Generac XT8000E User Manual
Owner’s Manual
XT8000E Series Portable Generator
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Reference all appropriate documentation.
This manual should remain with the unit.
NOT INTENDED FOR USE IN CRITICAL
LIFE SUPPORT APPLICATIONS.
DEADLY EXHAUST FUMES! USE
OUTSIDE, ONLY, FAR AWAY FROM
WINDOWS, DOORS AND VENTS!
SAVE THIS MANUAL. Provide this
manual to any operator of the generator.
WARNING!
California Proposition 65
Engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known to the state of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, and other reproductive harm.
WARNING!
California Proposition 65
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, and other reproductive harm.
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Table of Contents
MODEL
DATA
DECAL
Unit Information
Unit Information ..........................................................iii
Frequently Asked Questions .................................... iv
Section 1 - Safety ........................................................1
1.1 Read This Manual Thoroughly................................ 1
1.2 Safety Rules............................................................ 1
Section 2 - General Information.................................5
2.1 Unpacking ...............................................................5
2.2 Assembly ................................................................ 5
2.3 Emissions Information.............................................6
2.4 Product Specifications ............................................7
2.5 Know The Generator...............................................7
2.6 Before Starting the Generator............................... 10
Section 3 - Operation................................................13
3.1 How To Use The Generator.................................. 13
3.2 Generator Loads ................................................... 14
3.3 Wattage Reference Guide ....................................14
3.4 Starting The Generator (Electric Start) ................. 14
3.5 Starting The Generator (Manual/Recoil)
Starting ..................................................................15
3.6 Stopping The Generator ....................................... 15
3.7 Low Oil Level Shutdown System .......................... 15
Use this page to record important information about your
generator set.
Record the information found on your unit data label on
this page. The location of the unit data label is shown
here.
When contacting an Authorized Service Dealer about
parts and service, always supply the complete model
number and serial number of the unit.
Section 4 - Maintenance ........................................... 17
4.1 General Recommendations ..................................17
4.2 Generator Cleaning...............................................17
4.3 Service Intervals ...................................................17
4.4 Generator Storage ................................................22
Section 5 - Troubleshooting .................................... 23
5.1 Troubleshooting Guide..........................................23
5.2 Replacement Service Parts ..................................24
MODEL NO:
SERIAL NO:
Operation and Maintenance: Proper maintenance and
care of the generator ensures a minimum number of
problems and keep operating expenses at a minimum. It
is the operator’s responsibility to perform all safety
checks, to make sure that all maintenance for safe operation is performed promptly, and to have the equipment
checked periodically by an Authorized Service Dealer.
Normal maintenance, service and replacement of parts
are the responsibility of the owner/operator and, as such,
are not considered defects in materials or workmanship
within the terms of the warranty. Individual operating habits and usage may contribute to the need for additional
maintenance or service.
When the generator requires servicing or repairs, contact
an Authorized LOWES Service Dealer for assistance.
Authorized service technicians are factory-trained and
are capable of handling all service needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What oil can I use if I am out of the recommended
oil and need to operate my generator?
A: In an emergency, oil with an API rating of SH, SJ, SK,
CF-4, CG-4, ILSAC, GF-1, GF-2 or GF-4 can be
used. It can be mineral, semi-synthetic or synthetic.
Any of the following viscosities are permissible: SAE
5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40, 20W-50, 30 or 40 weight.
Change the oil as soon as possible using genuine
Generac oil as per the Owner’s Manual
recommendations.
Q: What needs to be done to the fuel before
extended storage?
A: First treat the remaining gasoline in the fuel tank with
a commercially available fuel stabilizer. Now the fuel
can either be drained, or left in the tank after
following proper treatment procedures. When
working with flammable gasoline, exercise all
appropriate cautions and warnings contained in this
Owner’s Manual. The sections on
Generator
Storage and Long Term Storage detail
proper storage procedures, including fuel storage
treatment.
Q: How often do I have to charge the generator’s
battery?
A: If the starter will not turn the engine over, charge the
battery using the charger provided with your
generator. The charger should be connected for no
longer than 48 hours. Charging procedures are
covered in the
Owner’s Manual.
Q: What is the proper fuel to use?
