DUROMAX XP5500EH User manual

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2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FEATURES
SAFETY INFORMATION
COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION
PREPARING THE GENERATOR
STARTING THE GENERATOR GASOLINE
STARTING THE GENERATOR PROPANE
USING THE GENERATOR
WATTAGE REFERENCE CHART
MAINTENANCE
Service Schedule
Checking the Oil
Changing the Oil
Air Cleaner Maintenance
Fuel Filter Cup Cleaning
Spark Plug Maintenance
Emptying the Gas Tank
Storage and Transportation
GENERATOR SPECIFICATIONS
TROUBLESHOOTING
WHEEL KIT ASSEMBLY
SERVICE INFORMATION
Changing/Inspecting the Carbon Brush
Changing/Inspecting the AVR
Maintenance Log
Wiring Diagram
Parts Lists
2
3
4 - 6
7 - 9
9 - 12
13
14
15 - 18
16
19
20
21
22
22
23
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32-35

3
FEATURES
 Dual Fuel Option, LPG or Gasoline.
 Durable 8.0 HP, Air Cooled Overhead Valve Engine.
 Heavy Duty Steel Frame with Four Point Fully Isolated Motor Mounts for
Smooth and Quiet Operation.
 Wheel and Handle Kit for Easy Transporting.
 Full Power Panel with Engine Shutoff Switch, Volt Meter, Circuit Breaker, and
Power Outlets.
 (2) Fully Protected 120V Outlets & (1) 120V/240V Twist-Lock Outlet.
 8 Hour Run Time.
 All Steel 4.0 Gal. Fuel Tank with EZ-Read Gauge.
 Low Oil Shut-Off Protects Engine.
 Super Quiet Muffler Reduces Engine Noise.
 Meets EPA Emission Standards.
This manual provides information regarding the operation and maintenance of these
products. We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in
this manual. We reserve the right to change this product at any time without prior
notice.
Notice Regarding Emissions
Engines that are certified to comply with U.S. EPA emission regulations for SORE
(Small off Road Equipment), are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline,
and may include the following emission control systems: (EM) Engine Modifications
and (TWC) Three-Way Catalyst (if so equipped).

4
GENERAL SAFETY PROCEDURES
Please familiarize yourself with the following safety symbols and words:
The safety alert symbol is used with one of the safety words (DANGER, CAUTION,
or WARNING) to alert you of hazards. Please pay attention to these hazard notices
both in this manual and on the generator.
DANGER: Indicates a hazard that will result in serious injury or death if instructions
are not followed.
WARNING: Indicates a strong possibility of causing serious injury or death if
instructions are not followed.
CAUTION: Indicates a possibility of personal injury or equipment damage if
instructions are not followed.
DANGER: This generator produces poisonous carbon monoxide gas when
running. This gas is both odorless and colorless. Even if you do not see or
smell gas, carbon monoxide may still be present. Breathing this poison can
lead to headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, and eventually death.
 Use outdoors ONLY in non-confined areas.
 Keep several feet of clearance on all sides to allow proper ventilation of
the generator.
WARNING: The exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
WARNING: This generator may emit highly flammable and explosive gasoline
vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death. A nearby open flame
can lead to an explosion even if not directly in contact with gas.
 Do not operate near an open flame.
 Do not smoke near generator.
 Always operate on a firm, level surface.
 Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for
at least 2 minutes before removing fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to
relieve pressure in tank.
 Do not overfill gas tank. Gas may expand during operation. Do not fill
to the top of the tank.
 Always check for spilled gas before operating.
 Empty the gasoline tank before storing or transporting the generator.
 Before transporting, turn fuel valve to the off position and disconnect
the spark plug.

