HONDA EU2000i User Manual

Owner’s Manual

GENERATOR

EU2000i

See page 82 for

o2001-2009 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. -All Rights Reserved Initial Use Instructions

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can build up to dangerous levels in closed areas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause unconsciousness or death.

Never run the generator in a closed, or even partly closed area where people may be present.

Keep this owner’s manual handy so that you can refer to it at any time. This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the generator and should remain with the generator if resold.

The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever.

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your selection of a Honda generator. We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the finest generators on the market.

We want to help you get the best results from your new generator and to operate it safely. This manual contains all the information on how to do that; please read it carefully.

As you read this manual, you will find information preceded by a symbol. That information is intended to help you avoid

damage to your generator, other property, or the environment.

We suggest you read the Distributor’s Limited Warranty (see page 76 ) to fully understand its coverage and your responsibilities of ownership.

When your generator needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda servicing dealer is specially trained in servicing Honda generators and is supported by the parts and service divisions of American Honda. Your Honda servicing dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer your questions and concerns.

Best Wishes,

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

1

A FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. And using this generator safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining a generator. You must use your own good judgement.

You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including:

Safety Labels on the generator.

Safety Messages preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three signal words, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.

These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

Safety Headings such as IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.

Safety Section such as GENERAT OR SAF ET Y .

Instructions how to use this generator correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information please read it carefully.

2

CONTENTS
GENERATOR SAFETY................................................................................	.6
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ..................................................	.6
Operator Responsibility......................................................................	.6
Carbon Monoxide Hazards.................................................................	.6
Electric Shock Hazards .......................................................................	.7
Fire and Burn Hazards ........................................................................	.7
Refuel With Care .................................................................................	.8
SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS .................................................................	.9
CONTROLS & FEATURES.........................................................................	11
COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS ............................................	11
CONTROLS.............................................................................................	13
Engine Switch.....................................................................................	13
Starter Grip .........................................................................................	13
Fuel Tank Cap Vent Lever..................................................................	14
Choke Lever ........................................................................................	14
Eco-Throttle Switch ...........................................................................	15
Parallel Operation Outlets .................................................................	15
AC Circuit Protector ...........................................................................	16
DC Receptacle ....................................................................................	16
DC Circuit Protector ...........................................................................	16
FEATURES..............................................................................................	17
Ground Terminal................................................................................	17
Output Indicator .................................................................................	18
Overload Indicator .............................................................................	18
Oil Alert Indicator ...............................................................................	19
BEFORE OPERATION ................................................................................	20
ARE YOU READY TO GET STARTED? .................................................	20
Knowledge..........................................................................................	20
IS YOUR GENERATOR READY TO GO?...............................................	20
Check the Engine................................................................................	21

3

CONTENTS
OPERATION ...............................................................................................	22
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS ......................................................	22
STARTING THE ENGINE .......................................................................	23
STOPPING THE ENGINE .......................................................................	26
AC OPERATION......................................................................................	28
AC Applications..................................................................................	30
AC PARALLEL OPERATION ..................................................................	31
AC Parallel Operation Applications..................................................	32
DC OPERATION......................................................................................	34
ECO-THROTTLE SYSTEM .....................................................................	37
STANDBY POWER.................................................................................	38
Connections to a Building’s Electrical System................................	38
System Ground ..................................................................................	38
Special Requirements........................................................................	39
SERVICING YOUR GENERATOR..............................................................	40
THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE ..............................................	40
MAINTENANCE SAFETY.......................................................................	41
Safety Precautions .............................................................................	41
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE .................................................................	42
REFUELING ............................................................................................	43
FUEL RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................	45
ENGINE OIL LEVEL CHECK ...................................................................	46
ENGINE OIL CHANGE............................................................................	48
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS.....................................................	49
AIR CLEANER SERVICE.........................................................................	50
MAIN AND OUTER FILTER CLEANING................................................	52
SPARK PLUG SERVICE..........................................................................	53
SPARK ARRESTER SERVICE.................................................................	55
STORAGE...................................................................................................	57
STORAGE PREPARATION.....................................................................	57
Cleaning..............................................................................................	57
Fuel......................................................................................................	57
Engine Oil ...........................................................................................	61
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS ....................................................................	62
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE.................................................................	62

