Save This Manual Keep this manual for the safety warnings and precautions, assembly,
operating, inspection, maintenance and cleaning procedures. Write the product’s serial number in the
back of the manual near the assembly diagram (or month and year of purchase if product has no number).
Keep this manual and the receipt in a safe and dry place for future reference.
TM
REV 15b
Using a generator indoors CAN
Using an engine indoors
KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
CAN KILLYOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust contains
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide.
carbon monoxide. This is a poison
This is a poison you cannot see or smell.
you cannot see or smell.
NEVER use inside a home or garage,
NEVER use inside
EVEN IF doors and windows are open.
a home or garage,
EVEN IF doors and
windows are open.
Parts Lists and Diagrams .......................... 16
120VAC, 60Hz, Single Phase
700W Rated
900W Maximum
Horizontal Single Cylinder
2-stroke
87+ octane stabilizer-treated unleaded
gasoline
mixed with 2-cycle oil (see below)
2-cycle oil (designed specifically
for mixing with gasoline)
50:1 gasoline-to-oil ratio
2.5 oz oil per gallon of gasoline
5 hr.
Counterclockwise
The emissions control system for this Engine is warranted for standards set by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and by the California Air Resources Board (also known as CARB).
For warranty information, refer to the last pages of this manual.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential
personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that
follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
Addresses practices not related to personal injury.
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
SymbolProperty or Statement
RPM
HP
Revolutions Per Minute
Horsepower
WARNING marking concerning
Risk of Eye Injury. Wear ANSI-approved
safety goggles with side shields.
Read the manual before
set-up and/or use.
WARNING marking concerning
Risk of Hearing Loss.
Wear hearing protection.
SymbolProperty or Statement
WARNING marking concerning
Risk of Respiratory Injury.
Operate engine OUTSIDE and far away
from windows, doors, and vents.
WARNING marking concerning
Risk of Fire while handling fuel.
Do not smoke while handling fuel.
WARNING marking concerning
Risk of Fire.
Do not refuel while operating.
Keep flammable objects
away from engine.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING! Read all instructions.
Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in fire, serious injury and/or DEATH.
The warnings and precautions discussed in this manual cannot cover all possible conditions and
situations that may occur. It must be understood by the operator that common sense and caution
are factors which cannot be built into this product, but must be supplied by the operator.
1. Gasoline fuel and fumes are flammable, and
potentially explosive. Use proper fuel storage
and handling procedures. Do not store fuel
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
or other flammable materials nearby.
2. Have multiple ABC class fire extinguishers nearby.
3. Operation of this equipment may create sparks that
can start fires around dry vegetation.
A spark arrestor may be required. The operator
should contact local fire agencies for laws or
regulations relating to fire prevention requirements.
4. Set up and use only on a flat, level,
well-ventilated surface.
5. All connections and conduits from the Generator
to the load must only be installed by trained and
licensed electricians, and in compliance with all
relevant local, state, and federal electrical codes and
standards, and other regulations where applicable.
6. Connections for standby power to a building
electrical system must be made by a qualified
electrician. The connection must isolate the
generator power from utility power, and must comply
with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
7. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles, heavy-duty
work gloves, and dust mask/respirator during set up.
8. Use only lubricants and fuel recommended
in the Specifications chart of this manual.
9. Improper connections to a building electrical system
can allow electrical current from the generator
to backfeed into the utility lines. Such backfeed
may electrocute utility company workers or others
who contact the lines during a power outage,
and the generator may explode, burn, or cause
fires when utility power is restored. Consult
the utility company and a qualified electrician if
intending to use the generator for back up power.
10. Do not operate the Generator before grounding.
The Generator must be earth-grounded
in accordance with all relevant electrical
codes and standards before operation.
Operating Precautions
1. CARBON MONOXIDE HAZARD
Using a generator indoors
CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust contains
carbon monoxide. This is a poison
you cannot see or smell.
NEVER use inside a home or garage,
EVEN IF doors and windows are open.
Only use OUTSIDE and far away from windows,
doors, and vents.
2. Never use a generator indoors, including in
garages, basements, crawl spaces and sheds.
Opening doors and windows or using fans will NOT
prevent carbon monoxide build up in the home.
3. When using generators, keep them outdoors
and far away from open doors, windows,
and vents to avoid toxic levels of carbon
monoxide from building up indoors.
4. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while
using a generator, get to fresh air right away.
The carbon monoxide from generators can
quickly lead to full incapacitation and death.
5. Keep children away from the equipment,
especially while it is operating.
