Instructions for Installation/Set-up, Operation, Servicing, & Storage
Portable, Outdoor Use-Only, Triple Fuel Generator
6,600 Watt Continuous (8,000 Watt Surge) Capacity
Can be used to power individual appliances plugged directly into the generator’s outlets, or as a back-up connection to a
building’s power supply (via a professionally installed UL-approved transfer switch.
SERIAL NUMBER: _____________
WARNING
READ and UNDERSTAND this manual completely before using the generator! Failure to properly set up,
operate, and maintain this generator could result in serious injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning,
electric shock, fire/explosion, or burns. In particular, be aware of the following hazards:
Generators give off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.
• ONLY run generator OUTDOORS and AWAY from building air intakes. NEVER run generator inside any enclosed or
semi-enclosed spaces, including homes, basements, garages, sheds , boxes , RVs, boats or pick-up truck beds. These
spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or open windows.
• Carbon monoxide is given off whether you are using gasoline, nat u ral gas, or propane to power the generator.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms inside nearby structures/buildin gs (bat t er y -o perat ed , or plug-in with battery backup).
Electric shock / Electrocution
• High voltage electricity from generator can kill. DO NOT operate in wet locations. Be sure generator is properly
grounded. Use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated grounded extension cords of proper size.
• NEVER plug the generator directly into a wall outlet. ANY connection to a building’s electrical system MUST
ISOLATE THE GENERATOR FROM UTILITY POWER via a UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed
electrician. Otherwise, back feed from the generator into the power grid could kill utility workers.
• DO NOT overload generator (per rated capacity), and OPERATE ONLY in an area with adequate cooling ventilation so
engine does not overheat. Exhaust can be extremely hot. Keep muffler at least 7’ from all combustible objects.
• All fuels are flammable. Never fuel a running or hot engine. Never pump fuel directly into generator at gas station – use
approved container to transfer fuel. Ensure there are no fuel leaks, and keep sources of sparks and flames away.
• LPG/NG hook-ups must be completed by a certified gas technician and comply with all federal and local requirements.
• ALWAYS keep a fire extinguisher rated “ABC” nearby.
CO Poisoning
Fire / Explosion
STOP!
CHOOSE THE RIGHT GENERATOR FOR YOUR NEEDS. See the “Power load Planning & Management” section
of this manual to determine your power load requirements and then compare to the generator’s rated capacity.
INSPECT COMPONENTS: Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged. See the “Unpacking
& Delivery Inspection” section for instructions on whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.
ARRANGE FOR PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION of transfer switch and/or NG/LPG hook-ups, if they will be used.
See the “Installation/Initial Set-Up” section for more information about these requirements.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders
Call NorthStar Product Support 1-800-270-0810
Hazard Signal Word Definitions
2
Table of Contents
Hazard Signal Word Definitions ................................................................................................. 2
About Your Generator ................................................................................................................. 4
Generator Head Exploded View..................................................................................................48
3
About Your Generator
Thank you for purchasing your NorthStar portable generator!
About Your Generator
This engine-driven, portable generator is designed to provide up to 8,000 Watts of
electrical power (6,600 watts continuous, 8,000 watts surge).
It can supply power:
1. As a portable power source
electrical outlets.
2. As a back-up, standby power source for a building. A licensed electrician can connect
the generator to your building’s electrical system via the installation of an UL-approved transfer switch. (See the “Installation & Initial Set-up” section of this manual to learn
more about specific requirements and precautions relating to wiring the generator to your
building’s electrical system.)
You must select a generator adequately sized for your power needs. You need to
determine the power needs of all the appliances/tools you wish to power at the same time and
choose a generator rated to provide at least that power level. See the “Power Load Planning &
Management” section of this manual to determine your specific power load requirements and
then compare them to this generator’s rated capacity. You must not overload the generator.
Overloading will cause damage to the generator and attached electrical devices, and may also
result in fire.
You can power this generator with gasoline, natural gas (NG), or propane (LP) gas. The
generator is designed so that it is easy to switch between fuel sources. However, there are
special initial hook-up requirements for natural gas and propane. See the “Specifications”
section of this manual with regard to specific gas flow and pressure requirements. In addition,
note the following:
♦ Natural gas. The standard delivery pressure provided to your building by your utility
company may not match the requirements of your generator.
a) If your standard delivery pressure is higher than allowable for this generator, you
may need to have a pressure-reducing regulator installed. (Note: The regulator
supplied with this generator is NOT a pressure-reducing regulator).
b) If your standard delivery pressure is lower than allowable for this generator, you
will need changes to your natural gas service to elevate the delivery pressure.
