Westinghouse WH5500, WH6000S, WH7500E, WH3250C, WH6500E Owner's Manual

California

Proposition 65 Warning

California

Proposition 65 Warning

The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the state of

California to cause cancer, birth defects

or other reproductive harm.

Certain components in this product and its

related accessories contain chemicals

known to the state of California to cause

cancer, birth defects or other reproductive

harm. Wash hands after handling.

DISCLAIMERS:

All information, illustrations and specifications in this manual are based on the latest information available at
the time of publishing. The illustrations used in this manual are intended as representative reference views only.
Moreover, because of our continuous product improvement policy, we may modify information, illustrations and/or
specifications to explain and/or exemplify a product, service or maintenance improvement. We reserve the right to
make any change at any time without notice.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED:

No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form by any means – graphic, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or information storage and retrieval systems – without the
written permission of Westpro Power Systems, LLC.

2

CONGRATULATIONS ON OWNING A WESTINGHOUSE

!

!

Model Number Serial Number

GENERATOR

DANGER

This manual contains important instructions for operating this generator. For your safety and
the safety of others, be sure to read this manual thoroughly before operating the generator.
Failure to properly follow all instructions and precautions can cause you and others to be
seriously hurt or killed.

For Your Records:

Date of Purchase: Generator Model Number:

Purchased from Store/Dealer: Generator Serial Number:

Purchase Receipt: (retain your purchase receipt to ensure trouble-free warranty coverage)

Product Registration

To ensure trouble-free warranty coverage, it is important you register your Westinghouse generator. You can register
your generator by either:

1. Filling in the product registration form below and mailing to:

Product Registration

Westpro Power Systems, LLC

W237 N2889 Woodgate Road, Unit B

Pewaukee, WI 53072

2. Registering your product online at www.westpropower.com

To register your generator you will need to locate the following information:

Product Registration Form

PERSONAL INFORMATION GENERATOR INFORMATION

First Name: Model Number:

Last Name: Serial Number:

Street Address: Date Purchased:

Street Address: Purchased From:

City, State, ZIP:

Country:

Phone Number:

E-Mail:

MODEL NUMBER REFERENCE

EPA (49 States)

WH3250
WH4500
WH5500
WH6000
WH6000S
WH6500E
WH7000
WH7000E
WH7500E

EPA (49 States) and CARB (50 States)

WH3250
WH5500
WH7000E
WH7500E

CSA (Canada)

WHC6500
WHC6000S
WHC6500E
WHC7000EGC

Suffix:

E – Electric Start
S – Storm Unit
C – CARB Unit
GC – Generator Cord

Prefix:

WHC – CSA Certified

4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONGRATULATIONS ON OWNING A WESTINGHOUSE GENERATOR .........................................................3

For Your Records: .........................................................................................................................................3

Product Registration .....................................................................................................................................3

Product Registration Form ............................................................................................................................ 3

MODEL NUMBER REFERENCE ..............................................................................................................................4

SAFETY ....................................................................................................................................................................7

SAFETY DEFINITIONS ......................................................................................................................................7

SAFETY SYMBOL DEFINITIONS ......................................................................................................................7

GENERAL SAFETY RULES ...............................................................................................................................8

SAFETY LABELS AND DECALS .....................................................................................................................10

UNPACKING ...........................................................................................................................................................12

UNPACKING THE GENERATOR ......................................................................................................................12

WHEEL KIT ACCESSORIES BOX ...................................................................................................................12

Components: ..............................................................................................................................................12

ASSEMBLY .............................................................................................................................................................13

ASSEMBLY ....................................................................................................................................................... 13

INSTALLING THE BATTERY (ELECTRIC START GENERATORS ONLY) ....................................................... 15

FEATURES .............................................................................................................................................................16

GENERAL GENERATOR FEATURES .............................................................................................................. 16

CONTROL PANEL FEATURES ........................................................................................................................18

OPERATION ...........................................................................................................................................................19

BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR .........................................................................................................19

POWER CORD .................................................................................................................................................20

Using Extension Cords ............................................................................................................................... 20

Using Westinghouse Power Cord ...............................................................................................................21

TRANSFER SWITCH CONNECTIONS ............................................................................................................ 21

