Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO). This is a poison you cannot see or
smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are breathing CO. But even if you cannot
smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.
•NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, or other partly enclosed
areas. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas. Using a fan or
opening windows and doors does NOT supply enough fresh air.
•ONLY use a generator outside and far away from windows, doors, and vents. These
openings can pull in generator exhaust.
Even when you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS use a
battery-powered or battery-backup CO alarm in the home.
If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has been running, move to fresh
air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You could have carbon monoxide poison.
Page 3
Foreword
WARNING
Machines covered in this manual
MachineItem Number
GPS 85000008286 Rev 118 and higher
GPS 97000620264
CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components, contain or emit chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive
harm.
This manual provides information and procedures to safely operate
and maintain this Wacker Neuson model. For your own safety and
protection from injury, carefully read, understand and observe the
safety instructions described in this manual.
Keep this manual or a copy of it with the machine. If you lose this
manual or need an additional copy, please contact Wacker Neuson
Corporation. This machine is built with user safety in mind; however,
it can present hazards if improperly operated and serviced. Follow
operating instructions carefully! If you have questions about operating
or servicing this equipment, please contact Wacker Neuson
Corporation.
The information contained in this manual was based on machines in
production at the time of publication. Wacker Neuson Corporation
reserves the right to change any portion of this information without
notice.
All rights, especially copying and distribution rights, are reserved.
Copyright 2008 by Wacker Neuson Corporation.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without
express written permission from Wacker Neuson Corporation.
Any type of reproduction or distribution not authorized by Wacker
Neuson Corporation represents an infringement of valid copyrights
and will be prosecuted. We expressly reserve the right to make
technical modifications, even without due notice, which aim at
improving our machines or their safety standards.
wc_tx001035gb.fm3
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wc_tx001035gb.fm4
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Table of Contents
Foreword3
1.Safety Information7
1.1Laws Pertaining to Spark Arresters ...................................................... 7
This manual contains DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, NOTICE and
NOTE callouts which must be followed to reduce the possibility of
personal injury, damage to the equipment, or improper service.
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.
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
DANGER
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION
NOTICE: Used without the safety alert symbol, NOTICE indicates a
situation which, if not avoided, could result in property damage.
Note:Contains additional information important to a procedure.
1.1Laws Pertaining to Spark Arresters
Notice: State Health Safety Codes and Public Resources Codes
specify that in certain locations spark arresters be used on internal
combustion engines that use hydrocarbon fuels. A spark arrester is a
device designed to prevent accidental discharge of sparks or flames
from the engine exhaust. Spark arresters are qualified and rated by
the United States Forest Service for this purpose.
In order to comply with local laws regarding spark arresters, consult
the engine distributor or the local Health and Safety Administrator.
7
Page 8
Safety InformationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
1.2Operating Safety
BACKFEED FROM THE GENERATOR INTO THE PUBLIC POWER
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR
DEATH TO UTILITY WORKERS!
DANGER
WARNING
Improper connection of generator to a building’s electrical system can
allow electrical current from the generator to backfeed into utility lines.
This may result in electrocution of utility workers, fire, or explosion.
Connections to a building’s electrical system must be made by a
qualified electrician and comply with all applicable laws and electrical
codes.
If connected to a building’s electrical system the generator must meet
the power, voltage, and frequency requirements of the equipment in
the building. Differences in power, voltage, and frequency
requirements may exist and improper connection may lead to
equipment damage, fire, and personal injury or death.
Familiarity and proper training are required for the safe operation of the
machine. Machines operated improperly or by untrained personnel
can be dangerous. Read the operating instructions contained in both
this manual and the engine manual and familiarize yourself with the
location and proper use of all controls. Inexperienced operators should
receive instruction from someone familiar with the machine before
being allowed to operate it.
1.2.1NEVER operate the generator when open containers of fuel, paint, or
other flammable liquids are near.
1.2.2NEVER operate the generator, or tools attached to the generator, with
wet hands.
1.2.3NEVER use worn electrical cords. Severe electrical shock and
equipment damage may result.
