Chicago Electric 66523 User guide

CAMPING GENERATOR
1300 WATT
66523
SET UP, OPERATING, AND SERVICING
INSTRUCTIONS
Using an engine indoors CAN KILL YOU IN
MINUTES.
Engine 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.
Distributed exclusively by Harbor Freight Tools®.
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93011
Visit our website at: http://www.harborfreight.com
Read this material before using this product.
Failure to do so can result in serious injury.
SAVE THIS MANUAL.
Copyright©2008 by Harbor Freight Tools®. All rights reserved. No portion of this manual or any artwork
contained herein may be reproduced in any shape or form without the express written consent of
Harbor Freight Tools. Diagrams within this manual may not be drawn proportionally. Due to continuing
improvements, actual product may differ slightly from the product described herein. Tools required for
assembly and service may not be included.
For technical questions or replacement parts, please call 1-800-444-3353.

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION............................................................................3
SET UP PRECAUTIONS..................................................................................................3
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS..........................................................................................4
SERVICE PRECAUTIONS...............................................................................................5
GENERATOR PRECAUTIONS........................................................................................6
BASIC ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.................................................................................7
UNPACKING....................................................................................................................7
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.........................................................................................7
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................12
SERVICING. ..................................................................................................................12
TROUBLESHOOTING - ENGINE..................................................................................15
TROUBLESHOOTING - GENERATOR..........................................................................17
PARTS LIST....................................................................................................................18
ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM..................................................................................................19
PARTS LIST - ENGINE..................................................................................................20
ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM - ENGINE.................................................................................21
WIRING DIAGRAM........................................................................................................22
WARRANTY INFORMATION.........................................................................................23
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING...............................................................................24

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 3
SAVE THIS MANUAL
Keep this manual for the safety warn-
ings and precautions, assembly, operating,
inspection, maintenance and cleaning pro-
cedures. Write the product’s serial number
in the back of the manual (or month and
year of purchase if product has no num-
ber). Keep this manual and the receipt in
a safe and dry place for future reference.
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INFORMATION
In this manual, on the labeling,
and all other information
provided with this product:
This is the safety alert
symbol. It is used to alert
you to potential personal
injury hazards. Obey all
safety messages that
follow this symbol to avoid
possible injury or death.
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, used
with the safety
alert symbol, indicates a
hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in
minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE is used to
address practices
not related to personal injury.
CAUTION, without
the safety alert
symbol, is used to address
practices not related to
personal injury.
WARNING! Read all instructions.
Failure to follow all instructions
listed below may result in re,
serious injury and/or DEATH.
The warnings and precautions
discussed in this manual cannot
cover all possible conditions and
situations that may occur. It must
be understood by the operator that
common sense and caution are
factors which cannot be built into
this product, but must be supplied
by the operator.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
SET UP PRECAUTIONS
Gasoline fuel and fumes are amma-1.
ble, and potentially explosive. Use
proper fuel storage and handling pro-
cedures. Do not store fuel or other
ammable materials nearby.
Have multiple ABC class re extin-2.
guishers nearby.
Operation of this equipment may cre-3.
ate sparks that can start res around
dry vegetation.
The operator should contact local re
agencies for laws or regulations relat-
ing to re prevention requirements.
Set up and use only on a at, level, 4.
well-ventilated surface.