ADDING / CHECKING ENGINE FLUIDS AND FUEL ....................................................................................... 22

Checking and / or Adding Engine Oil ..........................................................................................................22

Adding Gasoline to the Fuel Tank ............................................................................................................... 22

STARTING THE GENERATOR .........................................................................................................................23

Manually Starting a Generator ...................................................................................................................23

Starting an Electric Start Generator ...........................................................................................................25

STOPPING THE GENERATOR ........................................................................................................................26

Normal Operation .......................................................................................................................................26

During an Emergency ................................................................................................................................. 26

MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................................................................................... 27

MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................................................................ 27

Maintenance Schedule ............................................................................................................................... 27

ENGINE OIL MAINTENANCE ..........................................................................................................................28

Engine Oil Specification .............................................................................................................................. 28

Checking Engine Oil ...................................................................................................................................28

Adding Engine Oil ....................................................................................................................................... 29

Changing Engine Oil ................................................................................................................................... 29

AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................29

Cleaning the Air Filter ................................................................................................................................. 29

SPARK PLUG MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................................................32

BATTERY SERVICE .........................................................................................................................................33

Battery Replacement .................................................................................................................................. 33

CLEANING THE SPARK ARRESTOR ..............................................................................................................34

CLEANING THE GENERATOR ........................................................................................................................35

STORAGE ......................................................................................................................................................... 36

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................................................................................37

TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................................................................................................................37

WARRANTY ............................................................................................................................................................39

WESTPRO POWER SYSTEMS “THREE YEAR” LIMITED WARRANTY ......................................................... 39

WESTPRO’S RESPONSIBILITY ................................................................................................................39

OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY ....................................................................................................................39

5

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRODUCT WARRANTY APPLICATIONS AND PRODUCT WARRANTY PERIODS ................................39

CONSUMER APPLICATION ................................................................................................................39

COMMERCIAL APPLICATION ............................................................................................................39

NON-WARRANTABLE APPLICATIONS ..............................................................................................40

EXCLUSIONS ...................................................................................................................................... 40

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES ................................................................................................40

6

SAFETY

!

!

!

!

!

SAFETY DEFINITIONS

The words DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and
NOTICE are used throughout this manual to highlight
important information. Be certain that the meanings of
these alerts are known to all who work on or near the
equipment.

This safety alert symbol appears
with most safety statements. It
means attention, become alert, your
safety is involved! Please read and
abide by the message that follows
the safety alert symbol.

DANGER

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

SAFETY SYMBOL
DEFINITIONS

Symbol Description

Safety Alert Symbol

Asphyxiation Hazard

Burn Hazard

Burst/Pressure Hazard

Don’t leave tools in the area

Electrical Shock Hazard

Explosion Hazard

NOTICE

Indicates a situation which can cause damage to the
generator, personal property and/or the environment,
or cause the equipment to operate improperly.

OTE:N Indicates a procedure, practice or condition

that should be followed in order for the
generator to function in the manner
intended.

Fire Hazard

Lifting Hazard

Pinch-Point Hazard

Read Manufacturer’s Instructions

Read Safety Messages Before
Proceeding

Wear Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE)

7

SAFETY

!

!

!

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

DANGER

Never use the generator in a location
that is wet or damp. Never expose the
generator to rain, snow, water spray or
standing water while in use. Protect the
generator from all hazardous weather
conditions. Moisture or ice can cause a
short circuit or other malfunction in the
electrical circuit.

Never operate the generator in an
enclosed area. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide. Only
operate the generator outside and away
from windows, doors and vents.

WARNING

Voltage produced by the generator
could result in death or serious injury.

• Never operate the generator in
rain or a floodplain unless proper
precautions are taken to avoid being
subject to rain or a flood.

• Never use worn or damaged
extension cords.

• Always have a licensed electrician
connect the generator to the utility
circuit.

• Never touch an operating generator
if the generator is wet or if you have
wet hands.

• Never operate the generator in highly
conductive areas such as around
metal decking or steel works.

• Always use grounded extension
cords. Always use three-wire or
double-insulated power tools.

• Never touch live terminals or
bare wires while the generator is
operating.

