Wen GN4500 Instruction Manual
MODEL GN4500
4500-WATT
PORTABLE GENERATOR
Instruction Manual
EPA III CERTIFIED CARB COMPLIANT
NEED HELP? CONTACT US!
Have product questions? Need technical support? Please feel free to contact us:
TECHSUPPORT@WENPRODUCTS.COM1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8AM-5PM CST)
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.
For replacement parts and the most up-to-date instruction manuals, visit WENPRODUCTS.COM
CONTENTS
WELCOME 3
Specifications ................................................................................................... 3
Introduction ..................................................................................................... 4
SAFETY 5
Safety Information ........................................................................................... 5
Generator Safety Warnings .............................................................................. 6
BEFORE OPERATING 8
Unpacking & Packing List ................................................................................ 8
Know Your Generator ....................................................................................... 9
Generator Preparation .................................................................................... 11
OPERATION & MAINTENANCE 14
Starting Your Generator ................................................................................. 14
Using Your Generator ..................................................................................... 16
Shutting Off Your Generator ........................................................................... 19
Maintenance ................................................................................................... 20
Transportation & Storage ............................................................................... 25
Troubleshooting Guide ................................................................................... 26
Wiring Diagram .............................................................................................. 27
Exploded View & Parts List ............................................................................ 28
Warranty Statement ....................................................................................... 33
To purchase accessories for your tool, visit WENPRODUCTS.COM
Wheel & Handle Kit (Model No. GNA410), Magnetic Oil Dipstick (Model No. 55201),
and Generator Cover (Model No. 56406).
2
CONTENTSSPECIFICATIONS
GENERATOR
Model Number GN4500
Surge (Starting) Wattage 4500 Watts
Rated (Running) Wattage 3600 Watts
Rated Voltage 120V AC
Rated Amperage 30A
Phase Single
Frequency 60Hz
Product Weight 97.9 lbs (without wheel kit), 104.5 lbs (with wheel kit)
Product Dimensions 23-1/4 in. × 18 in. × 18-3/4 in.
Rated output determined by PGMA Standard G300
ENGINE
Engine Type
Engine Displacement 212cc
Fuel Tank Capacity 4 US gallons (15 L), 87 octane minimum
Oil Capacity 20.3 fl. oz. (0.6 L)
Half-Load Run Time 13 hours
Lubrication System Splash
Spark Plug Type NGK BP7ES/Torch F7TC
Spark Plug Gap 0.7 - 0.8 mm (0.028 - 0.031 in.)
Spark Plug Torque
4 stroke, OHV, single cylinder with forced air cooling
system
½ - ¾ turn after gasket contacts base
or 15 ft-lbs (20.34 Nm)
3
INTRODUCTION
Thanks for purchasing the WEN 4500-Watt Portable 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 customer service by calling 1-800-232-1195, M-F
8-5 CST; you will be asked to provide the following generator information when calling.
Generator Model Number: GN4500
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 this manual. Refer to "Maintenance" on page 20.
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.
4
SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNING: Before operating the generator, make sure to read all safety warnings and all instructions.
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.
At WEN, we are continuously improving our products. If you find that your tool does not exactly match this manual,
please visit wenproducts.com for the most up-to-date manual or contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195,
M-F 8-5 CST.
Keep this manual available to all users during the entire life of the tool and review it frequently to maximize
safety for both yourself and others.
SAVE THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.
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 1-800-232-1195, M-F 8-5 CST or email techsupport@wenproducts.com.
5
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 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
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.
6
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 flam-
mable 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 con-
ditions; 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.
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. Ser-
vice 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 high-
ly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel
work. Extension cords with in-line GFCIs are recom-
mended 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.
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.
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.
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.
Generator safety warnings continue on the next page.
7
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.
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.
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
150ºF (65ºC). 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 fur-
naces, 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.
UNPACKING & PACKING LIST
UNPACKING
With the help of a friend or trustworthy foe, carefully remove the generator from the packaging and place it on a
sturdy, flat surface. Make sure to take out all contents and accessories. Do not discard the packaging until everything is removed. Check the packing list below to make sure you have all of the parts and accessories. If any part
is missing or broken, please contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST), or email techsupport@
wenproducts.com. See included insert for instructions on removing the shipping brackets.
