Firman P01204 User manual

P/N:312745500 Rev:00
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
GASOLINE PORTABLE GENERATOR
Record product information to reference when ordering parts or
obtaining warranty coverage.
MODEL NUMBER
P01204

Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . .
Features and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Maintenance - Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 0
Troubleshooting- Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Parts Diagrams - Parts Lists - Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Service - Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
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REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT
Register your FIRMAN generator online at www.firmanpowerequipment.com
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a FIRMAN generator. You have selected a high-quality, precision engineered
generator set designed and tested to give you years of satisfactory service. This generator is designed
to run only on unleaded gasoline. This generator is not intended to be run unattended or to supply
power to life safety support.
This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated
with generator products and how to avoid them. This generator is designed and intended only
for supplying electrical power for operating compatible electrical lighting, appliances, tools and
motor loads, and is not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read and
understand these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this portable
generator. Save these original instructions for future reference.
All information in this publication is based on the latest production information available at the
time of approval for printing. The manufacturer reserves the right to change, alter or otherwise
improve the generator and this documentation at any time without prior notice.
INTRODUCTION
01

02
SIGNAL WORDS
DANGER WARNING CAUTION
Indicates a hazard
which, if not avoided,
will result in death or
serious injury.
Indicates a hazard
which, if not avoided,
could result in death
or serious injury.
Indicates a hazard
which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or
moderate injury.
Toxic Fumes- Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a
poisonous gas that will kill you in minutes. You cannot smell
it or see it.
Fire- Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable which could
cause burns or fire resulting in death or serious injury.Engine
exhaust could cause fire resulting in death or serious injury.
Hot Surface- Muffler could cause burns resulting in serious injury.
Generator could cause electrical shock resulting in death or serious
injury.
Safety Alert Symbol- Indicates a potential personal injury hazard.
Operator's Manual- Failure to follow warnings, instructions and
operator's manual could result in death or serious injury.
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NOTICE
Indicates information
considered Important,
but not hazard-related.
INTRODUCTION

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WARNING! This product can expose you to chemicals including gasoline engine
exhaust, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, and carbon
monoxide, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other
reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
This outdoor generator can be used to power outdoor items using extension cords .
NOTICE If you have questions about intended use, contact customer service. This portable
generator is designed to be used only with FIRMAN authorized parts.
FIRMAN
There may be Federal or State regulations, local codes, or ordinances that apply to the intended
use of the generator. Consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or the local agency
having jurisdiction. This generator is not intended to be used at a construction site or similar
activity as defined by NFPA 70-2020 (NEC) section 590.6.
Compliance Requirements
To Restore Power Using Extension Cords
03
INTRODUCTION
The generator neutral is floating, which means that the AC stator winding is isolated from the
grounding fastener and the AC receptacle ground pins. On a floating neutral generator the AC
receptacle ground pins are not functional. Electrical devices, such as a ground fault circuit
interrupter (GFCI), requiring a functioning AC receptacle ground pin will not operate.
System Ground

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2. Follow cord safety instructions.
3. Install carbon monoxide alarm(s).
4. When operating portable generator with extension cords, make sure portable generator is located
in an open, outdoor area, at least 20 ft. (6 m) from occupied spaces with exhaust pointed away.
5. Extension cords running directly into your home, powering indoor items IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
Extension cords running directly into the home increase your risk of carbon monoxide
poisoning through any openings.
If an extension cord running directly into your home is used to power indoor items, the
operator recognizes that this increases the risk of CO poisoning to people inside the home
and assumes that risk.
•
•
DANGER! Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that will kill
you in minutes. You cannot smell it, see it, or taste it. Even if you do not smell exhaust
fumes, you could still be exposed to carbon monoxide gas.
04
INTRODUCTION
1. Only use grounded cords marked for outdoor use rated for your loads.
16
14
To provide power using
extension cords
Total
Amperage
Minimum Gauge, Outdoor Rated
Up to 50 FT (15m)
Up to 13A
Up to 15A
Up to 20A
Up to 30A

