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.
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:
DANGER
After this heading, read instructions that, if
not strictly complied with, will result in serious
personal injury, including death and/or property
damage.
After this heading, read instructions that, if not
strictly complied with, may result in serious
personal injury and/or property damage.
After this heading, read instructions that, if not
strictly complied with, could result in damage to
equipment and/or property.
NOTE:
After this heading, read explanatory statements that require
special emphasis.
These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards that they indicate.
Common sense and strict compliance with the special instructions
while performing the 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.
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.
Always disconnect spark plug wires and place
the wires where they cannot contact the spark
plugs to prevent accidental starting when
setting up, transporting, adjusting or making
repairs to the generator.
•
The generator produces dangerously high voltage that can cause
extremely hazardous electrical shock. Avoid contact with bare
wires, terminals, etc. Never permit any unqualified person to
operate or service 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 will result.
•
The National Electric Code 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.
•
Operate generator only on level surfaces and where it will not be
exposed to excessive moisture, dirt, dust or corrosive vapors.
•
Gasoline is highly FLAMMABLE and its vapors are EXPLOSIVE.
Do not permit smoking, open flames, sparks or heat in the vicinity
while handling gasoline. Avoid spilling gasoline on a hot engine.
Comply with all laws regulating storage and handling of gasoline.
•
Never add fuel while unit is running.
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.
•
This dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient concentrations, can
cause unconsciousness or even death. Operate this equipment
only in the open air where adequate ventilation is available.
Allow at least two (2) feet of clearance on all sides of generator or
•
damage could be done to the unit. Never operate the unit inside
any room or enclosure where the free flow of cooling air into and
out of the unit might be obstructed. Review the “Cold Weather
Operation” section.
NEVER operate the generator indoors, in an attached garage
or near an open window.
1
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS – The manufacturer suggests that these rules for safe operation be copied and posted near the unit's
installation site. Safety should be stressed to all operators and potential operators of this equipment.
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.
•
Never operate generator: indoors or in any enclosed compartment;
•
in rain; if connected electrical devices overheat; if electrical output
is lost; if engine or generator sparks; if flames or smoke are
observed while unit is running; if unit vibrates excessively.
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.
Despite the safe design of this generator,
operating this equipment imprudently,
neglecting its maintenance or being careless
can cause possible injury or death. Permit only
responsible and capable persons to operate or
maintain this equipment.
Potentially lethal voltages are generated by
these machines. Ensure all steps are taken to
render the machine safe before attempting to
work on the generator.
Parts of the generator are rotating and/or hot
during operation. Exercise care near running
generators.
DANGER
GENERAL HAZARDS
Study these SAFETY RULES carefully before installing, operating or
servicing this equipment. Become familiar with this manual and with
the unit. The generator can operate safely, efficiently and reliably only
if it is properly installed, operated and maintained. Many accidents
are caused by failing to follow simple and fundamental rules or
precautions.
The engine exhaust from this product
•
contains chemicals known to the state
This product contains or emits chemicals
•
known to the state of California to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
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.
WARNING:•
of California to cause cancer, birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
WARNING:•
Never operate in an enclosed area or indoors.
•
For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends that the
•
maintenance of this equipment is carried out by an Authorized
Dealer.
The engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which
•
can be DEADLY. This dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient
concentrations, can cause unconsciousness or even death. 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.
Keep hands, feet, clothing, etc., away from drive belts, fans, and
•
other moving or hot parts. Never remove any drive belt or fan guard
while the unit is operating.
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.
When working on this equipment, remain alert at all times. Never
•
work on the equipment when physically or mentally fatigued.
Inspect the generator regularly, and contact the nearest Authorized
•
Dealer for parts needing repair or replacement.
Before performing any maintenance on the generator, disconnect
•
its battery cables to prevent accidental start up. Disconnect the
cable from the battery post indicated by a NEGATIVE, NEG or (–)
first. Reconnect that cable last.
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.
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
•
All generators covered by this manual produce dangerous electrical
voltages and can cause fatal electrical shock. Utility power delivers
extremely high and dangerous voltages as does the generator
when it is in operation. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals,
connections, etc., while the unit is running. Ensure all appropriate
covers, guards and barriers are in place before operating the
generator. If work must be done around an operating unit, stand on
an insulated, dry surface to reduce shock hazard.
