MODEL 56380i
3800 WATT
INVERTER GENERATOR
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WENPRODUCTS.COM
EPA CERTIFIED
CARB COMPLIANT
IMPORTANT:
Your new tool has been engineered and manufactured to WEN’s highest standards for dependability, ease
of operation, and operator safety. When properly cared for, this product will supply you years of rugged,
trouble-free performance. Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation, warnings, and cautions. If
you use your tool properly and for its intended purpose, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable service.
NEED HELP? CONTACT US!
Have product questions? Need technical support?
Please feel free to contact us at:
800-232-1195 (M-F 8am-5pm CST)
techsupport@wenproducts.com
WENPRODUCTS.COM
NOTICE: Please refer to wenproducts.com for the most up-to-date instruction manual.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ....................................................................................2
Safety Information ...........................................................................4
Generator Safety Warnings ..............................................................5
Know Your Generator .......................................................................8
Generator Preparation ...................................................................10
Starting the Generator ...................................................................16
Using the Generator ......................................................................18
Shutting Off the Generator .............................................................23
Maintenance .................................................................................24
Transportation & Storage ...............................................................32
Troubleshooting Guide ...................................................................33
Specifications ...............................................................................34
Wiring Diagram .............................................................................35
Exploded View & Parts List ............................................................36
Warranty Statement ......................................................................47
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Wattage 3800 Surge Watts, 3400 Rated Watts
Phase Single
Frequency 60Hz
AC: 120V
Rated Voltage
DC: 12V (Cigar Lighter), 5V (USB)
AC: 28.3A (Total), 28.3A (TT-30R), 20A (5-20R)
Rated Amperage
DC: 10A (Total), 8A (Cigar Lighter), 1A/2.1A (USB)
Oil Capacity 18.6 fl. oz. (0.55 L)
Half-Load Run Time 8.5 hours
Battery 1.6 Ah Lithium-Ion
Product Dimensions 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 in. (L x W x H)
Product Net Weight 99.2 lbs (45 kg)
Your WEN 56380i generator is compatible with the WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit
and the WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick, available for purchase at wenproducts.com
2
INTRODUCTION
THANKS FOR PURCHASING THE WEN GENERATOR.
Refer to the illustration below for the location of the serial number on the side of the engine. Record the generator information in the spaces provided below. If assistance for information or service is required, please
contact the Customer Service Help Line by calling 800-232-1195, M-F 8-5 CST; you will be asked to provide
the following generator information when calling.
GENERATOR MODEL NUMBER: WEN 56380i
DATE OF PURCHASE: __________________________________________
PURCHASED FROM: ___________________________________________
SERIAL NUMBER: _____________________________________________
SERIAL NUMBER
SERVICE RECORD
Record the service dates of your generator in the chart below. Please perform maintenance checks and
operations according to the “MAINTENANCE” section of the manual.
Service Record Date Date Date Date Date Date
Change Oil
Change Spark Plug
Clean Fuel Tank
Clean Air Cleaner
Clean Spark Arrestor
TO MAXIMIZE THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR GENERATOR:
We recommend running your generator at least ONCE A MONTH for 20 to 30 minutes. Start the generator according to the instructions and plug a small load in to make sure the outlet is producing electricity.
3
SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNING: Before operating the generator, make sure to read all safety warnings and all instruc-
tions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire or serious injury.
SAFETY INTRODUCTION
Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your tool works. This manual
contains important information regarding the generator’s potential safety concerns, as well as preparation,
operation, and maintenance instructions. Before operating this generator, be sure to read and observe all
warnings and instructions both on the generator labels and in this instruction manual. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below may result in personal injury.
NOTE: The following safety information is not meant to cover all possible conditions and situations that may
occur. WEN reserves the right to change this product and specifications at any time without prior notice.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS - Please keep this manual available to all users during the entire life of
the tool. Review it frequently to maximize safety for both yourself and others.
SAFETY SYMBOLS
The purpose of following safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and their explanations, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not
by themselves eliminate any danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper
accident prevention measures.
DANGER: indicates a hazard, which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: indicates a hazard, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: indicates a hazard, which, if not avoided, might result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION: when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage to
the machine.
NOTICE REGARDING EMISSIONS
Engines that are certified to comply with U.S. EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment), are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control
systems: (EM) Engine Modifications and (TWC) Three-Way Catalyst (if so equipped).
