Champion Global Power Equipment 200963 User manual

OPERATOR'S MANUAL
MODEL #200963
3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. This manual contains important safety precautions which should be read and understood before operating the product. Failure to do
so could result in serious injury. This manual should remain with the product.
Specifications, descriptions and illustrations in this manual are as accurate as known at the time of publication, but are subject to change without notice.

As the only safe way to use a portable generator, taking your generator
outside is absolutely mandatory to keep your family safe from carbon
monoxide. But there’s even more you can do. By educating yourself
about all carbon monoxide risks, you’ll be better prepared to protect
your family from this colorless, oderless threat.
CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY: THE BIG PICTURE
KNOW THE SYMPTOMS
• Headache
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
STAY ALERT WITH CARBON
MONOXIDE DETECTORS
POINT FUMES AWAY FROM
NEARBY PEOPLE
KEEP IT OUTSIDE AND AWAY FROM
DOORS, WINDOWS, AND GARAGES
ALWAYS READ
THE OPERATOR’S
MANUAL FIRST
MANUAL
IF YOU FEEL SYMPTOMS,
LEAVE RIGHT AWAY

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction...................................................4
Safety Definitions ..........................................4
Important Safety Instructions .......................5
Fuel Safety ........................................................ 7
Safety and Dataplate Labels...................................... 8
Safety Symbols.................................................... 9
Operation Symbols ............................................... 10
Quickstart Label Symbols........................................ 11
Controls and Features ................................. 12
Generator ......................................................... 12
Control Panel ..................................................... 13
Intelligauge ....................................................... 14
Parts Included .................................................... 15
Assembly ..................................................... 16
Unpacking ........................................................ 16
Remove Shipping Support Brackets ............................. 16
Add Engine Oil.................................................... 16
Add Fuel .......................................................... 17
Grounding ........................................................ 18
Operation..................................................... 19
Generator Location............................................... 19
Surge Protection ................................................. 19
Starting the Engine............................................... 19
Connecting Electrical Loads ..................................... 20
Do Not Overload Generator ...................................... 21
Stopping the Engine.............................................. 21
Moving the Generator ............................................ 22
Operation at High Altitude ....................................... 22
Maintenance ................................................23
Cleaning the Generator .......................................... 23
Changing the Engine Oil ......................................... 23
Cleaning and Adjusting the Spark Plug.......................... 24
Cleaning the Air Filter ............................................ 24
Cleaning the Spark Arrestor ..................................... 24
Adjusting the Governor........................................... 25
Maintenance Schedule........................................... 25
Storage ........................................................26
Short Term Storage (up to 30 days) ............................. 26
Mid Term Storage (30 days – 1 year) ........................... 26
Long Term Storage (over 1 year) ................................ 27
Removing from Storage.......................................... 27
Specifications..............................................28
Generator Specifications......................................... 28
Engine Specifications ............................................ 28
Oil Specifications................................................. 28
Fuel Specifications ............................................... 28
Temperature Specifications...................................... 28
Troubleshooting ...........................................29

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR INTRODUCTION
4
SAFETY DEFINITIONS
The purpose of 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
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
NOTICE indicates information considered important, but not
hazard-related (e.g., messages relating to property damage).
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of a Champion Power Equipment
(CPE) product. CPE designs, builds, and supports all of our
products to strict specifications and guidelines. With proper
product knowledge, safe use, and regular maintenance, this
product should bring years of satisfying service.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and
completeness of the information in this manual at the time of
publication, and we reserve the right to change, alter and/or
improve the product and this document at any time without prior
notice.
CPE highly values how our products are designed, manufactured,
operated, and serviced as well as providing safety to the operator
and those around the generator. Therefore, it is IMPORTANT to
review this product manual and other product materials thoroughly
and be fully aware and knowledgeable of the assembly, operation,
dangers and maintenance of the product before use. Fully
familiarize yourself, and make sure others who plan on operating
the product fully familiarize themselves too, with the proper safety
and operation procedures before each use. Please always exercise
common sense and always err on the side of caution when
operating the product to ensure no accident, property damage,
or injury occurs. We want you to continue to use and be satisfied
with your CPE product for years to come.
When contacting CPE about parts and/or service, you will need to
supply the complete model and serial numbers of your product.
Transcribe the information found on your product’s nameplate
label to the table below
CPE TECHNICAL SUPPORT TEAM
MODEL NUMBER
200963
SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
PURCHASE LOCATION