1.2.4NEVER run the electrical cords under the generator, or over vibrating
or hot parts.
1.2.5NEVER enclose or cover the generator when it is in use or when it is
hot.
1.2.6NEVER overload the generator. The total amperage of the tools and
equipment attached to the generator must not exceed the load rating
of the generator.
1.2.7NEVER operate the machine in snow, rain, or standing water.
1.2.8NEVER allow untrained personnel to operate or service the generator.
The generator set should be set up by a certified electrician.
1.2.9Store the machine properly when it is not being used. The machine
should be stored in a clean, dry location out of the reach of children.
1.2.10Be sure the machine is on a firm, level surface and will not tip, roll,
slide, or fall while operating.
8
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Safety Information
1.2.11ALWAYS transport the generator in an upright position.
1.2.12ALWAYS keep the machine at least one meter (three feet) away from
structures, buildings, and other equipment during use.
1.2.13ALWAYS keep the area immediately surrounding and underneath the
machine clean, neat, and free of debris and combustible materials.
Make sure that the area overhead is clear of debris that could fall onto
or into the machine or exhaust compartment.
1.2.14ALWAYS remove all tools, cords, and other loose items from the
generator before starting it.
1.2.15ALWAYS make certain the machine is well-grounded and securely
fastened to a good earthen ground per national and local regulations.
1.3Operator Safety while using Internal Combustion Engines
Internal combustion engines present special hazards during operation
and fueling. Read and follow the warning instructions in the engine
owner’s manual and the safety guidelines below. Failure to follow the
DANGER
warnings and safety standards could result in severe injury or death.
1.3.1NEVER use this generator inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors
and windows are open. Only use OUTSIDE and far away from
windows, doors, and vents. Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU
IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is a
poison you cannot see or smell.
1.3.2NEVER use a generator inside an enclosed area such as a tunnel or a
trench.
1.3.3Do not smoke while operating the machine.
1.3.4Do not smoke when refueling the engine.
1.3.5Do not refuel a hot or running engine.
1.3.6Do not refuel the engine near an open flame.
1.3.7Do not spill fuel when refueling the engine.
1.3.8Do not run the engine near open flames.
1.3.9DO NOT start the engine if fuel has spilled or a fuel odor is present.
Move the generator away from the spill and wipe the generator dry
before starting.
1.3.10Refill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area.
1.3.11Replace the fuel tank cap after refueling.
1.3.12ALWAYS check the fuel lines and the fuel tank for leaks and cracks
before starting the engine. Do not run the machine if fuel leaks are
present or the fuel lines are loose.
9
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Safety InformationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
1.4Service Safety
Poorly maintained equipment can become a safety hazard! In order
for the equipment to operate safely and properly over a long period of
time, periodic maintenance and occasional repairs are necessary. If
WARNING
1.4.1Do not use gasoline or other types of fuels or flammable solvents to
1.4.2DO NOT attempt to clean or service the machine while it is running.
1.4.3DO NOT modify the machine without the express written approval of
1.4.4DO NOT allow water to accumulate around the base of the machine.
the generator is experiencing problems or is being serviced, attach a
“DO NOT START” sign to the control panel to notify other people of its
condition.
clean parts, especially in enclosed areas. Fumes from fuels and
solvents can become explosive.
the manufacturer.
If water is present, move the machine and allow the machine to dry
before servicing.
1.4.5DO NOT service the machine if your clothing or skin is wet.
1.4.6DO NOT allow untrained personnel to service this equipment. Only
trained electrical technicians should be allowed to service the electrical
components of this equipment.
1.4.7Keep the machine clean and labels legible. Replace all missing and
hard-to-read labels. Labels provide important operating instructions
and warn of dangers and hazards.
1.4.8ALWAYS replace the safety devices and guards after repairs and
maintenance.
1.4.9ALWAYS let the engine cool before transporting or servicing it.
1.4.10ALWAYS keep hands, feet, and loose clothing away from the moving
parts on the generator and engine.
