WARNING: Do not use the generator without reading this manual
DUAL FUEL INVERTER GENERATOR
MODEL NO: DFI1950
PART NO: 8877136
OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS DL0725
Page 2
INTRODUCTION
Before you use this product, read this manual and follow the instructions carefully. In
doing so you will ensure the safety of yourself and others around you, and you can
also expect your purchase to give you a long and satisfactory service.
GUARANTEE
This product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12 months from
the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt which will be required as proof of
purchase.
This guarantee is invalid if the product is tampered with in any way, or not used for
the purpose for which it was intended.
Faulty goods should be returned to their place of purchase, no product can be
returned to us without prior permission. This guarantee does not effect your statutory
rights.
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
Unpack your generator and check the following items are present. Should there be
any missing or damaged during transit contact your CLARKE dealer.
1 x Dual Fuel Inverter Generator1 x 12 Volt Crocodile Clip Lead Assembly
1 x Spark Plug Box Spanner with
Lever Arm
1 x Dual Head Screwdriver1 x Oil Funnel
1 x Tool Bag
1 x LPG Gas Pipe with Regulator & Pressure
Reducing Valve
WARNING: EXHAUST FUMES CAN BE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS IF
INHALED, DO NOT USE INDOORS.
WORK AREA
1. ALWAYS use in a well ventilated outdoor area. NEVER use indoors
2. ALWAYS position the exhaust outlet away from people.
3. Read these safety instructions before using the equipment.
4. Keep children away from the generator.
POSITIONING THE GENERATOR
1. NEVER use inside, even if doors and windows are open. Only use outside and far
away from windows, doors and vents.
2. Keep the generator at least 1 m (3 ft.) from buildings or other equipment, or the
engine may overheat.
3. Place the generator on a solid, flat surface.
4. Make sure the surrounding area is free from any material that could burn or be
damaged by heat.
5. NEVER move or tilt the generator whilst it is switched on.
FIRE PREVENTION
1. ALWAYS switch the engine OFF when refuelling the petrol tank.
2. ALWAYS refuel in a well ventilated area.
3. NEVER overfill the petrol tank, only fill to the level specified.
4. NEVER smoke whilst refuelling and avoid smoking or using a naked flame near
the generator.
5. NEVER start the engine if there is spilled petrol. Any spillage must be wiped clean
and the generator allowed to dry before attempting to start the engine.
GAS SAFETY
1. ALWAYS switch the engine OFF when changing the gas bottle.
2. Use ONLY LPG/Butane gas. Ensure the gas bottle is correctly installed and check
for leaks following replacement, using soapy water. NEVER use a naked flame to
test for leaks.
3. ALWAYS ensure all gas hose and regulator connections are GAS TIGHT, and the
hose is not kinked or split.
4. NEVER store gas cylinders any closer than 2m from open drains, gullies or
openings to cellars. LPG is heavier than air and can collect at low levels.
5. NEVER site the gas bottle next to or near the engine muffler/exhaust.
6. ALWAYS make sure the regulator is suitable for LPG/Butane gas.
7. ALWAYS make sure the regulator is suitable for the gas pressure inside the gas
bottle.
8. NEVER use a damaged regulator.
PREVENTION OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
1. NEVER use the generator in the rain or wet conditions unless it is well protected/
under cover. Under these conditions, adequate ventilation MUST be provided.
2. NEVER operate the generator with wet hands.
3. NEVER use water or any other liquids to clean the generator.
4. Make sure you ground (earth) the generator (See pages 11).
ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES FOR GENERATORS
1. ALWAYS make sure the applied load does not exceed the generator rating.
Overloading the generator is dangerous and could cause serious damage.
2. ALWAYS
3. ALWAYS allow the generator to reach operating speed before connecting a load.
4. NEVER allow the generator to run out of fuel when a load is connected.
5. NEVER transport the generator with fuel in the tank or gas bottle connected.
6. NEVER connect the generator to a commercial or residential power supply; e.g.
ring main.
7. NEVER allow the generator air vents to become blocked.
disconnect the generator when carrying out any maintenance.