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 4
Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles5.
and heavy-duty work gloves during
set up.
Use only oil and fuel recommended6.
in the “Specications” section of this
manual.
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
1. CARBON MONOXIDE
HAZARD
Using an engine indoors
CAN KILL YOU IN
MINUTES.
Engine 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.
2. Keep all safety
guards in place and
in proper working order at all times.
3. NEVER place
ngers, hands, or
body near the Generator when it is
running. Do not lean or reach over
the Generator when the machine is
running.
Keep all people (except the operator)4.
a minimum of six feet from the Gen-
erator during operation.
Do not transport the Generator with5.
the Engine running.
Do not sit or stand on this machine.6.
Do not tilt the machine while the En-7.
gine is running.
Do not leave the Generator unattend-8.
ed when it is running. Turn off the
Engine before leaving the area.
Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles,9.
hearing protection, and heavy duty
work gloves during use.
People with pacemakers should10.
consult their physician(s) before
use. Electromagnetic elds in close
proximity to a heart pacemaker could
cause pacemaker interference or
pacemaker failure. Caution is neces-
sary when near the engine’s magneto
or recoil starter.
Use only accessories that are recom-11.
mended by Harbor Freight Tools for
your model. Accessories that may be
suitable for one piece of equipment
may become hazardous when used
on another piece of equipment.
Do not operate in explosive atmo-12.
spheres, such as in the presence of
ammable liquids, gases, or dust.
Gasoline-powered engines may ignite
the dust or fumes.
Stay alert, watch what you are doing13.
and use common sense when operat-
ing this piece of equipment. Do not
use this piece of equipment while

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 5
tired or under the inuence of drugs,
alcohol or medication.
Do not overreach. Keep proper foot-14.
ing and balance at all times. This en-
ables better control of the equipment
in unexpected situations.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose15.
clothing or jewelry. Keep hair, cloth-
ing and gloves away from moving
parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long
hair can be caught in moving parts.
Parts, especially exhaust system16.
components, get very hot during use.
Stay clear of hot parts.
Do not cover the Generator during17.
operation.
Keep the equipment, Engine, and18.
surrounding area clean at all times.
Use the equipment, accessories, etc.,19.
in accordance with these instructions
and in the manner intended for the
particular type of equipment, taking
into account the working conditions
and the work to be performed. Use
of the equipment for operations differ-
ent from those intended could result
in a hazardous situation.
Do not operate the equipment with20.
known leaks in the Engine’s fuel
system.
This product contains or, when used,21.
produces a chemical known to the
State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproduc-
tive harm. (California Health & Safety
Code § 25249.5, et seq.)
When spills of fuel or oil occur, they22.
must be cleaned up immediately.
Dispose of uids and cleaning materi-
als as per any local, state, or federal
codes and regulations. Store oil rags
in a bottom-ventilated, covered, metal
container.
Before use, check for misalignment23.
or binding of moving parts, breakage
of parts, and any other condition that
may affect the equipment’s operation.
If damaged, have the equipment
serviced before using. Many ac-
cidents are caused by poorly main-
tained equipment.
Use the correct equipment for the24.
application. Do not modify the equip-
ment and do not use the equipment
for a purpose for which it is not in-
tended.
SERVICE PRECAUTIONS
Before service, maintenance, or1.
cleaning:
Turn the Power Switch of the En-a.
gine to its “OFF” position.
Allow the Engine to completelyb.
cool.
Then, remove the Spark Plug.c.
Keep all safety guards in place and in2.
proper working order. Safety guards
include mufer, air cleaner, mechani-
cal guards, and heat shields, among
other guards.
Do not alter or adjust any part of the3.
equipment or its Engine that is sealed
by the manufacturer or distributor.
Only a qualied service technician
may adjust parts that may increase or
decrease governed Engine speed.
Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles4.
and heavy duty work gloves during
service.

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 6
Maintain labels and nameplates on5.
the equipment. These carry impor-
tant information. If unreadable or
missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools
for a replacement.
Have the equipment serviced by a6.
qualied repair person using only
identical replacement parts. This will
ensure that the safety of the equip-
ment is maintained. Do not attempt
any service or maintenance proce-
dures not explained in this manual
or any procedures that you are un-
certain about your ability to perform
safely or correctly.
Store equipment out of the reach of7.
children.
Follow scheduled Engine and equip-8.
ment maintenance.
Refueling Precautions:9.
Do not smoke, or allow sparks,•
ames, or other sources of ignition
around the equipment, especially
when refuelling.
Do not rell the Fuel Tank while the •
engine is running or hot.
Do not ll Fuel Tank to the top. •
Leave a little room for the fuel to
expand as needed.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area only.•
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
GENERATOR
PRECAUTIONS
Set Up:
Do not connect the Generator directly1.
into a home’s utility electrical line. Do
not plug this Generator into an outlet
in the home. Connecting a generator
directly to a utility power supply can
“back feed” along the power lines and
kill or injure utility workers working on
the lines.
All connections and conduits from2.
the Generator to the load must only
be installed by trained and licensed
electricians, and in compliance with
all relevant local, state, and federal
electrical codes and standards, and
other regulations where applicable.
The Generator must be earth-ground-3.
ed in accordance with all relevant
electrical codes and standards before
operation.
A 10-gauge copper wire should be•
used to connect the ground termi-
nal of the Generator to a grounding
rod. A wire that is too thin may not
provide sufcient electrical current
carrying capacity to be an adequate
ground path.
The other end of the ground wire•
must be securely fastened to an
approved ground source. Refer to
local regulations for ground source
information. If unsure of regulations
or procedures, obtain assistance
from a licensed or certied electri-
cian.
Insulate all connections and discon-4.
nected wires.