4

	CONTENTS
TRANSPORTING ......................................................................................		.63
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS.......................................	.	64
ENGINE WILL NOT START...................................................................	.	64
ENGINE LACKS POWER.......................................................................	.	65
NO POWER AT THE AC RECEPTACLES..............................................	.	66
NO POWER AT THE DC RECEPTACLES..............................................	.	66
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION..........................................	.	67
TECHNICAL INFORMATION ................................................................	.	67
Serial Number Location ...................................................................	.	67
Carburetor Modification for High Altitude Operation.....................		68
Emission Control System Information............................................	.	69
Air Index.............................................................................................	.	71
Specifications ....................................................................................	.	72
Wiring Diagram.................................................................................	.	73
CONSUMER INFORMATION ...............................................................	.	74
Dealer Locator Information ..............................................................	.	74
Honda Publications...........................................................................	.	74
Customer Service Information.........................................................	.	75
Distributor’s Limited Warranty ........................................................	.	76
Emission Control System Warranty................................................	.	77
INITIAL USE INSTRUCTIONS..................................................................	.	82
ENGINE OIL ...........................................................................................	.	82
FUEL.......................................................................................................	.	83
BEFORE OPERATION ...........................................................................	.	86
INDEX ........................................................................................................	.	87
QUICK REFERENCE INFORMATION ..............................	Inside back cover

5

GENERATOR SAFETY

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Honda generators are designed for use with electrical equipment that has suitable power requirements. Other uses can result in injury to the operator or damage to the generator and other property.

Most injuries or property damage can be prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the generator. The most common hazards are discussed below, along with the best way to protect yourself and others.

Operator Responsibility

Know how to stop the generator quickly in case of emergency.

Understand the use of all generator controls, output receptacles, and connections.

Be sure that anyone who operates the generator receives proper instruction. Do not let children operate the generator without parental supervision.

Carbon Monoxide Hazards

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and may lead to death.

If you run the generator in an area that is confined, or even partly enclosed area, the air you breathe could contain a dangerous amount of exhaust gas.

Never run your generator inside a garage, house, or near open windows or doors.

6

GENERATOR SAFETY

Electric Shock Hazards

The generator produces enough electric power to cause a serious shock or electrocution if misused.

Using a generator or electrical appliance in wet conditions, such as rain or snow, or near a pool or sprinkler system, or when your hands are wet, could result in electrocution. Keep the generator dry.

If the generator is stored outdoors, unprotected from the weather, check all of the electrical components on the control panel before each use. Moisture or ice can cause a malfunction or short circuit in electrical components that could result in electrocution.

Do not connect to a building’s electrical system unless an isolation switch has been installed by a qualified electrician.

For parallel operation, use only a Honda approved parallel operation cable kit (optional equipment) when connecting one EU2000i to either an EU2000i Companion or another EU2000i generator.

Never connect different generator models.

Fire and Burn Hazards

The exhaust system gets hot enough to ignite some materials.Keep the generator at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from buildings

and other equipment during operation.

Do not enclose the generator in any structure.Keep flammable materials away from the generator.

The muffler becomes very hot during operation and remains hot for a while after stopping the engine. Be careful not to touch the muffler while it is hot. Let the engine cool before storing the generator indoors.

7

GENERATOR SAFETY

Refuel With Care

Gasoline is extremely flammable, and gasoline vapor can explode. Allow the engine to cool if the generator has been in operation. Refuel only outdoors in a well-ventilated area with the engine OFF. Do not overfill the fuel tank. Never smoke near gasoline, and keep other flames and sparks away. Always store gasoline in an approved container. Make sure that any spilled fuel has been wiped up before starting the engine.

8

GENERATOR SAFETY

SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS

These labels warn you of potential hazards that can cause serious injury. Read them carefully. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda servicing dealer for a replacement.

California type

Non-California type

9

GENERATOR SAFETY

10

CONTROLS & FEATURES

COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS

Use the illustrations on these pages to locate and identify the most frequently used controls.

PARALLEL OPERATION OUTLETS

ECO-THROTTLE SWITCH

AC RECEPTACLES

OIL ALERT INDICATOR

OVERLOAD INDICATOR

DC RECEPTACLE OUTPUT INDICATOR

DC CIRCUIT PROTECTOR AC CIRCUIT PROTECTOR

GROUND TERMINAL

CHOKE LEVER	FUEL TANK CAP VENT LEVER

FUEL TANK CAP

MAINTENANCE COVER

STARTER GRIP

ENGINE SWITCH

11

CONTROLS & FEATURES

SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE COVER

SPARK PLUG

MUFFLER

FRAME SERIAL NUMBER

AIR CLEANER

12

CONTROLS & FEATURES

CONTROLS

Engine Switch

ENGINE

SWITCH

The engine switch controls the ignition system and the fuel valve.

OFF Stops the engine and closes the fuel valve.

ON Running position; opens the fuel valve and allows the engine to be started.

Starter Grip

Pulling the starter grip operates the recoil starter to crank the engine.

Do not allow the starter grip to

snap back against the generator. STARTER GRIP Return it gently to prevent

damage to the starter.

