AlphaGen ACX3100i User manual

ACX3100i Generator
Operation Manual
Effective: July 2013

Safety Notes
Review the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If there are any questions regarding
the safe installation or operation of the system, contact Alpha Technologies or the nearest Alpha representative. Save this
document for future reference.
To reduce the risk of injury or death and to ensure the continued safe operation of this product, the following symbols have
been placed throughout this manual. Where these symbols appear, use extra care and attention.
There may be multiple warnings associated with the call out. Example:
ELECTRICAL HAZARD WARNING provides electrical safety information to PREVENT
INJURY OR DEATH to the technician or user.
WARNING! ELECTRICAL HAZARD
FUMES HAZARD WARNING provides fumes safety information to PREVENT INJURY OR
DEATH to the technician or user.
WARNING! FUMES HAZARD
FIRE HAZARD WARNING provides ammability safety information to PREVENT INJURY OR
DEATH to the technician or user.
WARNING! FIRE HAZARD
This WARNING provides safety information for both Electrical AND Fire Hazards
WARNING! FIRE & ELECTRICAL HAZARD
CAUTION!
CAUTION provides safety information intended to PREVENT DAMAGE to material or equipment.
NOTE provides additional information to help complete a specic task or procedure.
NOTE:
ATTENTION provides specic regulatory/code requirements that may affect the placement of equipment and /or
installation procedures.
ATTENTION:
The following sections contain important safety information that must be followed during the installation and maintenance
of the equipment and batteries. Read all of the instructions before installing or operating the equipment, and save this
manual for future reference.

ACX3100i Generator
Operator Manual
041-037-B000-001, Rev. A
Effective Date: July 2013
Copyright 2013
Alpha Technologies, Inc.
Notice of FCC Compliance
Per FCC 47 CFR 15.21:
Changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
Per FCC 47 CFR 15.105b:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Contacting Alpha Technologies: www.alpha.com
or
For general product information and customer service (7 AM to 5 PM, Pacic Time), call
1-800-863-3930
For complete technical support, call
1-800-863-3364
7 AM to 5 PM, Pacic Time or 24/7 emergency support
To report errors in this document, send email to:T[email protected]
Photographs and drawings in this manual are for illustrative purposes only and might not exactly match your
installation.
NOTE:
Review this manual before proceeding. If there are questions regarding the safe installation or operation of this
product, please contact Alpha Technologies or your nearest Alpha representative.
NOTE:
Alpha denies responsibility for any damage or injury involving its enclosures, power supplies, generators, batteries
or other hardware, manufactured by Alpha or members of the Alpha Group, when used for an unintended purpose,
installed or operated in an unapproved manner, or improperly maintained.
NOTE:

4041-037-B000-001, Rev. A (06/2013)
Table of Contents
ACX3100i Safety Instructions.................................................................................................................................................6
1.0 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................................................7
1.1 ACX3100i Generator .............................................................................................................................................7
1.2 ACX3100i Generator Accessories..........................................................................................................................7
1.3 Control Panel..........................................................................................................................................................8
1.4 Serial Number/Bar Code Identication Location ....................................................................................................8
2.0 Operation........................................................................................................................................................................8
2.1 Checking the Engine Oil Level ...............................................................................................................................9
2.2 Fuel Level.............................................................................................................................................................10
2.3 Checking the Air Cleaner...................................................................................................................................... 11
2.4 Starting the Engine with Ignition Key....................................................................................................................12
2.5 Starting the Engine Manually ...............................................................................................................................12
2.6 Starting the Engine Remotely...............................................................................................................................13
2.7 High Altitude Operation ........................................................................................................................................14
2.8 Operating at Extreme Temperatures ....................................................................................................................14
2.9 Using the Generator.............................................................................................................................................15
2.10 AC Application ......................................................................................................................................................16
2.11 Output and Overload LEDs ..................................................................................................................................17
2.12 DC Applications ....................................................................................................................................................18
2.13 Jump-starting the generator .................................................................................................................................20
2.14 Low Oil Alarm System ..........................................................................................................................................20
2.15 Economy Switch...................................................................................................................................................21
2.16 Stopping the Engine .............................................................................................................................................21
2.17 Air Conditioning Operation ...................................................................................................................................22
3.0 Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................................23
3.1 Emission Control System .....................................................................................................................................23
3.2 Maintenance Schedule.........................................................................................................................................24
3.3 Changing Oil.........................................................................................................................................................25
3.4 Servicing the Air Cleaner......................................................................................................................................26
3.5 Spark Plug Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................27
3.6 Spark Arrestor Maintenance.................................................................................................................................29
4.0 Transporting And Storage.............................................................................................................................................30
4.1 Transporting the Generator ..................................................................................................................................30
4.2 Short Term Storage of the Generator ...................................................................................................................30
4.3 Infrequent Use......................................................................................................................................................30
4.4 Exercising the Generator......................................................................................................................................31
5.0 Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................................................32
5.1 Engine will not start ..............................................................................................................................................32
5.2 Engine will not crank with the electric or remote start ..........................................................................................33
5.3 Equipment does not operate ................................................................................................................................33
5.4 No output at the DC receptacle............................................................................................................................34
6.0 Specications ...............................................................................................................................................................35