•
Do not handle any kind of electrical device while standing in water,
while barefoot, or while hands or feet are wet. DANGEROUS
ELECTRICAL SHOCK MAY RESULT.
•
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires the frame and external
electrically conductive parts of the generator to be connected to an
approved earth ground. Local electrical codes also may require
proper grounding of the generator electrical system.
•
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.
•
Never wear jewelry when working on this equipment. Jewelry can
conduct electricity resulting in electric shock, or may get caught in
moving components causing injury.
EXPLOSION HAZARDS
•
Do not smoke around the generator. Wipe up any fuel or oil spills
immediately. Ensure that no combustible materials are left on or
near the generator, as FIRE or EXPLOSION may result. Keep the
area surrounding the generator clean and free from debris.
•
Gasoline is extremely EXPLOSIVE.
STANDARDS INDEX
In the absence of pertinent standards, codes, regulations and laws,
the published information listed below may be used as a guideline
for operation of this equipment. Always reference the latest revision
available for the standards listed.
1. NFPA No. 70, NFPA HANDBOOK OF NATIONAL ELECTRIC
CODE.
2. Article X, NATIONAL BUILDING CODE, available from the
American Insurance Association, 85 John Street, New York, N.Y.
10038.
3. AGRICULTURAL WIRING HANDBOOK, available from the Food
and Energy Council, 909 University Avenue, Columbia, MO
65201.
4. ASAE EP-3634, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF FARM
STANDBY ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, available from the American
Society of Agricultural Engineers, 2950 Niles Road, St. Joseph,
MI 49085.
5. NFPA No. 30, FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
CODE.
FIRE HAZARDS
For fire safety, the generator must be operated and maintained
•
properly. Operation must always comply with applicable codes,
standards, laws and regulations. Adhere strictly to local,
state and national electrical and building codes. Comply with
regulations the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has established. Also, ensure that the generator is
operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and
recommendations. Do not alter the construction of the generator
or change controls which might create an unsafe operating
condition.
Keep a fire extinguisher near the generator at all times. Extinguishers
•
rated “ABC” by the National Fire Protection Association are
appropriate for use on the standby electric system. Keep the
extinguisher properly charged and be familiar with its use. If there
are any questions pertaining to fire extinguishers, consult the local
fire department.
3
Section 1 – General Information
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
1.1 UNPACKING
•
Set the palleted carton on a rigid flat surface.
•
Remove staples along bottom of carton that fasten carton to pallet.
Open carton from top.
•
Remove all packaging material.
•
Remove separate accessory box.
•
Lift carton off the generator.
•
Remove generator from shipping pallet by removing bolts through
the shipping brackets (Figure 1).
Figure 1 - Bracket Removal
Shipping
Bracket (x4)
1.2 ASSEMBLY
The generator requires some assembly prior to using it. If problems
arise when assembling the generator, please call the Generator
Helpline at 1-800-333-1322.
1.2.1 ASSEMBLING THE WHEEL KIT
The wheel kit is designed to greatly improve the portability of the
generator. A socket wrench with a 9/16” socket, a 1/2” socket, a
1/2” wrench and a pair of pliers are the tools that will be needed for
assembly of the wheel kit.
NOTE:
The wheel kit is not intended for over-the-road use.
•
Refer to Figure 2 and install the wheel kit as follows:
•
Place the generator on a hard flat surface.
•
Stand at the engine end of the unit and gently tilt the generator
forward, high enough to place wooden blocks beneath the cradle.
This will allow space to install the wheel assemblies.
•
Attach an axle bracket assembly with attached sleeve to either side
of the frame. Ensure the sleeve faces outward.
•
Slide the axle through the sleeves on the axle brackets.
•
Slide one wheel with flat washer to the outside and a spacer to the
inside onto each end of the axle. Make sure the air inflation valve
on the wheel is facing outward.
•
Insert retaining pins and using pliers, bend out the ends to prevent
the pins from falling out of the axle. Remove the wooden blocks.
1.1.1 ACCESSORY BOX
Check all contents. If any parts are missing or damaged locate an
authorized dealer at 1-800-333-1322.