ON

OFF

13

CONTROLS & FEATURES

Fuel Tank Cap Vent Lever

The fuel tank cap is provided with a vent lever to seal the fuel tank.

The vent lever must be in the ON position for the engine to run.

When the engine is not in use, leave the vent lever in the OFF position to reduce the possibility of fuel leakage. Allow the engine to cool well before turning the vent lever to the OFF position.

NON-CALIFORNIA TYPE		CALIFORNIA TYPE
OFF	ON	OFF	ON

FUEL TANK CAP	FUEL TANK CAP
FUEL TANK CAP VENT LEVER	FUEL TANK CAP VENT LEVER

Choke Lever

The choke is used to provide	CHOKE LEVER
proper starting mixture when the
engine is cold. It can be opened
and closed by operating the choke
lever manually. Move the choke
lever to the CLOSED position to
enrich the mixture for cold	OPEN
starting.
	CLOSED

14

CONTROLS & FEATURES

Eco-ThrottleTM Switch

The Eco-ThrottleTM system automatically reduces engine speed when loads are turned off or disconnected. When appliances are turned on or reconnected, the engine returns to the proper speed to power the electrical load.

If high electrical loads are connected simultaneously, turn the Eco-Throttle switch to the OFF position to reduce voltage changes. When using the DC output, turn the Eco-Throttle switch to the OFF position.

ON: Recommended to minimize fuel consumption and further reduce noise levels when less than a full load is applied to the generator.

OFF: The Eco-Throttle system does not operate.

ECO-THROTTLE SWITCH

OFF

ON

Parallel Operation Outlets

These outlets are used for connecting the EU2000i to either an EU2000i Companion or another EU2000i generator for parallel operation (see page 31). A Honda approved parallel operation cable kit (optional equipment) is required for parallel operation. This kit can be purchased from an authorized Honda generator dealer.

PARALLEL OPERATION OUTLETS

15

CONTROLS & FEATURES

AC Circuit Protector

The AC circuit protector will automatically switch OFF if there is a short circuit or a significant overload of the generator at the AC receptacles. If the circuit protector switches OFF automatically, check that the appliance is working properly and does not exceed the rated load capacity of the circuit before resetting the circuit protector ON.

AC RECEPTACLES

AC CIRCUIT PROTECTOR

ON
OFF	PUSH

AC CIRCUIT PROTECTOR

DC Receptacle

The DC receptacle should ONLY be used for charging 12-volt automotive type batteries. The DC charging output is not regulated.

DC Circuit Protector

The DC circuit protector automatically shuts off the DC battery charging circuit when the DC charging circuit is overloaded, when there is a problem with the battery, or when the connections between the battery and the generator are improper. However, the circuit protector does not prevent overcharging.

DC RECEPTACLE

OFF PUSH

ON

DC CIRCUIT PROTECTOR

16

CONTROLS & FEATURES

FEATURES

Ground Terminal

The generator ground terminal is connected to the frame of the generator, the metal non-current-carrying parts of the generator, and the ground terminals of each receptacle.

Before using the ground terminal, consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or local agency having jurisdiction for local codes or ordinances that apply to the intended use of the generator.

GROUND TERMINAL

17

CONTROLS & FEATURES

Output Indicator

The output indicator (green) is illuminated when the generator is operating normally. It indicates that the generator is producing electrical power at the receptacles.

OUTPUT INDICATOR (GREEN)

Overload Indicator

If the generator is overloaded (in excess of 2.0 kVA), or if there is a short circuit in a connected appliance, the overload indicator (red) will come ON. The overload indicator (red) will stay ON, and after about four seconds, current to the connected appliance(s) will shut off, and the output indicator (green) will go OFF. However, the engine will continue to run.

OVERLOAD INDICATOR (RED)

18

CONTROLS & FEATURES

Oil Alert Indicator

The Oil Alert system is designed to prevent engine damage caused by an insufficient amount of oil in the crankcase. Before the oil level in the crankcase can fall below a safe limit, the Oil Alert indicator (red) comes on and the Oil Alert system automatically will stop the engine (the engine switch will remain in the ON position).

If the engine stops or the Oil Alert indicator (red) comes on when you pull the starter grip, check the engine oil level (see page 46 ) before troubleshooting in other areas.

OIL ALERT INDICATOR (RED)

19

BEFORE OPERATION

ARE YOU READY TO GET STARTED?

Your safety is your responsibility. A little time spent in preparation will significantly reduce your risk of injury.

Knowledge

Read and understand this manual. Know what the controls do and how to operate them.

Familiarize yourself with the generator and its operation before you begin using it. Know how to quickly shut off the generator in case of an emergency.

If the generator is being used to power appliances, be sure that they do not exceed the generator’s load rating (see pages 30 and 32 ).