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
5
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
Cancer and Reproductive Harm
DANGER
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a colorless,
odorless, poisonous gas. Breathing carbon monoxide will
cause nausea, dizziness, fainting or death. If you start to feel
dizzy or weak, get to fresh air immediately.
OPERATE GENERATOR OUTDOORS ONLY IN A WELL
VENTILATED AREA AND POINT EXHAUST AWAY.
DO NOT operate the generator inside any building, including
garages, basements, crawlspaces and sheds, enclosure or
compartment, including the generator compartment of a
recreational vehicle.
DO NOT allow exhaust fumes to enter a confined area through
windows, doors, vents or other openings.
DANGER
Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is a poison
you cannot see or smell.
NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors and
windows are open.
ONLY use OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors,
and vents.
Install battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms or plug-in
carbon monoxide alarms with battery back-up according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
WARNING
Although the generator contains a spark arrester, maintain
a minimum distance of 5 ft. (1.5 m) from dry vegetation to
prevent fires.
DANGER
Operate equipment with guards in place.
Rotating parts can entangle hands, feet, hair, clothing and/or
accessories. Traumatic amputation or severe laceration can
result.
Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.
Tie up long hair and remove jewelry.
DO NOT wear loose-fitting clothing, dangling drawstrings or
items that could become caught.
DANGER
Generator produces powerful voltage.
DO NOT touch bare wires or receptacles.
DO NOT use electrical cords that are worn, damaged or frayed.
Use only Champion electrical cords for proper application.
DO NOT operate generator in wet weather.
DO NOT allow children or unqualified persons to operate or
service the generator.
Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in damp areas and
areas containing conductive material such as metal decking.
Connection to your home’s electrical system requires a
listed 30A transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician
and approved by the local authority having jurisdiction. The
connection must isolate the generator from the utility power
and must comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
WARNING
Do not use generator for medical and life support uses.
In case of emergency, call 911 immediately.
NEVER use this product to power life support devices or life
support appliances.
NEVER use this product to power medical devices or medical
appliances.
Inform your electricity provider immediately if you or anyone in
your household depends on electrical equipment to live.
Inform your electrical provider immediately if a loss of power
would cause you or anyone in your household to experience a
medical emergency.

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
6
WARNING
Spark from removed spark plug wire can result in fire or
electrical shock.
When servicing the generator:
Disconnect the spark plug wire and place it where it cannot
contact the plug or any other metal object.
DO NOT check for spark with the plug removed.
Use only approved spark plug testers.
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Severe burns can occur on
contact. Combustible material can catch fire on contact.
DO NOT touch hot surfaces.
Avoid contact with hot exhaust gases.
Allow equipment to cool before touching.
Maintain at least 3 ft. (91.4 cm) of clearance on all sides to
ensure adequate cooling.
Maintain at least 5 ft. (1.5 m) of clearance from combustible
materials.
WARNING
Rapid retraction of the recoil cord will pull hand and arm
towards the engine faster than you can let go. Broken bones,
fractures, bruises or sprains could result. Unintentional
startup can result in entanglement, traumatic amputation or
laceration.
When starting engine, pull the recoil cord slowly until
resistance is felt and then pull rapidly to avoid kickback.
DO NOT start or stop the engine with electrical devices
plugged in and turned on.
CAUTION
Exceeding the generator’s running capacity can damage the
generator and/or electrical devices connected to it.
DO NOT overload the generator.
DO NOT tamper with the governed speed.
DO NOT modify the generator in any way.
CAUTION
Start the generator and allow the engine to stabilize before
connecting electrical loads.
Connect electrical equipment in the off position, and then turn
them on for operation.
Turn electrical equipment off and disconnect before stopping
the generator.
CAUTION
Improper treatment or use of the generator can damage it,
shorten its life or void the warranty.
Use the generator only for intended uses.
Operate only on level surfaces.
DO NOT expose generator to excessive moisture, dust,
or dirt.
DO NOT allow any material to block the cooling slots.
If connected devices overheat, turn them off and disconnect
them from the generator.
DO NOT use the generator if:
–Electrical output is lost
–Equipment sparks, smokes or emits flames
–Equipment vibrates excessively