QUESTIONS? PROBLEMS?
In order to answer questions and solve problems in the most efficient and speedy manner, contact Customer Service at (800) 232-1195, M-F 8-5 CST or email techsupport@wenproducts.com.
4
GENERATOR SAFETY WARNINGS
DANGER: CARBON MONOXIDE
Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO). This is a poison gas 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, crawl spaces, or other partially 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 if 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 may have carbon monoxide poisoning.
WARNING: RISK OF EXPLOSION. HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: This generator may emit highly flam-
mable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death, if ignited. A nearby
open flame can lead to explosion even if not directly in contact with gasoline.
• Do not operate near open flame, heat, or any other ignition source. Do not smoke near generator.
• Always operate on a firm, level surface.
• Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before removing fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
• Do not overfill fuel tank. Gasoline may expand during operation. Do not fill to the top of the tank. Allow
for expansion. Always check for spilled fuel before operating.
• If fuel spills, move the generator at least 30 feet away from the spill and wipe clean any spilled fuel
before starting the engine.
• Empty fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator.
WARNING: If this generator is used as a supply for a BUILDING’S WIRING SYSTEM, the generator
MUST be installed by a qualified electrician and connected to a transfer switch as a separately derived
system in accordance with all applicable laws and electrical codes and the National Electrical Code,
NFPA 70. The generator shall be connected to a transfer switch that switches all conductors excluding the equipment grounding conductor. The frame of the generator shall be connected to an approved
grounding electrode.
California Proposition 65 WARNING: This product contains chemicals and produces exhaust
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.
5
GENERATOR SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING: Do not let comfort or familiarity with the product replace strict adherence to product
safety rules. Failure to follow the safety instructions may result in serious personal injury.
OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
1. Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes. Only use a generator OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors and vents.
2. Do not smoke near the generator.
3. Do not operate near open flame, heat, or flammable materials. This generator may emit highly flammable
and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A nearby open flame
can lead to an explosion even if it isn’t directly in contact with gasoline.
4. Do not expose the generator to rainy or wet conditions; doing so significantly increases the risk of electrical shock. Never handle the generator, electronic devices, or any cord while standing in water, while barefoot, or when hands or feet are wet.
5. Always operate the generator on a dry, firm, level surface.
6. The generator should have at least 5 feet of clearance from buildings or other equipment during operation.
7. Do not allow children or non-qualified persons to operate the generator.
GENERATOR PREPARATION
1. Always ground the generator before using it to maximize safety (see “GROUND THE GENERATOR” section.
2. Do not overfill fuel tank, as gasoline may expand during operation. Do not fill to the very top of the tank.
Leave room for gasoline expansion. Always check for spilled fuel before operating.
3. If any part of the generator, electrical device or power cord is broken, damaged, or defective, make sure
it is repaired or replaced before operation. Service should only be performed by a qualified technician. Do
not use receptacles or cords that show signs of damage, such as broken or cracked insulation.
4. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in highly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel
work. Extension cords with in-line GFCIs are recommended for these operations to maximize safety.
5. If connecting the generator to a building’s electrical system for standby power, you MUST consult a qualified electrician and install a transfer switch. Such connections must comply with local electrical laws and
codes. Failure to comply can create a back-feed, which may result in serious injury or death to utility workers.
6. Never modify the generator in any way. Modifying or using the machine for any other purpose for which it
is not designed may result in serious injuries, machine damage and voiding of the warranty.
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GENERATOR SAFETY WARNINGS
GENERATOR OPERATION
1. Only use the generator for its intended purposes. Modifying or using the generator for operations for
which it was not designed may cause hazards and personal injury.
2. Do not touch bare wires or receptacles (outlets).
3. Do not exceed the wattage capacity of the generator by plugging in more electrical devices than the unit
can handle. This could damage the generator and/or connected electrical devices. Check the operating voltage and frequency requirements of all electrical devices prior to plugging them into the generator.
4. Allow generator to run for several minutes before connecting electrical devices. Do not start or stop engine with electrical devices plugged in to the receptacles. Failure to do so could damage the generator and /
or connected electrical devices.
5. Do not turn ON electrical devices until after they are connected to the generator.
6. Generators vibrate in normal use. During and after the use of the generator, inspect both the generator as
well as extension and power supply cords for damage resulting from vibration.