8. NEVER directly cover the generator while in use.
WARNING: EXHAUST HEAT/GASES CAN IGNITE COMBUSTIBLES,
STRUCTURES OR DAMAGE THE FUEL TANK, CAUSING A FIRE. KEEP
AT LEAST 5FT (1.5M) CLEARANCE ON ALL SIDES OF THE
GENERATOR INCLUDING OVERHEAD.
Place the generator in a well ventilated area. This will allow for removal of deadly
exhaust gas. DO NOT place the generator where gas could accumulate and enter
inside or be drawn into a potentially occupied building. Ensure exhaust gas (A) is kept
away from any windows, doors, ventilation intakes, or other openings that can allow
exhaust gas to collect in a confined area. Prevailing winds and air currents should be
taken into account.
WARNING: OPERATE THE GENERATOR ONLY OUTDOORS. DO NOT
START OR RUN THE ENGINE INDOORS OR IN ENCLOSED AREAS,
EVEN IF WINDOWS AND DOORS ARE OPEN.
When the Low Idle switch is in the ‘ON’
position the throttle controls the engine
speed according to the connected
electrical load. The results are better fuel
consumption and less noise. When the
switch is in the ‘OFF’ position the engine
runs at 4500 rpm regardless of the
electrical load.
NOTE: The Low Idle switch must be in
the ‘OFF’ position when using
electrical devices that require a large starting current, such as a compressor,
pump or refrigerator.
LED INDICATORS
The LED indicators assist in
communicating status and functions of
the unit.
1. Output Indicator (Green): The
output indicator comes on when the
engine starts and produces power.
2. Overload Alarm (Red): The
overload alarm comes on when a
connected device requires more
power than the generator is able to
produce. The output indicator will go off and the overload alarm will stay on, but
the engine will continue to run.
NOTE: DO NOT OVERLOAD THE GENERATOR
3. Low Oil Alarm (Red): The the engine oil falls below the required level the low
oil alarm will come on and the engine will stop automatically. The engine will not
restart until oil is added to the unit to bring it up to the appropriate level.
•The generator is in good condition and free from any damage.
•The generator is clean and free from fuel or oil spillage.
•There are no leakages on the LPG pipe and regulator.
•The generator is correctly located for use (see page 4).
NOTE: To avoid accidental spillage of fuel, use a funnel to fill the fuel tank. If
fuel is spilled it must be removed from the unit before attempting to
start the engine.
EARTHING
WARNING: GENERATORS SHOULD ALWAYS BE EARTHED. IT IS
ADVISABLE TO PROPERLY EARTH YOUR GENERATOR BEFORE
STARTING, USING A WIRE AND A SMALL METAL EARTH SPIKE. THE
WIRE AND EARTH SPIKE ARE NOT SUPPLIED WITH THIS UNIT.
An earth rod and cable can be purchased at your local camping or electrical supplier,
or alternatively an earth rod can be made and it is suggested you get advice from a
qualified electrician.
The cable used should be insulated and a maximum length of 1 metre and a minimum
of 1.0mm2 to carry a 13amp load.
Attach the cable to the generator at the
earthing point (shown on the right).
Connect the other end of the cable to a
steel or copper earth rod, making sure
you connect it in accordance with the
installation instructions supplied with the
rod.
When pushing the rod into the ground
the generator must not be running and it
is suggested that the rod is pushed into
the ground by at least 100 mm.
Earthing of generators is covered in BS7430:2011. If you have any doubts about this
subject consult a qualified electrician.
WARNING: MAKE SURE THERE IS FUEL IN THE TANK WHEN USING
THE GENERATOR. RUNNING OUT OF FUEL OR STOPPING THE
ENGINE SUDDENLY WITH A LOAD CONNECTED COULD CAUSE
SERIOUS DAMAGE.
WARNING: FUEL IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND POISONOUS.
WARNING: SEE GENERAL SAFETY RULES ON PAGE 4 AND READ
THEM CAREFULLY BEFORE REFUELING.
WARNING: DO NOT FILL ABOVE THE RED MARKER IN THE FUEL
FILTER OR IT MAY OVERFLOW WHEN THE FUEL HEATS UP AND
EXPANDS.
WARNING: WIPE UP ANY SPILLED FUEL IMMEDIATELY.
