Firman SPS 2000i User manual

SPS2000i
OWNER’S MANUAL
®
Read all safety precautions and instructions carefully
before operating equipment.
Ensure engine is stopped and level before performing
any maintenance or service.
IMPORTANT:
Record product information to reference when ordering parts or
obtaining warranty coverage.
Specification:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
www.firmangenerators.com
PORTABLE INVERTER GENERATOR

NOTE:
[CAUTION]
WARNING
Do not operate the generator before you have read and understood the instructions.
Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.
The generator is designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according
to instructions.
Indicates a strong possibility of severe personal injury, loss of life and equipment damage if
instructions are not followed.
Indicates a possibility of personal injury, or equipment damage if instructions are not followed.
Gives helpful information.
If a problem should arise, or if you have any questions about the generator, consult a dealer
selling FIRMAN generators.
Thank you for purchasing a FIRMAN generator.
This manual covers operation and maintenance of the FIRMAN generators. All information in this
publication is based on the latest production information available at the time of approval for
printing.
Pay special attention to statements preceded by the following words:
WARNING
Page 01

Safe Operation Checklist
Safe operation of the portable generator requires the completion of the following tasks:
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm
Carbon monoxide (CO) alarm(s) in working order.
Smoke Alarm
Smoke alarm (s) in working order.
Generator Location
Generator placed in a Carbon Monoxide (CO) safe zone. See Generator Location to
reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
Generator placed in a fire safe zone. See Generator Location to reduce the Risk of
Generator located on flat and level surface.
Oil and Fuel
Engine filled to proper oil level. See Add Engine Oil.
Fuel tank filled at or below baffle. See Add Fuel
.
Inspect fuel lines, tank, cap and fittings each time before using generator. DO NOT
use if fuel leak or damage is found.
Electrical
When connecting to a buildings electrical system, install listed transfer equipment.
See Connecting to a Building Electrical System.
Electrical cords are rated for intended loads. See Cord Sets and Receptacles.
Electrical cords do not run through doorways, windows, holes in ceilings, walls or
Inspect electrical cords thoroughly before each use. DO NOT use if damaged.
All labeled electrical cord safeties are understood and being followed.
Operation
Start engine. See Starting the Engine.
Fire.
floors.
Page 02

1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................................................................04
2. SPECIFICATIONS..........................................................................................08
3. COMPONENTS............................................................................................09
4. PRE-OPERATION CHECKS............................................................................10
5. OPERATING PROCEDURES...........................................................................13
6. SERVICING THE GENERATOR.......................................................................17
7. “HOW-TO” MAINTENANCE...........................................................................18
8. PREPARATION FOR STORAGE.......................................................................20
9. TROUBLE SHOOTING...................................................................................21
10. WARRANTY..................................................................................................22
Table of Contents
Page 03

1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Page 04
WARNING
POISONOUS GAS HAZARD.
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 this product ONLY outside far away from windows, doors and vents to reduce
the risk of carbon monoxide gas from accumulating and potentially being drawn
towards occupied spaces.
•
•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 product 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.
•ALWAYS place this product downwind and point the engine exhaust away from
occupied spaces. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using this product, shut
it off and get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide
poisoning.

WARNING
Page 05
Starter cord kickback (rapid retraction) will pull hand and arm toward
engine faster than you can let go which could cause broken bones,
fractures, bruises, or sprains resulting in serious injury.
When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance is felt and then pull rapidly to
avoid kickback.
•
•NEVER start or stop engine with electrical devices plugged in and turned on.
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive
which could cause burns, fire, or explosion resulting in death
or serious injury.
WHEN ADDING OR DRAINING FUEL
Turn generator engine OFF and let it cool at least 2 minutes before removing fuel cap.
Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.• Fill or drain fuel tank outdoors.
•
•DO NOT overfill tank. Allow space for fuel expansion
If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine.
•Keep fuel away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat, and other ignition sources.
Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if
necessary.
DO NOT light a cigarette or smoke.
•
•
•
WHEN STARTING EQUIPMENT
Ensure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap, and air cleaner are in place.
•DO NOT crank engine with spark plug removed.
•
WHEN OPERATING EQUIPMENT
DO NOT operate this product inside any building, carport, porch, mobile equipment,
marine applications, or enclosure.
•
DO NOT tip engine or equipment at angle which causes fuel to spill.
DO NOT stop engine by moving choke control to “Choke” position ( )
•
•
WHEN TRANSPORTING, MOVING OR REPAIRING EQUIPMENT
Transport/move/repair with fuel tank EMPTY or with fuel shutoff valve OFF.
•
•DO NOT tip engine or equipment at angle which causes fuel to spill.
Disconnect spark plug wire.
•
WHEN STORING FUEL OR EQUIPMENT WITH FUEL IN TANK
•Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters, clothes dryers, or other appliances
that have pilot light or other ignition source because they could ignite fuel vapors.