PACKING LIST
A. Generator ..................................................1
B. Spark Plug Wrench ...................................1
C. Engine Oil Bottle .......................................1
8
TIP: A Wheel & Handle Kit (Model No. GNA410) is
available for purchase from wenproducts.com. This kit
allows for easier transportation of your generator.
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
Refer to the following diagrams to become familiarized with all the parts and controls of your generator. The
components will be referred to later in the manual for assembly and operation instructions.
GENERATOR
Fuel Cap
Fuel Gauge
Control
Choke Lever
ON/OFF
Fuel Valve
Switch
Panel
Air Filter
Recoil
Starter
• Fuel Gauge
Indicates amount of fuel inside the fuel tank.
E indicates empty, F indicates full.
• Choke Lever
Adjusts the amount of air allowed into the engine
during startup.
• Fuel Valve
Allows fuel to enter the engine from the fuel tank.
• Air Filter
A case with a sponge-like element that filters the
air entering the engine.
• Recoil Starter
Pull the cord to start the engine.
Oil Fill &
Dipstick
• Fuel Cap
Access to the fuel tank to add gasoline.
• Control Panel
Refer to the next page for more information.
• ON/OFF SWITCH
Use to turn the engine ON and OFF.
• Oil Fill and Dipstick
Access to the oil tank to check oil levels and add
oil.
NOTE: You can purchase a wheel kit separately for
easier transportation. Visit wenproducts.com and
search Model No. GNA410.
9
CONTROL PANEL
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
1
ENGINE
SWITCH
ON
OFF
2 5 3
MAIN
BREAKER
ON
OFF
GROUNDING
NUT
IMPORTANT BEFORE STARTING
1. Make sure the generator is properly grounded.
2. Check that the crankcase is sufficiently filled with oil.
3. Turn off and unplug all devices connected to generator.
OPERATION SUMMARY
1. Move the switch to the ON position.
2. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
3. Move the choke lever to the START position.
4. Pull the start cord to start the engine.
5. If the engine fails to start, adjust the choke and try again.
6. Allow the generator to run for several minutes before
connecting devices.
AC 120V 20A
5-20R
4 4
BREAKER
ON OFF
BREAKER
ON OFF
5
AC 120V 20A
5-20R
AC 120V 30A
TT-30R
Rv ready
AC 120V 30A
L5-30R
transfer
switch ready
86 7
1. Engine ON/OFF Switch
Use to turn the engine ON and OFF.
2. Data Meter
Displays voltage, frequency, total runtime
(HHHH) and session runtime (HH:MM). Press
the MODE button to switch between displays.
3. AC Main Breaker
Push the button to reset the circuit.
4. AC 120V NEMA 5-20R Duplex Receptacles (20A)
Standard household outlets provide 120V 60Hz
power.
5. AC Circuit Breaker
Push the button to reset the circuit.
6. AC 120V NEMA TT-30R Receptacle (30A)
RV ready outlet provides 120V 60Hz power.
7. AC 120V NEMA L5-30R Receptacle (30A)
Transfer switch ready outlet provides 120V
60Hz power.
8. Grounding Nut
Ground the generator to reduce the risk of
electric shock. Refer to "Step 3 - Ground The
Generator" on page 13.
GENERATOR PREPARATION
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 1-800-232-1195 (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 user must add the proper amount of oil before operating the generator for the first time. The oil capacity of the
engine crankcase is 20.3 fl. oz. (0.6 L).
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS - Select good quality detergent oil bearing the American Petroleum 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 using 30W engine oil.
• 30W Engine Oil
Temperatures above 40°F.
• 10W-30 Engine Oil
Temperatures between 0°F - 40°F.
• Synthetic 5W-30 Engine Oil
All temperature ranges.
TO ADD OIL:
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.
Dipstick
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
2. Unscrew the oil dipstick (Fig. 2) from the engine.
3. Using an oil funnel or appropriate dispenser, slowly add
oil into the oil fill, 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. See Fig. 3.
4. Reinstall the oil dipstick and firmly tighten it. Wipe clean
any spilled oil.
CAUTION! 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. Follow
the instructions on the next page to check the oil level.
Upper Fill Line
Lower Fill Line
Fig. 3
Dipstick
1110
Loading...