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
7
Fuel Safety
DANGER
GASOLINE AND GASOLINE VAPORS ARE HIGHLY
FLAMMABLE AND EXPLOSIVE.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
Gasoline and gasoline vapors:
–Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.
–Gasoline can cause a fire or explosion if ignited.
–Gasoline is a liquid fuel but it’s vapors can ignite.
–Gasoline is a skin irritant and needs to be cleaned up
immediately if spilled on skin or clothes.
–Gasoline has a distinctive odor, this will help detect potential
leaks quickly.
–Gasoline expands or contracts with ambient temperatures.
Never fill the gasoline tank to full capacity, as gasoline needs
room to expand when temperatures rise.
–In the case of any petroleum gasoline fire, flames should never
be extinguished unless the fuel supply valve can be turned
OFF. By not doing so, if a fire is extinguished and the supply
of fuel is not turned OFF, an explosion hazard could be created.
When adding or removing gasoline:
–DO NOT light or smoke cigarettes.
–Always turn the generator off and let cool for a minimum of
two minutes before removing the gasoline cap. Afterwards,
loosen gasoline cap to relieve pressure from the gasoline tank.
–Only fill or drain gasoline outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
–DO NOT pump gasoline directly into the generator at the gas
station. Always use an approved fuel container to transfer the
gasoline to the generator.
–DO NOT overfill the gasoline tank.
–Always keep gasoline away from sparks, open flames, pilot
lights, heat and other sources of ignition.
When starting the generator:
–DO NOT attempt to start a damaged generator.
–Always make certain that the gasoline cap, air filter, spark
plug, fuel lines and exhaust system are properly secured,
connected and in place.
–Always allow spilled gasoline to evaporate fully before
attempting to start the engine.
–Make certain that the generator is resting firmly on level
ground.
When operating the generator:
–DO NOT move or tip the generator during operation.
–DO NOT tip the generator or allow fuel or oil to spill.
When transporting or servicing the generator:
–Make certain that the fuel valve is in the OFF position and the
gasoline tank is empty.
–Disconnect the spark plug wire.
When storing the generator:
–Store away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat and
other sources of ignition.
–Do not store generator or gasoline near furnaces, water
heaters, or any other appliances that produce heat or have
automatic ignitions.
WARNING
Never use a gasoline container, gasoline tank, or any other fuel
item that is broken, cut, torn or damaged.

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
8
Safety and Dataplate Labels
These labels warn you of potential hazards that can cause serious injury. Read them carefully.
LABEL DESCRIPTION
A
NEVER use inside
a home or garage,
EVEN IF doors and
windows are open.
ONLY use OUTSIDE
and far away from
windows, doors,
and vents.
DANGER
Using a generator indoors CAN KILL
YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust
contains carbon monoxide. This is a
poison you cannot see or smell.
2205-L-SF-B
Safety Symbols/
CO Danger
B
UNLEADED FUEL ONLY. Minimum octane
rating of 87. Maximum 10% ethanol.
Fuel
C
WARNING
DO NOT TOUCH!
Exhaust gases, muffler
and engine components
are extremely HOT and
cause burns.
Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start
fires around dry vegetation. A spark arrestor may be
required. The operator should contact local fire agencies for
laws and regulations relating to fire prevention requirements.
If installed, clean every 100 hours or every season.
1291-L-SF-A
Hot Surface
D
CHAMPION POWER EQUIPMENT, INC.
AC AMPS
FREQUENCY (Hz)
RPM
PHASE
POWER FACTOR
AC VOLTS
MANUFACTURE DATE
SERIAL NO.
MODEL
INSULATION CLASS
MAX AMBIENT TEMP.
2373-L-PR-A
GASOLINE WATTS
200963
29.2
60
3600
1
1.0
120
H
3500
104°F
40°C
XXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXX
Dataplate
Top
AB
Side
C
D