ALL natural gas hook-ups must be completed by trained personnel from your natural gas
utility company and inspected as required by your local building code.
♦ Propane (LP). You will need a minimum 100 lb. LPG gas tank to run this generator – the
vaporization rate is insufficient with smaller tank sizes. A qualified propane gas
technician must set up the valve and hose connection between the propane tank and
generator in accordance with all local regulations and electric code.
See the “Installation / Initial Set-Up: Step 3” section of this manual for more detailed
information.
Be sure to read about site selection and grounding requirements for running this
generator. More detailed information can be found in the “Installation & Initial Set-up, Steps
5 & 6” of this manual.
. You can plug appliances directly into the generator’s
4
About Your Generator (cont’d)
This generator is too heavy for one person to lift without mechanical assistance. An
optional wheel kit is available from NorthStar and is recommended if you will be moving the
generator unassisted. Other optional accessories available from NorthStar include a vi nyl
cover for storage, UL-approved transfer switches, and extension cords.
Contact NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810
with questions about optional accessories or to order.
Read this Manual
Improper use or maintenance of this generator can result in serious injury or death from
carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock/electrocution, fire/explosion, or burns.
Read this manual completely before using the generator and follow all instructions and
safety rules.
You must follow all instructions and safety precautions presented throughout this manual. A
summary of important safety information can be found at the end of the manual. Keep this
manual for reference and review.
Proper preparation, operation, and maintenance will result in operator safety, as well as best
performance and long life of the generator. For detailed engine operation and maintenance
information, always refer to the engine Owner’s Manual furnished with the generator.
NorthStar is constantly improving its products. The specifications outlined herein are subject
to change without prior notice or obligation. The purchaser and/or user shall assume liability
for any modification and/or alterations of this equipment from original design and
manufacture.
Before using, the user shall determine the suitability of this product for its intended use and
assumes liability therein.
Contact NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810
for any questions about the appropriate use of this generator.
WARNING
Warranty Registration
Please fill out and submit the warranty registration card so that we have your contact
information for any future product literature or replacement parts you may need.
ATTENTION:
All Rental Companies and Private Owners who loan this
equipment to others!
All persons to whom you rent/loan this generator must have access to and read this manual.
Keep this owner’s manual with the generator at all times and advise all persons who will
operate the machine to read it. You must also provide personal instruction on how to safely
operate the generator and remain available to answer any questions a renter/borrower might
have.
5
Specifications – Item #165938N
SPECIFICATIONS
Item Number #165938
Maximum Output 8000 Watts (W)
Continuous Output: Gasoline
Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG)
Natural Gas (NG)
Voltage 120 / 240 Volt (V)
Phase Single phase (4-wire)
Frequency Regulation 56.5 - 63.3 Hertz (Hz)
Voltage Regulation 110-129V
Power Factor 1.0 p.f.
Engine 13 HP Honda
Engine Speed 3390 - 3798 RPM
Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline/LPG/NG
Pressure Range (LPG, NG) (7-11 in H2O, 4-6 oz.)
Min. Flow Range (LPG, NG) (5.7 lb/hr-LPG, 2.0 CFM-NG)
Fuel Capacity 6.5 gallons (24.6 L)
Oil Capacity 1.16 US quarts (1.1 L)
Starting Method Electric/Recoil
120V Receptacle 15 Amp (A) duplex (NEMA 5-15R)
1) contain caustic acid, 2) em it explosive gases, 3) ca n cause electric shock
ALWAYS use eye protection. Caustic acid and explosive gases can cause blindness or severe burns.
NO smoking, sparks, or flames.
NEVER touch both battery terminals at the same time with your hand or any non-insulated tools.
FLUSH immediately with water if battery acid contacts eyes, skin, or clothing.
CONNECT cables in co rrect sequence: FIRS T RED to POSITIVE terminal, then BLACK to NEGATIVE
terminal. When disconne cting, DISCONNECT BLACK cable first, then RED.
NEVER charge a visibly damaged or frozen battery. ALWAYS read and follow charger instructions.
charge battery with a trickle charger that is rated for 3 amps maximum.
Always make sure safety labels are in place and in good condition. If a safety label is
missing or not legible, order new labels or unsafe operation could result.
To order replacement safety labels, call NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810.
WARNING - BATTERY HAZARDS
IF GENERATOR IS TO BE STORED LONGER THAN 2 MONTHS,
ATTENTION
A charged battery ensures reliable engine starting.