• Be sure the generator is properly
grounded before operating.

WARNING

Gasoline and gasoline vapors are
extremely flammable and explosive
under certain conditions.

• Always refuel the generator outdoors,
in a well-ventilated area.

• Never remove the fuel cap with the
engine running.

• Never refuel the generator while
the engine is running. Always turn
engine off and allow the generator to
cool before refueling.

• Only fill fuel tank with gasoline.

• Keep sparks, open flames or other
form of ignition (such as match,
cigarette, static electric source) away
when refueling.

• Never overfill the fuel tank. Leave
room for fuel to expand. Overfilling
the fuel tank can result in a sudden
overflow of gasoline and result in
spilled gasoline coming in contact
with HOT surfaces. Spilled fuel
can ignite. If fuel is spilled on
the generator, wipe up any spills
immediately. Dispose of rag properly.
Allow area of spilled fuel to dry
before operating the generator.

• Wear eye protection while refueling.

• Never use gasoline as a cleaning
agent.

• Store any containers containing
gasoline in a well-ventilated area,
away from any combustibles or
source of ignition.

• Check for fuel leaks after refueling.
Never operate the engine if a fuel leak
is discovered.

8

!

WARNING

!

Never operate the generator if powered
items overheat, electrical output drops,
there is sparking, flames or smoke
coming from the generator, or if the
receptacles are damaged.

Never use the generator to power
medical support equipment.

Always remove any tools or other
service equipment used during
maintenance from the generator before
operating.

NOTICE

Never modify the generator.
Never operate the generator if it vibrates at high

levels, if engine speed changes greatly or if the
engine misfires often.

Always disconnect tools or appliances from the
generator before starting.

SAFETY

9

SAFETY

SAFETY LABELS AND DECALS

2

3

4

1

2

1

5

10

3

4

Figure 1

5

SAFETY

2

1

5

3

4

1

2

3

4

Figure 2

11

5

UNPACKING

!

!

UNPACKING THE
GENERATOR

CAUTION

Always have assistance when lifting
the generator. The generator is heavy;
lifting it could cause bodily harm.

Avoid cutting on or near staples to
prevent personal injury.

Tools required – box cutter or similar device.

1. Carefully cut the packing tape on top of the carton.

2. Fold back top flaps to reveal the manual.

3. Remove the Wheel Kit Accessories cardboard box.

4. Carefully cut two sides of the carton to remove the
generator.

WHEEL KIT ACCESSORIES
BOX

Open the Wheel Kit Accessories box and verify
the contents against the list below. If any parts are
missing, please locate an authorized Westinghouse
Generator dealer at www.westpropower.com or call
1-855-WHHELP1 (1-855-944-3571).

1

2

4

5

3

Components:

Wheels (2)
Handles with Grips (2)
Tool Bag (1)
Spark Plug Socket

Wrench (1)
One 0.6 Liter Bottle

of SAE 10W30 Oil (1)
(WH3250 Model)

One Liter Bottle of
SAE 10W30 Oil (1)

Mounting Foot (1)
Oil Funnel (1)
Power Cord – if equipped

Figure 3 – Wheel Kit Hardware for Serial Number

1 - Clevis Pin

50 x 10 mm
(2 used)

2 - Flange Bolt

M8 x 18 mm
(2 used)

3 - Wheel Axle Pin

16 mm x 105 mm
(2 used)

4 - Locking Flange

Nut M8 (2 used)

5 - Hairpin Cotter

(4 used)

12

ASSEMBLY

!

!

ASSEMBLY

Before assembling the generator,
review Safety on page 7 and the
following safety messages.

CAUTION

Never lift the generator without
assistance. The generator is heavy and
lifting without assistance could result
in personal injury.

Never use the handles as a lifting
point to support the entire weight of
the generator. Only use the handles
to move the generator by lifting the
handles and using the wheels to move
the generator.

Use caution when collapsing the
handles. Hands and fingers could get
caught and pinched.

NOTICE

Assembling the generator will require lifting the unit
on one side. Make sure all engine oil and fuel are
drained from the unit prior to assembling.

Once assembled, the wheel kit is not intended for
on-road use. The wheel kit is designed for use on this
generator only.