5
GENERAL SAFETY PROCEDURES (Continued)
WARNING: This generator produces a powerful voltage, which can result in
electrocution.
 ALWAYS ground the generator before using it (see the "Grounding the
Generator” portion of the "PREPARlNG THE GENERATOR FOR USE
section).
 Generator should only be plugged into electrical devices, either directly
or with an extension cord. NEVER connect to a building electrical
system without a qualified electrician. Such connections must comply
with local electrical laws and codes. Failure to comply can create a
backflow of power, which may result in serious injury or death to utility
workers.
 Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in highly conductive areas
such as metal decking or steel work. GFCls are available in-line with
some extension cords.
 Do not use uncovered in rainy or wet conditions.
 Do not touch bare wires or receptacles (outlets).
 Do not allow children or non-qualified persons to operate.
WARNING: This generator produces heat when running. Temperatures near
exhaust can exceed 150°F (65°C).
 Do not touch hot surfaces. Pay attention to warning labels on the
generator denoting hot parts of the machine.
 Allow generator to cool several minutes after use before touching
engine or areas which heat during use.
CAUTION: Misuse of this generator can damage it or shorten its life.
 Use the generator only for its intended purposes.
 Operate only on dry, level surfaces.
 Allow generator to run for 3 - 5 minutes before connecting any
electrical devices.
 Shut off and disconnect any malfunctioning devices from generator.
 Do not exceed the Wattage capacity of the generator by plugging in
more electrical devices than the unit can handle (see "PRECAUTIONS-
OVERLOADING THE GENERATOR").
 Do not turn on electrical devices until after they are connected to the
generator.
 Turn off all connected electrical devices, and turn off the breaker,
before stopping the generator.

6
GENERAL SAFETY PROCEDURES (Continued)
In addition to the above safety notices, please familiarize yourself
with the safety and hazard markings on the generator.

7
PACKAGE CONTENTS
Your generator comes with the items listed below. Please check to see that all of the
following items are included with your generator.
Screw driver
Spanner
Spark plug wrench

8
GENERATOR COMPONENTS
Please familiarize yourself with the locations and functions of the various components and
controls of your generator.
.
1. Air Cleaner - a removable, cleanable, oiled, sponge-like element that cleans the
air going into the engine.
2. Choke Lever - Allows the airflow into the carburetor to be restricted to assist in
starting the engine.
3. Fuel Gauge - Indicates the amount of fuel in the gasoline tank.
4. Fuel Cap - Allows access to fill the gasoline tank.
5. Circuit Breaker - Resettable switch that protects the generator from electrical
overload.
6. 120/240v 4-Prong Receptacle - Use to connect electrical devices that run 120
or 240 Volt, 60Hz, single phase, AC current (NEMA L14-30).
7. Ground Terminal - Connect a ground wire here to properly ground the
generator.
8. 120v 3-Prong Receptacle - Use to connect electrical devices that run 120 Volt,
60 Hz, single phase, AC current (NEMA 5-20).
9. Battery - 12V DC 7ah Battery that powers the Electric Start System.
10. Volt Meter - Provides reading of voltage output.
11. 12v DC Charging Posts – DC Output for charging batteries or running small DC
powered items.
12. Oil Filler Cap - Use to add or check the oil.
13. Oil Fill and Dipstick - Use to add or check the oil.
14. Engine Switch – 3 Position Switch to “Start”, “Run”, or turn “Off” the generator.
15. Recoil Start – Easy Pull Recoil Start to start the engine without the electric start.

9
GENERATOR COMPONENTS (Continued)
16. Fuel Filter Cup - Traps dirt and water in gasoline before it enters the engine.
17. Fuel Valve - On/Off Valve that allows fuel into the engine.
18. Spark plug – Provides ignition to the engine.
19. Muffler – Reduces engine emissions and reduces noise.
20. Propane Tank Connector and Hose – Connects the LPG tank to the LPG
Regulator.
21. Propane Regulator and Pressure Release Valve - Provides a regulated LPG
Fuel supply to the engine. (Intended for use with a LPG Source of 10 PSI or
more.)
PREPARING THE GENERATOR FOR USE
Using the Generator for the First Time
If you are using the generator for the first time, there are a few steps you must take to
prepare it for operation.
Step 1 - Add oil
The generator requires engine oil to operate properly. The generator, when new from the
package contains no oil in the crankcase. You must add the proper amount of oil before
operating the generator for the first time. This amount, which is equal to the oil capacity of
the engine crankcase can be found on the chart in figure 1. When filling the engine with oil
in the future, please refer to this chart.
Model Number
XP5500EH
Engine Oil Capacity
20 fl. Oz. (0.6L)
Figure 1 – Generator Oil Capacity
• Do not apply engine oil with
additives or 2-stroke gasoline
engine oil. They don’t have enough
lubrication, and may shorten the
engine's service life.
• Engine oil recommended: SAE
10W-30. Viscosity varies with regions
and temperatures. Choose your oil
viscosity using the chart to the right.