1 Gas Cap with Gauge 11 Super Silent Muffler
2 6.5 Gallon Gas Tank 12 Air Cleaner
3 Battery Box 13 Engine Key Switch
4 Circuit Breakers 14 Fuel Valve
5 120V 15A Duplex Receptacle 15 Choke Lever
6 Fuel Selector Switch 16 Recoil
7 120V 20A Duplex Receptacle 17 LPG / NG - 3/4” NPT Inlet
8 120/240V 30A Locking Receptacle 18 Demand Regulator
9 Vibration Isolation Mounts 19 Generator Head
10 Oil Drain Plug
Figure 2 (Ref. 13-19)
8
Machine Component Identification - Item #165938N
REFERENCE GUIDE
Reference 1 – Gas Cap with
Gauge
Reference 2 – 6.5 Gallon Gas
Tank
Reference 3 – Battery Box
Reference 4 – Circuit Breakers
Reference 5 – 120V 15A Duplex
Receptacle
Reference 6 – Fuel Selector
Switch
Reference 7 – 120V 20A Duplex
Receptacle
Reference 8 – 120/240V 30A
Locking Receptacle
The gas cap is extra large, creating a large hole for
refilling and a comfortable grip. You can always
monitor the fuel level without removing the cap by
using the fuel level indicator built into the gas cap.
Large tank allows for extended run capabilities.
Always allow room for gasoline expansion by not
filling the gas tank completely full.
The battery box provides protection for the battery and
will accept a standard lawn tractor size battery (Group
U1-7). The engine requires a 12 volts d.c. battery, with
a minimum rating of 18Ah (Amp-Hour). See battery
section for sizing.
This portable single phase generator has 1-15 amp
(A), 2-20 amp (A), and 2-30 amp (A) push to reset
circuit breakers to protect against electrical overloads.
The generator has a control panel with two duplex (two
receptacles in a common housing) receptacles. This
duplex is a 120 volt (V) 15 amp (A) straight blade
receptacle, National Electrical Manufacturer’s
Association (NEMA) number 5-15R. This receptacle
accepts NEMA plug number 5-15P. The duplex is
capable of drawing 15A out of either receptacle or a
combination of both.
Switching from LP or NG to gasoline:
1. Disconnect all loads to generator.
2. Turn the gas line valve to ON position.
3. Flip the fuel selection switch to the GASOLINE
position.
Switching from gasoline to LP or NG:
1. Disconnect all loads to generator.
2. Make sure LP or NG fuel is being supplied.
3. Flip the fuel selection switch to the NONE position.
4. Wait for the engine to begin sputtering, this
indicates the engine is being starved of
gasoline. Do not choke the engine when
switching to LP/NG fuel.
5. Flip the fuel selection switch to the LP/NG
position.
6. Momentary sputtering is common. If engine
stops running, turn the ignition key to restart
the engine.
7. Turn gasoline line valve to OFF position.
The second duplex is a 120V 20A straight blade
receptacle, National Electrical Manufacturer’s
Association (NEMA) number 5-20R. This receptacle
accepts NEMA plug numbers 5-15P and 5-20P. Each
receptacle on this duplex is capable of drawing 20A.
The locking device is a 120/240V 30A NEMA L14-30R
receptacle. This receptacle accepts a NEMA plug
number L14-30P.
9
Machine Component Identification - Item #165938N
Reference 9 – Vibration
Isolation Mounts
Reference 10 – Oil Drain Plug
Reference 11 – Super Silent
Muffler
Reference 12 – Air Cleaner
Reference 18 – Demand
Regulator
Reference 19 – Generator Head
The engine and generator are mounted on rubber
cylinders that absorb most of the engine vibration.
This feature eliminates the tendency of the machine to
“walk” which is common in engine powered equipment.
Refer to your Honda engine manual for oil change
recommendations.
Noise level is 8 dB less than Honda’s standard muffler.
Refer to your Honda engine manual for air cleaner
care.
The engine key is located on the engine. Always
locate this switch and be familiar with its location
before operating the generator. Consult the Honda
engine owner’s manual for further instructions.
The engine has an ON-OFF valve mounted on the
front of the engine. Always keep this valve closed
when the generator is not in use.
Used during cold starts. The choke is only used with
gasoline fuel. Refer to Honda engine manual for
usage.
Grasp firmly when starting engine.
Before you start engine, smell next to floor for gas, if
you do smell gas:
• DO NOT start engine.