7. Do not touch HOT PARTS. This generator produces heat when running. Temperatures near exhaust can
exceed 150º F (65º C). Allow generator to cool down after use before touching engine or areas of the generator that become hot during use.
8. Turn off all connected electrical devices before stopping the generator.
9. Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before removing
fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
10. Turn the engine switch to “OFF” position when the engine is not running.
11. Empty fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator. Do not store generator or gasoline near
furnaces, water heaters, or any other appliances that produce heat or have automatic ignitions. Store the
generator and fuel away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat and other sources of ignition.
12. Always wash hands after handling generator.
CAUTION: Misuse of this generator can damage it or shorten its lifespan.
TO MAXIMIZE THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR GENERATOR:
We recommend running your generator at least once a month for 20 to 30 minutes. Start the generator
according to the instructions and plug a small load in to make sure the outlet is producing electricity.
If you do not run it often, it will greatly shorten the generator’s lifespan and void the warranty.
7
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
Place the generator packaging on a sturdy, flat surface. Carefully unpack the generator and all accessories
from the box, making sure it is completely empty before discarding the package.
Use the illustration below to become familiar with this generator. If any part is damaged or missing, please
contact our customer service at (800) 232-1195, M-F 8-5 CST or email techsupport@wenproducts.com.
GENERATOR
Fuel Cap
Carrying Handle
Control Panel
Battery Access Cover
Transportation Handle
MULTIMETER
Overload Indicator (Red)
Load Indicator
Output Indicator
(Green)
Recoil Starter
Oil Access Cover
Ventilation Slots
Low Oil Indicator (Yellow)
Fuel Indicator
Digital Display
(Voltage, Frequency, Run Time, Maintenance Alert at 50 hours)
8
CONTROL PANEL
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
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1
2 43 5 6 7
13
1. Multimeter with Indicator Lights
2. Reset Button
Push button to reset the circuit (see page 21)
3. AC 120V NEMA 5-20 Duplex Receptacles (20A)
4. Eco-Mode Switch
Turn ON to increase fuel economy and runtime
when the load is below 2550W (75% load)
5. AC 120V NEMA TT-30 Receptacle (28.3A)
6. Parallel Connection Ports
Connect two WEN inverter generators through a
parallel connection kit for a higher output
7. DC 12V Cigarette-Light Style Receptacle
8. DC 5V USB Outlets
12 11 10 9 814
9. Grounding Nut
Ground generator to reduce risk of electric shock
10. DC Circuit Breaker (10A)
11. AC Circuit Breaker for NEMA 5-20R (20A)
12. Manual Shutoff Button
Push down for 10 seconds to shutoff generator
manually (see page 23)
13. 3-in-1 Switch
Turn switch to start, run, and automatically shut
off the generator
14. Engine Start Button
Turn switch to "start" and press button to ignite
the engine (see page 17)
15. Auto Off/Fuel Shutoff
Automatically shuts off generator after fuel in
the carburetor is consumed (see page 23)
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3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
1
GENERATOR PREPARATION
REMOVING THE MOUNTING PLATES
Your generator is shipped with four mounting plates that secure the engine to the generator housing in
order to prevent machine damage during shipping. Make sure to remove the four mounting plates before
operating your generator.
To remove the mounting plates:
1. With the help of another person, place generator on an elevated platform such as table or workbench.
Make sure the generator is stable. Do not to tilt the generator as there may be remaining fuel inside the
crankcase from testing.
2. Remove the four nuts (Fig. 1 - 3) and mounting plates (Fig. 1 - 2) from the generator's baseplate (Fig. 1 -
1).
3. Follow the instructions in the following pages to prepare your generator for starting.
Fig. 1
10
GENERATOR PREPARATION
32
-30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30
-20 0 20 40 60 80 100
40
°F
°C
Synthetic 5W-30
30
10W-30
The following section describes the necessary steps to prepare the generator for use. If you are unsure about
how to perform any of the steps, please call (800) 232-1195 M-F 8-5 CST for customer service. Failure to
perform these steps properly can damage the generator or shorten its life.
STEP 1 - ADD/CHECK OIL
The generator is shipped without oil. User must add the proper amount of oil before operating the generator
for the first time. The oil capacity of the engine crankcase is 18.6 fl. oz. (0.55 L).
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS - Select good quality detergent oil bearing the American Petro-
leum Institute (API) service classifications SJ, SL, or SM (synthetic oils may be used). Select the SAE
viscosity grade of oil that matches the expected operating temperature. For general use (above 40° F),
we recommend 30W engine oil.