Page 06
WARNING
This generator does not meet U. S. Coast Guard Regulation 33CFR-183 and should not
be used on marine applications.
•
•Failure to use the appropriate U. S. Coast Guard approved generator could result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING
Generator voltage could cause electrical shock or burn resulting in death
or serious injury.
Use listed transfer equipment, suitable for the intended use, to prevent backfeed by
isolating generator from electric utility workers.
When using generator for backup power, notify utility company.
Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in any damp or highly conductive area,
such as metal decking or steel work
DO NOT touch bare wires or receptacles.
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 handle generator or electrical cords while standing in water, while barefoot,
or while hands or feet are wet.
DO NOT allow unqualified persons or children to operate or service generator.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
WARNING
Exhaust heat/gases could ignite combustibles, structures or
damage fuel tank causing a fire, resulting in death or serious
injury.
Contact with muffler area could cause burns resulting in
serious injury.
DO NOT touch hot parts and AVOID hot exhaust gases.
Allow equipment to cool before touching.
Keep at least 5 feet (1.5 m) of clearance on all sides of generator including overhead.
It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section 4442, to use or operate the
engine on any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the exhaust
system is equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in Section 4442, maintained in
effective working order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may have similar laws.
Contact the original equipment manufacturer, retailer, or dealer to obtain a spark
arrester designed for the exhaust system installed on this engine.
Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the same position as the original
parts.
•
•
•
•
•

Page 07
WARNING
Unintentional sparking could cause fire or electric shock resulting in death
or serious injury.
WHEN ADJUSTING OR MAKING REPAIRS TO YOUR GENERATOR
Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and place the wire where it cannot
contact spark plug.
•
WHEN TESTING FOR ENGINE SPARK
Use approved spark plug tester.
•DO NOT check for spark with spark plug removed.
•
WARNING
Starter and other rotating parts could entangle hands, hair, clothing, or
accessories resulting in serious injury.
NEVER operate generator without protective housing or covers.
DO NOT wear loose clothing, jewelry or anything that could be caught in the starter
or other rotating parts.
Tie up long hair and remove jewelry.
•
•
•
[CAUTION]
Excessively high operating speeds could result in minor injury.
Excessively low operating speeds impose a heavy load.
DO NOT tamper with governor spring, links or other parts to increase engine speed.
Generator supplies correct rated frequency and voltage when running at governed speed.
DO NOT modify generator in any way.
•
•
NOTE:
DO NOT exceed the generator’s wattage/amperage capacity.
Start generator and let engine stabilize before connecting electrical loads.
Connect electrical loads in OFF position, then turn ON for operation.
Turn electrical loads OFF and disconnect from generator before stopping generator.
Use generator only for intended uses.
If you have questions about intended use, ask dealer or contact local service center.
Operate generator only on level surfaces.
DO NOT expose generator to excessive moisture, dust, dirt, or corrosive vapors.
DO NOT insert any objects through cooling slots.
If connected devices overheat, turn them off and disconnect them from generator.
Shut off generator if:
-electrical output is lost;
-equipment sparks, smokes, or emits flames;
-unit vibrates excessively.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