1.4.11ALWAYS turn the engine off before servicing the machine. If the
engine has electric start, disconnect the negative terminal on the
battery before servicing the machine.
1.4.12ALWAYS keep the fuel lines in good condition and properly connected.
Leaking fuel and fumes are extremely explosive.
10
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Safety Information
1.5Label Locations
IA
D
J
B,C
H
G
L
E
F
K
11
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Safety InformationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
1.6Safety and Operating Labels
Wacker Neuson machines use international pictorial labels where
needed. These labels are described below:
LabelMeaning
A
DANGER
GEFAHR
PELIGRO
DANGER
STOP
DANGER!
Engines emit carbon monoxide; operate only in well-ventilated area. Read the
Operator’s Manual.
No sparks, flames, or burning objects near the machine. Shut off the engine before
refueling.
B
WARNING!
Hot surface!
C
CAUTION!
Read and understand the supplied
Operator’s Manual before operating this
machine. Failure to do so increases the
risk of injury to yourself or others.
D
E
GND
88897
CAUTION!
Lifting point.
Electrical ground
12
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Safety Information
LabelMeaning
F
G
H
12
Neutral bonded to frame.
Key switch:
off
on
start
3
1
4
5A
5B
2
3
6
7
Open main circuit breaker.
Open the fuel flow valve.
Open the choke.
Turn engine key switch to “ON” position.
13
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Safety InformationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
LabelMeaning
Pull rewind starter or turn engine key
switch to crank starter.
Close main circuit breaker.
Close the fuel flow valve.
I, J
Close the choke.
Turn engine key switch to “OFF”
position.
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.
14
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Safety Information
LabelMeaning
Only use OUTSIDE and far away from
windows, doors, and vents.
K
L
This equipment does not meet California EVP emission regulations for small
off-road engines.
Improper connection of generator to a
building’s electrical system can allow
electrical current from the generator to
backfeed into utility lines. This may
result in electrocution of utility workers,
fire, or explosion. Connections to a
building’s electrical system must be
made by a qualified electrician and
comply with all applicable laws and
electrical codes.
Do not run the engine near open flames.
A nameplate listing the model number,
item number, revision number, and serial
number is attached to each unit. Please
record the information found on this
plate so it will be available should the
nameplate become lost or damaged.
When ordering parts or requesting
service information, you will always be
asked to specify the model number, item
number, revision number, and serial
number of the unit.
This machine may be covered by one or
more patents.
15
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OperationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
2.Operation
2.1Application and Power Requirements
This generator is designed to operate single-phase, 60 Hz appliances
running at 120 and 240 VAC.
NOTICE: Do not exceed the continuous rated output of the generator.
Damage to tools or generator will occur. See Technical Data.
Check the nameplate or label provided on tools and appliances to
make sure their power requirements are met by the power output of the
generator. If the wattage is not given for a particular tool or appliance,
contact the tool manufacturer for wattage requirements.
Some appliances and tools require a surge of current when starting.
This means that the amount of power needed to initially start the
equipment is larger than the power required to keep it running. The
generator must be capable of supplying this "surge" current. Other
types of appliances require more power than is actually stated on their
nameplate.
The information in “Approximate Starting Power Requirements” is
offered only as a general guideline to help you determine power
requirements for different types of equipment. Check with your nearest
Wacker dealer, or contact the manufacturer or dealer of the tool or
appliance, if you have questions regarding power requirements.
Approximate Starting Power Requirements
•Incandescent lights and appliances such as irons and hot plates,
which use a resistive-type heating element, require the same wattage
to start and run as is stated on their nameplates.
•Fluorescent and mercury lamps require 1.2–2 times their stated wattage to start.
•Electrical motors and many types of electrical tools often require a
large starting current. The amount of starting current depends on the
type of motor and its use.
•Most electrical tools require 1.2–3 times their stated wattage for starting.
•Loads such as submersible pumps and air compressors require a
very large force to start. They need as much as 3–5 times the wattage
stated on the nameplate in order to start.