10
PREPARING THE GENERATOR FOR USE (Continued)
Figure 2 – Unscrewing the Oil Cap Figure 3 – Adding Oil
To add Oil, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the generator is on a level surface.
2. Unscrew the oil filler/dipstick cap from the engine as shown in figure 2.
3. Using a funnel, add the appropriate amount of oil, as found in figure 1, into
the crankcase. You will know the crankcase is full when the oil level has
reached the lower lip of the opening you have just poured the oil into. (see
figure 3.)
4. Replace oil filler cap.
Step 2 - Add Gasoline
 WARNING: Gasoline and gas fumes are highly flammable.
 Do not fill tank near an open flame.
 Do not overfill. Always check for fuel spills.
To ensure that the generator runs smoothly use only FRESH, UNLEADED GAS
WITH AN OCTANE RATING OF 87 OR HIGHER.
To add gasoline:
1. Make sure the generator is on a level surface.
2. Unscrew gas cap and set aside (NOTE: the gas cap may be tight and hard to
unscrew).
3. Slowly add unleaded gasoline to the fuel tank. Be careful not to overfill.
Please refer to the chart in figure 4 to find the gas capacity of your generator
model. The fuel gauge on the top of the gas tank indicates how much gasoline
is in the generator gas tank.
NOTE: Gas can expand. Do not fill the gas tank to the very top.
4. Replace fuel cap and wipe up any spilled gasoline with a dry cloth.

11
PREPARING THE GENERATOR FOR USE (Continued)
IMPORTANT:
 Never use an oil/gasoline mixture.
 Never use old gas.
 Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.
 Gas can age in the tank and make it hard to start up the generator in the
future.
 Never store generator for extended periods of time with fuel in the tank.
Model #
XP5500EH
Gas Tank Capacity
3.96 US Gallons (15L)
Figure 4 - Gas Tank Capacity
Step 3 - Ground the Generator
 WARNING: Failure to properly ground the generator can result in
electrocution.
Ground the generator by tightening the grounding nut against grounding wire (see
figure 5). A generally acceptable grounding wire is a No. 12 AWG (American Wire
Gauge) stranded copper wire. This grounding wire should be connected at the other
end to a copper or brass-grounding rod that is driven into the earth. Grounding
codes can vary by location. Please contact a local electrician to check the
grounding regulations for your area.
Figure 5 - Attaching the Grounding Wire to the Generator

12
Subsequent Use of the Generator
If this is not your first time using the generator there are still steps you should take to
prepare it for operation.
IMPORTANT: At this point you should be familiar with the procedures described in
the first portion of this section entitled "Using the Generator for the First Time." If you
have not yet read this section, go back and read it now.
Step 1- Check the oil
The generator is equipped with an automatic shutoff to protect it from damage due to
low oil. Nonetheless, you should check the oil level of the engine before each use to
ensure that the engine crankcase has a sufficient amount.
To check the oil level:
1. Make sure the generator is on a level surface.
2. Unscrew the oil filler/dipstick cap.
3. With a dry cloth, wipe the oil off of the stick on the inside of the cap.
4. Insert the dipstick as if you were replacing the cap and then remove again.
There should now be oil on the stick. If there is no oil on the stick, or oil only at
the very end of the stick, you should add oil until the engine crankcase is filled
(see "Adding Oil" portion of the "Maintenance" section).
5. Be sure to replace the cap when finished checking oil.
NOTE: The oil capacity for your generator can be found in the "Specifications"
section of this manual.
Step 2 - Check the Gas Level
Before starting the generator, check to see that there is sufficient gasoline in the gas
tank. The fuel gauge on top of the generator will indicate the gas level in the tank.
Add gas if necessary according to the steps in the “Adding Gasoline" portion of the
"Maintenance" section.
 WARNING: Gasoline and gasoline fumes are highly flammable.
 Do not fill tank near an open flame.
 Always allow engine to cool for several minutes before refueling.
 Do not overfill (check the "Specifications" section for the tank capacity of
your generator).
 Always check for fuel spills.