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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Safety Symbols
Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these
symbols will allow you to more safely operate the product.
SYMBOL MEANING
Read Operator’s Manual. To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand operator’s manual
before using this product.
Clearance. Keep all objects at least 5 feet (1.5m) from generator. Heat from the muffler and exhaust gas
can ignite combustible objects.
Ground. Consult with local electrician to determine grounding requirements before operation.
Electric Shock. Failure to use in dry conditions and to observe safe practices can result in electric
shock. Improper connections to a building can allow current to backfeed into utility lines, creating an
electrocution hazard. A transfer switch must be used when connecting to a building.
Fire/Explosion. Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Fire or explosion can cause
severe burns or death. Keep generator at least 5 feet (1.5m) from all objects to prevent combustion.
Hot Surface. To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with any hot surface.
Open Flame Alert. Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Keep fuel away from
smoking, open flames, sparks, pilot lights, heat, and other ignition sources.
Wet Conditions Alert. Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
10
Operation Symbols
Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these
symbols will allow you to more safely operate the product.
SYMBOL MEANING
On
Stop or Off
Fuel Valve On/Off
Choke
Run
Ground Terminal
RV Ready Receptacle
SYMBOL MEANING
Gasoline Tank: Full
Gasoline Tank: Empty
Neutral Floating. Neutral circuit IS
NOT electrically connected to the frame/
ground of the generator.
Circuit Breaker Reset: Push
Locking Receptacle
Hertz
Volts
Run time

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
11
Quickstart Label Symbols
Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these
symbols will allow you to more safely operate the product.
Starting the Engine
DANGER
Move generator outside and far away from windows,
doors and intake ventilation covers.
1. Check oil level.
Recommended oil is 10W-30.
2. Check gasoline level.
When adding gasoline, use a minimum octane rating of 87
and an ethanol content of 10% or less by volume.
3. Turn the fuel valve to “ON” position.
4. Press engine switch to the “ON” position.
5. Move choke lever to “CHOKE” position.
6. Pull the recoil cord.
7. Move the choke lever to “RUN” position.
8. Plug in desired device.
Stopping the Engine
1. Turn off and unplug all connected electrical loads.
2. Press the engine switch to the “OFF” position.
3. Turn the fuel valve to the “OFF” position.
1500-L-OP-B
311 22 3 4 5
10W-30
76 8


200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR CONTROLS AND FEATURES
12
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Read this operator’s manual before operating your generator. Familiarize yourself with the location and function of the controls and
features. Save this manual for future reference.
Generator
1. Fuel Cap – Remove to add fuel.
2. Choke – Used to start the engine (for manual start only).
3. Fuel Valve – Used to turn fuel supply on and off to engine.
4. Air Filter – Protects the engine by filtering dust and debris
from the intake air.
5. Recoil Starter – Used to manually start the engine.
6. Oil Fill Cap/Dipstick –Used to check and fill oil level.
7. Control Panel –See Control Panel section.
8. Gasoline Tank – 4.7 gal. (17.8 L)
9. Gasoline Gauge
3
2
5 6
19
8
7
4

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR CONTROLS AND FEATURES
13
Control Panel
1. Engine switch – Used to START or STOP the generator.
2. Intelligauge – Three mode digital meter for displaying total
run time, voltage and hertz.
3. Circuit Breakers (Push Reset) – Protects the generator
against electrical overloads.
RECEPTACLES
AW
120V AC, 30A Locking (NEMA L5-30R)
May be used to supply electrical power for
operation of 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase,
60 Hz electrical loads.
Bt
120V AC, 30A RV (NEMA TT-30R)
May be used to supply electrical power for
operation of 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase,
60 Hz electrical loads.
CA
(2×) 120V AC, 20A (NEMA 5-20R)
May be used to supply electrical power for
operation of 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, single phase,
60 Hz electrical loads.
1
2
3
A B
C