If the wattage is not given for a particular tool or appliance, it can be
calculated by multiplying its voltage and amperage requirements:
Single Phase: VOLTS x AMPS = WATTS
Three Phase: VOLTS x AMPS x 1.732 x 0.8 = WATTS
16
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Operation
2.2Installation
Place the generator in an area where it will not be exposed to rain,
snow, or direct sunlight. Make sure it is positioned on firm, level
ground, so it will not slide or shift. Position the engine exhaust away
from areas where people may be present.
The surrounding area must be free from water and moisture. All
components must be protected from excessive moisture.
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 this generator inside a home or garage, EVEN IF
DANGER
DANGERDANGER
doors and windows are open. Only use this generator OUTSIDE and
far away from windows, doors, and vents.
NEVER install a generator in an enclosed area such as a tunnel or a
trench. Using a generator in a tunnel or a trench CAN KILL YOU IN
MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is a
poison you cannot see or smell. NEVER use this generator inside a
tunnel or a trench.
17
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OperationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
2.3Generator Derating
All generators are subject to derating for altitude and temperature.
Internal combustion engines, unless modified, run less efficiently at
higher altitudes due to the reduction of air pressure. This translates
into a lack of power and thus reduction in generator output.
Temperature affects both engine and generator performance. As
temperature increases, an engine will run less efficiently and more
resistance will be found in electrical components. Therefore, as the
temperature increases, the output of the generator decreases. Altitude
also affects the cooling capacity of air—the higher the altitude the less
dense the air is and thus the lower its ability to transfer heat.
For every increase in altitude of 500 m (1650 ft.) above 1000 m (3300
ft.), the output of the generator will be reduced by 3%. For every
increase of 5° C (9° F) in ambient temperature above 40° C (104° F),
the output of the generator will be reduced by 3%. Use the tables
shown for altitude and temperature deration factors. It may be
necessary to consider both altitude and ambient temperature deration
factors to determine true generator output.
Ambient Temp.
°C (°F)
45 (113)3 %0.97
50 (122)6 %0.94
55 (131)9 %0.91
60 (140)12 %0.88
Altitude
m (ft.)
1500 (4900)3 %0.97
2000 (6600)6 %0.94
2500 (8200)9 %0.91
3000 (9900)12 %0.88
3500 (11500)15 %0.85
DerateFactor
DerateFactor
4000 (13100)18 %0.82
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Operation
2.4Grounding the Generator
A ground connection (a) is located on the generator frame. For proper
operating safety, this ground terminal must be connected to a good
ground source. This ground connection must comply with National
Electrical Code standards, and state and local regulations.
wc_gr000544
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OperationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
2.5Use of Extension Cords
When a long extension cord is used to connect an appliance or tool to
the generator, a voltage loss occurs—the longer the cord, the greater
the voltage loss. This results in less voltage being supplied to the
appliance or tool and increases the amount of current draw or reduces
performance. A heavier cord with a larger wire size will reduce the
voltage loss.
Damaged extension cords can cause electrical shock, resulting in
serious injury or death. DO NOT use worn, bare, or frayed cords.
WARNING
CurrentLoad in WattsMaximum Cable Length in Feet
(Amps)120V240V#10#12#14#16
2.53006001000.600375250
Replace damaged cords immediately.
Use the chart below as a guide for selecting proper cable size.
56001200500300200125
7.59001800350200125100
1012002400250150100-
151800360015010065-
20240048001257550-
Use only extension cords rated for outdoor use and equipped with a
third-wire ground.
NOTICE: Operating equipment at low voltage can cause it to overheat.
2.6Recommended Battery
This generator is shipped without a battery. The recommended battery
to be used is:
The generator is protected by a main breaker (b) located on the control
panel. The circuit breaker protects the generator from severe
overloads or short circuits. If the circuit breaker opens, turn the engine
off immediately and determine the cause before restarting. Check the
appliances and tools attached to the generator for defects and make
sure their power requirements do not exceed the power rating of the
generator or the current limit of the receptacles.