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*We are always working to improve our products. Therefore, the enclosed product
may differ slightly from the image on this page.
05
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
1- Fuel Gauge
2- 1.7 Gallon(6.4L) Capacity Fuel Tank
3- Fuel Cap
4- Choke Lever
5- Fuel Valve
6- Air Filter
7- 80cc FIRMAN OHV Engine
8- Recoil Starter
9- Oil Filler Cap
10- Outlet Cover
11- Control Panel
12- Data Decal / Serial Number
⑫
2①
②
③
④
⑤
⑥
⑦⑧⑨
⑩
⑪

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06
FEATURES AND CONTROLS

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07
FEATURES AND CONTROLS

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08
FEATURES AND CONTROLS

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09
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Control Panel
NOTICE Total power drawn from all receptacles must not exceed the Data Decal rating.
2. 120V, 20A Duplex - NEMA 5-20R (Not GFCI protected)
A maximum of 20 Amps current may be drawn from this duplex receptacle.
1. Engine Switch – Engine Switch – Flip the switch to the “ON”(l) position and pull the recoil starter to start
the generator. Turn to the “OFF”(O) position to turn off the generator.
4. Ground Terminal – Consult an electrician or authority having jurisdiction for local grounding
requirements.
5. Outlet Cover - Protects the receptacles from dust and debris.
3. Circuit Breakers – The receptacles are protected by AC circuit protectors. If the generator is
overloaded or an external short circuit occurs, a circuit protector may trip. If tripping occurs,
disconnect all electrical loads and determine the cause before attempting to continue using the
generator. Reset any tripped circuit protectors.
If multiple receptacles are used at the same time, the total current must be kept with-in the
portable generator Data Decal rating.
6. CO Alert™ Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown Indicator Light — Indicates the engine shutdown due
to carbon monoxide accumulation around the generator or a CO Alert system fault occurred.
1
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4
5
6

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10
1.Location
DANGER! Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that could kill
you in minutes. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it. Even if you do not smell exhaust
fumes, you could still be exposed to carbon monoxide gas.
•
•
•
Operate portable generator only outdoors, at least 20 ft.(6 m) from occupied spaces with exhaust
pointed away to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide accumulating.
Install battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms or plug-in carbon monoxide alarms with
battery back-up according to the manufacturer's instructions. Smoke alarms cannot detect
carbon monoxide gas.
Do not run this portable generator inside homes, garages, basements, crawlspaces, sheds, or
other partially-enclosed spaces even if using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation.
Carbon monoxide can quickly build up in these spaces and can linger for hours, even after this
product has shut off.
•If you start to feel sick, dizzy, weak or your home’s carbon monoxide alarm sounds, get to fresh air
right away. Call emergency services. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon Monoxide Alarm(s)
Install carbon monoxide alarms inside your home. Without working
carbon monoxide alarms, you will not realize you are getting sick and
dying from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning
Use outdoors at least 20 ft. (6 m) from any home.
Point exhaust away from all homes and occupied spaces.
Install CO alarms inside your home.
20 ft. (6 m) min.
To better educate yourself about all carbon monoxide risks,
go to www.takeyourgeneratoroutside.com.
OPERATION

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Reduce Risk of Fire
WARNING! Exhaust heat/gases could ignite combustibles, structures or damage fuel
tank causing a fire, resulting in death or serious injury.
Keep portable generator at least 5 ft. (1.5 m) from any structure, trees or vegetation over 12
in. (30 cm) in height.
•
Select an outdoor site that is dry and protected from the weather. Do not move portable
generator indoors to protect it from the weather.
Do not locate the portable generator under a deck or other similar structure that may
confine heat and airflow.
•
•
11
OPERATION
5 ft.(1.5 m)
min.
5 ft.(1.5 m)
min.
20 ft.(6 m) min.