13
Starting the Generator: Gasoline
CAUTION:
LPG must be shut off when using gasoline!
Gasoline must be shut off when using LPG!
Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator before attempting to start!
1. Make sure that the AC circuit breaker is in the OFF position. The generator may be
hard to start if a load is connected.
2. Turn the fuel valve lever to the ON position.
3. The choke will need to be closed, slide the choke lever out to the CLOSED position.
4. Turn the engine switch to the START position and hold it there for 5 seconds or until
the engine starts.
WARNING:
 Operating the starter motor for more than 5 seconds can damage the motor. If the
engine fails to start, release the switch and wait 10 seconds before operating the starter
again.
 If the speed of the starter motor drops after a period of time, it is an indication that the
battery should be recharged.
5. When the engine starts, allow the engine switch to return to the ON position.
6. Push the choke to the OPEN position as the engine warms up.
Stopping the Engine
In an emergency:
To stop the engine in an emergency, move the engine switch to the OFF position.
In normal use:
1. Turn the AC circuit breaker to the OFF position. Disconnect any DC Load attached to
the DC Output on the front panel.
2. Turn the engine switch to the OFF position.
3. Turn the fuel valve lever to the OFF position.

14
Starting the Generator: Propane
CAUTION:
LPG must be shut off when using gasoline!
Gasoline must be shut off when using LPG!
Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator before attempting to start!
1. Make sure that the AC circuit breaker is in the OFF position. The generator may be hard
to start if a load is connected.
2. Turn the gasoline fuel valve to the "OFF" position.
3. Connect the propane gas hose to the regulator/decompression valve.
4. Connect the propane collar to the gas supply and then turn on the propane gas supply.
5. Press the button on top of the pressure release valve down two or three times.
6. The choke operates differently on propane gas.
a. If the engine is warm (the unit was run recently) start with the choke half open.
i. Wait 30 seconds and then push the choke lever all the way to the "OPEN"
position.
b. If the engine is cold (the unit was not run recently) start with the choke "OPEN".
7. Turn the engine key switch to the START position and hold it there for 5 seconds, or until
the engine starts.
WARNING:
 Operating the starter motor for more than 5 seconds can damage the motor. If the
engine fails to start, release the switch and wait 10 seconds before operating the starter
again.
 If the speed of the starter motor drops after a period of time, it is an indication that the
battery should be recharged.
8. When the engine starts, allow the engine switch to return to the ON position.
Stopping the Engine
In an emergency:
To stop the engine in an emergency, move the engine switch to the OFF position.
In normal use:
1. Turn the AC circuit breaker to the OFF position. Disconnect DC battery charging
cables.
2. Turn the engine switch to the OFF position.
3. Turn OFF the Propane Gas Supply.

