Troubleshooting

TROUBLESHOOTING

Problem

Generator overheating.

No output voltage.

Engine lacks power or sputters.

Engine shuts down during operation.

Possible Causes

Engine will not start. a) Low oil level. b) Fouled spark plug. c) Out of fuel. d) Stop switch in OFF position.

Voltage too low. e) Battery disconnected or dead.

f) Fuel selector switch is set to the incorrect fuel. a) Engine speed too slow. b) Generator is overloaded.

Circuit breaker trips. a) Defective load connected to generator.

Voltage too high. b) Defective receptacle. c) Generator overloaded. a) Engine speed too high. a) Generator is overloaded. b) Insufficient ventilation. a) Defective load connected to generator. b) Broken or loose wire. c) Defective receptacle. d) Defective stator. e) Defective rotor. g) Circuit breaker tripped. a) Generator is overloaded. b) Dirty air filter. c) LP/NG hose is connected to the wrong Carburetor inlet. d) Fouled spark plug. a) Out of fuel. b) Low oil level.

Possible Remedies

a) Fill crankcase to proper oil level. b) Clean or replace spark plug. c) Fill fuel tank. d) Place switch in ON position. e) Charge or replace battery. f) Place switch in desired location (Gasoline or LP/NG). a) Bring generator to a qualified technician for adjustment. b) Reduce the load. (See Power Load

Planning & Mgt. section of this manual.) a) Disconnect load. b) Replace receptacle. c) Reduce the load. (See Power Load

Planning & Mgt. section of this manual.) a) Bring generator to a qualified technician for adjustment. a) Reduce the load. (See Power Load

Planning & Mgt. section of this manual.) b) Make sure there is at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides of generator. a) Disconnect load. b) Bring generator to a qualified technician for repair. c) Replace receptacle. d) Bring generator to a qualified technician for repair. e) Bring generator to a qualified technician for repair. f) Bring generator to a qualified technician for repair. g) Reset circuit breaker and reduce loads connected to the generator. a) Reduce the load. (See Power Load

Planning & Mgt. section of this manual.) b) Clean or replace air filter. c) For LP, the hose should be on the left inlet, For NG, the hose should be on the right inlet. d) Clean or replace spark plug. a) Fill fuel tank. b) Fill crankcase to proper oil level.

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Summary of Importation Information for Operation

This section provides a summary of the various safety procedures and measures that have been presented throughout the manual. Keep this summary handy and refer to it to refresh your memory about how to safely use your generator.

WARNING

Carefully read and make sure you understand the following safety information before using the generator. Improper use or maintenance of the generator can result in serious injury or

death

from carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock, fire/explosion, or burns.

General

• Read manual. Read this Owner’s Manual and the engine Owner’s Manual completely before attempting to set-up and use the generator . Serious injury or death can result if safety instructions are not followed.

• Instruct operators. The generator owner must instruct all operators in safe generator set-up and operation.

Do not allow anyone to operate the generator who has not read the Owner’s Manual and been instructed on its safe use.

• Adults only. Only trained adults should set up and operate the generator. Do not let children operate.

• Under the influence. Never operate, or let anyone else operate, the generator while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

• Intended use. Carefully read about and understand the intended use of this generator. Do not use for other purposes, as unforeseen hazards or equipment damage may result.

Prohibition Against Modifications

Never modify or alter the generator in any way. Modifications can create serious safety hazards and will also void the warranty.

• Engine speed. Never attempt to modify the engine speed setting. The engine speed is preset at 3600 RPM for safe and optimal performance of the generator. If speed needs adjusting, it must be done by factoryauthorized personnel.

• Fuel/exhaust system. Never modify the exhaust system, fuel tanks, or fuel lines. Carbon monoxide poisoning, fire, or explosion could result.

• Guards. Do not operate generator unless all guards and cover shields, which prevent access to moving parts and pinch points, are in place. Failure to guard the power transmission mechanisms may result in

serious injury or death.

Safety – Installation & Set-up

Battery Safety

Batteries are hazardous because they contain caustic acid, can emit explosive gases, and can cause electric shock. Caution must be exercised when making connections to a battery to avoid shock and contact with the

acid, and to prevent any sparking that could lead to an explosion.