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2. Oil and Gasoline
Add Engine Oil
We recommend using FIRMAN SAE 10W-30 API SJ oil for best performance. Other high-quality
detergent oils (API SJ or higher) are acceptable. Do not use special additives. Ambient temperature
determines the proper oil viscosity for the engine. Use the chart to select the proper oil for the
outdoor temperature range expected.
NOTICE Do not attempt to crank or start the engine before it has been properly filled with the
recommended type and amount of oil. Damage due to operation with no oil will void your warranty.
Degrees Celsiusº(Outside)
Full Synthetic 5W-30
Degrees Fahrenheitº(Outside)
5W-30 10W-40
10W-30
1.Place generator on a flat, level surface.
2.Clean area around oil fill and remove yellow oil fill cap/dipstick.
3.Wipe dipstick clean.
12
OPERATION
(H)
DRAIN PLUG
(L)
H
L

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4. Using oil funnel, slowly pour contents of provided oil bottle into oil fill opening until oil reaches
upper limit "H" mark on the dipstick. Be careful not to overfill. Overfilling could cause engine
starting problems or engine damage.
5.Replace oil fill cap/dipstick and fully tighten.
6.Oil level should be checked prior to each use or at least every 8 hours of operation. Keep oil
level maintained.
The portable generator is equipped with a low oil shutdown. If the oil level drops below the
minimum required level, a sensor will activate an internal switch stopping the engine. If the
engine shuts off and the oil level is within specifications, check to see if generator is sitting at an
angle. Place portable generator on an even surface to correct this. If engine fails to start, the oil
level may not be high enough to deactivate the internal low oil level switch. Make sure the sump is
completely full of oil to the upper limit (H). Do not operate engine until oil level issue is corrected.
Contact Firman customer service.
Low Oil Shutdown
Add Gasoline
WARNING! Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable which could cause burns or fire
resulting in death or serious injury.
Turn generator engine OFF and let it cool at least 2 minutes before removing fuel cap.
Do Not refuel or move generator when engine is running.
Move generator outdoors prior to adding or draining fuel
Keep fuel away from any ignition sources.
Do not overfill tank, allow space for fuel expansion.
If any fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine
Check and replace fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings prior to each use if any damage or leaks
are found.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fuel must meet these requirements:
Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane.
For high altitude use, see Operation at High Altitude.
Gasoline with no more than 10% ethanol is acceptable.
•
•
•E10 E15
13
OPERATION

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NOTICE Do not mix oil in gasoline or modify engine to run on alternate fuels not described in this
manual. Use of unapproved fuels could damage engine and will not be covered under warranty.
1. Clean area around fuel fill cap, remove cap.
2. Slowly add unleaded fuel to fuel tank. Be careful not to fill above the RED fuel level indicator.
This allows adequate space for fuel expansion.
Red Line Indicator
3. Install fuel cap and let any spilled fuel evaporate before starting engine.
Operation at High Altitude
At altitudes over 5,000 feet(1524 meters), a minimum 85 octane gasoline is acceptable.
Engine power and generator output will be reduced approximately 3.5% for every 1000 feet (305 m)
of elevation above sea level. High altitude may cause hard starting, increased fuel consumption
and sparkplug fouling. To operate at high altitudes FIRMAN can provide a high altitude carburetor
main jet. The alternative main jet and installation instructions can be obtained by contacting
Customer Support.
NOTICE Operation using an alternative main jet at elevations lower than the recommended
minimum altitude can damage the engine. For operation at lower elevations, the standard main
jet supplied must be used. Operating the engine with the wrong main jet may increase exhaust
emissions, fuel consumption and reduce performance.
Altitude main jet 1
Altitude main jet 2
80cc Altitude
3000-6000Feet
6000-8000Feet
Operation at High Ambient conditions
14
OPERATION
Your Firman Power Equipment product is designed and rated for continuous operation at ambient
temperatures up to 104°F (40°C). The generator may be operated at temperatures ranging from
5°F(-15°C) to 122°F(50°C) for short periods. If the generator is exposed to temperatures outside
this range during storage, the generator should be brought back within this range before
operation. When o perated abo ve 77°F(25° C) there may be a decrease in power .
Maximum wattage and current are subject to and limited by such factors as ambient temperature,
altitude, engine conditions etc.
312715083
312715084

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3.Starting the Generator
1. Before starting the generator, check for loose or missing parts and for any damage which may
have occurred during shipment. Ensure spark plugs, muffler, fuel cap, and air cleaner are all in place.
2. Move portable generator outdoors to safe operating location at least 20 feet from any occupied
spaces.
15
OPERATION
3. Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator. Never start or stop the generator with
electrical devices plugged in.
5. Flip the engine switch to the position. “ON” (l)
4. Turn the fuel valve to the “ON” (l)position.
6. Move the choke lever to the “START” position.

