Firman P12001 User manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Record product information to reference when ordering parts or
obtaining warranty coverage.
GASOLINE PORTABLE GENERATOR
MODEL NUMBER
P 1 2 0 0 1
Rev Level:00
P/N:399745593 Rev:00

Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . .
Features and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0
Maintenance - Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 0
Troubleshooting- Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Parts Diagrams - Parts Lists - Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Service - Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
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.
English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
NOTICE
Indicates information
considered Important,
but not hazard-related.
INTRODUCTION

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
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 or to restore
home power using a transfer switch. A transfer switch is a separate device installed by a licensed
electrician that allows the portable generator to be cord connected, using either of the 120/240V
receptacles, directly into your home’s electrical system. Install a listed transfer switch as soon as
possible if this generator will be used to restore power to your home.
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
The generator has a system ground that connects the generator frame components to the ground
terminals on the AC output receptacles. The system ground is connected to the AC neutral wire.
The neutral is bonded to the generator frame.
System Ground
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
Connections to your home’s electrical system must use a listed* transfer switch installed by a
licensed electrician. The connection must isolate the generator power from the utility power and
comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
To Restore Home Power Using a Listed Transfer Switch
Typical
120/240V
Outlet
Transfer
Switch
Typical Indoor Items
To Restore Power Using Extension Cords
03
INTRODUCTION

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
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
Up to 50A
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.
•
•
6. Install a listed *transfer switch as soon as possible if this or any generator will be used to restore
power to your home.
*
product safety test standards.
Certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory that the product complies to appropriate
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
6
INTRODUCTION

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
*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-
2-
3-
4-
5-
6-
7-
8- Lifting Hook
13.3 Gallon(50.2L) Capacity
Fuel Tank
Fuel Cap
Fuel Gauge
12.0"(30.5cm) Flat Free
Wheel
Control Panel
760cc V-TWIN Engine
Muffler & Spark Arrester
9- Handle
10-Power Cord Holder &
Maintance cover handle
11- Battery
12- Data decal/ serial number
1
①
②
③
④
⑤
⑥
⑦
⑧
⑨
⑩
⑪
○
12

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
06
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
①
1
②
③
④
⑤
⑥⑦⑧⑨

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
07
FEATURES AND CONTROLS

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
08
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
⑥
⑦
⑧
⑨

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
09
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
2345
16
7
8
9
10
12 11
13
14 14
14
1. 120/240V, 50A – (NEMA 14-50R) (Not GFCI protected)
Maximum full load current may be drawn from this 120/240 Volt, 50 Amp receptacle.
2. 120/240V, 30A Twist Lock – (NEMA L14-30R) (Not GFCI protected)
6. Choke Knob
7. Fuel Valve Knob
The Economy Control switch can be activated in order to minimize fuel consumption and noise while
operating the unit during times of no electrical output, allowing the engine speed to idle during periods of
no electrical usage. The engine speed returns to normal when an electrical load is connected. When the
economy switch is off, the engine runs at normal speed continuously.
8. Economy Control Switch
15
Control Panel
NOTICE Total power drawn from all receptacles must not exceed the name plate rating.
A maximum of 30 Amps current for 240 Volts or two independent 120 Volt loads at 30 Amps current each.
3. 120V, 30A Twist Lock – NEMA L5-30R(Not GFCI protected)
A maximum of 30 Amps current may be drawn from this receptacle.
4. 120V, 20A Duplex GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)- NEMA 5-20R
A maximum of 20 Amps current may be drawn from this duplex receptacle.
5. Engine Start Switch – To start engine, press and hold the switch in the START (ll) position, the
engine will crank and attempt to start. When the engine starts, release the switch to the RUN (l) position.
10. 12V DC Outlet – 8.3 Amp of DC current may be drawn from this receptacle.
Use this outlet to charge 12V automotive type batteries ONLY. See 12V DC outlet (Battery Charger) section.
11. DC Circuit Breaker - The circuit protector may be reset by pushing the button of the protector.
12. 12V DC Battery Charger Port - Plug the 120 Volt AC charger into this port to charge the generator
battery.
9. 4-1 Data-Minder (Multi-Meter) – Push the SELECT button to show the Voltage, Hertz, running hours and
low oil alarm.
13. Ground Terminal – Consult an electrician or authority having jurisdiction for local grounding
requirements.