Contents include:
Wheel Axle • Bolt-on tubular handle
•
2 – Washers • 2 – Pneumatic Wheels
•
2 – Wheel Spacers • 2 – Axle Bracket Assemblies
•
2 – Cotter Pins • Bolt-on Foot
•
2 – Spark Plugs • Spark Plug Wrench
•
Air Filter • Oil Filter
•
Pre-cleaner • Battery Charge Cable
•
6 – Carriage Bolts, Washers, Nuts
•
1.2.2 ASSEMBLING THE HANDLE
Attach the handle by aligning one side of the handle on the cradle,
•
then spread the handle around the cradle and let it spring into
place. Secure the handle to the frame using the 5/16’ hex head
bolts provided. Check each fastener to ensure that it is secure.
Using the handle, lift the unit high enough to place wooden blocks
•
under the unit. Attach the front support foot to the underside of the
cradle using the 3/8” carriage bolts provided.
Remove the shipping brackets from the cradle, if it has not already
•
been done.
4
Section 1 - General Information
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
Figure 2 - Handle Assembly
1.2.3 BATTERY CONNECTION
The battery shipped with the generator has been provided fully
•
charged. Caution must be taken when connecting the battery.
NOTE:
A battery may lose some of it’s charge when not in use for
prolonged periods of time.
Cut the tie wrap cable holding the RED and BLACK battery cables
•
to the stator.
Connect the RED battery cable to the battery Positive terminal (+).
•
After making sure that the connection is tight, slip the rubber boot
over the terminal connection.
Connect the BLACK battery cable to the battery Negative terminal
•
(–). Make sure the connection is tight.
Double check all connections to ensure they are in the correct
•
location and secure. See Figure 3.
Figure 3 - Battery Connections
Negative
Cable
Positive
Cable
5
Section 2 – Operation
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
2.1 KNOW THE GENERATOR
Read the Owner’s Manual and Safety Rules before operating this
generator.
Compare the generator to Figures 4 through 6 to become familiarized
with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this
manual for future reference.
Figure 4 - Control Panel
1. 12 Volt DC, 10 Amp Receptacle – This receptacle allows the
capability to recharge a 12 volt DC storage battery with provided
battery charge cables.
power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single-phase, 60
Hz electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads.
5. 120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle – Supplies
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.
6. 120/240 Volt AC, 50 Amp Receptacle (Located on underside
of control panel)– Supplies electrical power for the operation of
120/240 Volt AC, 50 Amp, single-phase, 60 Hz, welder or motor
loads.
7. Air Cleaner – Filters intake air as it is drawn into the engine.
8. Choke Knob – Used when starting a cold engine.
9. Winter/Summer Valve – See “Cold Weather Operation/De-icer”
section.
Figure 5 - Generator Controls
11
7
15
10. Circuit Breakers (AC) – Each receptacle is provided with a
push-to-reset circuit breaker to protect the generator against
electrical overload. (50 amp uses toggle reset)
11. Fuel Tank – Tank holds 16 U.S. gallons of fuel.
12. Grounding Lug – Ground the generator to an approved earth
ground here. See "Grounding the Generator" for details.
13. Idle Control Switch – The idle control runs the engine at normal
(high) speeds when there is an electrical load present and runs
the engine at idle (low) speeds when a load is not present.
14. Start/Run/Stop Switch – Controls the operation of the
generator.
15. Oil Fill – Use this point to add oil to engine.
16. Fuse - 10 Amp (Located at rear of control panel) – Protects
the DC control circuit from overload. If this fuse element has
melted open the engine will not be able to crank and start.
Figure 6 - Engine Control Panel
14
8
12
9
6
Section 2 – Operation
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
2.2 CORD SETS AND CONNECTION PLUGS
2.2.1 120 VAC, 20 AMP, DUPLEX RECEPTACLE
This is a 120 Volt outlet protected against overload by a 20 Amp
push-to-reset circuit breaker (Figure 7). Use each socket to power
120 Volt AC, single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads requiring up to a
combined 2400 watts (2.4 kW) or 20 Amps of current. Use only high
quality, well-insulated, 3-wire grounded cord sets rated for 125 Volts
at 20 Amps (or greater).
Keep extension cords as short as possible, preferably less than 15
feet long, to prevent voltage drop and possible overheating of wires.
Figure 7 - 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, Duplex Receptacle
2.2.2 120 VAC, 20 AMP, GFCI RECEPTACLE
This unit is equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). This
device meets applicable federal, state and local codes (Figure 8).