When the circuit breaker opens (O), the breaker lever will snap down.
To reset circuit breaker, lift lever up (l).
2.9Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt (GFI)
Each of the two 120V, 20 amp receptacles (f) is protected by both a
ground fault interrupt (GFI) and a thermal overload. The GFI shuts off
power to the circuit when a ground fault occurs in the generator or a
piece of equipment attached to the generator. The thermal overload
(g) will trip (pop out) if too much current is drawn through the
receptacles, as in a short to ground. The GFI should be tested for
proper operation every time the generator is used.
To test GFI:
Start generator. Place main circuit breaker in closed position. Turn
auto idle “OFF” (O). Push TEST button (f1) on receptacle in. The
RESET button (f2) will pop out. Power is now off at the receptacles. If
the RESET button does not pop out, the GFI is not working. Do not run
generator until the problem can be corrected. To restore power to
receptacles, push the RESET button in.
If the RESET button pops out during operation, stop the generator and
check generator and equipment for defects.
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Operation
2.10Voltage Selection
The voltage selector switch (h) allows the generator to operate in
either single (120V) or dual voltage (120/240V) mode.
In single voltage mode only the 120V twist lock and 120V duplex
receptacles are powered. The full rated power of the generator is
shared between the four receptacles.
In dual voltage mode both the 120V and 240V receptacles are
powered; however, only half the rated power is available at the 120V
GFI receptacles and half at the 120V twist lock receptacle. Full power
is available at the 240V twist lock receptacle.
NOTICE: NEVER switch the voltage selector switch with the main
breaker on! This can cause arcing and can damage the generator.
Turn all tools and appliances off and place main breaker in the “OFF”
(open) position (O) before changing the voltage switch position.
2.11240V Receptacles
240 volt power is available at twist-lock receptacles (m) and (n). 120
volt power is also available at twist-lock receptacle (n) and at
receptacles (j) and (k).
The thermal overloads for (j) and (k) perform as described for (g) in
GFI. However, protection for the 240V receptacles is provided by
overcurrent circuit breakers, (c) for (m) and (d) for (n). If too much
current were to be drawn through either overcurrent circuit breaker, the
breaker would trip open. Correct the source of the overcurrent before
resetting the breaker.
To attach a power cord to a twist-lock receptacle, insert plug into
receptacle and turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
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OperationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
2.12Engine Auto Idle
The auto idle switch (a) automatically reduces engine speed 5 seconds
after all appliances or tools attached to the generator have been turned
off. Engine automatically returns to full speed when a tool or appliance
is turned back on.
To turn auto idle feature on, push auto idle switch to ON (I). This
position is recommended while the generator is running to minimize
fuel consumption. To avoid extended engine warm-up periods, keep
switch OFF (O) when starting the engine and until engine reaches
operating temperature.
a2
2.13Engine Speed
Generators require a fixed engine speed to maintain the correct
voltage. Engine speed is controlled by a governor which automatically
adjusts to varying loads on the engine to maintain a constant speed of
3600 rpm. There is no throttle control. Use the Auto Idle switch on the
generator to control engine speed.
Note: The battery must have the appropriate charge (nine volts
minimum) for the generator governor to perform properly. If the
generator starts but will not run at speed, check battery charge.
a1
IDLE
24
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Operation
2.14Before Starting
2.14.1Read and understand safety and operating instructions at beginning of
this manual.
2.14.2Read and understand the meanings of all warning and operating
labels.
2.14.3Make sure that a battery has been installed. See RecommendedBattery.
2.14.4Check:
•oil level in engine.
•fuel level.
•condition of air cleaner.
•tightness of external fasteners.
•condition of fuel lines.
2.15To Run Generator
Follow instructions below and read starting and stopping instuctions
found in Engine Owner’s Manual.
2.15.1Disconnect all loads from the generator and place the main circuit
breaker in the open (O) position. Place auto idle switch to OFF (O)
position.
2.15.2Open fuel valve (b1).
2.15.3If engine is cold, pull choke control out (a1). If engine is hot, push
choke control in (a2).