6. Keep all spectators at least six feet
from the Engine during operation.
7. Fire Hazard! Do not fill fuel tank while engine is
running. Do not operate if gasoline has been spilled.
Clean spilled gasoline before starting engine.
Do not operate near pilot light or open flame.
8. Do not touch engine during use.
Let engine cool down after use.
9. Never store fuel or other flammable
materials near the engine.
10. If the plugged in product operates abnormally
or unusually slow, immediately stop using the
generator as a power source. Read and adhere
to the instruction manual of the product to be
powered to make sure that it can be safely and
efficiently powered by a portable generator.
11. Before connecting an appliance or power cord
to the generator: Make sure that it is in good
working order. Faulty appliances or power cords
can create a potential for electrical shock.
12. Do not exceed the maximum power rating of the
generator. Make sure that the total electrical rating
of the all of the tools or appliances plugged into
the generator at the same time does not exceed
that of the generator. Check that the startup surge
will not be beyond the limit of the Generator.
13. Avoid substantially overloading which will trip
the circuit breaker. Slightly overloading the
generator may not trip the circuit breaker,
but will lead to premature generator failure.
14. Do not attempt to connect or disconnect
load connections while standing in water,
or on wet or soggy ground.
15. Do not touch electrically energized parts of
the Generator and interconnecting cables
or conductors with any part of the body, or
with any non-insulated conductive object.
16. Connect the Generator only to a load that is
compatible with the electrical characteristics
and rated capacities of the Generator.
17. Insulate all connections and disconnected wires.
18. Guard against electric shock. Prevent body contact
with grounded surfaces such as pipes,
radiators, ranges, and refrigerators.
19. Only use a suitable means of transport and
lifting devices with sufficient weight bearing
capacity when transporting the generator.
20. Secure the generator on transport vehicles to
prevent it from rolling, slipping, and tilting.
21. Industrial applications must follow
OSHA requirements.
22. Do not leave the generator unattended when it is
running. Turn off the generator (and remove safety
keys, if available) before leaving the work area.
23. The generator can produce high noise levels.
Prolonged exposure to noise levels
above 85 dBA is hazardous to hearing.
Wear ear protection when operating the generator
or when working nearby while it is operating.
24. Wear ANSI-approved safety glasses
and hearing protection during use.
25. People with pacemakers should consult their
physician(s) before use. Electromagnetic fields in
close proximity to a heart pacemaker could cause
pacemaker interference or pacemaker failure.
Caution is necessary when near the
engine’s magneto or recoil starter.
26. Use only accessories that are recommended
by Harbor Freight Tools for your model.
Accessories that may be suitable for one
piece of equipment may become hazardous
when used on another piece of equipment.
27. Do not operate in explosive atmospheres,
such as in the presence of flammable
liquids, gases, or dust. Gasoline-powered
engines may ignite the dust or fumes.
28. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and
use common sense when operating this
generator. Do not use while tired or under the
influence of drugs, alcohol or medication.
29. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. Keep hair, clothing and gloves away
from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or
long hair can be caught in moving parts.
30. Parts, especially exhaust system components,
get very hot during use. Stay clear of hot parts.
31. Do not cover the generator during operation.
32. Keep the generator and surrounding
area clean at all times.
33. Use the equipment, accessories, etc., in
accordance with these instructions and in the
manner intended for the particular type of
equipment, taking into account the working
conditions and the work to be performed.
Use of the equipment for operations different from
those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
34. Do not operate the equipment with known
leaks in the engine’s fuel system.
35. WARNING: This product contains or, when
used, produces a chemical known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm. (California Health
& Safety Code § 25249.5, et seq.)
36. When spills of fuel or oil occur, they must be
cleaned up immediately. Dispose of fluids and
cleaning materials as per any local, state, or
federal codes and regulations. Store oil rags in
a bottom-ventilated, covered, metal container.
37. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Do not reach over or across
equipment while operating.
38. Before use, check for misalignment or binding of
moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other
condition that may affect the equipment’s operation.
If damaged, have the equipment serviced
before using. Many accidents are caused
by poorly maintained equipment.
39. Use the correct equipment for the application.
Do not modify the equipment and do not use the
equipment for a purpose for which it is not intended.
1. Before service, maintenance, or cleaning:
a. Unplug all devices from the generator.
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
b. Turn the engine switch to its “OFF” position.
c. Allow the engine to completely cool.
d. Then, remove the spark plug cap
from the spark plug.