Follow safety rules carefully when connecting battery to generator:

• Eye/skin protection. Always wear eye protection and protective clothing when connecting or disconnecting battery.

• Sparks/Smoking. Never smoke or work near sparks or other sources of ignition.

• Electric shock. Never touch both battery terminals at the same time with your hand or any non-insulated tools.

• Connection/disconnection sequence. ALWAYS connect and disconnect cables to the correct battery terminals in the proper sequence

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Summary of Importation Information for Operation cont’d o

When CONNECTING the battery, connect the RED cable to the POSITIVE terminal FIRST. o

When DISCONNECTING the battery, disconnect the BLACK cable from the NEGATIVE terminal

FIRST

• Acid/skin contact. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, flush immediately with water and neutralize with baking soda.

Installation / Initial Set-up Safety

• Dry, level surface. Situate generator on a dry, firm, level surface. Ensure generator sits level and will not slide or shift during operation. Block wheels if applicable.

• Operate OUTSIDE only – dangerous carbon monoxide exhaust! Generators give off carbon monoxide exhaust, a poisonous gas that can kill. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it. ONLY run generator

OUTDOORS and away from building air intakes. NEVER run generator inside homes, garages, sheds, or other semi-enclosed spaces. These spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or open windows. Carbon monoxide is given off whether you are using gasoline, natural gas, or propane to power the generator.

• No vehicle/marine use. This generator is NOT designed or approved for use in vehicles or marine applications. Never run the generator inside RVs or other vehicles, on boats, or on pick-up truck beds.

• Cooling ventilation. The generator needs adequate, unobstructed flow of air to allow for proper cooling of engine and generator head. Situate so there is adequate clearance around generator to allow for cooling airflow. Do not allow debris to accumulate and block airflow.

• Grounding. Always ensure generator is properly grounded to prevent electrical shock. This generator is equipped with a grounding post. Always complete the grounding path from the generator to a copper pipe/rod driven into moist earth to a sufficient depth. Check with an electrician for local grounding requirements. If a licensed electrician installs the generator with a connection to your building’s electrical circuit for use as a standby power system, grounding will be complete through the building’s grounding system.

• Isolate connection to building’s electrical circuit. Never plug the generator directly into a wall outlet.

ANY connection to a building’s electrical system MUST ISOLATE THE GENERATOR FROM

UTILITY POWER via an UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician in compliance with all applicable local building and electrical codes. If the generator is not isolated from the utility power system by such means, generator output will back feed into the utility power grid. This may result in injury or death to utility power workers or others who contact the lines during a power outage. It may also cause the generator to explode or cause fires when utility power is restored.

• Natural gas hook-up. Always consult with your gas utility company to determine installation requirements for a natural gas hook-up. In order to safely operate your generator, you may need either a higher or lower pressure than the standard delivery pressure provided to your building. You may need a pressure reducing regulator, or you may need elevated delivery pressure which would require changes to your natural gas service. All natural gas generator hook-ups should be completed by trained personnel from your natural gas utility company and inspected as required by you local building code.

• LPG hook-up. A qualified propane gas technician must set up the valve and hose connection between the propane tank and generator in accordance with all local regulations and electric code. Check with your local propane gas supplier.

• Wet conditions. Water conducts electricity. Do not operate generator where it is wet. Operate on a dry surface under an open, canopy-like structure.

• CO alarms. Ensure that working, battery-operated or battery back-up carbon monoxide alarms are used in any dwelling/structure that is in close proximity to the running generator.

• Hot exhaust - fires. Exhaust from engine can be extremely hot and cause fire. Position muffler at least 7’ from combustible objects during operation.

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Summary of Importation Information for Operation cont’d

• Spark arrestor. Equip engine with a spark arrestor if generator will be used near any ignitable forest, brush, or grassy land. See the “Specifications” section of this manual to determine if your generator is already equipped. Make sure you comply with applicable local, state and federal codes.

• Fire extinguisher. Keep a fire extinguisher rated “ABC” by the National Fire Protection Association nearby. Keep it properly charged and be familiar with its use.