2.15.4Turn key switch to the start position (d3) and hold until engine starts.
NOTICE: Do not crank engine longer than 15 seconds at a time.
Extended cranking can damage starter motor.
To start engine using manual start: Turn key switch to the run position
(d2). Pull starter rope (c) rapidly to start engine.
Leave key in run position (d2) while engine is running.
Note: Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position when the engine is not
running. Leaving the key in the RUN position with the engine off will
drain the battery.
Note: Although the engine will start manually and will run without a
battery, it will only idle and the generator will not load, as the governor
requires that a battery be connected. See “Recommended Battery.”
Note: The engine is equipped with a low oil protection system. If the oil
level is low, the engine will not start. Check engine oil level if engine
does not start.
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OperationGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
2.15.5Push choke in as engine warms (a2).
2.15.6Place main circuit breaker in closed (l) position and place auto idle
switch in ON (l) position. Allow engine to warm up and check function
of GFI circuit breakers before attaching loads to generator (see
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt).
a1
b2
a2
b1
d1
c
d2
d3
2.16To Stop
2.16.1Disconnect all loads from generator and place main circuit breaker in
open position.
2.16.2Turn engine switch to the stop position (d1).
2.16.3Close fuel valve (b2).
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Operation
Notes:
27
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MaintenanceGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
3.Maintenance
3.1Engine Maintenance
The chart below lists basic machine and engine maintenance. Refer to
your engine operator’s manual for additional information on engine
maintenance.
3.2Periodic Maintenance Schedule
Check fuel level.
Check engine oil level.
Inspect fuel lines.
Inspect air filter. Clean as needed.
Check external hardware.
Change engine oil.*
Check shockmounts. Replace when
necessary.
Replace oil filter.*
Check and clean spark plug.
Replace air cleaner.*
Check and adjust valve clearances.*
Daily
before
starting
After
first
5 hrs.
Every
50
hrs.
Every
100
hrs.
Every
year
Replace in-line fuel filter.*
* Service more frequently in dusty conditions
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Maintenance
3.3Engine Lubrication
Check engine oil level daily, before starting engine. Add oil as required.
To check oil level:
3.3.1Place generator on a level surface. Clean area around oil fill and
remove dipstick.
3.3.2Pour oil (a) slowly, checking oil level occasionally with dipstick.
3.3.3Fill to full mark on dipstick (c). DO NOT overfill.
When measuring oil level, screw dipstick firmly in place until cap
bottoms on tube (b).
a
b
c
wc_gr000562
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MaintenanceGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
3.4Oil Filter
Replace oil filter every 100 hours of operation.
3.4.1Drain engine oil and replace with fresh oil before removing used oil
filter.
Note: In the interests of environmental protection, place a plastic sheet
and a container under the machine to collect any liquid which drains
off. Dispose of this liquid in accordance with environmental protection
legislation.
3.4.2Remove used filter, and before installing new filter, lightly oil filter
gasket with fresh, clean engine oil.
3.4.3Screw filter (a) on by hand until gasket makes contact, then tighten an
additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn.
3.4.4Start and run engine to check for leaks.
3.4.5Stop engine. Recheck oil level and add oil if required (see EngineLubrication).
a
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Maintenance
3.5Air Cleaner
Service air cleaner frequently to prevent carburetor malfunction.
NOTICE: NEVER run engine without air cleaner. Severe engine
damage will occur.
NEVER use gasoline or other types of low flash point solvents for
cleaning the air cleaner. A fire or explosion could result.
WARNING
The engine is equipped with a dual element air cleaner.
To service air cleaner:
3.5.1Remove cover (a), knob (b), and retaining plate (c).
3.5.2Remove foam precleaner (d) from filter cartridge (e).
3.5.3Wash precleaner in liquid detergent and water. Squeeze dry in a clean
cloth. Saturate precleaner in engine oil; squeeze out excess oil.
Replace precleaner if it is damaged or heavily soiled.