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
10
14. 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.
15. Outlet Cover - Protect the receptacles from dust and debris.
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. 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. (6.0 m) from any home.
Point exhaust away from all homes and occupied spaces.
Install CO alarms inside your home.
20 ft. (6.0 m) min.
To better educate yourself about all carbon monoxide risks,
go to www.takeyourgeneratoroutside.com.
OPERATION

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
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. (1.5m) 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.(1.5m)
min.
5 ft.(1.5m)
min.
20 ft.(6m)min.

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
2. Oil and Gasoline
Add Engine Oil
We recommend using FIRMAN SAE 10W-30 API SL oil for best performance. Other high-quality
detergent oils (API SL 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.
3.Clean area around oil fill and remove yellow oil fill cap/dipstick.
4.Wipe dipstick clean.
12
OPERATION
2.Open the maintenance cover.
Maintenance Cover
H
L
Dipstick

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
5. 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.
6.Replace oil fill cap/dipstick and fully tighten.
7.Oil level should be checked prior to each use or at least every 8 hours of operation. Keep oil
level maintained.
8. Close maintenance cover.
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% alcohol is acceptable.
•
•
•E10 E15
13
OPERATION

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
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 Gasoline Only
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. Installation instructions are also available in the Technical Bulletin area of the
FIRMAN website www.firmanpowerequipment.com.
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
760cc
399715868
399715869
Altitude
3000-6000Feet
6000-8000Feet
Operation at High Ambient conditions
Your Firman Power Equipment product is designed and rated for continuous operation at ambient
temperatures up to 40°C (104°F). The generator may be operated at temperatures ranging from
-15°C (5°F) to 50°C (122°F) 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 operated above 77°F(25°C) there may be a decrease in pow er.
Maximum wattage and current are subject to and limited by such factors as fuel BTU content
ambient temperature, altitude, engine conditions etc.
14
OPERATION

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
3.Starting the Generator on Gasoline
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 “RUN(l)” position.
4. Turn the fuel valve to the “ON” (l)position.
6. Flip the ECO switch to the “OFF(O)” position.
6. Move choke knob located on panel to “START” position. You do not need to choke a warm engine.

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
16
OPERATION
8. Flip the engine switch to the START (ll) position for a few seconds and then release.
9. Do not over-choke. As soon as engine starts and warms up, slowly move the choke knob to the
RUN position.
10. 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.

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
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
The duplex receptacle is equipped with GFCI protection. The GFCI protects against electric shock
that may be caused if you become a path which electricity travels to reach earth. Even with a GFCI
you may feel a shock, but the GFCI cuts power quickly so an average person should not suffer any
injury. Manual test GFCI while generator is running to verify internal contacts will function
Push the test button. The reset button will pop out, which should cut power to outlet.
Press the reset button until it locks in the depressed position. If the GFCI does not reset as
described do not use the receptacles. Call Firman customer service.
If GFCI trips while in use, reset and test the outlet. Electric cords laying on the ground with
worn insulation may trip the GFCI, only use cords in good condition.
•
•
•
RESET
TEST
TEST MONTHLY
FOLLOW DIRECTIONS
RESET BUTTON
Receptacle
Outlet
LED Indicator Light
TEST BUTTON
Outlet
In addition to the manual test / reset feature the GFCI receptacle tests itself periodically to
confirm the GFCI electronics are functional. The indicator light will be solid green when the
GFCI is powered from the generator and working correctly.
Self-test indications: If the indicator light is solid orange or flashing red a problem may exist.
Press the TEST button to trip the GFCI. If unable to reset, replace the GFCI.
SELF-TEST OPERATION
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

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
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.
Use listed transfer switch to prevent backfeed by isolating generator from electric utility
workers.
•
•
•
•
•
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.
18
OPERATION

English Customer Service: 1-844-FIRMAN1
19
OPERATION
2. Flip the engine switch to“OFF”(O) position.
3. Turn the fuel valve to the “OFF”(O) position.
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.
Economy Control Switch
The Economy Control switch can be activated in order to minimize fuel consumption and noise
while operating the unit during times of reduced electrical output, allowing the engine speed to
idle during periods of non-use. The engine speed returns to normal when an electrical load is
connected. When the economy switch is off, the engine runs at normal speed continuously.
NOTICE:
For periods of high electrical load or momentary fluctuations, the Economy Control Switch should
be turned OFF. For electrical appliances that can’t started below 180V, the Economy Control Switch
should be turned OFF.