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16
OPERATION
9. Allow portable generator to run at no load for a few minutes to stabilize before plugging in
any electrical devices.
NOTICE If engine starts but fails to run, or if portable generator shuts down during operation,
check oil level. See Low Oil Shutdown section for more information.
7. Pull the starter cord slowly until resistance is felt and then pull rapidly.
8. Do not over-choke. As soon as engine starts and warms up, move the choke lever to the “RUN”
position.

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This portable generator has been pretested and adjusted to handle its full capacity. The voltage is
regulated using an automatic voltage regulator (AVR) . Readjusting the AVR will void warranty.
4. Connecting Electrical Loads
Damaged or overloaded extension cords could overheat, arc, and burn resulting death or
serious injury.
Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in any damp or highly conductive area, such as
metal decking.
Do not touch bare wires or receptacles.
WARNING! Generator voltage could cause electrical shock or burn
resulting in death or serious injury.
•
•
•
17
OPERATION
Do not use generator with electrical cords which are worn, frayed, bare or otherwise damaged.
Do not operate generator in the rain or wet weather.
Do not run indoors to avoid wet conditions.
Do not handle generator or electrical cords while standing in water, while barefoot, or while
hands or feet are wet.
•
•
•
•
1.Ensure circuit breaker on control panel is in the closed (on) position.
2. Start the generator with no electrical load attached.
3. Allow the engine to run for several minutes to stabilize.
4. Plug in and turn on the first item. It is best to attach the item with the largest load first.
5. Allow the engine to stabilize.
6. Plug in and turn on the next item.
7. Allow the engine to stabilize.
8. Repeat steps 5-6 for each additional item.
Surge Protection
There is a remote chance that voltage fluctuations may impair the proper functioning of some
sensitive electronic equipment. Electronic devices, including computers and many programmable
appliances may use components that are designed to operate within a narrow voltage range and
may be affected by the portable generator’s momentary voltage fluctuations. While there is no
way to prevent all voltage fluctuations, you can take steps to protect your sensitive electronic
equipment. Install a plug-in surge suppressor on the receptacles feeding your sensitive equipment.
Surge suppressors come in single or multi-outlet styles. They are designed to protect against short
duration voltage fluctuations.

CO Alert
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown System
CO Alert automatically shuts down the engine when harmful levels of carbon monoxide
accumulate around the generator or a CO Alert fault occurs. After shutdown, the CO Alert
indicator light will blink for at least five minutes per the chart below.
CO Alert DOES NOT replace carbon monoxide alarms.
Install battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm(s) in your home. Don’t run generator in enclosed
areas.
Color Description
Red
Yellow
CO Alert fault occured*.
See FIRMAN authorized service dealer.
*Yellow light will blink for five seconds at the startup of generator to show CO ALERT is functioning
properly.
TM
Carbon monoxide accumulated around generator. Prior
to restart move generator to an open, outdoor area
20 ft. (6 m) from occupied spaces with exhaust pointed
away. Air out premises (open windows and doors) before
reoccupying property. Automatic shutoff is an indication
generator was improperly located.
If you start to feel sick, dizzy, weak, or your homes carbon
monoxide alarm sounds while using this product, get to
fresh air right away. Call emergency services. You may
have carbon monoxide poisoning.
•• ••
•••• •
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18
OPERATION

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5. Stopping the generator
1. Turn off and remove all electrical loads.
Never stop the generator with electrical devices plugged in and turned on.
Never stop the engine by moving the choke to the start position.
Let the generator run at no-load for one minute to stabilize internal temperatures of the engine
and generator.
19
OPERATION
2. Flip the engine switch to“OFF”(O) position.
If a cover is used, do not install until unit has cooled.
3. Turn the fuel valve to the “OFF”(O) position.
2S
Do not leave the generator until it has completely stopped.