3.5.4To clean cartridge, remove and tap lightly on a flat surface. Replace
cartridge if it is damaged or heavily soiled.
Note: Do not use petroleum solvents to clean precleaner or cartridge.
Petroleum type solvents will damage them. Do not use pressurized air
to clean cartridge. Pressurized air can also damage the cartridge.
a
b
c
d
e
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MaintenanceGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
3.6Spark Plug
Clean or replace the spark plug as needed to ensure proper operation.
Refer to your engine operator’s manual.
The muffler becomes very hot during operation and remains hot for a
while after stopping the engine. Do not touch the muffler while it is hot.
WARNING
Note: Refer to section “Technical Data” for the recommended spark
plug type and the electrode gap setting.
3.6.1Remove the spark plug and inspect it.
3.6.2Replace the spark plug if the insulator is cracked or chipped.
3.6.3Clean the spark plug electrodes with a wire brush.
3.6.4Set the electrode gap (a).
3.6.5Tighten the spark plug securely.
NOTICE: A loose spark plug can become very hot and may cause
engine damage.
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Maintenance
3.7Fuel Filter
Check fuel lines and fittings daily for cracks or leaks. Replace as
needed.
Change in-line fuel filter (a) once a year.
Allow engine to cool, and close fuel valve before replacing fuel filter.
WARNING
a
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MaintenanceGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
3.8Carburetor Adjustment
Note: Air cleaner must be in place and engine warm when making
adjustments to carburetor.
Only minor adjustments to carburetor are possible. Adjust mixture
screw (b) between limits to obtain best acceleration from idle to full
speed.
Adjust idle speed screw (a) with engine running and auto idle switch
on. Adjust auto idle speed to 2200 rpm.
Note: To avoid excessive vibration and to maintain adequate cooling
ability, do not set the engine auto idle speed lower than 2200 rpm.
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Maintenance
3.9Storage
Before storing generator for a long period of time:
3.9.1Change the engine oil.
3.9.2Disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor. Place open end of fuel line
into a suitable container and open fuel valve to drain fuel from tank.
Gasoline is extremely flammable. Drain fuel tank in a well-ventilated
area. DO NOT drain tank in an area with flames or sparks.
WARNING
3.9.3Loosen the drain screw on the carburetor and drain any remaining fuel
from carburetor.
3.9.4Remove the spark plug and pour approximately 1 ounce (30 ml) of
clean engine oil into the cylinder. Crank the engine a few turns to
distribute the oil to the inside of the cylinder walls.
3.9.5Pull the starter rope slowly until resistance is felt and leave handle in
this position. This ensures that the intake and exhaust valves are
closed.
3.9.6Store generator in a clean, dry area. See engine owner's manual.
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MaintenanceGPS 8500 / GPS 9700
3.10Transporting
Let the engine cool before transporting the generator or storing it
indoors, to avoid burns or fire hazards.
WARNING
When transporting the generator:
3.10.1Turn the engine fuel valve to the OFF position.
3.10.2Position the generator level to prevent fuel from spilling.
3.10.3Secure the generator by tying it down with a suitable rope.
When transporting the machine by hand, be sure to employ manpower
commensurate with the weight of the machine. To avoid back injury
WARNING
when lifting the machine, bend the knees to pick it up rather than
bending your back only.
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GPS 8500 / GPS 9700Maintenance
3.11Troubleshooting
Before ordering repairs, carefully read through this manual, then
repeat the inspection. If the problem remains, contact your nearest
dealer or Wacker representative.
Problem / SymptomReason / Remedy
If engine doesn't start, check
that:
If engine starts but there is no
power at receptacles, check
that:
•Engine switch is on "Start".
•Fuel valves under fuel tank and on engine are open.
•Fuel tank has fuel.
•Choke lever is in correct position. Choke should be
closed when starting a cold engine.
•All loads are disconnected from generator.
•Spark plug is in good condition.
•Spark plug cap is tight.
•Engine oil level is adequate.
•Battery is charged and connected properly.
•Circuit breaker is closed.
•Connector from generator to control panel is tight.