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR CONTROLS AND FEATURES
14
Intelligauge
Three mode digital meter for displaying frequency (hertz), voltage,
and total run time.
The LCD displays each mode for several seconds and then
automatically cycles through.
MODE DESCRIPTION
Frequency (Hz)
Output frequency in hertz.
Example: 60.0 hertz
Voltage (V)
Output voltage of the generator.
Example: 120 volts
Total Run Time (Hrs.)
Total run time of the generator since first operation
Example: 16 hours

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR CONTROLS AND FEATURES
15
Parts Included
Accessories
Engine Oil...................................... 16.9 fl. oz. (500 ml)
Oil Funnel...........................................................1

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR ASSEMBLY
16
ASSEMBLY
Your generator requires some assembly. It must be properly
serviced with fuel and oil before operation.
Unpacking
1. Set the shipping carton on a solid, flat surface.
2. Remove everything from the carton except the generator.
3. Carefully cut each corner of the box from top to bottom. Fold
each side flat on the ground to provide a surface area to work
with the generator.
Remove Shipping Support Brackets
To protect the generator during shipping, support brackets have
been installed between the engine and frame. These brackets
MUST BE REMOVED BEFORE adding oil or gasoline to the
generator.
NOTICE
DO NOT attempt to run generator without first removing the
shipping support brackets. Damage to the generator as a result
of not removing the brackets will void the warranty.
1. BEFORE filling the engine with oil or gasoline, tip the
generator onto its recoil end. Tip onto the flattened cardboard
box the generator came in or other protective surface so as to
not scratch the frame.
2. Remove the bolts from the orange support brackets. Bolts
and brackets can be discarded.
3. Tip the generator upright.
Add Engine Oil
CAUTION
DO NOT attempt to crank or start the engine before it has been
properly filled with the recommended type and amount of oil.
Damage to the generator as a result of failing to follow these
instructions will void your warranty.
NOTICE
The generator rotor has a sealed, pre-lubricated ball bearing
that requires no additional lubrication for the life of the bearing.
NOTICE
The recommended oil type for typical use is 10W-30
automotive oil.
If running generator in extreme temperatures, refer to the
following chart for recommended oil type.
-20 0 20 40 60
Ambient temperature
Recommended Engine Oil Type
80 100 120
-28.9
°F
°C -17.8 -6.7 4.4 15.6 26.7 37.8 48.9
10W-30
5W-30 Full Synthetic
10W-405W-30
1. Place the generator on a flat, level surface.
2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick to add oil.
3. Using a funnel, add up to 16.9 fl. oz. (500 ml) of oil (included)
and replace oil fill cap/dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL.