A: Regular UNLEADED gasoline is the recommended
fuel. Do not use gasoline with an ethanol
concentration greater than 10%. Do not use E85
gasoline or mix oil with gasoline. PREMIUM grade
fuel can be used, but is not required.
Q: What do the “red” and “blue” colored dots on the
extension cord receptacles mean?
A: The extension cord outlets have red and blue colored
dots at the receptacle outlet ends. These indicate the
need to balance the loads on the generator when
adding electrical devices. For example, if adding two
electrical devices, plug one into a red outlet and the
other into a blue outlet rather than two red or two blue
outlets. This will help balance the loads applied to the
generator.
Battery Charging section of this
Q: Can I operate the generator in the rain?
A: Portable generators should never be run inside an
enclosed space. However, portable generators are
intended to be used during extreme weather and for
the sensitive electronics on them, it is best if some
sort of open covering can be used to protect it from
direct rain or snow. Great options would be a car port
or boat canopy with 4 open sides or a tarp overhang
from a tree. It is very important to provide adequate
ventilation for the generator, so any sort of protection
should be at least 5 feet from any side including the
top of the unit, while in use. If protection is not
available, the unit can be used in rain or snow,
preferably with the muffler facing away from the
direction the wind/rain/snow is coming from.
Additionally, a portable generator should always be
stored inside when not in use to prevent unnecessary
wear and tear. BE ADVISED, the generator should
NEVER be used in any enclosed space including,
without limitation, a shed, home, garage, trailer or
vehicle, even if the doors are left open, as this can
damage the engine and can be a serious fire hazard
and carbon monoxide risk.
Q: How do I adjust the valve clearance?
A: Valve clearance adjustment is critical to proper
engine operation and requires special tools and
training. Instructions are covered in the
Clearance Adjustment
publication. However, if you are uncomfortable
performing this service procedure, have your dealer
maintain the generator’s valve clearance at the
intervals specified.
section of this
Valve
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Q: How long can I operate the generator? Does it
need a “rest” or “break”?
A: Your generator can be operated almost indefinitely.
Most important is maintaining a proper oil level. Each
time you add fuel, turn the generator off and check
the oil level and add oil, if necessary, to keep the
level at the upper mark on the dipstick. See the
Checking Oil Level and Adding Fuel sections
for instructions on adding oil and fuel.
Q: Is there anything special I need to do or unplug
my electrical devices before turning the
generator off?
A: Yes, remove all loads BEFORE turning the generator
off. Do this by turning off appliances, lights and items
being powered by the generator. Then unplug the
items from the generator’s receptacles before
allowing the generator to cool and turning the
generator off. NEVER turn the generator off while
loads are applied. Refer to the
section of the Owner’s Manual for complete
instructions on adding and removing electrical
devices.
Generator Loads
Q: The Hourmeter said it was time to service the air
filter. After the service has been performed, does
anything need to be done to the Hourmeter?
A: The Hourmeter will alert the owner continuously for
one hour before until one hour after scheduled
maintenance has been reached. Oil changes (at 100
hours) or air filter servicing (at 200 hours).
As hours of operation continue to accumulate, the
hourmeter will automatically reset itself until the next
100 or 200 hour service interval is reached. See the
Hourmeter section for additional information.
Some generators have a reset button that allows the
operator to move between maintenance intervals and
reset intervals by holding the reset button for 9
seconds. NOTE: not all generator models have the
reset button feature.
Q: The generator’s battery will no longer accept a
charge. What is the procedure for replacing with
a new battery?
A: Battery replacement procedures can be found in the
Battery Replacement section of this Owner’s
Manual.
Q: If the generator is being used during an outage,
how do I connect or disconnect electrical
devices?
A: NEVER start or stop the generator’s engine with
electrical devices plugged into the generator AND
those devices turned on. It is important that electrical
devices, that are turned on, NOT be connected to the
generator before it is operating.
• With the generator turned OFF, only connect electrical devices that are turned OFF.
The generator should never be started or stopped
when electrical devices or appliances that are
drawing electrical power are connected.
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With the generator turned ON, electrical devices
that are turned ON or OFF may be connected.
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Section 1 Safety
Thank you for purchasing this model by Generac Power
Systems, Inc. This model is a compact, high performance, air-cooled, engine driven generator designed to
supply electrical power to operate electrical loads where
no utility power is available or in place of utility due to a
power outage.