A GFCI receptacle is different from conventional receptacles. In the
event of a ground fault, a GFCI will trip and quickly stop the flow of
electricity to prevent serious injury.
Definition: Instead of following its normal safe path, electricity passes
through a persons body to reach the ground. For example, a defective
appliance can cause a ground fault.
A GFCI receptacle does NOT protect against circuit overloads, short
circuits, or shocks. For example, electric shock can still occur if a
person touches charged electrical wires while standing on a nonconducting surface, such as a wood floor.
Figure 8 - 120 VAC, 20 Amp GFCI Receptacle
Testing the GFCI: Test the GFCI outlet every month as follows:
Plug a test lamp into the receptacle.
•
Start the generator, the test lamp should be on.
•
Press the “Test” button located on the front of the receptacle to
•
trip the device.
This should stop the flow of electricity making the lamp shut off.
•
The yellow trip indicator should now be on.
To restore the flow of electricity, press the “Reset” button on the
•
front of the receptacle. If the GFCI does not perform in this manner,
do not use the receptacle. Contact a local service dealer.
This outlet is protected against overload by a 20A push-to-reset
•
circuit breaker. Use the outlet to power 120V AC, single-phase,
60 Hz, electrical loads requiring up to a combined 2400 watts (2.4
kW) or 20 amps of current.
2.2.3 120 VAC, 30 AMP RECEPTACLE
Use a NEMA L5-30 plug with this receptacle. Connect a 3-wire cord
set rated for 125 Volts AC at 30 Amps (or greater) to the plug (Figure
9).
Figure 9 - 120 VAC, 30 Amp Receptacle
7
Section 2 – Operation
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
Use this receptacle to operate 120 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase loads
requiring up to 3600 watts (3.6 kW) of power at 30 Amps. The outlet
is protected by a 30 Amp push-to-reset circuit breaker.
2.2.4 120/240 VAC, 30 AMP RECEPTACLE
Use a NEMA L14-30 plug with this receptacle. Connect a suitable 4wire grounded cord set to the plug and to the desired load. The cord
set should be rated for 250 Volts AC at 30 Amps (or greater) (Figure
10).
Figure 10 - 120/240 VAC, 30 Amp Receptacle
Use this receptacle to operate 120 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase loads
requiring up to 3600 watts (3.6 kW) of power at 30 Amps or 240 Volt
AC, 60 Hz, single phase loads requiring up to 7200 watts (7.2 kW)
of power at 30 Amps. The outlet is protected by two 30 Amp push-toreset circuit breakers.
2.2.5 12 VOLT DC, 10 AMP RECEPTACLE
This receptacle permits recharging a 12 Volt automotive or utility style
storage battery with the battery charge cables provided (Figure 11).
This receptacle can not recharge 6 Volt batteries and can not be
used to crank an engine having a discharged battery. See the section
"Charging a Battery" before attempting to recharge a battery.
Figure 12 - 120/240 VAC, 50 Amp Receptacle
50 A
Use this receptacle to operate 120/240 Volt AC, 60 Hz electrical loads
requiring up to 12,000 watts (12.0 kW) of power. This receptacle is
protected by a 50 Amp 2-pole circuit breaker.
2.3 HOW TO USE THE GENERATOR
If there are any problems operating the generator, please call the
generator helpline at 1-800-333-1322.
2.3.1 GROUNDING THE GENERATOR
The National Electrical Code requires that the frame and external
electrically conductive parts of this generator be properly
connected to an approved earth ground (Figure 13). Local
electrical codes may also require proper grounding of the unit. For
that purpose, generally, connecting a No. 10 AWG (American Wire
Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding wing nut 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.
Figure 13 - Grounding the Generator
Figure 11 - 12 Volt DC, 10 Amp Receptacle
2.2.6 120/240 VAC, 50 AMP RECEPTACLE
Use a NEMA 14-50 plug with this receptacle. Connect a 4-wire cord
set rated for 250 Volts AC at 50 Amps to the plug (Figure 12).
8
Generator Ground Lug
Section 2 – Operation
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
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.
2.3.2 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.
•
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" below.
2.4 DON’T OVERLOAD THE GENERATOR
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 plate 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 plate on appliance for
wattage requirements.