• DO NOT light a match.
• DO NOT flip on an electrical switch.
• Exit area immediately and call gas supplier or
fire department.
Minimum flow range required: NG - 2.0 CFM,
LPG - 5.7 lb/hr.
Pressure Range: 4-6 ounces, OR 7-11 inches of water
column. NEVER over pressurize.
Supplies the engine LP or NG fuel only if the engine is
running.
The electricity producing part of the generator.
10
Power Load Planning & Management
WARNING
NEVER exceed the rated wattage capacity of your generator.
OVERLOADING may cause SERIOUS DAMAGE to the generator and
attached electrical devices, and may result in fire.
Your generator MUST BE SIZED PROPERLY to provide both the running and starting (surge)
wattage of the devices you will be powering. Before using your generator, determine the running
and starting wattage requirements of all the electrical devices you will be poweringsimultaneously.
The sum of the running and starting wattages of the devices being powered must not exceed the
continuous output rating of your generator. (The continuous output rating of your generator is listed
in the “Specifications” section of this manual.) Note that:
• Devices without electric motors such as light bulbs, radios, and televisions have the same
running and starting wattage.
• Devices with electric motors such as refrigerators, compressors, and hand tools typically
require a starting wattage that is 3 to 5 times greater than the running wattage.
The running and starting wattage requirements are often listed on a device’s nameplate. If wattage
is not given on the device’s nameplate, the wattage may be calculated by multiplying the nameplate
voltage by nameplate amperage, Watts = Volts X Amps.
Example conversion to watts:
120 Volts X 5 Amps = 600 Watts
If only the running voltage is given on the nameplate for a device with an electric motor, the starting
wattage can be approximated to be three to five times the running wattage.
Estimates for the running wattage requirements for common devices are listed in Table 1 below.
Guidance for starting wattages is provided in the table’s footnotes.
Table 1
Device
Air conditioner (12.000 BTU) 1700 (a,b) Jet pump 800 (a)
Battery charger (20 Amp) 500 Lawn mower 1200
Belt sander (3”) 1000 Light bulb (100 Watt) 100
Chain saw 1200 Microwave oven 700
Circular saw (6½”) 2000 (a,b) Milk cooler 1100 (a)
Coffee maker 1800 (a,b) Oil burner on furnace 300
Compressor (1 HP) 1400 (a,b) Oil-fired space heater (140,000 Btu) 400
Compressor (3/4 HP) 1800 (a) Oil-fired space heater (85,000 Btu) 225
Compressor (1/2 HP) 1400 (a) Oil-fired space heater (30,000 Btu) 150
Curling iron 700 Oven 4500
Dishwasher 1200 Paint sprayer, Airless (1/3 HP) 600 (a)
Edge trimmer 500 Paint sprayer, Airless (handheld) 150
Electric nail gun 1200 Radio 200
Electric range (1 element) 1500 Refrigerator 600 (b)
Electric skillet 1250 Slow cooker 200
Furnace fan (1/3 HP) 1200 (a) Submersible pump (1-1/2 HP) 2800 (a)
Running
Watts Device
Running
Watts
11
Power Load Planning & Management (cont’d)
Device
Freezer 800 (b) Submersible pump (1 HP) 2000 (a)
Hair dryer 1200 Submersible pump (1/2 HP) 1500 (a)
Hand drill (1”) 1100 Sump pump 600 (a)
Hand drill (1/2”) 875 Table saw 2000 (a)
Hand drill (3/8”) 500 Television 500
Hand drill (1/4”) 250 Toaster 1000
Hedge trimmer 450 Vacuum cleaner 250
Home computer 150 VCR 70
Impact wrench 500 Water Heater 3000
Weed trimmer 500
(a) Hard-starting motors require 3-5 times the rated running watts
(b) For extremely hard to start loads such as air conditioners and air compressors, consult the equipment
dealer to determine maximum wattage
Running
Watts Device
Running
Watts
To calculate the running and starting wattage requirements for the devices you will be
powering, follow these steps:
1. Make a list of all electrical devices you will be powering at the same time with the generator.
2. List the greater of the running or starting wattage next to each device as obtained from the
devices’ nameplate or Table 1. If only the running wattage for a device with an electric
motor is known, the starting wattage can be estimated to be at least 3 times the running
wattage.
3. Add the wattages for all devices on your list. This total must be lower than the continuous
output rating of your generator.