1. Place generator on a flat surface.

2. Place a piece of cardboard or other soft material
to tip the generator onto, to protect the frame
paint and prevent the generator from sliding. Tip
the generator onto its side as shown in Figure 4
(engine should be on the bottom).

Figure 4 – Tip the Generator onto its Side

Tools required – tool bag (included).

13

ASSEMBLY

2

3. Install the mounting foot to the frame using M8
flange bolts and nuts.

3

2

3

1

Figure 5 – Assemble Mounting Foot to Frame

1 - Rubber Pads

2 - Mounting Foot

4. Install the 16 mm x 105 mm axle pin through the
axle bracket on the frame.

5. Install the hairpin cotter through the axle pin.

3 - M8 Flange Bolt
and Nut

6. Install the handles using the clevis pin and hairpin
cotter as shown in Figure 7.

1

3

2

Figure 7 – Attaching the Handles

1 - Clevis Pin

2 - Handle

4

3 - Hairpin Cotter

4 - Negative Battery

Cable

1

Figure 6 – Assemble Wheels to Frame

1 - Axle Pin 2 - Hairpin Cotter

14

ASSEMBLY

!

INSTALLING THE BATTERY
(ELECTRIC START
GENERATORS ONLY)

WARNING

To avoid electric shock:

• ALWAYS connect the positive (+)
battery cable (red boot) first when
connecting battery cables.

• ALWAYS disconnect the negative (-)
battery cable (black boot) first when
disconnecting battery cables.

• NEVER connect the negative (-)
battery cable (black boot) to the
positive (+) post on the battery.

• NEVER connect the positive (+)
battery cable (red boot) to the
negative (-) post on the battery.

• NEVER touch both battery posts
simultaneously.

• NEVER place a metal tool across
both battery posts.

• ALWAYS use insulated or non­conducting tools when installing the
battery.

2

1

Figure 8 – Attaching the Negative (-) Battery Cable

(Black)

1 - Positive (+)

Battery Cable
(Red)

2 - Negative (-)

Battery Cable
(Black)

OTE:N The generator comes equipped with the

positive battery cable (red boot) already
attached.

1. Verify the positive (+) battery cable (red boot) is
securely tightened to the positive (+) battery post.
Make sure boot is over battery post.

2. Carefully remove the protective wrapping around
the lug of the negative (-) battery cable (black boot).

3. Locate negative (-) cable attached to alternator
cable, remove tie and route to the negative (-)
battery post.

4. Pull back the black boot and securely attach
the negative (-) battery cable (black boot) to the
negative (-) battery post as shown in Figure 8.
Replace the black boot so it protects the cable lug
and battery post.

15

FEATURES

GENERAL GENERATOR FEATURES

2

1

3

4

7

1 - Engine Control Switch: Turns the engine on

and off.

2 - Fuel Cap: Close until clicking sound is heard.

3 - Control Panel: Contains the circuit breakers

and outlets.

4 - Muffler and Spark Arrester: Avoid contact

until engine is cooled down. Spark arrestor
prevents sparks from exiting the muffler. It
must be removed for servicing.

16

6

Figure 9

5

5 - Battery: For electric start models only.

6 - Oil Fill Plug/Dipstick: Must be removed to

add and check oil.

7 - Oil Drain Plug: Must be removed to drain

engine oil.

FEATURES

1

2

3

5

7

6

1 - Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level.

2 - Fuel Shutoff Valve: Controls the flow of fuel

to the engine.

3 - Recoil Handle: Must pull to start engine for

manual start units.

4 - Air Cleaner Cover: Must remove to service

the air cleaner.

4

Figure 10

5 - Choke Lever: Must be put in the ON position

to start the engine and returned to the OFF
position once the engine is running.

6 - CARB Canister: Model numbers followed

by a “C” will be equipped with a carbon
canister.

7 - Spark Plug Boot (Wire): Must be removed

when servicing the engine or the spark plug.

17

FEATURES

CONTROL PANEL FEATURES

1

2

8

3

4

6

5

7

Figure 11 – Control Panel Features

1. Engine Control Switch (RUN/STOP for
Manual Start Units):

• RUN - In the RUN position, the switch

allows the generator to be started (for
manual start models).