Safety – Before Use

Know how to operate

• Review safety rules. Before each use of this generator, review the “Rules for Safe Operation.” Failure to follow these rules may result in serious injury or death.

• Know how to operate. Be thoroughly familiar with all controls and with the proper use of the equipment.

Know how to stop the generator quickly if needed.

Personal protective equipment

• Hearing protection. The use of ear plugs or other hearing protection device is recommended for those in close proximity to the generator while it is operating.

• Loose / dangling. Loose or dangling apparel can become entangled in moving parts. Metal jewelry can conduct electricity. Never wear jewelry or loose-fitting clothing when operating the generator.

Gasoline Safety

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. Use extreme care when handling:

• Fuel outdoors. Fill fuel tank outdoors – never indoors. Gasoline vapors can ignite if they collect inside an enclosure. Explosion can result.

• Use approved container. Never pump fuel directly into engine at gas station. Static charge can build and ignite fuel. Use an UL approved fuel container to transfer gas to the engine.

• Running / hot engine. A running engine is hot enough to ignite fuel. Never add fuel or remove gas cap if engine is running or still hot. Stop the engine and allow to cool at least two minutes before adding fuel.

• Heat / flames / sparks. Stay away from sources of heat, flame, or sparks while adding fuel.

• Don’t overfill. DO NOT overfill the gas tank. Allow at least 1/2” of empty space below the fill neck to allow for fuel expansion.

• Replace cap. Replace gas cap securely before starting engine.

• Spills. Clean up fuel spills immediately. Move generator away from spilled fuel on the ground. Wipe fuel off engine and wait 5 minutes for excess fuel to evaporate before starting engine. Gas soaked rags should be disposed of properly.

• On skin / clothes. If gasoline is spilled on your skin or clothes, change clothes and wash skin immediately.

• Inspect fuel system. Check fuel system on a regular basis. Look for signs of leaks, deterioration, chafed or spongy fuel hose, loose or missing fuel hose clamps, damaged fuel tank, or a defective fuel shut-off valve.

Do not start generator until needed repairs have been completed.

• Gasoline storage. Store gasoline in a cool, dry place in an UL-approved, tightly sealed container.

Propane & Natural Gas Safety

LP gas (propane) and natural gas are highly flammable and explosive. Even the slightest spark can ignite these fuels. You can be burned and seriously injured if the fuel system is not properly hooked up or there is a fuel leak when you start the engine.

• Initial hook-up by qualified personnel. Initial hook-up must be completed by qualified personnel from your natural gas company or propane supplier and inspected per local code.

• Inspect regularly. Inspect fuel system regularly for leaks. Do not start generator until leaks are repaired.

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Summary of Importation Information for Operation cont’d

• Smell for gas before starting the generator:

• Natural gas. Natural gas is lighter than air and tends to collect in high areas. After opening NG line supply, smell for gas BEFORE starting engine.

• LP gas (propane). LP gas is heavier than air and tends to settle in low areas. After opening propane tank valve, smell next to floor for gas BEFORE starting engine.

If you do smell gas, DO NOT start engine. DO NOT light a match. DO NOT flip on an electrical switch. Exit area immediately and call gas supplier or fire department. If possible shut off gas supply.

Safety – During Use

• Safety equipment / controls. Always operate the generator with all safety covers, guards, and barriers in place and in good working order, and all controls properly adjusted for safe operation.

• Know how to stop. Be thoroughly familiar with proper use of the equipment and all generator controls, output receptacles, and connections. Know how to stop the generator quickly if needed.

• Damaged. Do not operate the generator with damaged, missing, or broken parts.

• Check for gas leak before starting. After opening gasoline valve or LP/NG line supply, smell for gas before starting engine. If you do smell gas, DO NOT start engine. DO NOT light a match. DO NOT flip on an electrical switch. Exit area immediately and call gas supplier or fire department. If possible shut off the LP/NG supply.

• Carbon monoxide exhaust. The running engine gives off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using the generator, shut off the engine and get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Other exhaust dangers. This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Avoid inhalation of exhaust.

• Smoking/sparks. Never smoke near the running generator, and never operate near sources of sparks or flames.