5041-037-B000-001, Rev. A (06/2013)
Figure 1-1, Generator Components........................................................................................................................................7
Figure 1-2, Control Panel Component Identication...............................................................................................................8
Figure 1-3, Serial Number Location........................................................................................................................................8
Figure 1-4, Checking Engine Oil.............................................................................................................................................9
Figure 2-1, Fuel Level...........................................................................................................................................................10
Figure 2-2, Air Filter Components......................................................................................................................................... 11
Figure 2-3, Starting the Engine.............................................................................................................................................12
Figure 2-4, Ignition Switch Position and Remote Starter......................................................................................................13
Figure 2-5, Temperature Range and Oil Types ....................................................................................................................14
Figure 2-6, Grounding the Generator ...................................................................................................................................15
Figure 2-7, Control Panel AC Applications Components......................................................................................................16
Figure 2-8, LED Location......................................................................................................................................................17
Figure 2-9, Battery Charging ................................................................................................................................................18
Figure 2-10, Battery Charging ..............................................................................................................................................19
Figure 2-11, Low Oil Alarm LED Location.............................................................................................................................20
Figure 2-12, Economy Switch Location................................................................................................................................21
Figure 2-13, Engine Switch Location....................................................................................................................................21
Figure 3-1, Example of Emission Control Tag ......................................................................................................................24
Figure 3-2, Temperature Range and Oil Types ....................................................................................................................25
Figure 3-3, Changing Engine Oil ..........................................................................................................................................25
Figure 3-4, Cleaning the Air Filter.........................................................................................................................................26
Figure 3-5, Accessing the Spark Plug ..................................................................................................................................27
Figure 3-6, Gapping the Spark Plug.....................................................................................................................................28
Figure 3-7, Maintaining the Spark Arrester...........................................................................................................................29
Figure 4-1, Cranking Motor to Distribute Oil in Cylinder.......................................................................................................31
Table 3-1, ACX3100i Maintenance Schedule .......................................................................................................................24
Table 6-1, ACX3100i Generator Specications ....................................................................................................................35
7.0 Warranty And Consumer Information ...........................................................................................................................36
Appendix A – Emission Control System Warranty................................................................................................................38
Appendix B – Emission Control System...............................................................................................................................39
Appendix C – Safety And Charging Instructions...................................................................................................................39
Table of Contents
Figures & Tables

6041-037-B000-001, Rev. A (06/2013)
ACX3100i Safety Instructions
Alpha considers customer safety and satisfaction its most important priority. To reduce the risk of injury or death and to
ensure continual safe operation of this product, read this manual entirely and follow all safety information therein.
• The mufer is hot during and after operation for a few minutes.
• Do not to touch the mufer while it is hot.
• Keep away from moving parts while the generator is running.
WARNING! INJURY HAZARDS
• Generator produces poisonous carbon monoxide. Never run the generator in an enclosed
area.
• Gasoline is extremely ammable and explosive under certain conditions.
• Refuel in a well ventilated area with the engine stopped.
• Keep away from cigarette smoke and sparks when refueling the generator.
• Wipe up spilled gasoline immediately.
• Let the engine cool before storing the generator indoors.
WARNING! FUMES & FIRE HAZARD
• Do not operate the generator in rain or snow and do not let it get wet.
• Generators are a potential source of electrical shocks when misused; do not operate with
wet hands.
WARNING! ELECTRICAL HAZARD
• Do not operate the generator in rain or snow and do not let it get wet.
• Do not modify the enclosure of this generator.
• To avoid accidents or equipment damage, always make a pre-operation inspection before you start the engine.
• Place the generator at least 3 ft (1 m) away from buildings during operation.
• Operate the generator on a level surface. If the generator is tilted, fuel spillage may result.
• Know how to stop the generator quickly and understand operation of all controls. Never permit anyone to
operate the generator without proper instructions.
CAUTION!
Read the entire manual and review all the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If there
is any question regarding the safe installation or operation of the product or its components, contact Alpha Technologies
or the nearest Alpha representative. Save this document for future reference.