• STOP - In the STOP position, the switch

stops the engine.

2. Hour Meter: Displays how many hours the

generator has been run when under load.

3. Main Circuit Breaker: The main circuit
breaker controls total output of all outlets to
protect the generator.

4. 120/240-Volt, 30-Amp Twist Lock Outlet
(NEMA L14-30R): Outlet can supply either
120V or 240V output.

5. 120-Volt, 20-Amp Duplex Outlets (NEMA
5-20R): Each outlet is capable of carrying a
maximum of 20 amps on a single receptacle
or a combination of both receptacles.

6. 20-Amp Circuit Breakers: Each circuit
breaker limits the current that can be
delivered through the 120-volt duplex outlets
to 20 amps.

7. Ground Terminal: The ground terminal is
used to ground the generator.

8. Engine Control Switch (START/RUN/STOP

for Electric Start Units):

• START - When the switch is momentarily

depressed and held in the START position,
the electric start motor engages and starts
the engine. Once the engine starts, release
the switch. (The switch will automatically go
to the RUN position.)

• RUN - Once started, the switch will remain

in the RUN position.

• STOP - To stop the engine, move the switch

to the STOP position.

18

OPERATION

!

BEFORE STARTING THE
GENERATOR

Before starting the generator, review
Safety on page 7.

Location Selection – Before starting the generator,

avoid exhaust and location hazards by verifying:

• You have selected a location to operate the
generator that is outdoors and well ventilated.

• You have selected a location with a level and solid
surface on which to place the generator.

• You have selected a location that is at least 6 feet
(1.8 m) away from any building, other equipment or
combustible material.

• If the generator is located close to a building, make
sure it is not located near any windows, doors
and/or vents.

No Connected Loads – Make sure the generator
has no connected loads before starting it. To ensure
there are no connected loads, unplug any electrical
extension cords that are plugged into the control panel
receptacles.

NOTICE

Starting the generator with loads already applied
to it could result in damage to any appliance being
powered off the generator during the brief start-up
period.

Grounding the Generator – The National Electric
Code (NEC), as well as many local electrical codes,
require the generator to be connected to earth ground
before operating. Before starting the generator, make
sure it is connected to earth ground by connecting
the ground terminal on the control panel (see Figure

12) to earth ground using copper wire (minimum 10
AWG). Consult a qualified electrician for local grounding
requirements.

WARNING

Always operate the generator on a level
surface. Placing the generator on non­level surfaces can cause the generator
to tip over, causing fuel and oil to spill.
Spilled fuel can ignite if it comes in
contact with an ignition source such as
a very hot surface.

NOTICE

Only operate the generator on a solid, level surface.
Operating the generator on a surface with loose
material such as sand or grass clippings can cause
debris to be ingested by the generator that could:

• Block cooling vents

• Block air intake system

Weather – Never operate your generator outdoors
during rain, snow or any combination of weather
conditions that could lead to moisture collecting on, in
or around the generator.

Dry Surface – Always operate the generator on a dry
surface free of any moisture.

Figure 12 – Ground Terminal on the Control Panel

19

OPERATION

!

WARNING

Be sure the generator is properly
connected to earth ground before
operating. The generator must be
grounded to prevent electrical shock
due to faulty appliances.

POWER CORD

Using Extension Cords

Westpro Power Systems assumes no responsibility for
the content within this table. The use of this table is the
responsibility of the user only. This table is intended
for reference only. The results produced by using this
table are not guaranteed to be correct or applicable in
all situations as the type and construction of cords are
highly variable. Always check with local regulations and
a licensed electrician prior to installing or connecting an
electrical appliance.

Extension Cord Wire Gauge Size

20

OPERATION

Using Westinghouse Power Cord

Use the extension cord chart to determine the size
of the conductor for extension cord applications.
Determine the distance of the generator to the
appliance on the top line of the chart. Then select the
rated amperage of the generator on the left side of the
chart. Where the two meet is the size of the conductor
required for the application.