120V
38 lbs
19.1x11.6x16.7 in
Rated AC Voltage
Phase
Power Factor
Engine Model
Engine Type
Voltage regulator
Generator
Model SPS 2000i
INVERTER
Single Phase
1
Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke OHV Air Cooled
Displacement
Maximum output
Ignition System
Starting System
Fuel
Capacity Fuel Tank
79.8cc
Breakless Ignition Type, Flywheel Magneto
Unleaded Automotive Gasoline
Recoil
1 Gallon
15.2 OZ(0.45 L)
Lubricating Oil
Capacity
Counter Clockwise (Facing P.T.O.)
Float
Polyurethane Type
Carburetor Type
Air Cleaner
Alternator Type
P.T.O. shaft rotation
Dime- nsion
L X W X H
Dry Weight
Engine
Page 08
3.5HP
2 . SPECIFICATIONS
Running Watts
Starting Watts 2000Watts@60Hz
1600Watts@60Hz
CT149F-A3
Magneto Inductor

1. OUTPUT LIGHT
2. OVERLOAD INDICATOR LIGHT
3. OIL WARNING LIGHT
4. ECONOMY CONTROL SWITCH
5. ENGINE SWITCH
6. CHOKE
7. FUEL VALVE
8. RECOIL STARTER
9. PARALLEL OPERATION OUTLETS*
10. CIRCUIT BREAKER
11. GROUND TERMINAL
12. 120V AC OUTPUT
13. 12V DC OUTPUT
14. 5V USB OUTPUT
3. COMPONENTS
Page 09
*These outlets are used for connecting two FIRMAN model SPS2000i generators for
parallel operation. A FIRMAN parallel kit (optional equipment) is required for parallel
operation.
123
4
5
6
7
8
12
9
13
10
11
14

CHECK ENGINE OIL
Multigrade
Ambient
-20 -10
0
10
20
30
40
-4
14
32
50
68
86
104
5W
10W
20W
#20
#30
#40
10W-30
10W-40
Single grade
C
F
Page 10
1.Before checking or refilling oil, be sure the
generator is put on a flat , level surface.
2.Loosen the cover screws and remove the
maintenance cover.
3.Remove oil filter cap and check the engine
oil level.
4. Add 15.2 OZ(0.45 L.) of oil and replace oil fill cap/
dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL.
5. Check engine oil level daily and add as needed.
temperature
4. PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
[CAUTION]
The engine is equipped with a low oil shut-off and will stop when the oil level in the
crankcase falls below the threshold level.

CHECKING COMPONENTS
Do not refuel while smoking or near open flame or other such potential fire hazards.
Otherwise a fire accident could occur.
Make sure you review each warning in order to prevent fire hazard.
Fuel leakage from fuel hose etc. ,
Tighten any loose bolts or nuts.
Check components for damage or breakage.
Check following items before starting engine:
Do not refill tank while engine is running or hot.
Close fuel valve before refueling with fuel.
Be careful not to admit dust, dirt, water or other foreign objects into fuel
Wipe off spilt fuel thoroughly before starting engine.
Keep away from open flames.
CHECK ENGINE FUEL
WARNING
Page 11
WARNING
Fuel must meet these requirements:
Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline.
Octane rating of 86(R+M)/2 or higher.
Research Octane Number(RON)91
octane minimum.
Gasoline up to 10% ethyl alcohol,90%
unleaded is acceptable.
Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether(MTBE) and
unleaded gasoline blend(max 15%
MTBE by volume)are approved.
Do not add oil to gasoline.
Do not overfill fuel tank.
Do not use gasoline older than 30 days.
NOTE: E15,E20 and E85 art NOT approved and should NOT be used, effects of old, stale
or contaminated fuel are not warrantable.
1.Clean the area around the fuel cap.
2.Remove the fuel cap.
3.Slowly add fuel to the tank. DO NOT OVER FILL.
4.Screw on the fuel cap and wipe away any spilled fuel.

CHECKING GENERATOR SURROUNDINGS
Make sure you review each warning in order to prevent fire hazard.
Keep area clear of inflammables or other hazardous materials.
Keep generator at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from buildings or other structures.
Only operate generator in a dry, well ventilated area.
Keep exhaust pipe clear of foreign objects.
Keep generator away from open flame.
Keep generator on a stable and level surface.
Do not block generator air vents with paper or other material.
Page 12
WARNING
Move the generator to the desired location. The generator is very easy to move by your hand.
CHECKING GROUND TERMINAL
The ground terminal is used to assist in properly grounding the generator to help protect
against electrical shock. Consult with a local electrician for grounding requirements in
your area.
THERE IS A PERMANENT CONDUCTOR BETWEEN THE GENERATOR (STATOR WINDING)
AND THE FRAME.

