General Reference
Portable Generator
For reference only!! Not a complete manual. Please refer to your owners
manual for specific information.
DEADLY EXHAUST FUMES! ONLY use OUTSIDE far away
from windows, doors and vents!
NOT INTENDED FOR USE IN CRITICAL LIFE SUPPORT
APPLICATIONS.
SAVE this Manual. Provide this manual to any operator of
the generator.
www.generac.com or 1-888-436-3722
Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................. 1
Read this Manual Thoroughly ................................. 1
Safety Rules ........................................................... 1
Standards Index .............................................................3
Operation ................................................................ 4
1.1 How to Use the Generator ..............................................4
1.1.1 System Ground ..................................................4
1.1.2 Grounding the Generator ....................................4
1.1.3 Connecting Electrical Loads ...............................4
1.2 Overload Prevention .......................................................5
1.3 Wattage Reference Guide ...............................................5
1.4 Before Starting the Generator .........................................5
1.4.1 Adding Engine Oil ..............................................5
1.4.2 Adding Gasoline .................................................6
1.5 Starting the Engine (Electric Start Only) ..........................6
Troubleshooting ...................................................... 7
2.1 Troubleshooting Guide .................................................... 7
INTRODUCTION
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.
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. Save
these instructions for future reference. If you loan this device
to someone, ALWAYS loan these instructions to the individual
as well.
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 circumstance
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.
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.
Introduction
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.
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This symbol points out potential fire hazard.
!
This symbol points out potential electrical
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shock hazard.
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 fans and other
moving parts. Never remove any fan guard or shield while the
unit is operating.
• Cer tain par ts 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 star t 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 inser t objects through unit’s cooling slots.
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Safety Rules
• When working on this equipment, remain aler t at all times.
Never work on the equipment when physically or mentally
fatigued.
• Lifting Warning Hazard: A falling generator can result in death,
bodily injury, and/or property damage. Stand clear of generator.
Lift is designed to carry only the weight of the generator. DO
NOT overload lifting bracket. Apply lifting strap or hook through
lift bar hole(s) only. DO NOT lift while generator is running.
• Never use the generator or any of its par ts 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.
• On electric star t models, disconnect the POSITIVE (+) battery
cable from the engine starter OR the NEGATIVE (-) battery
cable from the battery terminal, whichever is easier, before
transporting the generator.
NOTE:
This generator is 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 California
Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws.
Federal laws apply on federal lands.
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.
• 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 manufacturer's instructions.
• If you star t 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.
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 per forming 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.
• 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.
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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.
Safety Rules
• 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 inser t 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.
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.
MODEL NO:
SERIAL NO:
Unit ID Location
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
Engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known
to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects
and other reproductive harm.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
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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Operation
1.1 HOW TO USE THE GENERATOR
If there are any problems operating the generator, please call the
generator helpline at 1-888-436-3722.
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 manufacturer's
instructions.
• 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 through a
Transfer Switch
IMPORTANT: 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, or
other alternative power sources, and must comply with all related
laws and codes.
NOTE:
This generator system ground IS bonded to the neutral in the
generator (see applicable unit wiring diagram).
1.1.2 GROUNDING THE GENERATOR
Local electrical codes may require proper grounding of the unit. For
that purpose, connecting a No. 10 AWG (American Wire Gauge)
stranded copper wire to the grounding lug and to an earth-driven
copper or brass grounding rod (electrode) provides adequate
protection against electrical shock. However, local codes may vary
widely. Consult with a local electrician for grounding requirements
in the area. Proper grounding of the generator will help prevent
electrical shock in the event of a ground fault condition in the
generator or in connected electrical devices. Proper grounding
also helps dissipate static electricity, which often builds up in
ungrounded devices.
1.1.1 SYSTEM GROUND
The generator has a system ground that connects the generator
frame components to the ground terminals on the AC output
receptacles.
NOTE:
This generator system ground IS bonded to the neutral in the
generator (see applicable unit wiring diagram).
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:
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Figure 1 - Grounding the Generator
1.1.3 CONNECTING ELECTRICAL LOADS
DO NOT connect 240 Volt loads to 120 Volt receptacles. DO NOT
connect 3-phase loads to the generator. DO NOT connect 50 Hz
loads to the generator.
• Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after
starting.
Operation
• Plug in and turn on the desired 120 or 240 Volt AC, single
phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.
• Add up the rated watts (or amps) of all loads to be connected
at one time. This total should not be greater than (a) the rated
wattage/amperage capacity of the generator or (b) circuit
breaker rating of the receptacle supplying the power. See "Don't
Overload the Generator".
1.2 OVERLOAD PREVENTION
Overloading a generator in excess of its rated wattage capacity
can result in damage to the generator and to connected electrical
devices. Observe the following to prevent overloading the unit:
• Add up the total wattage of all electrical devices to be connected
at one time. This total should NOT be greater than the
generator's wattage capacity.