1.1 — READ THIS MANUAL THOROUGHLY
If any portion of this manual is not understood, contact
the nearest Authorized Dealer for starting, operating and
servicing procedures.
The operator is responsible for proper and safe use of
the equipment. We strongly recommend that the operator
read this manual and thoroughly understand all instructions before using the equipment. We also strongly recommend instructing other users to properly start and
operate the unit. This prepares them if they need to operate the equipment in an emergency.
The generator can operate safely, efficiently and reliably
only if it is properly located, operated and maintained.
Before operating or servicing the generator:
• Become familiar with and strictly adhere to all local,
state and national codes and regulations.
• Study all safety warnings in this manual and on the
product carefully.
Become familiar with this manual and the unit before use.
The manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible cir-
cumstance that might involve a hazard. The warnings in
this manual, and on tags and decals affixed to the unit
are, therefore, not all inclusive. If using a procedure, work
method or operating technique that the manufacturer
does not specifically recommend, ensure that it is safe for
others. Also make sure the procedure, work method or
operating technique utilized does not render the generator unsafe.
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN WAS
BASED ON MACHINES IN PRODUCTION AT THE
TIME OF PUBLICATION. GENERAC RESERVES THE
RIGHT TO MODIFY THIS MANUAL AT ANY TIME.
Save these instructions for future reference. If you
loan this device to someone, ALWAYS loan these
instructions to the individual as well.
1.2 — SAFETY RULES
Throughout this publication, and on tags and decals
affixed to the generator, DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION
and NOTE blocks are used to alert personnel to special
instructions about a particular operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe
them carefully. Their definitions are as follows:
INDICATES A HAZARDOUS SITUATION OR ACTION
WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, WILL RESULT IN DEATH
OR SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action which, if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action which,
if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate
injury.
NOTE:
Notes contain additional information important to a
procedure and will be found within the regular text
body of this manual.
These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards that
they indicate. Common sense and strict compliance with
the special instructions while performing the action or
service are essential to preventing accidents.
Four commonly used safety symbols accompany the
DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION blocks. The type of
information each indicates is as follows:
This symbol points out important safety information that, if not followed, could endanger
personal safety and/or property of others.
This symbol points out potential explosion
hazard.
This symbol points out potential fire hazard.
This symbol points out potential electrical
shock hazard.
XT8000E Series Portable Generator 1
1.2.1 — General Hazards
• NEVER operate in an enclosed area, in a vehicle, or
indoors EVEN IF doors and windows are open.
• For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends
that the maintenance of this equipment is carried out
by an Authorized Dealer. Inspect the generator regularly, and contact the nearest Authorized Dealer for
parts needing repair or replacement.
• Operate generator only on level surfaces and where it
will not be exposed to excessive moisture, dirt, dust or
corrosive vapors.
• Keep hands, feet, clothing, etc., away from drive belts,
fans, and other moving parts. Never remove any fan
guard or shield while the unit is operating.
• Certain parts of the generator get extremely hot during
operation. Keep clear of the generator until it has
cooled to avoid severe burns.
• Do NOT operate generator in the rain.
• Do not alter the construction of the generator or
change controls which might create an unsafe operating condition.
• Never start or stop the unit with electrical loads connected to receptacles AND with connected devices
turned ON. Start the engine and let it stabilize before
connecting electrical loads. Disconnect all electrical
loads before shutting down the generator.
• Do not insert objects through unit’s cooling slots.
• When working on this equipment, remain alert at all
times. Never work on the equipment when physically
or mentally fatigued.
• Never use the generator or any of its parts as a step.
Stepping on the unit can stress and break parts, and
may result in dangerous operating conditions from
leaking exhaust gases, fuel leakage, oil leakage, etc.
1.2.2 — Exhaust & Location Hazards
Never operate in an enclosed area or indoors!
NEVER use in the home, in a vehicle, or in partly
enclosed areas such as garages, EVEN IF doors and
windows are open! ONLY use outdoors and far from
open windows, doors, vents, and in an area that will
not accumulate deadly exhaust.
• The engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide,
which you cannot see or smell. This poisonous gas, if
breathed in sufficient concentrations, can cause
unconsciousness or even death.