Example:
Device to be Powered
Light Bulb 75 W
Refrigerator – 18 Cu. Ft. 1600 W
Microwave 700 W
Window AC 1800 W
Sump pump (1/3 hp) 2100 W
Total 6275W
In this example, the generator must have a continuous output of at least 6275 W in order to power all
of the devices simultaneously.
STAGGERING LOADS
Greater of Starting/Running
Wattage
You can increase the number of devices your generator can power by staggering the load on the
generator. For example, you could alternately power your refrigerator and air conditioner for
limited periods of time -- powering only one of the devices at a time and never powering both at the
same time.
12
Installation / Initial Set-Up
There are a number of important steps required to set up your generator for initial use. These
steps are:
Steps for Installation / Initial Set-Up
1. Unpacking & delivery inspection.
2. Planning the power load to stay within the generator’s rated
capacity.
3. Getting gas hook-ups installed if natural gas or LP gas will be used as
a fuel source.
4. Setting up generator for the type of power generation you need:
a. portable power source, or
b. connected to a building as a back-up power source.
You should inspect the generator immediately after you receive delivery.
See the “Machine Component Identification” section of this manual for a
• If you have missing components, contact Product Support at 1-800-270-0810.
• If you have damaged components, contact the freight company that delivered the unit and file a
Plan your power load so that you do not exceed the generator’s rated capacity.
See the “Power Load Planning & Management” section of this manual to review how to plan and
manage power loads for the generator.
diagram of the generator and its components.
claim.
2. Planning the Power Load
13
Installation / Initial Set-Up
3. Gas Hook-up Installation for Natural Gas or LPG (if needed)
You can power this generator with gasoline, natural gas (NG), or propane (LP) gas. The generator
is designed so that it is easy to switch between fuel sources. However, there are special initial
hook-up requirements for natural gas and propane:
WARNING:
If you choose to operate the generator on NG or LPG, you must have the fuel line system
installed by a certified gas technician.
Specific requirements for each type of hook-up are given below:
Natural Gas (NG)
Hook-up
Contact your gas utility company for installation of a natural gas hookup for the generator.
WARNING:
Natural gas is a highly explosive gas. All natural gas hook-ups must
be completed by trained personnel from your natural gas utility
company and inspected as required by your local building code.
♦ This product is designed to operate on NG at a gas pressure range of 4 to
6 ounces per square inch (7”-11” of water column) and requires a
minimum NG flow rate of 3.25 CFM.
♦ The standard gas pressure normally delivered to your building by your
utility company may be higher or lower than the required 4-6 ounces per
square inch (7”-11” of water column):
o If your standard delivery pressure exceeds 4-6 ounces per square
inch (7”-11” water column), you will need a pressure-reducing
regulator installed. Excessive gas pressure will permanently
damage this product and void the warranty if the generator is not
installed correctly with a pressure-reducing regulator as needed.
Note: The regulator supplied with this product is NOT a
o If your standard delivery pressure is lower than 4-6 ounces per
square inch (7”-11” water column), you will need changes to your
natural gas service to provide elevated delivery pressure. In
addition you will need to have a pressure-reducing devices installed
for your other natural gas appliances.
Propane (LPG)
Hook-up
Contact your local propane supplier to install a propane fuel system for
the generator.
WARNING:
LPG is a highly explosive gas. A qualified propane technician must
make the valve and hose connection between the propane tank and
generator in accordance with all local regulations and electrical codes.
All LPG hook-ups should be completed by trained personnel from
propane supplier and inspected as required by your local building
code.
pressure-reducing regulator, but one can be supplied
and installed by your gas utility technician at the time
of fuel system hook-up.
14
Installation / Initial Set-Up
♦ This product is designed to operate at an LPG gas pressure range of 7” to
11” of water column and requires a minimum LPG gas flow rate of 9.33
lb/hr, 2.2 Gal/hr, or 201,718 BTU/hr.
Note: All gas cylinders produce gas pressure in excess of 11” water
column. Introduction of gas pressure into the generator in
excess of 11” water column will permanently damage this
product and void the warranty. You will need a pressurereducing regulator installed as part of your LP gas fuel system.
♦ You will need a minimum 100 lb. LPG gas tank to operate the
generator.
This generator will not work with 20-lb gas cylinders used in gas grills
and recreational equipment, or 40-lb gas cylinders used in forklifts and
tractors. These smaller gas tanks do not have a sufficient vaporization
rate to run the generator.
Some installations may require tanks even larger than 100-lb as a result
of low surrounding air temperature and other appliances drawing fuel
from the same tank.
15
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