• The rated wattage of lights can be taken from light bulbs. The
rated wattage of tools, appliances and motors can usually be
found on a data label or decal affixed to the device.
• If the appliance, tool or motor does not give wattage, multiply
volts times ampere rating to determine watts (volts x amps =
watts).
• Some electric motors, such as induction types, require about
three times more watts of power for starting than for running.
This surge of power lasts only a few seconds when starting
such motors. Make sure to allow for high starting wattage when
selecting electrical devices to connect to the generator:
1. Figure the watts needed to start the largest motor.
2. Add to that figure the running watts of all other connected
loads.
The Wattage Reference Guide is provided to assist in determining
how many items the generator can operate at one time.
NOTE:
All figures are approximate. See data label on appliance for
wattage requirements.
Electric Nail Gun....................................... 1200
Electric Range (per element).............................. 1500
Electric Skillet......................................... 1250
*Freezer . . . . . . .........................................700
*Furnace Fan (3/5 HP) ................................... 875
*Garage Door Opener...............................500 to 750
Hair Dryer............................................ 1200
Hand Drill .......................................250 to 1100
Hedge Trimmer......................................... 450
Impact Wrench......................................... 500
Iron ................................................ 1200
*Jet Pump ............................................800
Lawn Mower .........................................1200
Light Bulb............................................. 100
Microwave Oven..................................700 to 1000
*Milk Cooler.......................................... 1100
Oil Burner on Furnace.................................... 300
Oil Fired Space Heater (140,000 Btu) ........................400
Oil Fired Space Heater (85,000 Btu) .........................225
Oil Fired Space Heater (30,000 Btu) .........................150
*Paint Sprayer, Airless (1/3 HP) ............................600
Paint Sprayer, Airless (handheld)............................150
Radio ............................................50 to 200
*Refrigerator ..........................................700
Slow Cooker........................................... 200
*Submersible Pump (1-1/2 HP) ...........................2800
*Submersible Pump (1 HP) ..............................2000
*Submersible Pump (1/2 HP)............................. 1500
*Sump Pump ....................................800 to 1050
*Table Saw (10") ................................1750 to 2000
Television ........................................200 to 500
Toaster ........................................1000 to 1650
Weed Trimmer ......................................... 500
* Allow 3 times the listed watts for starting these devices.
1.4 BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR
Prior to operating the generator, engine oil and gasoline will need
to be added, as follows:
1.3 WATTAGE REFERENCE GUIDE
Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Running Watts
*Air Conditioner (12,000 Btu)............................. 1700
*Air Conditioner (24,000 Btu)............................. 3800
*Air Conditioner (40,000 Btu)............................. 6000
Battery Charger (20 Amp)................................. 500
Belt Sander (3") .......................................1000
Chain Saw ...........................................1200
Circular Saw (6-1/2") ..............................800 to 1000
*Clothes Dryer (Electric) ................................5750
*Clothes Dryer (Gas) .................................... 700
*Clothes Washer ......................................1150
Coffee Maker .........................................1750
*Compressor (1 HP) ...................................2000
*Compressor (3/4 HP) .................................. 1800
*Compressor (1/2 HP) .................................. 1400
Curling Iron............................................700
*Dehumidifier .......................................... 650
Disc Sander (9")....................................... 1200
Edge Trimmer .......................................... 500
Electric Blanket......................................... 400
1.4.1 ADDING ENGINE OIL
All oil should meet minimum American Petroleum Institute (API)
Service Class SJ, SL or better. Use no special additives. Select
the oil's viscosity grade according to the expected operating
temperature (also see chart).
• Above 40° F, use SAE 30
• Below 40° F and down to 10° F, use 10W-30
• Below 10° F, use synthetic 5W-30
SAE 30
10W-30
Synthetic 5W-30
5
Operation
Figure 2 - Fuel Tank
Any attempt to crank or start the engine before it has
been properly serviced with the recommended oil may
result in an engine failure.
1. Place generator on a level surface (not to exceed 15° in any
direction).
2. Clean area around oil fill and remove oil dipstick
3. Slowly fill engine with oil through the oil dipstick tube. Stop
filling occasionally to check oil level. The engine is full when
the oil reaches the full mark on the dipstick.
4. Install the oil fill cap or oil dipstick (depending on the type of
generator you have). For an oil fill cap, finger tighten securely.
5. Check engine oil level before starting each time thereafter.
1.4.2 ADDING GASOLINE
Use care when fueling the generator. Only fill the fuel tank when the
generator has cooled entirely. Use fresh unleaded gasoline with a
minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 87.
NOTE:
Do not use any gasoline containing more than 10% Ethanol.
NEVER fill the fuel tank with E85 or a mixture of oil and gasoline
designated for two-cycle engines.
