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.
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 pr opane 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..................................................................................................50
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 8000 Watts of
electrical power (10,500 watts continuous, 13,000 watts surge).It can supply power:
1. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances directly into the generator’s
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.
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 vinyl
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 #165939J
SPECIFICATIONS
Item Number #165939
Maximum Output 13500 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 218 - 258 V
Power Factor 1.0 p.f.
Engine 20 HP Honda
Engine Speed 3390 - 3798 RPM
Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline/LPG/NG
Pressure Range (LPG, NG) 7-11” Water Column, 4-6 oz.
Min. Flow Range (LPG, NG) 2.2 Gal/Hr (LPG), 3.25 CFM (NG)
Fuel Capacity 10.0 Gallons (38.0 L)
Oil Capacity See Honda Manual
Starting Method Electric
120V Receptacle 20 Amp (A) duplex (NEMA 5-20R)
120/240V Receptacle 30 Amp (A) locking device
50 Amp (A) straight blade (NEMA 14-50R)
Circuit Breaker (1) 50 Amp (A) thermal magnetic
(1) 30 Amp (A) thermal magnetic
(1) 30 Amp (A) thermal, push to reset
(2) 30 Amp (A) thermal, push to reset
Battery (not included) 12 Volt, 400 CCA minimum,
Dimensions
1) contain caustic acid, 2) em it e xplosive gases, 3) can cause electric shock
ALWAYS use eye protection. Caustic acid and ex plosive gas es 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 w at er if ba ttery acid c ontacts eyes, skin, or clothing.
CONNECT cables in correct sequence: FIRST R E D to POSITIVE terminal, then BLACK to NEGATIVE
terminal. When disconnecting, DISCONNECT BLA CK cable first, then RED.
NEVER charge a visibly damaged or frozen battery. ALWAYS read and follow charger instructions.
IF GENERATO R IS TO BE STORED L O N G E R T H A N 2 M O N T HS,
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
ATTENTION
A charged battery ensures reliable engine starting.
Reference 1 – Air Cleaner
Reference 2 – Gas Cap with Gauge
Reference 3 – 10.0 Gallon Gas Tank Large tank allows for extended run capabilities. Always allo w
Reference 4 – Battery Box
Reference 5 - LPG/NG-3/4” NPT Gas
Inlet
Reference 6 - 120/240V, 50A, Circuit
Breaker
Reference 7 - 120/240V, 50A
Receptacle
Reference 8 - 120/240V, 30A
Receptacle
Reference 9 - 120/240V, 30A, Circuit
Breaker
Reference 10 - 120V, 30A Receptacle
Reference 11 - 120V, 30A Circuit
Breaker
Reference 12 - 120V, 20A Circuit
Breaker
Refer to your Honda engine manual for air cleaner care.
The gas cap is extra large, creating a large hole for refueling
and a comfortable grip. You can always monitor the fu el level
without removing the cap by using the fuel level indicator built
into the gas cap.
room for gasoline expansion by not filling the gas tank
completely full.
The battery box provides protection for the battery and will accept
the standard lawn tractor size battery (Group U1-7). The engine
requires a 12 volts battery. See battery section for sizing.
WARNING Hookup must comply with the Federal and Local
jurisdiction of Liquid Petroleum (LP) and Natural Gas (NG).
ALWAYS have a qualified technician complete the LP/NG
hookup. Improper installation can cause injury or death. LP/NG
are lethal and explosive gases. If you smell gas, exit area
immediately, if possible shut off the LP/NG supply. 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 - 3.25 CFM;
LPG - 9.33 LB/hr., or 2.2 GAL/hr.
Pressure Range: 4-6 ounces, OR 7-11 inches of water column.
NEVER over pressurize.
This portable generator has one 120/240 volt, 50 Amp thermal
magnetic 2 pole circuit breaker. This circuit breaker is the main
line circuit breaker and will sever power to the control panel
receptacles when in the off or tripped position. To reset this circuit
breaker, move the circuit breaker handle to the OFF position.