STARTING THE ENGINE
5. OPERATING PROCEDURES
(a) Make certain the generator is on a flat, level surface.
(b) Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator.Never start or stop the
generator with electrical devices plugged in or turned on.
(c)Turn the fuel cap vent lever to the “ON” position.
Page 13
(d) Turn the fuel valve to the “On” position.
(e) Pull choke lever out to the “Choke” position.
(h) As engine warms up, push the choke lever to the “Run” position.
ON
OFF
(f) Turn the engine switch to the “On” position.
(g)Pull the starter cord slowly until resistance is felt and then pull rapidly.

Page 14
WARNING
USING ELECTRIC POWER
Be sure to ground the generator if the connected electrical equipment is grounded.
NOTE:
(a) Let the engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after starting.
(b)Plug in and turn on the desired 120 Volt AC single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.
This generator is thoroughly tested and adjusted in the factory. If the generator does not
produce the specified voltage, consult your nearest FIRMAN Generator dealer.
When the circuit breaker or no-fuse breaker turns off during operation, the generator is
overloaded or the appliance is defective.
Stop the generator immediately, check the appliance and /or generator for overloading
or defect and repair as necessary.
[CAUTION]
WARNING
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.
For periods of high electrical load or momentary fluctuations, the Economy Control
Switch should be turned OFF.
DO NOT connect 3-phase loads to the generator.
DO NOT connect 50 Hz loads to the generator.
DO NOT overload the generator
While charging a device do no place on the exhaust side of the generator. Extreme heat
caused by exhaust can damage the device, and cause a potential fire hazard

[CAUTION]
STOPPING THE GENERATOR
[CAUTION]
Page 15
12V DC Outlet – Battery Charging
1. Before connecting the battery charging cable to a battery that is installed in a vehicle,
disconnect the vehicle battery ground cable from the negative (–) battery terminal.
2. Plug the battery charging cable into the 12V DC receptacle of the generator.
3. Connect the red (+) battery charger lead to the red(+) battery terminal.
4. Connect the black (–) battery charger lead to the black (–) battery terminal.
5. Start the generator.
When using the 12V DC outlet, turn the Economy mode switch to the “OFF” position. Be
sure all electric devices including the lines and plug connections are in good condition
before connection to the generator.
1. Turn off and unplug all electrical loads. Never start or stop the generator with electrical
devices plugged in or turned on.
2. Let the generator run at no-load for several minutes to stabilize internal temperatures
of the engine and generator.
3. Turn the Fuel Valve to the “OFF” position.
4. Let the engine run until fuel starvation has stopped the engine. This usually takes a few
minutes.
5. Turn the engine switch to the “Off” position.
6. Allow the generator to cool down completely to room temperature.
7. Turn the fuel cap lever vent to the “Off” position after the generator has cooled down
completely.
Important: Always ensure that the Fuel Valve and the Engine Switch are in the “OFF”
position when the engine is not in use.
Always ensure that the Fuel Valve and the Engine Switch are in the “OFF” position when
the engine is not in use.

Page 16
Two FIRMAN model SPS2000i generators can be operated in parallel to increase the
total available electrical power to 3000 watts.
1. The two generators may be stacked one on top of the other by aligning the lower pads
and upper pockets at each corner of the generators.
2. Disconnect or turn off all electrical loads from both generators.
3. The ECON switch must be in the same position on both generators.
4. Before starting the engines, connect the AC power outlet cables, the control cables and
the ground cables to both generators. Follow the instructions supplied with the parallel
kit.
5. Do not disconnect any cables after the engines have been started.
6. Start both engines and observe the green output indicator light on both generator panels.
7. Connect and turn on the electrical devices.
8. Follow the instructions on the previous page for turning off the generators.
PARALLEL OPERATION
Detailed instructions for parallel kit installation and operation of the connected
generators are provided in the parallel kit Owner’s Manual and Operating Instructions.
Please note the following important requirements:
Overload Operation
The overload indicator light will turn on when the load exceeds 950W.If the load exceeds
1000w,the light will blink and cut power to the receptacles in 3 minutes. To recover the
power, you must shut off the engine, wait 5 seconds, and restart the generator.