NEVER light a cigarette or smoke when filling the fuel
tank.
Gasoline is highly FLAMMABLE and its vapors are
$
EXPLOSIVE. Do not permit smoking, open flames, sparks
or heat in the vicinity while handling gasoline.
Never fill fuel tank indoors. Never fill fuel tank when
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engine is running or hot. Avoid spilling gasoline on a hot
engine. Allow engine to cool entirely before filling fuel
tank.
Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always allow room for fuel
expansion. If the fuel tank is overfilled, fuel can overflow
$
onto a hot engine and cause a fire or an explosion. Wipe
up any fuel spills immediately.
• Use regular UNLEADED gasoline with the generator engine. Do
not use premium gasoline. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
1. Clean area around fuel fill cap, remove cap.
2. Slowly add unleaded regular gasoline to fuel tank. Do not fill
above inner lip. Be careful not to overfill (Figure 17).
3. Install fuel cap and wipe up any spilled gasoline.
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming
in fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel hose or tank
during storage. Alcohol-blended fuels (called gasohol, ethanol
or methanol) can attract moisture, which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems,
the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. See the "Storage" section. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank as permanent damage may occur.
Fuel Tank
Fuel
DO NOT Fill Above Lip
1.5 STARTING THE ENGINE
Never start or stop engine with electrical devices plugged
+
into the receptacles AND devices turned on.
1. Unplug all electrical loads from the unit's receptacles before
starting the engine.
2. Make sure the unit is in a level position (not to exceed 15° in
any direction).
3. If your generator is equipped with an idle switch, locate the
idle control ON/OFF switch on the control panel and set it to
the "OFF" position. (Figure 3).
4. Open the fuel shut-off valve.
Figure 3 - Idle Control Switch
5. Put the CHOKE in the "Full Choke" position.
6. For electric start generators, press and hold the Start/Run/
Stop switch in the "Start" position. The engine will crank and
attempt to start. When the engine starts, release the switch to
the run position.
7. When the engine starts, push choke knob in to “1/2 Choke”
position until the engine runs smoothly and then fully in to the
“Run” position. If engine falters, pull the choke knob back out
to “1/2 Choke” position until the engine runs smoothly and
then to “Run” position.
8. Some models are also equipped with a manual recoil starter
which may be used if the battery is discharged.
IMPORTANT: Do not overload the generator. Also, do not overload
individual panel receptacles. These outlets are protected against
overload with push-to-reset and 2-pole type circuit breakers. If
amperage rating of any circuit breaker is exceeded, that breaker
opens and electrical output to that receptacle is lost. Read “Don’t
Overload the Generator” carefully.
6
2.1 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Engine is running, but no AC output
is available.
1. Circuit breaker is open.
2. Poor connection or defective cord set.
3. Connected device is bad.
4. Fault in generator.
5. GFCI on control panel is tripped.
1. Reset circuit breaker.
2. Check and repair.
3. Connect another device that is in good condition.
4. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
5. Verify ground connections.
Troubleshooting
Engine runs well but bogs down
when loads are connected.
Engine will not start; or starts and
runs rough.
Engine shuts down during
operation.
Engine lacks power. 1. Load is too high.
1. Short circuit in a connected load.
2. Generator is overloaded.
3. Engine speed is too slow.
4. Shorted generator circuit.
1. Fuel Shut-off is OFF.
2. Dirty air filter.
3. Out of gasoline.
4. Stale gasoline.
5. Spark plug wire(s) not connected to spark plug(s).
6. Bad spark plug(s).
7. Water in gasoline.
8. Over-choking.
9. Low oil level.
10. Excessive rich fuel mixture.
11. Intake valve stuck open or closed.
12. Engine has lost compression.
1. Out of gasoline.
2. Low oil level.
3. Fault in engine.
2. Dirty air filter.
3. Engine needs to be serviced.
1. Disconnect shorted electrical load.
2. See “Don’t Overload the Generator” .
3. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
4. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
1. Turn Fuel Shut-off to ON.
2. Clean or replace air filter.
3. Fill fuel tank.
4. Drain fuel tank and fill with fresh fuel.
5. Connect wire(s) to spark plug(s).
6. Replace spark plug(s).
7. Drain fuel tank; fill with fresh fuel.
8. Put choke knob to No Choke position.
9. Fill crankcase to proper level.
10. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
11. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
12. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
1. Fill fuel tank.
2. Fill crankcase to proper level.
3. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
1. Reduce load (see “Don’t Overload the Generator”).
2. Clean or replace air filter.
3. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
Engine “hunts” or falters. 1. Choke is opened too soon.
2. Carburetor is running too rich or too lean.
1. Move choke to halfway position until engine runs
smoothly.
2. Contact Authorized Service Facility.
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Notes
8
Notes
9
Manual Part No. 0K2154 Rev. A (11/06/12) Printed in U.S.A.
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