7041-037-B000-001, Rev. A (06/2013)
1.0 Introduction
1.1 ACX3100i Generator
1.2 ACX3100i Generator Accessories
The following additional items are included with the generator. Keep all accessories in a convenient
location for future use or reference.
• Battery Charge Kit
• Oil Jug
• Oil Drain Pipe
• Quick Start Guide
• Screwdriver
• Spare Spark Plug
• Spark Plug Wrench
Figure 1-1, Generator Components
Gas Cap
Gas Gauge
Swivel Wheels
Locking Wheels
Fold-over Handle
Control Panel
Starter Grip
Maintenance Door
Engine Oil Access Door
Fuel Valve

8041-037-B000-001, Rev. A (06/2013)
1.3 Control Panel
1.4 Serial Number/Bar Code Identication Location
The generator bar code number and the engine serial number identify your particular unit and are
necessary when ordering parts and accessories. These two numbers are used by Alpha for warranty
administration and must be supplied before any work can be done.
The engine serial number can be found stamped on the engine block above oil dipstick. It is visible when
the maintenance panel is removed.
The bar code number label is found on the side of the
generator near the fuel valve.
The bar code number is on the foil label on the shipping
carton. Please record this information in a convenient location
for reference.
1.0 Introduction
Figure 1-3, Serial Number Location
Serial
Number
Figure 1-2, Control Panel Component Identication
Ignition Switch
Ground Terminal
Hour Meter
Overload Reset Button (Green)
Stop Button (Red)
Low Oil Alarm LED (Red)
Run LED (Green)
Overload LED (Red)
Battery Charge Circuit Breaker
Battery Charge Receptacle
Economy Switch
Remote Switch
Remote ON Switch
120V Circuit Breaker
120V Locking Receptacle
120V Duplex Receptacle

9041-037-B000-001, Rev. A (06/2013)
2.0 Operation
2.1 Checking the Engine Oil Level
• Check the oil with the generator on a level surface with the engine stopped.
• Do not use non-detergent oil or 2-stroke engine oil. It will void the warranty and will shorten the engine’s service
life.
• Use a high-detergent, premium quality, 4-stroke engine oil, certied to meet or exceed U.S. automobile
manufacturer’s requirements for API Service Classication SG/SF.
• Change the oil in a new engine between the rst 4 to 6 hours of operation to remove manufacturing debris and
contamination.
• Use SAE 15W-40 viscosity oil unless operating at ambient temperatures below 32° F (0° C). For temperatures
below 32° F, use SAE 0W-40 viscosity oil. Refer to the Operating at extreme temperatures section for more
information.
• Synthetic oil is approved for use in Alpha generators generally, and is recommended when operating the
generator in temperatures below 32° F. Use synthetic oil to ll the oil well of the generator, and use it for
subsequent oil changes.
• Running the engine with insufcient oil can cause serious engine damage.
• The Low Oil Alarm System will automatically stop the engine before the oil level falls below a safe limit. However,
to avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected shutdown visually inspect the oil level regularly.
CAUTION!
Engine oil capacity: 15.6  oz (0.98 pt) / 460 ml.
1. Loosen the cover screws and remove the maintenance cover.
2. Remove the dipstick, wipe it with a clean rag and reinsert it into the ller neck, screwing it down
completely.
3. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level.
4. If the oil level is at or below the lower level of the dipstick, rell with the recommended oil up to the top
of the upper level marking. Do not overll.
5. Reinsert the dipstick and be sure to screw it down until it is tight.
Figure 1-4, Checking Engine Oil
OVERLOAD RUN LOW OIL
OVERLOAD
RESET
STOP
12V DC 8.3 A
ON
OFF
REMOTE
CONTROL
ECONOMY
SWITCH
START
ON
OFF
HOURS 1/10
BATTERYCHARGE
ON OFF ON OFF
120V AC RECEPTACLES
120V AC CIRCUIT BREAKERS
20 A 30 A
20 A
30 A
Dipstick
Upper Level
Lower Level
Oil Fill Hole

10 041-037-B000-001, Rev. A (06/2013)
2.2 Fuel Level
• Use a fuel stabilizer, such as STA-BIL®, to help prevent fuel oxidation (breakdown) and the formation of gum and
varnish, and to inhibit corrosion in the fuel system and carburetor.
• Fuel system damage or engine performance problems resulting from the use of fuels that contain an improper
alcohol blend, or by adding oil to the fuel, are not covered under warranty.
• Before buying fuel from an unfamiliar station, determine if the fuel contains ethanol and if it does, conrm the
type and percentage of ethanol used. If any undesirable operating symptoms appear while using a gasoline that
contains ethanol, replace it with a gasoline that has the proper blend.
CAUTION!
Use automotive unleaded regular gasoline only. Fuel tank capacity: 1.4 gal (5.3 Liters).
1. If the fuel level is low, rell to the top of the fuel strainer.
2. Never use an oil/gasoline mixture or dirty gasoline.
3. Avoid getting dirt, dust or water in the fuel tank.
4. After refueling, tighten the fuel ller cap securely.
NOTE:
For gasoline containing alternate fuels do not use a blend that contains more than 10% ethanol. Do not use
gasoline containing methanol. An octane rating of 87 or higher is recommended.
2.0 Operation
Figure 2-1, Fuel Level
FE
Gas Cap
Fuel Gauge
Fuel Strainer
Fuel