Then move the breaker handle to the ON position. If the circuit
breaker continues to trip, reduce load to the generator. If
nuisance tripping continues one or more electrical loads may be
defective and must be repaired by a qualified electrician.
The generator control panel has one 120/240 volt, 50 amp NEMA
14-50R receptacle. This receptacle is protected by Reference 6.
The mating plug for this receptacle is a NEMA 14-50P. This
receptacle is useful when installing a transfer switch.
The generator control panel has one 120/240 volt, 30 amp
NEMA L14-30R locking device receptacle. This receptacle is
protected by Reference 9. The mating plug for this receptacle is
a NEMA L14-30P.
This generator has one 120/240 volt, 30 Amp thermal magnetic
2 pole circuit breaker. To reset this circuit breaker, move the
circuit breaker handle to the OFF position. Then move the
breaker handle to the ON position.
The control panel has one 120 volt, 30 amp NEMA L5-30R
receptacle. This receptacle is protected by Reference 11. The
mating plug for this receptacle is a NEMA L5-30P.
The generator control panel has a 120-volt, 30 amp thermal
circuit breaker. To reset the circuit breaker, wait 15 seconds
and press the extended button back into the circuit breaker
housing.
The generator control panel has two 120 volt, 20 amp thermal
circuit breakers. To reset the circuit breaker, wait 15 seconds
9
Machine Component Identification - Item #165939J
and press the extended button back into the circuit breaker
housing.
Reference 13 - 120V, 20A, Duplex
Receptacle
Reference 14 - Fuel Selector Switch Switching from LP or NG to gasoline:
Reference 20 – Engine Oil Fill Port
Reference 21 – Engine Key Switch
Reference 22 – Engine Choke Lever
Reference 23 – Vibration Isolation
Mount
Reference 24 – Engine Exhaust Filter
Reference 25 – Engine Oil Filter Replace the oil filter at each oil change. Replace with Honda
Reference 26 – Generator Head
Reference 27 – Gas Line Shutoff
Valve
The generator has a control panel with two duplex (two
receptacles in a common housing) receptacles. This duplex is a
120-volt (V) 20 amp (A) straight blade receptacle, National
Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA) number 5-20R.
This receptacle accepts NEMA plug number 5-20P. The
duplex is capable of drawing 20A out of either receptacle or a
combination of both.
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 LP/NG position.
4. Momentary sputtering is common.
5. Turn gasoline line valve to OFF position.
The control panel includes an hour meter to monitor engine run
time. The hour meter will not work if the 120 volt, 20 amp circuit
breaker is OFF (Reference 12).
This product was designed with a large window in the base
directly below the engine oil drain plug (Reference 18). The
large window facilitates a quick and clean process to change
engine oil.
Controls the flow of LP or NG gas into the engine carburetor.
Refer to your Honda engine manual for oil change
recommendations.
Refer to your Honda engine manual for proper oil level
recommendations.
Remove the oil fill cap to add engine oil.
The engine key switch is located on the front of the engine.
Always locate this switch and be familiar with its location before
operating the generator.
Used during cold starts. Refer to the Honda engine manual for
usage.
The engine and generator head is mounted on rubber cylinders
that absorb most of the engine vibration. This feature
eliminates the tendency of the machine to “walk” which is
common with engine powered equipment.
The muffler is designed to reduce engine noise. Keep debris
and combustible materials away from the muffler. The muffler
contains a spark arrester. Refer to the Honda engine owner’s
manual for spark arrester maintenance.
genuine replacement parts.
The electricity producing part of the generator.
The fuel tank has an ON-OFF valve mounted underneath.
Always keep this valve closed (OFF) when the generator is not
in use.
10
Power Load Planning & Management
NEVER exceed the rated wattage capacity of your generator.
WARNING
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 1below.
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
Running
Watts Device
Running
Watts
11
Power Load Planning & Management (cont’d)
Device
Furnace fan (1/3 HP) 1200 (a) Submersible pump (1-1/2 HP) 2800 (a)
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
Running
Watts Device
Running
Watts
(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
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
Starting/Running Wattage
Greater of
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
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 pressure-
♦ 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.
reducing regulator installed as part of your LP gas fuel system.
15
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