WARNING: AFTER REFUELING, MAKE SURE THE FUEL FILLER CAP IS
TIGHTENED SECURELY.
RECOMMENDED FUEL
Your generator has been designed to use
regular unleaded petrol with a octane
number of 85 or higher.
NOTE: DO NOT mix oil with the fuel.
NOTE: The data centre display will
highlight the petrol fuel level in
the tank.
NOTE: The fuel tank capacity is 4.1
litres (Safe Fuel Level).
1. Remove the fuel filler cap located on top of the generator.
2. Make sure the fuel filter is in place.
3. Slowly add fuel to the fuel tank.
4. DO NOT fill above the red marker
located in the fuel filter.
5. While holding the fuel filler cap so
that it will not move, turn the AIR
VENT knob to the ‘ON’ position.
6. Pull the CHOKE LEVER out to the
‘START’ position.
NOTE: Skip this if starting the generator
with a warm engine and leave
the CHOKE LEVER in the ‘RUN’
position.
7. Place one hand on the generator to
hold it in place and pull on the recoil
starter handle slowly until a slight
resistance is felt. Then pull quickly to
start the engine. Return the handle
gently into the machine. NEVER
allow the handle to snap back.
NOTE: If you have repeated failed
attempts to start the engine,
please consult the
troubleshooting section on pages
32-33.
8. Allow the generator to run for several
minutes before attempting to connect
any electrical devices. This allows the
generator to stabilize its speed and
temperature.
9. Once the speed and temperature has
stabilized, push the CHOKE LEVER
back in to the ‘RUN’ position.
1. Check that the generator is correctly earthed, see page 11
2. Turn the FUEL SOURCE switch to the
‘LPG’ position.
3. Connect the LPG gas hose to the
propane gas fuel source.
NOTE: Make sure the gas bottle is
upright and on a flat level
surface.
4. Connect the small end of the LPG gas
hose to the LPG inlet on the
generator.Tighten the connection
using a size 19 (3/4”) spanner to
prevent leakage.
7. Rotate the LGP gas bottle valve fully
to the ‘OPEN’ position.
8. With the CHOKE LEVER in the ‘RUN’
position, press and hold the
PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE
BUTTON for 3-4 seconds to store air.
NOTE: Skip this if starting the generator
with a warm engine and leave
the CHOKE LEVER in the ‘RUN’
position.
9. Place one hand on the generator to
hold it in place, and pull on the recoil
starter handle slowly until a slight
resistance is felt. Then pull quickly to
start the engine. Return the handle
gently into the machine. NEVER
allow the handle to snap back.
NOTE: If you have repeated failed
attempts to start the engine,
please consult the
troubleshooting section on pages
30-31
10. Allow the generator to run for several minutes before attempting to connect any
electrical devices. This allows the generator to stabilize its speed and temperature.
SHUTTING DOWN THE GENERATOR
1. Turn off and disconnect any electric
devices that are attached to the
generator.
2. Turn the MAIN switch to the “OFF”
position.
3. While holding the fuel filler cap so
that it will not move, turn the AIR
VENT knob to the ‘OFF’ position.
CAUTION: ALLOW THE GENERATOR TO COOL FOR SEVERAL
MINUTES BEFORE TOUCHING AREAS THAT BECOME HOT DURING
USE.
The generator can supply both 230V AC and 5V USB & 12V DC.
NOTE: Make sure the generators rated voltage and amperage capacity is adequate to
supply all the electrical loads that the unit will power, see specification section
on page 3.
AC POWER
1. Start the engine. See pages 14-17.
2. Make sure the appliance is turned off
before connecting it to the generator.
3. Connect the appliance to the
generator using one of the two 3 Pin
13A 230V AC outlets.
CAUTION: MAKE SURE THAT THE APPLIANCE BEING CONNECTED IS
IN GOOD WORKING ORDER, IF IT BEGINS TO ACT ABNORMALLY OR
STOPS SUDDENLY, DISCONNECT IT FROM THE GENERATOR
CAUTION: MAKE SURE THE APPLIANCE DOES NOT EXCEED THE
MAXIMUM RATED LOAD FOR THE GENERATOR.
CAUTION: ANY DEVICE WHICH CONTAINS AN INDUCTIVE LOAD E.G.