The WCG25 power cord is connected to the generator
at the 120/240 plug. The opposite end of the power
cord is a fan tail receptacle with 2 green receptacles
and 2 red receptacles. Each receptacle is rated at
120 volts AC. To balance the load on the generator’s
alternator, use the red and green identifiers on the fan
tail receptacle. To keep the load balanced, connect
the loads so that both color receptacles are used. An
example is one in red and one in green. Do not connect
2 in red and none in green, or 2 in green and none in
red. If only one color receptacle is used with multiple
loads, the alternator may experience an unbalanced
load, causing undue vibration to generator.

2

1

TRANSFER SWITCH
CONNECTIONS

The Westinghouse generator is wired with the neutral
bonded to ground. If you are connecting your generator
to a transfer switch, the electrician must first determine
what type transfer switch is being used. Transfer
switches for this equipment are either two-pole or three­pole types.

A two-pole transfer switch will not switch the neutral
from the generator to the service panel. That means
the generator will be grounded to the service panel. To
use the generator with two-pole transfer switches, the
electrician will need to change the neutral from bonded
to floating.

This is done by removing the jumper wire that connects
the alternator ground to the alternator neutral. Remove
the jumper wire and retighten the connections. Keep
the jumper wire with the owner’s manual in case it is
needed for future use when not connected to a transfer
switch.

Figure 13

1 - Green Dots 2 - Red Dots

Figure 14

21

OPERATION

!

!

!

!

!

ADDING / CHECKING ENGINE
FLUIDS AND FUEL

Before adding/checking engine
fluids and fuel, review Safety on
page 7.

DANGER

Filling the fuel tank with gasoline while
the generator is running can cause
gasoline to leak and come in contact
with hot surfaces that can ignite the
gasoline.

Before starting the generator, always check the level of:

• Engine oil

• Gasoline in the fuel tank

Once the generator is started and the engine gets
warm, it is not safe to add gasoline to the fuel tank or
engine oil to the engine while the engine is running or
the engine and muffler are hot.

Checking and / or Adding Engine Oil

WARNING

Internal pressure can build in the
engine crankcase while the engine
is running. Removing the oil fill plug/
dipstick while the engine is hot can
cause extremely hot oil to spray out
of the crankcase and can severely
burn skin. Allow engine oil to cool for
several minutes before removing the oil
fill plug/dipstick.

Adding Gasoline to the Fuel Tank

WARNING

Never refuel the generator while the
engine is running.

Always turn the engine off and allow
the generator to cool before refueling.

Required Gasoline – Only use gasoline that meets the

following requirements:

• Unleaded gasoline only

• Gasoline with maximum 10% ethanol added

• Gasoline with an 87 octane rating or higher

Filling the Fuel Tank – Follow the steps below to fill the
fuel tank:

1. Shut off the generator.

2. Allow the generator to cool down so all surface
areas of the muffler and engine are cool to the
touch.

3. Move the generator to a flat surface.

4. Clean area around the fuel cap.

5. Remove the fuel cap by rotating counterclockwise.

6. Slowly add gasoline into the fuel tank. Be very
careful not to overfill the tank. The gasoline level
should NOT be higher than the red level indicator
inside the filler neck (see Figure 15).

7. Install the fuel cap by rotating clockwise until
you hear a click, indicating the cap is completely
installed.

The unit as shipped does not contain oil in the
engine. You must add engine oil before starting the
generator for the first time. See Checking Engine Oil
on page 28 and Adding Engine Oil on page 29
for instructions on checking engine oil level and the
procedure for adding engine oil.

NOTICE

The generator does not contain engine oil as shipped.
Attempting to start the engine without adding
engine oil can permanently damage internal engine
components.

22

Figure 15 – Maximum Gasoline Fill Level

CAUTION

Avoid prolonged skin contact with
gasoline. Avoid prolonged breathing of
gasoline vapors.

OPERATION

!

STARTING THE GENERATOR

Before starting the generator, review

Safety on page 7.

Before attempting to start the generator, verify the
following:

• The engine is filled with engine oil (see Checking
Engine Oil on page 28).

• The generator is situated in a proper location (see
Location Selection on page 19).

• The generator is on a dry surface (see Weather and
Dry Surface on page 19).

• All loads are disconnected from the generator (see
No Connected Loads on page 19).