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 7
Connect the Generator only to a load5.
or electrical system (120 VAC or
12 VDC) that is compatible with the
electrical characteristics and rated
capacities of the Generator.
Set up the Generator outdoors in a6.
well-ventilated, dry area, away from
building air intakes. The Genera-
tor should be protected from direct
exposure to rain and snow. Do not
set up the Generator on a conductive
surface such as a metal deck.
Operation:
Do not attempt to connect or discon-1.
nect load connections while standing
in water, or on wet or soggy ground.
Do not touch electrically energized2.
parts of the Generator and intercon-
necting cables or conductors with any
part of the body, or with any
non-insulated conductive object.
Use only Class BC or Class ABC re 3.
extinguishers on electrical res.
Do not overload the Generator.4.
Overloading can cause res in the
electrical cords, in addition to Gen-
erator and appliance damage.
Service:
Keep all electrical equipment clean1.
and dry. Replace any wiring where
the insulation is cracked, cut, abrad-
ed, or otherwise degraded. Replace
terminals that are worn, discolored, or
corroded. Keep terminals clean and
tight.
BASIC SPECIFICATIONS
Fuel Type 91+ octane unleaded
gasoline
Capacity 1.3 Gallons
Engine Oil Type SAE 10W-30
Capacity 13.5 Ounces
Note: Additional specications found in
the TECHNICAL ENGINE SPECIFI-
CATIONS chart in this manual.
The emission control system for
this Generator’s Engine is warranted for
standards set by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency and by the California Air
Resources Board (also known as CARB).
For warranty information, refer to the last
pages of this manual.
At high altitudes, the engine’s carbu-
retor, governor, and any other parts that
control the fuel-air ratio will need to be
adjusted by a qualied mechanic to allow
efcient high-altitude use and to prevent
damage to the engine and any other de-
vices used with this product.
UNPACKING
When unpacking, check to make sure
that the item is intact and undamaged. If
any parts are missing or broken, please
call Harbor Freight Tools at the number
shown on the cover of this manual as soon
as possible.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT
SAFETY INFORMATION
section at the beginning of this
manual including all text under

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 8
subheadings therein before set
up or use of this product.
TO PREVENT
SERIOUS INJURY:
Operate only with proper spark
arrestor installed. Operation of
this equipment may create
sparks that can start res
around dry vegetation.
The operator should contact
local re agencies for laws or
regulations relating to re
prevention requirements.
Note: For additional information regarding
the parts listed in the following pages,
refer to the Assembly Diagram near
the end of this manual.
Starting the Engine
Inspect the Generator looking
for damaged, loose, and
missing parts before set up and
starting. If any problems are
found, do not use the machine
until properly repaired.
Checking and Filling Engine Oil:
CAUTION! Your Warranty is VOID if the
Engine’s Crankcase is not properly
lled with oil before each use. Before
each use, check the oil level. Do not
run the Engine with low or no engine
oil. Running the Engine with no or
low engine oil WILL permanently
damage the Engine.
Remove the Engine’s Dipstick and1.
wipe it off with a clean rag.
(See Figure A.)
Reinsert the Dipstick completely2.
(but do not screw it in) and remove
it to check the oil level. The oil level
should be between the HIGH and
LOW marks on the Dipstick.
(See Figure A.) Note: Inspect the
O-Ring at the neck of the Dipstick. If
cracked, torn or damaged it must be
replaced.
If the oil level is below the low mark3.
add the appropriate type of oil until
the oil level is between the high and
the low marks.
Oil type and capacity:
SAE 10W-30 / 13.5 Ounces
Replace the Oil Dipstick.4.
(See Figure A.)
CAUTION! Do not run the Engine with too
little or too much oil. The Engine will
be permanently damaged.
FIGURE A
OIL
DIPSTICK
Checking and Filling Fuel:
Allow engine to cool down prior to re-1.
fueling. Remove the Fuel Cap (14)
and check the fuel level.
(See Figure B, next page.)