2. Keep all safety guards in place and in
proper working order. Safety guards include
muffler, air cleaner, mechanical guards,
and heat shields, among other guards.
3. Keep all electrical equipment clean and dry.
Replace any wiring where the insulation is
cracked, cut, abraded, or otherwise degraded.
Replace terminals that are worn, discolored, or
corroded. Keep terminals clean and tight.
4. Do not alter or adjust any part of the
equipment or its engine that is sealed by the
manufacturer or distributor. Only a qualified
service technician may adjust parts that may
increase or decrease governed engine speed.
5. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles,
heavy-duty work gloves, and
dust mask/respirator during service.
6. Maintain labels and nameplates on the equipment.
These carry important information.
If unreadable or missing, contact
Harbor Freight Tools for a replacement.
7. Have the equipment serviced by a qualified repair
person using only identical replacement parts.
This will ensure that the safety of the equipment
is maintained. Do not attempt any service or
maintenance procedures not explained in this
manual or any procedures that you are uncertain
about your ability to perform safely or correctly.
8. Store equipment out of the reach of children.
9. Follow scheduled engine and
equipment maintenance.
Refueling:
1. Do not smoke, or allow sparks, flames,
or other sources of ignition around the
equipment, especially when refuelling.
2. Do not refill the fuel tank while the
engine is running or hot.
3. Do not fill fuel tank to the top.
Leave a little room for the fuel to expand as needed.
TO PREVENT FUEL LEAKAGE AND
FIRE HAZARD, do not fill fuel above
the bottom of fuel strainer.
Max Fuel
DO NOT OVERFILL!
4. Refuel in a well-ventilated area only.
5. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess
to evaporate before starting engine.
To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine
while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the beginning of this manual
including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.
TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY:
Operate only with proper spark arrestor installed.
Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start fires around dry vegetation.
A spark arrestor may be required.
The operator should contact local fire agencies for laws or regulations
relating to fire prevention requirements.
Grounding
1. The Generator must be properly grounded in accordance with all relevant electrical codes and standards
before operation. Have the unit grounded by a qualified electrician if you are not qualified to do so.
2. To ground the Generator, connect a #10 AWG grounding wire (not included) from the Grounding
Terminal on the side of the unit to a grounding rod (not included). The grounding rod must be an
earth-driven copper or brass rod (electrode) which can adequately ground the Generator.
3. Refer to local regulations for ground source information.
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the beginning of this manual
including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
Pre-Start Checks
Inspect engine and equipment looking for damaged, loose, and missing parts before set up and starting.
If any problems are found, do not use equipment until fixed properly.
Checking and Filling Fuel
WARNING! TO PREVENT SERIOUS
INJURY FROM FIRE:
Fill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area
away from ignition sources. If the engine
is hot from use, shut the engine off and
wait for it to cool before adding fuel. Do not smoke.
1. Clean the Fuel Cap and the area around it.
2. Unscrew and remove the Fuel Cap.
3. Remove the Strainer and remove any dirt
and debris. Then replace the Strainer.
Note: Do not use gasoline containing more than
10% ethanol (E10). Do not use E85 ethanol. Add fuel
stabilizer to the gasoline or the Warranty is VOID.
Note: Do not use gasoline that has been stored in a
metal fuel container or a dirty fuel container. It can
cause particles to enter the carburetor, affecting
engine performance and/or causing damage.
IMPORTANT: Your Warranty is VOID if the Engine’s
Fuel Tank is not filled with the proper mixture (50:1)
of stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle oil before each use. Before each use, check the fuel
level. Do not run the Engine with an improper unleaded
gasoline/2-cycle oil mixture. Running the Engine with an
improper mixture WILL permanently damage the Engine.
1 GALLON
STABILIZER-
TREATED
UNLEADED
GASOLINE
Figure A: Fuel-Oil Mixture
4. To obtain the proper gasoline
and 2-cycle oil mixture, mix 2.5 fluid ounces of
2-cycle oil with 1 gallon of 87 octane or higher
unleaded gasoline that has been treated
with a fuel stabilizer additive into an approved
container. Then gently agitate the container
to thoroughly mix the gasoline/2-cycle oil.
5. If needed, fill the Fuel Tank to about 1
inch under the fill neck of the Fuel Tank
with the pre-mixed stabilizer-treated
unleaded gasoline/2-cycle oil mixture.
6. Then replace the Fuel Cap.
7. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess
to evaporate before starting engine.
To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine
while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.