• Check output voltage. Check output voltage to ensure the generator is working properly before connecting loads to the generator. Failure to do so could result in damage to equipment powered by the generator and possible injury to the individual. Do not adjust output speed of engine to change voltage. If voltage is not within specified range, have generator repaired by factory authorized personnel.

• Stabilize before connecting loads. Start generator and let engine stabilize before connecting electrical loads.

• Do not overload. Do not overload the generator. Make sure that combined starting and running loads do not exceed rated capacity of generator or damage will result.

• Protect sensitive electronics. Some electronic equipment, such as computers and audio/video equipment, can be damaged by small fluctuations in the flow of power. Use a surge suppressor for any voltagesensitive electronic equipment you will be powering with the generator.

• Wet conditions. Do not operate the generator or handle any electrical equipment while standing in water, while barefoot, while hands are wet or while in the rain or snow. Electric shock may result.

• Ground fault circuit interrupter. Always use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected extension cord (or outlet, if generator is equipped) in damp or highly electrical conductive areas and on construction jobsites to prevent electrical shock.

• Electrical cords. Use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated, three prong extension cords of the proper size. All extension and appliance cords must be in good condition and not worn, bare, frayed, or otherwise damaged. Use of inadequate or damaged electric cords can cause electric shock or fire.

• Avoid contact. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, connections, etc. while the unit is running.

• Electric shock accident. If an electric shock accident occurs, immediately shut down the source of electrical power. If this is not possible, attempt to free the victim from the live conductor. Avoid direct

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Summary of Importation Information for Operation cont’d contact with victim. Use a nonconducting implement, such as a dry rope or board, to free the victim from the live conductor. Apply first aid and get immediate medical help.

• Hot muffler. Never touch hot muffler, hot exhaust manifold, or engine cooling fins. Exhaust and engine parts can be very hot and will burn you.

• Moving parts. Keep hands, feet, and apparel away from drive belts, fans, and other moving parts. Never remove any drive belt or fan guard while the unit is operating.

• Refueling. DO NOT refuel the engine until it has cooled at least two minutes.

• Malfunction during operation. Immediately turn off the generator if any of the following conditions arise during operation: o

Excessive change in engine speed, slow or fast o

Overheating in load connecting devices o

Sparking or arcs from generator o

Loss of electrical output o

Receptacle damage o

Engine misfire o

Excessive vibration o

Flame or smoke o

Abnormal noise

• Adjusting / repairing. Always turn off generator and remove spark plug(s) or spark plug wire(s) before working on the generator to prevent accidental starting.

Safety – After use

• Cool engine before storing. Let engine cool for at least five minutes before storing. A hot engine can be a fire hazard.

• Shut off fuel supply. Make sure gasoline shut-off valve is in the OFF position. Turn off propane tank valve or shut NG line valve, as applicable.

• Prevent accidental starting. When generator is not in use, remove key from starter (key start engines) and secure in a safe location, or remove spark plug(s) in order to ensure that generator cannot be started in a storage location or by untrained persons.

• Storage location. Store the generator in a dry location away from sources of heat, open flames, sparks or pilot lights – such as water heaters, space heaters, furnaces, clothes dryers, or other gas appliances – EVEN

IF the generator’s gas tank is empty. Residual gasoline could ignite.

• Exercise regularly. Exercise generator every four weeks to dry out moisture that accumulates in the windings. If generator cannot be exercised on a regular basis, prepare generator for long term storage.

• Periodic maintenance. Perform periodic maintenance as directed in this manual to keep the generator in safe working condition.

Safety - Inspection/Maintenance

Inspect and maintain your generator on a regular basis and repair as needed to keep it in safe working condition:

• Turn off generator. Always turn off generator and remove spark plug(s) or spark plug wire(s) before working on the engine or generator to prevent accidental starting.

• Discharge capacitor. When the generator is shut down, the capacitor may maintain a charge. Always discharge the capacitor before working on the generator head to prevent electrical shock.

• Replace guards / shields. Make sure all guards and shields are replaced after servicing the generator.

• Replacement parts. If a part needs replacement, only use parts that meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Replacement parts that do not meet specifications may result in a safety hazard or poor operation of the generator and will void the warranty.

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