DEVICES THAT CONTAIN A MOTOR MAY REQUIRE MORE CURRENT
ON STARTUP.
DC & USB POWER
1. Start the generator. See pages 14-17.
2. Make sure the appliance is turned off before
connecting it to the generator.
•5V appliance to the generator via the USB
or Type ‘C’ connection sockets.
POWER MANAGEMENT/WATTAGE USE
Follow these simple steps to calculate the running and starting watts necessary for
your purposes.
CAPACITY
1. Select the electrical devices you plan on running at the same time.
2. Total the running watts of these items. This is the amount of power you need to
keep your items running.
3. Identify the highest starting wattage of all devices identified in step 1.
•Add this number to the number calculated in step 2.
•Surge wattage is the extra burst of power needed to start some electrical
driven equipment. Following the steps listed under the following section (Power
Management) will guarantee that only one device will be starting at a time.
POWER MANAGEMENT
Use this formula to convert voltage and amperage to watts: Volts x Amps = Watts
To prolong the life of your generator and attached devices, follow these steps to add
electrical loads.
1. Start the generator with no electrical load attached, see pages 12-16.
2. Allow the engine to run for several minutes to stabilize.
3. Plug in and turn on the first item. It is best to attach the item with the largest load
first.
These are estimates only. Check your appliance or tool for exact wattage
requirements. The wattage listed are based on estimated wattage requirements.
For exact wattages, check the data plate or owners manual for the item you wish to
power.
Operating voltage and frequency requirements of all electronic equipment should be
checked prior to plugging them into the generator. Damage may result if the
equipment is not designed to operate within +/- 10% voltage variation and +/- 3 Hz
frequency variation from the generator specification ratings, see Specification section
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain the
generator. All service and adjustments should be made at least one time every year. It
is important that the maintenance chart below is followed:
Frequency
ItemAction
Engine Oil
(Page 25-26)
Air Filter
(Page 27)
Spark Plug
(Page 24-25)
Spark Arrestor
(Page 29-30)
IdlingCheck - Adjust***
Valve ClearanceCheck - Adjust***
Fuel TankClean***
Check Level*
Replace*
Check*
Clean **
Replace*
Clean - Adjust****
Replace*
Clean*
Each Time
of Use
Every 3
Months or
50 Hrs
Every 6
Months or
100 Hrs
Every Year
or 300 Hrs
Fuel Filter
(page 28)
Fuel Supply
Line
•** = Recommended to be performed more often than in the schedule if
operated in a dusty environment.
•*** = Recommended to be performed by a CLARKE authorized dealer.
CAUTION: PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO USED ENGINE OIL IS
DANGEROUS, ALWAYS WASH YOUR HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER
HANDLING USED ENGINE OIL.
Initial replacement of the engine oil is after one month or 20 hours of operation,
which ever comes first.
1. Place the generator on a level surface and warm up the engine for several
minutes. Then stop the engine and turn the main switch to ‘OFF’ and the fuel cap
air vent to ‘OFF’.
2. Unscrew the main fixing screw and
remove the maintenance panel
shown on the right.
3. Turn the oil filler cap anti-clockwise
and remove from the oil tank.
4. Place an oil pan next to the engine
and tilt the generator to allow the oil
to drain out of the oil reservoir into
the pan via the drain channel.
NOTE: You may need assistance with
this step as the generator is
heavy.
5. Return the generator to a level
surface.
6. Fill the oil reservoir with fresh oil.
•DO NOT fill above the max level
mark (0.4 litres)
•We recommend the use of
SAE10W-30 oil in this generator.
(CLARKE part number 3050845)
7. Replace the oil filler cap and
maintenance panel.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
One of the most damaging sources of pollution is oil. DO NOT throw away used
engine oil in with your domestic waste or down drains and sinks. Place it in a leak
proof container and dispose of it according to local regulations.
Just inside the fuel filler cap is a fuel filter. Check this filter periodically and remove
any contaminants which may have accumulated.
1. Remove the fuel filler cap.
1. Lift out the filter inside.
2. Clean the filter with solvent. If the
filter is damaged, contact CLARKE Spare Parts department 020 8988 7400 for a
replacement.