APPROVED
CONTAINER
2.5 FLUID OUNCES
2-CYCLE OIL
Starting the Engine
Before Starting the Engine
Before starting the engine:
a. Inspect the generator and engine.
b. Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator.
c. Fill the engine with the proper amount and type of stabilizer-
treated unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle oil mixture.
2. To start a cold engine, move the Choke to the
START position.
To restart a warm engine, leave the
Choke in the RUN position.
1
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
2
3. Turn the Engine Switch on.
4. Grip the Starter Handle of the Engine loosely and pull it
slowly several times to allow the gasoline to flow into the
Engine’s carburetor. Then pull the Starter Handle gently
until resistance is felt. Allow Cable to retract fully and then
pull it quickly. Repeat until the engine starts.
Note: Do not let the Starter Handle snap back against the engine.
Hold it as it recoils so it doesn't hit the engine.
5. Allow the Engine to run for several seconds.
Then, if the Choke lever is in the START position,
move the Choke Lever very slowly to its RUN position.
Note: Moving the Choke Lever too
fast could stall the engine.
3
4
5
IMPORTANT: Allow the engine to run at no load for three minutes
after each start-up so that the engine can stabilize.
a. Breaking-in the engine will help to ensure proper equipment and engine operation.
b. The break-in period will last about 25 hours of use. DO NOT exceed
75% of the Generator’s rated capacity during this period.
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
• Change the engine fuel/oil mixture after this period.
Under normal operating conditions subsequent maintenance follows
the schedule explained in the MAINTENANCE section.
Connecting Loads to the Generator
Load And Circuit Breaker:
1. The total combined load through the outlet
on the Generator must not exceed the
rated maximum power of the unit.
2. Reduce the load if the AC Circuit Breaker turns off.
Once the load is reduced, press the Circuit Breaker
Button to reset the Generator and continue operation.
Calculate Power Draw:
Power draw can be calculated by multiplying volts
and amps. The resulting number is wattage.
• Never exceed the rated maximum wattage for
the Generator or any outlet amperage rating.
• Refer to appliance/tool owner’s manuals to
determine the wattage of electrical load devices.
• Long power cords and extension cords draw
additional power. Keep cord length at a minimum.
Wattage Estimates
Wattages listed below are estimates for that
type of equipment only. Check nameplate wattages
on all loads before connecting to Generator.
This Unit Can Power Any
One of the Following Items:
Camping50-700
Tailgating50-700
Radio50-200
Table/Box Fan200
15 Amp Battery Charger380
Outdoor Power Equipment500
Mini Refrigerator400700
Ten 60 Watt Light Bulbs600
Running
Watts
Peak
Watts
3. Allow the Engine to run at no load for five minutes
after each start-up to allow the Engine to stabilize.
Figure B: Plug Load In
4. Plug the power cord of the 120 volt appliance/
tool into the 120 volt AC Outlet on the Generator.
Note: Do not allow the generator to completely run
out of fuel with devices attached. A generator’s
output may sharply spike as it runs out of fuel,
causing damage to attached devices.
Figure C: Unplug Load
3. When finished using the appliance/tool, turn it off
and unplug it from the AC Outlet on the Generator.
Stopping the Engine
1. To stop the engine in an emergency,
turn the Engine Switch off.
2. Under normal conditions, use the following procedure:
a. Remove all electrical load devices
from the Generator.
b. Turn the Engine Switch off.
c. Close the Fuel Valve.
TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ACCIDENTAL STARTING:
Turn the Power Switch of the equipment to its “OFF” position, wait for the engine to cool, and disconnect
the spark plug cap before performing any inspection, maintenance, or cleaning procedures.
TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM EQUIPMENT FAILURE:
Do not use damaged equipment. If abnormal noise, vibration, or excess
smoking occurs, have the problem corrected before further use.
Follow all service instructions in this manual. The engine may fail critically if not serviced properly.
Many maintenance procedures, including any not detailed in this manual, will need to be performed
by a qualified technician for safety. If you have any doubts about your ability to safely service the
equipment or engine, have a qualified technician service the equipment instead.
Cleaning, Maintenance, and Lubrication Schedule
Note: This maintenance schedule is intended solely as a general guide. If performance decreases or if
equipment operates unusually, check systems immediately. The maintenance needs of each piece of equipment
will differ depending on factors such as duty cycle, temperature, air quality, fuel quality, and other factors.
Note: The following procedures are in addition to the regular checks and maintenance
explained as part of the regular operation of the engine and equipment.
