT: The generator must be at least 5 ft.
(152 cm) from structures having combustible walls and/or
other combustible materials. Leave at least 3 ft. (92 cm) all
around generator including overhead, for adequate cooling,
maintenance and servicing.

8. Face exposed end away from wind and elements.

9. Structure should hold enough heat created by the
generator to prevent icing problem.

10. Start and run engine outdoors.

11. Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes or other openings.

Figure 11 — Permanent Cold Weather Shelter

Wind

• DO NOT touch hot surfaces.

• Allow equipment to cool before touching.

• The generator must be at least 5 feet from structures having
combustible walls and/or other combustible materials.

• Keep at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides of generator for
adequate cooling, maintenance and servicing.

• Remove shelter when temperatures are above 40°F [4°C].

Running engines produce heat.Temperature of
muffler and nearby areas can reach or exceed
150°F (65°C).

Severe burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush,

etc. can catch fire.

WARNING

• Operate generator ONLY outdoors.

• Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes or other openings.

• DO NOT operate generator inside any building or enclosure,
including the generator compartment of a recreational vehicle
(RV).

Running generator gives off carbon monoxide,
an odorless, colorless, poison gas.

Breathing carbon monoxide will cause nausea,
fainting or death.

WARNING