15
Starting the Generator: Propane (Continued)
WARNING: WHEN USING THE GENERATOR WITH LPG
MAKE SURE THERE IS NO POSSIBLE IGNITION SOURCE CLOSE TO THE
GENERATOR.
1. Before using, make sure all of the LPG connectors and hoses are well connected
and sealed.
2. Connect electrical devices to generator ONLY after the engine runs smoothly. (There
may be remnant gasoline in the carburetor; this can cause unsteady engine
performance for several minutes)
3. If the propane gas leaks, shut off the LPG supply first and then quickly unplug or turn
off any electrical devices powered by the unit.
4. When stopping the engine, unplug or turn off any electrical devices, turn off the Main
Circuit Breaker and then turn off the LPG Supply. After the engine has stopped turn
the KEY to ‘OFF" position.
Using the Generator
Once you have allowed the engine to run for several minutes, you may connect electrical
devices to the generator.
AC Usage
 You may connect electrical devices running on AC current according to their
wattage requirements.
 The chart in figure 9 shows the rated and surge wattage of your generator according
to its model number.
 The rated wattage corresponds to the maximum wattage the generator can output
on a continuous basis.
 The surge wattage corresponds to the maximum amount of power the generator
can output for a short period of time. Many electrical devices such as refrigerators
require short bursts of extra power, in addition the rated wattage listed by the
device, to stop and start their motors. The surge wattage ability of the generator
covers this extra power requirement.
Model Number
Rated (Running) Wattage
Surge (Peak) Wattage
XP5500EH
4500
5500
Figure 9 - Generator Wattage by Model Number
The total running wattage requirement of the electrical devices connected to the
generator should not exceed the rated wattage of the generator itself. To calculate the
total wattage requirement of the electrical devices you wish to connect, find the rated (or
running) wattage of each device. This number should be listed somewhere on the device
or in its instruction manual.
If you cannot find this wattage, you may calculate it by multiplying the Voltage
requirement by the Amperage drawn: Watts = Volts x Amps. If these specifications are
not available you may estimate the Watts required by your device by using the chart in
figure 10.

16
Using the Generator (Continued)
Once you have found the rated wattage requirement of each electrical device, add
these numbers to find the total rated wattage you wish to draw from the generator. If
this number exceeds the rated wattage of the generator, DO NOT connect all these
devices. Select a combination of electrical devices, which has a total rated wattage
lower than or equal to the rated wattage of the generator.
CAUTION - The generator can only run at its surge wattage capacity for a
very short time. Connect only electrical devices requiring a rated (running)
wattage equal to or less than the rated wattage of the generator. Never
connect devices requiring a rated wattage equal to the surge wattage of the
generator.
NOTE: The above wattage figures are estimates only. Try to check the wattage listed on your
electrical devices before consulting this chart.

17
Connecting a Load to the Generator
NOTE: Be sure to attach devices to the correct receptacle (outlet).
 120v devices can be directly connected to the 120v ONLY receptacles.
 120v devices can be connected to the 120/240v receptacle using an appropriate
adapter.
 240v devices can ONLY be connected the 240v receptacle.
1. Plug in each electrical device with the device turned off.
2. Switch the circuit breaker to the "ON" position.
3. Turn on the connected electrical devices in the order of the amount of power they
require beginning with the device with the highest rated Wattage requirement.
CAUTION: Do not connect 50Hz or 3-phase loads to the generator.
VOLTAGE SELECTOR SWITCH
The voltage selector switches the dual 120v AC windings of the generator to produce
"120V ONLY" or "120/240V". If a 240V appliance is connected to the 4-prong
receptacle, the switch must be in the "120/240V" position. If only 120V appliances
are being connected to the generator select the "120V ONLY" position to double the
120v amperage.
WARNING:
Only change the Voltage Selector Switch with the main AC Circuit Breaker
OFF. The generator can be seriously damaged if the Voltage Selector Switch is
changed with the breaker ON.