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR ASSEMBLY
17
4. Check engine oil level at every use and add as needed.
MAX
OIL DIP STICK
NOTICE
Once oil has been added, a visual check should show oil about
1-2 threads from running out of the fill hole.
When using the dipstick to check oil level, DO NOT screw in
the dipstick while checking.
NOTICE
Check oil level often during the break-in period. Refer to the
Maintenance section for recommended service intervals.
CAUTION
This engine is equipped with a low oil shut-off and will stop
when the oil level in the crankcase falls below the threshold
level.
NOTICE
The first 5 hours of run time are the break-in period for the
unit. During the break in period stay at or below 50% of the
running watt rating and vary the load occasionally to allow
stator windings to heat and cool. Adjusting the load will also
cause engine speed to vary slightly and help seat piston rings.
After the 5 hour break-in period, change the oil.
NOTICE
Synthetic oil may be used after the 5 hour initial break-in
period. Using synthetic oil does not decrease the recommended
oil change interval. Full synthetic 5W-30 oil will aid in starting
in cold ambient < 41º F (5º C) temperatures.
Add Fuel
DANGER
Gasoline vapors are highly flammable and extremely explosive.
DO NOT light or smoke cigarettes. Fire or explosion can cause
severe burns or death.
Only fill or drain fuel outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
DO NOT pump gasoline directly into the generator. Use an
approved container to transfer the fuel to the generator.
Never use a gasoline container, gasoline tank, or any
other fuel item that is broken, cut, torn or damaged.
DO NOT overfill the gasoline tank. Always keep fuel away from
sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat and other sources of
ignition.
Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum
octane rating of 87 and an ethanol content of 10% or less by
volume. ybc
DO NOT mix oil with gasoline.
1. Remove the gasoline cap.
2. Slowly add gasoline to the tank. Tank is full when gasoline
reaches red circle on screen. DO NOT OVERFILL. Gasoline can
expand after filling. A minimum of ¼ in. (6.4 mm) of space left
in the tank is required for gasoline expansion, although more
than ¼ in. (6.4 mm) is recommended. Gasoline can be forced
out of the tank as a result of expansion if overfilled, and can
affect the stable running condition of the generator.
3. The approximate fuel level is shown on the fuel gauge on top
of the fuel tank.

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR ASSEMBLY
18
4. Screw on the gasoline cap and wipe away any spilled fuel.
CAUTION
Use unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87
and an ethanol content of 10% or less by volume.
DO NOT light cigarettes or smoke when filling the tank.
DO NOT mix oil and gasoline.
DO NOT overfill the tank. Fill tank to approximately ¼ in.
(6.4 mm) below the top of the tank to allow for gasoline
expansion.
DO NOT pump gasoline directly into the generator at the pump.
Use an approved fuel container to transfer the gasoline to the
generator.
DO NOT fill tank indoors.
DO NOT fill tank when the engine is running or hot.
WARNING
Pouring gasoline too fast through the fuel screen may result
in gasoline splashing over the generator and operator while
filling.
NOTICE
The generator engine works well with 10% or less ethanol
blended gasoline. When using ethanol-gasoline blends there
are some issues worth noting:
–Ethanol-gasoline blends can absorb more water than
gasoline alone.
–These ethanol blends can eventually separate, leaving
water or a watery goo in the tank, fuel valve and
carburetor. The compromised gasoline can be drawn into
the carburetor and cause damage to the engine and/or
create potential hazards.
–If a fuel stabilizer is used, confirm that it is formulated to
work with ethanol-gasoline blends.
–Any damages or hazards caused by using ethanol blended
gasoline higher than 10% by volume, improperly stored
gasoline, and/or improperly formulated stabilizers, are not
covered by manufacturer’s warranty.
It is advisable to always shut off the gasoline supply and
run the engine to starvation after each use. See Storage
instructions for extended non-use.
Grounding
Your generator must be properly connected to an appropriate
ground to help prevent electric shock.
WARNING
Failure to properly ground the generator can result in electric
shock.
A ground terminal connected to the frame of the generator has
been provided (see Controls and Features for terminal location).
For remote grounding, connect a length of heavy gauge
(12 AWG minimum) copper wire between the generator ground
terminal and a copper rod driven into the ground. We strongly
recommend that you consult with a qualified electrician to ensure
compliance with local electrical codes.
Neutral Floating*
–Neutral circuit IS NOT electrically connected to the frame/
ground of the generator.
–The generator (stator winding) is isolated from the frame and
from the AC receptacle ground pin.
–Electrical devices that require a grounded receptacle pin
connection will not function if the receptacle ground pin is not
functional.
Neutral Bonded to Frame*
–Neutral circuit IS electrically connected to the frame/ground of
the generator.
Empty Full