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
Procedure
Brush off outside of engine
Check engine fuel/oil mixture level
Check air cleaner
Check sediment cup
Change engine oil
Clean air filter
Check and clean spark plug
1. Check/adjust idle speed
2. Check/adjust valve clearance
3. Clean fuel tank, strainer
and carburetor
4. Clean carbon build-up from
combustion chamber
Replace fuel line if necessary
Before
Each Use
*Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
**These items should be serviced by a qualified technician.
Checking and Filling Fuel
WARNING! TO PREVENT SERIOUS
INJURY FROM FIRE:
Fill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area
away from ignition sources. If the engine is
hot from use, shut the engine off and wait
for it to cool before adding fuel. Do not smoke.
1. Clean the Fuel Cap and the area around it.
2. Unscrew and remove the Fuel Cap.
Monthly or
every 20
hr. of use
Every 3 mo. or
50 hr. of use
Every 6 mo. or
100 hr. of use
Yearly or
every 300
hr. of use
Every
2 Years
*
****
**
3. Remove the Strainer and remove any dirt
and debris. Then replace the Strainer.
Note: Do not use gasoline containing more than
10% ethanol (E10). Do not use E85 ethanol. Add fuel
stabilizer to the gasoline or the Warranty is VOID.
Note: Do not use gasoline that has been stored in a
metal fuel container or a dirty fuel container. It can
cause particles to enter the carburetor, affecting
engine performance and/or causing damage.
Fuel Tank is not filled with the proper mixture (50:1)
of stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle oil before each use. Before each use, check the fuel
level. Do not run the Engine with an improper unleaded
gasoline/2-cycle oil mixture. Running the Engine with an
SAFETYSETUPOPERATIONMAINTENANCE
improper mixture WILL permanently damage the Engine.
2.5 FLUID OUNCES
2-CYCLE OIL
1 GALLON
UNLEADED
GASOLINE
APPROVED
CONTAINER
Figure D: Fuel-Oil Mixture
4. To obtain the proper gasoline
and 2-cycle oil mixture, mix 2.5 fluid ounces of
2-cycle oil with 1 gallon of 87 octane or higher
unleaded gasoline that has been treated
with a fuel stabilizer additive into an approved
container. Then gently agitate the container
to thoroughly mix the gasoline/2-cycle oil.
5. If needed, fill the Fuel Tank to about 1
inch under the fill neck of the Fuel Tank
with the pre-mixed stabilizer-treated
unleaded gasoline/2-cycle oil mixture.
6. Then replace the Fuel Cap.
7. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess
to evaporate before starting engine.
To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine
while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.
Air Filter Maintenance
1. Remove the Air Cleaner Cover and the air filter(s)
and check for dirt. Clean as described below.
2. Cleaning:
• For paper filters:
To prevent injury from dust and debris,
wear ANSI-approved safety goggles,
NIOSH-approved dust mask/respirator, and
heavy-duty work gloves. In a well-ventilated
area away from bystanders, use pressurized
air to blow dust out of the filter.
• For foam filters:
Wash the filter in warm water and mild
detergent several times. Rinse. Squeeze out
excess water and allow it to dry completely.
Soak the filter in lightweight oil briefly,
then squeeze out the excess oil.
3. Install the cleaned filter(s). Secure the
Air Cleaner Cover before use.
Spark plug Maintenance
Spark
Plug
Cap
1.
Disconnect spark plug cap from end of plug.
Clean out debris from around spark plug.
2. Using a spark plug wrench, remove the spark plug.
3. Inspect the spark plug:
If the electrode is oily, clean it using a clean, dry rag.
If the electrode has deposits on it, polish it using
emery paper. If the white insulator is cracked or
chipped, the spark plug needs to be replaced.
Recommended Spark Plugs
BONON
NOTICE: Using an incorrect spark plug
may damage the engine.
4. When installing a new spark plug,
adjust the plug’s gap to the specification on the
Specifications chart. Do not pry against the
electrode, the spark plug can be damaged.
5. Install the new spark plug or
the cleaned spark plug into the engine.
• Gasket-style:
Finger-tighten until the gasket
contacts the cylinder head,
then tighten about 1/2-2/3 turn more.
• Non-gasket-style:
Finger-tighten until the plug
contacts the cylinder head,
then tighten about 1/16 turn more.
NOTICE: Tighten the spark plug properly.
If loose, the spark plug will cause the
engine to overheat.
If overtightened, the threads in the
engine block will be damaged.
6. Apply dielectric spark plug boot protector
(not included) to the end of the spark plug
and reattach the wire securely.