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 9
WARNING! TO PREVENT
SERIOUS INJURY FROM
FIRE:
Fill the Fuel Tank (20) in a
well-ventilated area away from igni-
tion or spark sources. Do not smoke.
To ll the Fuel Tank (20), rst wipe off 2.
the Fuel Tank Cap (14) and the sur-
rounding area. (See Figure B.)
Unscrew, and remove the Fuel Tank3.
Cap (14). (See Figure B.)
Remove the Filter Basket (19) and4.
remove any dirt and debris. Then
replace the Filter Basket.
(See Figure B.)
Fill the Fuel Tank (20) to about 1 inch5.
under the ll neck of the Tank with the
unleaded gasoline mixture.
(See Figure B.)
Then replace the Fuel Tank Cap (14).6.
(See Figure B.)
Start Procedure:
Before starting the Engine:
Inspect the equipment and En-a.
gine.
Fill the Engine with the properb.
amount and type of fuel and oil.
(See Figures A and B.)
NOTE: Only after the Genera-c.
tor has stabilized and is running
smoothly should an appliance
or tool be plugged into the AC
Outlet of the Generator.
Turn the Engine Fuel Lever to its “ON” 1.
position. (See Figure C.)
Turn the Engine Choke Lever to its2.
“CHOKE” position. Set the Choke Le-
ver in the “RUN” position when start-
ing a warm Engine.
(See Figure C.)
FIGURE C
FUEL LEVER
CHOKE LEVER
Then turn the Engine Power Switch to3.
its “ON” position.
(See Figure D, next page.)
FIGURE B
FUEL TANK
(20)
FUEL TANK
CAP (14)
FILTER
BASKET
(19)

SKU 66523 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 10
FIGURE D
POWER
SWITCH
Grasp the Starter Handle and pull4.
slowly until resistance is felt. While
holding the Handle, allow the Starter
Rope to rewind slowly. Then, pull the
Starter Handle with a rapid, full arm
stroke. Once again while holding
the Handle, allow the Rope to rewind
slowly. Repeat as necessary, until
the Engine starts. (See Figure E.)
FIGURE E
STARTER HANDLE
After the Engine starts and warms up,5.
slowly move the Choke Lever to its
“RUN” position. (See Figure C.)
IMPORTANT: Allow the Engine to6.
run at no load until warm (approx. 3
minutes) after each start-up to allow
the Engine to stabilize.
Break-in Period:
Breaking-in the Engine will help to1.
ensure proper equipment and Engine
operation, and will extend the En-
gine’s lifespan. The warranty is void
if the Engine is not broken in properly.
The rst 25 hours of operation is the
break-in period.
During this time frame, DO NOT•
exceed 75% of the Generator’s load
limit. In other words, the maximum
load during this break-in period
should be no more than 700 watts.
After the rst 25 hours of use:•
Change the engine oil.•
Under normal operating conditions
subsequent maintenance follows the
schedule explained in the MAINTE-
NANCE AND SERVICING section.
Equipment Operation
Load And Circuit Breakers:
The total combined load through any1.
combination of outlets on the Genera-
tor must not exceed the rated power
(1300 watts peak; or 1,000 watts
rated) of the unit.
Always reduce the load if the AC2.
Circuit Breaker or DC Circuit Breaker
trips off. Once the load is reduced,