• The generator is properly grounded (see Grounding
the Generator on page 19).

DANGER

Never use the generator in a location
that is wet or damp. Never expose the
generator to rain, snow, water spray or
standing water while in use. Protect the
generator from all hazardous weather
conditions. Moisture or ice can cause a
short circuit or other malfunction in the
electrical circuit.

Never operate the generator in an
enclosed area. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide. Only
operate the generator outside and away
from windows, doors and vents.

NOTICE

The engine is equipped with a low oil shutdown
switch. If the oil level becomes low, the engine will
shut down and will not start until the oil is filled to the
proper level.

Be sure the engine has the proper oil level before
using. Failure to verify that the engine has the proper
oil level could result in engine damage.

Disconnect all loads from the generator before
starting. Failure to verify all loads are disconnected
prior to starting the generator could result in damage
to the connected appliances.

Manually Starting a Generator

OTE:N This procedure can also be used on an

electric start generator.

1. Make sure the circuit breakers are properly set (see
Figure 16).

1 2 3 4

Figure 16 – Breakers

1 - 240/120V Main

Circuit Breaker
Operating
Position

2 - 240/120V Main

Circuit Breaker
Tripped Position

3 - 120V Circuit

Breaker
Operating
Position

4 - 120V Circuit

Breaker Tripped
Position

23

OPERATION

2. Move the fuel shutoff valve to the ON position (see
Figure 17).

Figure 17 – Fuel Shutoff Valve in the ON Position

3. Move the choke lever to the ON position (see
Figure 18).

4. Push the engine control switch into the RUN
position (see Figure 19).

Figure 19 – Engine Control Switch

5. Firmly grasp and pull the recoil handle slowly until
you feel increased resistance. At this point, apply a
rapid pull while pulling up and slightly away from the
generator (see Figure 20).

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Figure 18 – Choke Lever

Figure 20

6. As the engine starts and stabilizes, gradually move
the choke lever back to the OFF position.

OPERATION

Starting an Electric Start Generator

1. Verify the battery is properly installed and both
battery cables are attached (see Installing the

Battery (Electric Start Generators Only) on page

15).

2. Make sure the circuit breakers are properly set (see
Figure 21).

1 2 3 4

Figure 21 – Circuit Breakers

1 - 240/120V Main

Circuit Breaker
Operating
Position

2 - 240/120V Main

Circuit Breaker
Tripped Position

3. Move the fuel shutoff valve to the ON position (see
Figure 22).

3 - 120V Circuit

Breaker
Operating
Position

4 - 120V Circuit

Breaker Tripped
Position

4. Move the choke lever to the ON position (see

Figure 23).

Figure 23 – Choke Lever

5. Push and hold the engine control switch in the
START position until the engine starts. Once the
engine starts, release the engine control switch; the
switch will automatically move into the RUN position

(see Figure 24).

Figure 24 – Engine Control Switch

NOTICE

Failure to release the engine control switch once

Figure 22 – Fuel Shutoff Valve in the ON Position

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the engine starts could result in damage to the
generator.

Never push the engine control switch to the START
position while the engine is running; this could
damage the generator.

6. As the engine starts and stabilizes, gradually move
the choke lever back to the OFF position.

OPERATION

OTE:N If the engine fails to start after 5 seconds,

release the engine control switch. Let the
generator sit idle for 15 seconds and then
repeat step 5. If the cranking speed drops
after each unsuccessful attempt, then the
battery may not be adequately charged.
Manually start the generator as instructed
in Manually Starting a Generator on page

23.

OTE:N The electric start generator is equipped

with a battery charging feature. Once
the engine is running, a small charge is
supplied to the battery via the battery
cables and will slowly recharge the battery.

STOPPING THE GENERATOR

Normal Operation

During normal operation, use the following steps to stop
your generator:

1. Remove any connected loads from the control
panel receptacles.

2. Allow the generator to run at “no load” to reduce
and stabilize engine and alternator temperatures.

3. Push the engine control switch to the OFF position.

4. Turn the fuel shutoff valve to the OFF position.

During an Emergency

If there is an emergency and the generator must be
stopped quickly, push the engine control switch to the
OFF position immediately.

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