3. Replace the filter and fuel tank cap.
CAUTION: ALLOWING PETROL TO SIT IN THE FUEL TANK FOR LONG
PERIODS OF TIME CAN MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO START THE
GENERATOR IN THE FUTURE. NEVER STORE THE GENERATOR FOR
EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME WITH FUEL IN THE TANK, SEE PAGES
28-29.
5. Remove any carbon deposits from
the muffler screen and spark arrestor
using a wire brush. Use the wire
brush lightly to avoid damaging the
muffler screen and spark arrestor.
6. Replace the muffler screen and spark
arrestor back in position and replace
the grub screw and clip.
7. Replace the muffler cover.
STORAGE
Long term storage of the generator will require some preventive procedures to guard
against deterioration.
DRAIN THE FUEL & OIL
1. Remove the fuel tank cap. Remove the fuel filter and extract the fuel from the
tank into an approved petrol container using a commercially available hand siphon
(CLARKE CSP560 Siphon Pump, part no. 6499610).
2. Replace the fuel tank cap.
CAUTION: PETROL IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE, DO NOT PERFORM THIS
MAINTENANCE WHILE SMOKING OR NEAR AN OPEN FLAME.
IMMEDIATELY WIPE OFF SPILLED FUEL WITH A CLEAN, DRY, SOFT
CLOTH, SINCE PETROL MAY DETERIORATE PAINTED SURFACES OR
PLASTIC PARTS.
3. Start the engine (see pages 14-17) and let it run until it stops. The duration of the
running of the engine depends on the amount of petrol left in the tank.
4. Unscrew the main fixing screw and remove the maintenance panel.
5. Drain the petrol from the carburetor
by placing the drain tube into a
container and loosening the drain
screw on the carburetor float
chamber.
6. Re-tighten the drain screw.
7. Remove the oil dipstick and drain the
oil, see pages 25-26.
8. Install the maintenance cover.
9. Turn the fuel tank cap air vent knob to the ‘OFF’ position.
ENGINE
Perform the following steps to protect the cylinder, piston ring, etc. from corrosion.
2. Pour about one table spoon of SAE10W-30 motor oil into the spark plug hole and
reinstall the spark plug.
3. Make sure the MAIN SWITCH is in the ‘OFF’ position, pull the Recoil Starter Handle
several times to coat the cylinder walls with oil. This will prevent the cylinder and
valves from rusting.
STORAGE
1. Clean any spilt petrol or oil from the outside of the generator.
2. Store the generator in a dry, well ventilated place, with a cover placed over it.
3. The generator must remain in a vertical position when stored, carried or operated.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Recycle unwanted materials instead of disposing of them as waste. All
tools, accessories and packaging should be sorted and taken to a
recycling centre for disposed in a manner compatible with the
environment.
By purchasing this product, the customer is taking on the obligation to deal with its
safe disposal in accordance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE).
In effect, this means that this product must not be disposed of with general
household waste. It must be disposed of according to the laws governing Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) at a recognised disposal facility. If
disposing of this product or any damaged components, do not dispose of with general
waste. This product contains valuable raw materials. Metal products should be taken
to your local civic amenity site for recycling of metal products.
PETROL & OIL WASTE
NEVER dispose of petrol or oil down a drain or sink. Collect any waste petrol and oil
in a suitable container and dispose of it in accordance with your local authority
regulations.
Engine switch in OFF position Set engine switch to CHOKE
position
Fuel tank is filled with
contaminated or old fuel
Not enough oil in crankcaseAdd or replace oil
Air filter is dirtyClean or replace air filter
Spark plug is dirtyClean spark plug
Spark plug is brokenReplace spark plug
Generator is not on level
surface
Engine needs maintenanceContact the CLARKE service
Generator was tilted when
adding oil or shipped side
down
Change the fuel in the tank
Move generator to a level surface
to prevent low oil shutdown from
triggering
department for more information
Remove spark plug, turn engine
switch to the OFF position then pull
recoil starter four (4) times to
remove oil from the combustion
chamber. Replace spark plug and
restart engine
Engine StopsFuel tank vacuum relief valve
on OFF position
Not enough oil in crankcaseAdd or change oil
Engine is out of fuelCheck fuel gauge and add fuel if