6. SERVICING THE GENERATOR
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
The electrical safety may only be checked by personnel authorized for this task.
SERVICING WORK
CHECKING ELECTRICAL SAFETY
3 years
● Check the air cleaner
● Check oil level and refill to the upper level before
starting the engine.
● Check all the points indicated in "PRE-OPERATION
CHECKS".
● Clean and wash air-cleaner element.
More often if used in dirty or dusty environments.
● Change engine oil.(The initial oil change must be
conducted after the 25 hours operation.)
● Check spark plug, and clean and adjust if necessary.
● Check and clean the fuel shut-off valve.
● Replace air-cleaner element.
○ Decarbonize cylinder head, valves and piston.
○ Check and replace carbon brushes.
● Replace spark plug.
○ Inspect control panel components.
○ Check electric motor.
○ Replace engine mount rubber.
○ Overhaul engine.
● Change fuel lines.
300 hours or
every year
100 hours
50 hours(Weekly)
Daily
Servicing work should only be carried out by personnel qualified for this purpose.
All the works listed in the service plan are to be carried out in accordance with the
operating and service instructions for the motor.
We recommend that these works be carried out by an authorized service station.
NOTE:
Initial oil change should performed after first 5 hours of use. Thereafter change oil every 50
hours. Before changing oil, check for a suitable way to dispose of the old oil. Do not pour it
down into sewage drains, onto garden soil or into open streams. Your local zoning
environmental regulations will give you more detailed instructions on proper disposal.
Items marked with a “O” required advanced skill and tools, so they should be done by the
distributor.
Page 17

7. "HOW-TO" MAINTENANCE
ENGINE OIL CHANGE
SERVICING THE AIR CLEANER
Change engine oil every 50 hours.
(for a new engine, change oil after 5 hours.)
(a) Loosen the cover screws and remove the
maintenance cover.
(b) Remove the oil filler cap.
(c) Tilt the generator on its side and allow the oil to
drain completely.
(d) Add 0.45 L (0.45 qt.) of oil and replace oil fill cap/dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL.
(e) Reinstall the maintenance cover and tighten the cover screws.
(f) Dispose of used oil at an approved waste management facility.
Please use a container to dump the used oil for protecting the environment.
Use fresh and high quality lubricating oil to the specified quantity.
If contaminated or deteriorated oil is used or the quantity of the engine oil is not
sufficient, the engine damage will result and its life will be greatly shortened.
1. Remove the maintenance cover.
2. Locate the air filter plastic cover.
3. Remove the foam element.
4. Wash in liquid detergent and water. Squeeze thoroughly dry in a clean cloth.
5. Saturate in clean engine oil.
6. Squeeze in a clean, absorbent cloth to remove all excess oil.
7. Place the filter in the assembly.
8. Reattach the air filter cover.
9. Reinstall the maintenance cover and tighten the cover screw securely.
Maintaining an air cleaner in proper
condition is very important. Dirt induced
through improperly installed, improperly
serviced, or inadequate elements
damages and wears out engines.
Page 18
NOTE:

CLEANING AND ADJUSTING THE SPARK PLUG
(a) If the plug is contaminated with carbon,
using a plug cleaner and wire brush.
(b) Adjust the electrode gap to 0.7 to
0.8 mm (0.028” to 0.031”).
SPARK PLUG: TORCH F6RTC equivalent.
Page 19
(a) Remove 4 screws to remove the muffler cover assembly.
(b) Loosen the spark arrester clamp, remove the spark arrester cover, and with a thin
blade screwdriver remove the spark arrester.
(c) Carefully remove the carbon deposits from the spark arrester screen with a wire brush.
(d) Replace the spark arrester if it is damaged.
(e) Reattach spark arrester, cover assembly, and pillars.
[CAUTION]
CLEANING SPARK ARRESTER
Failure to clean the spark arrester will result in degraded engine performance.