• Adequate, unobstructed flow of cooling and ventilating
air is critical to correct generator operation. Do not
alter the installation or permit even partial blockage of
ventilation provisions, as this can seriously affect safe
operation of the generator. The generator MUST be
operated outdoors.
• This exhaust system must be properly maintained. Do
nothing that might render the exhaust system unsafe
or in noncompliance with any local codes and/or standards.
• Always use a battery operated carbon monoxide
alarm indoors, installed according to the manufacturers instructions.
• If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has been running, move to fresh air IMMEDIATELY. See a doctor, as you could have carbon
monoxide poisoning.
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1.2.3 — Electrical Hazards
• The generator produces dangerously high voltage
when in operation. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, connections, etc., while the unit is running,
even on equipment connected to the generator.
Ensure all appropriate covers, guards and barriers are
in place before operating the generator.
• Never handle any kind of electrical cord or device
while standing in water, while barefoot or while hands
or feet are wet. DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL SHOCK
MAY RESULT.
• The National Electric Code (NEC) requires the frame
and external electrically conductive parts of the generator be properly connected to an approved earth
ground. Local electrical codes may also require proper
grounding of the generator. Consult with a local electrician for grounding requirements in the area.
• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter in any damp or
highly conductive area (such as metal decking or steel
work).
• Do not use worn, bare, frayed or otherwise damaged
electrical cord sets with the generator.
• Before performing any maintenance on the generator,
disconnect the engine starting battery (if equipped) to
prevent accidental start up. Disconnect the cable from
the battery post indicated by a NEGATIVE, NEG or (–)
first. Reconnect that cable last.
• In case of accident caused by electric shock, immediately shut down the source of electrical power. If this
is not possible, attempt to free the victim from the live
conductor. AVOID DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE
VICTIM. Use a non-conducting implement, such as a
rope or board, to free the victim from the live conductor. If the victim is unconscious, apply first aid and get
immediate medical help.
1.2.4 — Fire Hazards
• Gasoline is highly FLAMMABLE and its vapors are
EXPLOSIVE. Never permit smoking, open flames,
sparks or heat in the vicinity while handling gasoline.
• Never add fuel while unit is running or hot. Allow
engine to cool completely before adding fuel.
• Never fill fuel tank indoors. Comply with all laws
regulating storage and handling of gasoline.
• Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always allow room for
fuel expansion. If tank is over-filled, fuel can overflow
onto a hot engine and cause FIRE or an EXPLOSION.
Never store generator with fuel in tank where gasoline
vapors might reach an open flame, spark or pilot light
(as on a furnace, water heater or clothes dryer). FIRE
or EXPLOSION may result. Allow unit to cool entirely
before storage.
• Wipe up any fuel or oil spills immediately. Ensure that
no combustible materials are left on or near the generator. Keep the area surrounding the generator clean
and free from debris and keep a clearance of five (5)
feet on all side to allow for proper ventilation of the
generator.
• Do not insert objects through unit’s cooling slots.
• Never operate the generator if connected electrical
devices overheat, if electrical output is lost, if engine
or generator sparks or if flames or smoke are
observed while unit is running.
• Keep a fire extinguisher near the generator at all
times.
NOTE:
California CARB models only are equipped with a
spark arrestor muffler. The spark arrestor must be
maintained in effective working order by the owner/
operator. In the state of California, a spark arrestor is
required by law (Section 4442 of the Public
Resources Code). Other states may have similar
laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.
1.2.5 — Standards Index
1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70: The
NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE (NEC) available from
www.nfpa.org
2. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 5000:
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND SAFETY CODE
available from www.nfpa.org
3. International Building Code available from
www.iccsafe.org
4. Agricultural Wiring Handbook available from
www.rerc.org , Rural Electricity Resource Council
P.O. Box 309 Wilmington, OH 45177-0309
5. ASAE EP-364.2 Installation and Maintenance of
Farm Standby Electric Power available from
www.asabe.org, American Society of Agricultural &
Biological Engineers 2950 Niles Road, St. Joseph,
MI 49085
This list is not all inclusive. Check with the Authority Having Local Jurisdiction (AHJ) for any local codes or standards which may be applicable to your jurisdiction.
XT8000E Series Portable Generator 3
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