• 30W engine oil for temperatures above 40°F.
• 10W-30 engine oil for temperatures between 0°F - 40°F.
To add oil, follow these steps:
1. Place the generator on a level surface. Make sure the engine is
OFF before adding or checking oil.
CAUTION: Keep the generator level! Tilting the generator to
assist in filling will cause oil to flow into the wrong areas of
the engine and cause damage.
2. Turn the oil access cover knob to the unlocked position, and
remove the access cover from the side panel. Unscrew the oil
dipstick from the engine.
3. Using an oil funnel or appropriate dispenser, slowly add oil into
the oil fill (Fig. 3), being careful not to overfill the unit. Fill the
crankcase to the upper fill line so you can visually see the oil
coming halfway up the oil fill threads (Fig. 3.1).
• Synthetic 5W-30 engine oil for
all temperature ranges.
Fig. 2 - Oil Recommendation Chart
Fig. 3
Oil Dipstick
Upper Level
Fill Line
4. Reinstall the oil dipstick and firmly tighten it. Wipe clean any
spilled oil.
5. Reinstall the oil access cover. Turn the oil access cover knob to
the locked position to secure the cover in place.
Lower Level
Fill Line
Fig. 3.1
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GENERATOR PREPARATION
STEP 1 - ADD/CHECK OIL (CONTINUED)
For subsequent operation, the oil level should be checked before each use, or after every 8 hours of operation. The generator is equipped with a low-oil sensor and will NOT start without a sufficient amount of oil.
To check oil level (before every subsequent start):
1. Place the generator on a level surface. Make sure the engine is OFF
before adding or checking oil.
2. Open the oil access cover. Remove and wipe the dipstick with a
clean rag.
3. Insert the dipstick into the oil fill without screwing it in. Remove the
dipstick to check the oil mark (Fig. 4).
If the oil mark covers less than one half of the dipstick, slowly add oil
until the oil mark reaches to the top of the dipstick (or when you can
see the oil coming halfway up the oil fill threads).
Upper Limit
Lower Limit
4. Wipe clean any oil leaks and firmly tighten the dipstick. Reinstall
the oil access cover.
OIL LEVEL SHUTDOWN
To protect the unit from damage, the generator is
equipped with a low-oil-pressure shutoff that will
automatically stop the engine when the oil level is
too low. The yellow low oil indication light (Fig. 5)
will turn ON to remind you that the engine oil level
is low and need to be refilled.
The oil level of the engine should be checked before
each start to ensure that the engine crankcase contains sufficient lubricant.
Low Oil
Indicator
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
TIP: Your WEN generator is compatible with the WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick (not included), avail-
able for purchase at wenproducts.com. The dipstick’s industrial-strength magnetic tip will collect metal
shavings from your generator’s oil compartment to help preserve the engine and extend your generator’s
lifespan.
12
GENERATOR PREPARATION
STEP 2 - ADD/CHECK FUEL
GASOLINE WARNING: Keep generator away from open flame. This generator may emit highly
flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A
nearby open flame can lead to explosion even if not directly in contact with gasoline.
• Do not operate near open flame, heat, or any other ignition source.
• Do not smoke near the generator.
• Always operate on a firm, level surface.
• Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before removing the fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
• Do not overfill fuel tank. Fuel may expand during operation. Do not fill to the top of the tank. Allow for
expansion.
• Always check for spilled fuel before operating. Clean up any spilled fuel before starting.
• Empty fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator to prevent spilling.
Use ONLY fresh (within 30 days from purchase), lead-free gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane rating.
The generator performs best with ethanol-free gasoline. DO NOT use gasoline with over 10% ethanol.
The capacity of the fuel tank is 2.2 US gallons (8.3 L). DO NOT mix oil with gasoline.
To add gasoline, follow these steps:
IMPORTANT:
1. Make sure the generator is shut OFF and on a level
surface. Unscrew the fuel cap (Fig. 6) and set it aside. The
fuel cap may be tight and hard to unscrew.
2. Slowly add unleaded gasoline to the fuel tank. Be careful not to overfill.
NOTE: Do not fill the fuel tank to the very top. If you do so,
gasoline will expand and spill during use, even with the
fuel cap in place.
3. Reinstall fuel cap and wipe clean any spilled gasoline
with a dry cloth.