IS YOUR GENERATOR READY TO GO?

For your safety, and to maximize the service life of your equipment, it is very important to take a few moments before you operate the generator to check its condition. Be sure to take care of any problem you find, or have your servicing dealer correct it, before you operate the generator.

Improperly maintaining this generator, or failing to correct a problem before operation, could cause a malfunction in which you could be seriously injured.

Always perform a pre-operation inspection before each operation, and correct any problem.

20

BEFORE OPERATION

To prevent a possible fire, keep the generator at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from building walls and other equipment during operation. Do not place flammable objects close to the engine.

Before beginning your pre-operation checks, be sure the generator is on a level surface and the engine switch is in the OFF position.

Check the Engine

Check the oil level (see page 46 ). A low oil level will cause the Oil Alert system to shut down the engine.

Check the air filter (see page 50 ). A dirty air filter will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine and generator performance.

Check the fuel level (see page 43 ). Starting with a full tank will help to eliminate or reduce operating interruptions for refueling.

21

OPERATION

SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS

Before operating the generator for the first time, review chapters

GENERATOR SAFETY (see page 6 ) and BEFORE OPERATION (see page 20 ).

For your safety, do not operate the generator in an enclosed area such as a garage. Your generator’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can collect rapidly in an enclosed area and cause illness or death.

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can build up to dangerous levels in closed areas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause unconsciousness or death.

Never run the generator in a closed, or even partly closed area where people may be present.

Before connecting an AC appliance or power cord to the generator:

Use grounded 3-prong extension cords, tools, and appliances, or double-insulated tools and appliances.

Inspect cords and plugs, and replace if damaged.

Make sure that the appliance is in good working order. Faulty appliances or power cords can create a potential for electric shock.

Make sure the electrical rating of the tool or appliance does not exceed that of the generator. Never exceed the maximum power rating of the generator. Power levels between rated and maximum may be used for no more than 30 minutes.

Operate the generator at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from buildings and other equipment.

Do not operate the generator in an enclosed structure.

22

OPERATION

STARTING THE ENGINE

To prevent a possible fire, keep the generator at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from building walls and other equipment during operation. Do not place flammable objects close to the engine.

Operating this generator less than 3 feet (1 meter) from a building or other obstruction can cause overheating and damage the generator. For proper cooling, allow at least 3 feet (1 meter) of empty space above and around the generator.

Refer to SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS on page 22 and perform the

IS YOUR GENERATOR READY TO GO checks (see page 20 ). Refer to the AC OPERATION (see page 28 ) or DC OPERATION (see page 34 ) for connecting loads to the generator.

1.Make sure that all appliances connected to the generator are turned off. The generator may be hard to start if a load is connected.

2.Turn the fuel tank cap vent lever to the ON position.

NON-CALIFORNIA TYPE

CALIFORNIA TYPE

ON

ON

FUEL TANK CAP VENT LEVER

FUEL TANK CAP VENT LEVER

23

OPERATION

3.Make sure the Eco-Throttle switch is in the OFF position, or more time will be required for warm-up.

4.To start a cold engine, move the choke lever to the CLOSED position. To restart a warm engine, leave the choke lever in the OPEN position.

ECO-THROTTLE SWITCH

OFF

CHOKE LEVER

CLOSED

5.Turn the engine switch to the ON position.

ON

ENGINE SWITCH

24

OPERATION

6.Pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly in the direction of the arrow as shown.

Do not allow the starter grip to snap back against the generator. Return it gently to prevent damage to the starter.

7.If the choke lever was moved to the CLOSED position to start the engine, gradually move it to the OPEN position as the engine warms up.

8.If you wish to use the Eco-Throttle system, turn the Eco-Throttle switch to the ON position after the engine has warmed up for 2 or 3 minutes.

Direction to pull

STARTER GRIP

CHOKE LEVER

OPEN

ECO-THROTTLE SWITCH

ON

25

OPERATION

STOPPING THE ENGINE

To stop the engine in an emergency, simply turn the engine switch to the OFF position. Under normal conditions, use the following procedure.

1.Turn off or disconnect all appliances connected to the generator.

2.Turn the engine switch to the OFF position.

ENGINE SWITCH	OFF

3.Allow the engine to cool, and then turn the fuel tank cap vent lever to the OFF position.

NON-CALIFORNIA TYPE

CALIFORNIA TYPE

OFF

OFF

FUEL TANK CAP VENT LEVER

FUEL TANK CAP VENT LEVER

26

OPERATION

4.If two generators were connected for parallel operation, disconnect the parallel operation cable after stopping the engines if you do not wish to resume parallel operation.

PARALLEL OPERATION KIT (optional equipment)

27