18
Choosing the Right Power Cord
Long or thin cords can drain the power provided to an electrical device by the generator.
When using such cords, allow for a slightly higher rated wattage requirement for the
electrical device. See Figure 12 for recommended cords based on the power
requirement of the electrical device.
DEVICE REQUIREMENTS
WIRE GAUGE BY LENGTH (ft.)
AMPS
WATTS (120V/240V)
10
25
50
100
150
5
600/1200
18
16
14
12
10
10
1200/2400
16
14
12
10
8
15
1800/3600
14
12
10
8
6
20
2400/4800
12
10
8
6
4
25
3000/6000
10
8
6
4
4
30
3600/7200
8
6
4
4
NR
40
4800/9600
6
4
4
NR
NR
50
6000/1200
4
4
2
NR
NR
*NR = NOT RECOMMENDED
Figure 12 – Minimum Extension Cord Requirements
DC Usage
CAUTION: The DC receptacle is for recharging 12 Volt automotive-type batteries
only. Do not connect any other device to this receptacle.
CAUTION: Never try to jump start a car with your generator.
To connect a 12V battery to the DC battery charger on the front panel:
1. Connect one charging wire to the positive terminal on the battery and the other
charging wire to the negative terminal on the battery.
2. Connect the free end of the positive wire to the positive receptacle (outlet) on the
generator.
3. Start the generator.
4. Carefully connect the free end of the negative wire to the negative receptacle on
the generator.
5. When disconnecting, always disconnect the wires from the generator first to
avoid a spark.
DANGER: Stored batteries emit highly explosive hydrogen gas when charged.
Batteries also contain acid, which can cause severe chemical burns.
Do not allow open flames or cigarettes nearby for several minutes after charging a
battery.
Always wear protective goggles and rubber gloves when charging a battery.
If battery acid gets on your skin, flush with water.
If battery acid gets in your eyes, flush with water and call a physician immediately.
If battery acid is swallowed, drink large quantities of milk and call a Physician
immediately.
If your generator is the electric start model, once running, it will charge the battery on the
generator automatically. While charging, you can see the recharge indicator light lit, after
the battery is full, the light will turn off.

19
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
The Importance of Maintenance
Proper routine maintenance of your generator is essential for safe, economical, and
trouble-free operation. It will also help reduce air pollution.
Warning
Improper maintenance, or failure to correct a problem before operation, can cause a
malfunction in which you can be seriously injured or killed. Always follow the
inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this instruction
manual.
Maintenance Safety
 Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or repairs.
 Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.
 To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around
gasoline. Use only a nonflammable solvent, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep
cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from all fuel related parts.
Maintenance Schedule
Remember that this schedule is based on the assumption that your machine will be
used for its designed purpose. Sustained high-load, high temperature operation, or
use in unusually wet or dusty conditions, will require more frequent service.
SERVICE
REGULAR SERVICE PERIOD
BEFORE
EACH USE
1 MO. OR
20 HRS.
3 MO. OR
50 HRS.
6 MO. OR
100 HRS.
12 MO. OR
300 HRS.
ENGINE OIL
CHECK
CHANGE
AIR CLEANER
CHECK
CHANGE
SEDIMENT CUP
CLEAN
SPARK PLUG
CLEAN -
ADJUST
REPLACE
SPARK ARRESTER
CLEAN
IDLE SPEED
CHECK-
ADJUST
VALVE CLEARANCE
CHECK-
ADJUST
COMBUSTION
CHAMBER
CLEAN
500 HRS.
FUEL TANK AND
FILTER
CLEAN
FUEL TUBE
CHECK
EVERY 24 MO. (REPLACE IF NECESSARY)
TO BE PERFORMED AT MONTH INDICATED OR HOUR INTERVAL WHICH EVER COMES FIRST
Figure 13 – Maintenance Schedule.

20
Checking the Oil
The generator is equipped with an automatic shutoff to protect it from running on low
oil.
Nonetheless, you should check the oil level of the generator before each use to
ensure that the generator crankcase has a sufficient amount.
To check the oil level:
1. Make sure the generator is on a level surface.
2. Unscrew the oil filler/dipstick cap (see figure 14).
3. With a dry cloth, wipe the oil off of the stick on the inside of the cap.
4. Insert the dipstick as if you were replacing the cap and then remove again.
There should now be oil on the stick. If there is no oil on the stick, or oil only at
the very end of the stick you should add oil until the engine crankcase is filled.
See "Changing/Adding Oil” in this section.
5. Be sure to replace cap when you are finished checking the oil.
You should check the oil level of your generator according to the maintenance
schedule in figure 13. When the oil level is low you will need to add oil until the level
is sufficient to run the generator. The oil capacity of your generator engine is listed in
figure 15.
Model Number
XP5500EH
Engine Oil Capacity
20 fl. Oz.
Figure 15 – Generator Oil Capacity