To check fuel level:
During operation, the fuel level will be displayed by the
indicator lights on the right side of the multi-meter. If the
fuel level is low, refill the fuel tank before starting your
generator for the next time.
• Never use an oil/gasoline mixture.
• Never use old gasoline.
• Keep gasoline away from sparks, open
flames, pilot lights, heat and other sources
of ignition.
• Avoid getting dirt or water into the fuel
tank.
• Gasoline can age in the tank and make
starting difficult. Never store generator for
more than 2 months with fuel in the tank.
Fuel Cap
Fig. 6
13
GENERATOR PREPARATION
STEP 3 - CONNECT THE BATTERY
WARNING: BATTERY GIVES OFF EXPLOSIVE HYDROGEN GAS.
• Keep battery away from sparks, cigarettes, or other sources of flame.
• Do not connect or disconnect battery while generator is running.
• Service or use battery only in well ventilated areas.
WARNING: Battery contains sulfuric acid. Battery acid is poisonous. Tilting the generator with the
battery installed can cause battery acid to spill.
• Wear protective clothing and eye wear when servicing battery.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• If battery acid gets on your skin, wash with water immediately.
• If battery acid gets in your eyes, flush with water for at least 15 minutes and call a doctor immediately.
If battery acid is swallowed, call a doctor immediately. Drink a large amount of water or milk. Then drink
milk of magnesia or vegetable oil.
The generator is shipped with the lithium-ion battery’s negative (-) terminal disconnected to maximize safety. To start the
generator using electric start, the battery must be connected.
To connect the battery:
1. Using a quarter coin or flat-head screwdriver (not included),
open and remove the battery access cover (Fig. 7).
2. Loosen the rubber belts and pull out the battery.
3. Remove the cover from the battery's negative (-) terminal
and connect the black cable to the battery's negative (-) terminal as shown in Fig. 8.
The generator's positive pole has already been connected.
Double check to confirm that the connection is secure.
4. Return the battery into position and use the rubber belts to
fasten the battery.
5. Reinstall and secure the battery access cover.
Battery
Access
Cover
Rubber Belts
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
IMPORTANT: If you do not plan to use the generator for a long period of time, we recommend to DIS-
CONNECT the negative battery cable from the battery to protect the battery from losing charge. After
disconnecting the cable, cover the free end with an insulator such as electrical tape. You may also
choose to use a trickle charger (not included) to maintain battery charge.
14
GENERATOR PREPARATION
STEP 4 - GROUND THE GENERATOR
To reduce the risk of electric shock and to maximize safety, the
generator should be properly grounded.
Ground the generator by tightening the grounding nut on the front
control panel (Fig. 9) against a grounding wire. A generally acceptable grounding wire is a No. 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge)
stranded copper wire.
This grounding wire should be connected at the other end to a copper, brass, or steel grounding rod that is driven into the earth. Wire
and grounding rods are not included with the generator.
NOTE: Grounding codes can vary by location. Contact a local electrician to check the area codes.
WARNING: Failure to properly ground the generator increases your risk of electric shock.
Grounding Nut
Fig. 9
HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATION ABOVE 3000 FEET
The fuel system on this generator may be affected by operation at high altitudes. Proper operation can be
ensured by installing an altitude kit at altitudes higher than 3000 feet above sea level. At elevations above
8000 feet, the engine may experience a decrease in performance, even with the proper altitude kit. Operating this generator without said kit may increase the engine’s emissions and decrease both fuel economy
and performance.
You can order the kit at wenproducts.com by searching part 56380i-HA. There are two kits - one for
altitudes between 3000 and 6000 feet (56380i-HA36), and the other for altitudes from 6000 to 8000 feet
(56380i-HA68). This kit should be installed by a qualified mechanic. Refer to the instructions included with
your altitude kit for more information about installation.
WARNING: To prevent serious injury from fire, follow the kit installation procedures in a well-ven-
tilated area away from ignition sources. If the engine is hot from use, shut the engine off and wait for it
to cool before proceeding. Do not smoke near the generator. Warranty will be void if adjustments are not
made for high altitude use.
CAUTION: Engines with the high-altitude kit installed operated at lower altitudes could cause severe
engine damage and affect emissions compliance. Be sure to UNINSTALL the high altitude kit when operating at altitudes below 2000 feet.
After completing the above preparation, the generator is ready to be started.
15
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