200963 - 3500W PORTABLE GENERATOR OPERATION
19
–The generator system ground connects lower frame cross-
member below the alternator. The system ground is connected
to the AC neutral wire.
* See your Specifications section for specified type of grounding.
OPERATION
Generator Location
WARNING
NEVER operate the generator inside any building, garage,
basement, crawlspace, shed, enclosure or compartment,
including a generator compartment of a recreational vehicle.
NEVER operate or start the generator in the back of an
SUV, camper, trailer, truck bed (regular sides, flat or other
configuration), under staircases, stairwells, next to walls
or buildings or in any other location that will not allow for
adequate cooling of the generator or for the proper exit of the
exhaust flow from the muffler system.
DO NOT operate or store the generator in wet weather
conditions such as rain or snow. Using a generator in wet
conditions could result in serious injury or death due to
electrocution.
In some state’s generators may be required to be registered
with the local utility company when used at construction sites
and may be subject to additional rules and regulations, consult
your local municipal authority.
Generators should always be operated on a flat, level surface
at all times (even when not in operation).
Generators must have a minimum of 5 feet (1.5 m) of
clearance from all combustible material.
Generators must also have a minimum of 3 feet (91.4 cm)
of air flow clearance on all sides to allow for adequate
performance cooling, maintenance and servicing.
Always place the generator in a well-ventilated area. NEVER
place the generator near air intake vents or where exhaust
fumes could be drawn into occupied or confined spaces.
Always carefully consider wind and air currents when
positioning generator.
Always allow generators to properly cool before transport or
for storage purposes.
Failure to follow proper safety precautions may result in
personal injury, damage to the generator and void the
manufacturer’s warranty.
WARNING
During operation the muffler and exhaust fumes will become
hot. If adequate cooling and breathing space are not supplied,
or if the generator is blocked or enclosed, temperatures can
become extremely heated and may lead to fire.
Surge Protection
Electronic devices, including computers and many programmable
appliances use components that are designed to operate within a
narrow voltage range and may be affected by momentary voltage
fluctuations. While there is no way to prevent voltage fluctuations,
you can take steps to protect sensitive electronic equipment.
–Install UL1449, CSA-listed, plug-in surge suppressors on the
outlets feeding your sensitive equipment.
Surge suppressors come in single- or multi-outlet styles.
They’re designed to protect against virtually all short-duration
voltage fluctuations.
Starting the Engine
1. Make certain the generator is on a flat, level surface.
2. Disconnect all connected electrical loads from the generator.
Never start or stop the generator with electrical devices
plugged in or turned on.
3. Turn the gasoline fuel valve to the “ON” position.
4. Push the engine switch to the “ON” position.

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5. Move the choke to the “CHOKE” position. Note: for restarting
a warm engine, move the choke to 75% of the CHOKE
position.
6. Pull the starter cord slowly until resistance is felt and then
pull rapidly.
7. As soon as engine starts, move the choke to the “RUN”
position over a 2-5 second duration.
8. Connect electrical loads.
NOTICE
Keep choke in “CHOKE” position for only 1 pull of the recoil
starter. After first pull, move choke to “RUN” position for up
to 3 pulls of the recoil starter. Too much choke leads to spark
plug fouling/engine flooding due to lack of incoming air. This
will cause the engine not to start.
NOTICE
For gasoline restarts with hot engine in hot ambient
temperature > 86°F (30°C), keep choke in 75% of the
“CHOKE” position for only 1 pull of the recoil starter. After
first pull, move choke to “RUN” position for up to 3 pulls of
the recoil starter. Too much choke leads to spark plug fouling/
engine flooding due to lack of incoming air. This will cause the
engine not to start.
NOTICE
For gas starting in cold ambient temperature < 59°F
(15°C), the choke must be in 100% of the “CHOKE” position
for recoil start procedures. Do not over-choke. As soon as
engine starts, gradually move the choke lever to the “RUN”
position over a 2-5 second duration.
NOTICE
If the engine starts but does not run make certain that the
generator is on a flat, level surface. The engine is equipped
with a low oil sensor that will prevent the engine from running
when the oil level falls below a critical threshold.
Connecting Electrical Loads
Let the engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after
starting.
Plug in and turn on the desired 120 or 240 (if applicable) Volt AC
single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.
–DO NOT connect 3-phase loads to the generator.
–DO NOT overload the generator.