Generac Power Systems 1470-0 User manual

Owner’s Manual
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Model No. 1470-0 (7,000 Watt AC Generator) Manual No. 186744GS Revision 6 (07/08/2003)
Safety Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Know Your Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
Product Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17
Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Replacement Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-23
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Last Page
• Generator
• Wheel kit
• Battery
• Battery charge cables
• Battery float charger
• Extenda Panel™ cord
• Locking 30 Amp plug
• Two Bottles of engine oil
• Three packets of fuel stabilizer
• Owner's manual
• Engine manual
*If any parts are missing or damaged, call 1-800-270-1408.
Parts Included*Table of Contents

2
7000EXL Extended Life Generator
EQUIPMENT
DESCRIPTION
Read this manual carefully and become
familiar with your generator. Know its
applications, its limitations and any hazards
involved.
The generators are an engine–driven, revolving field,
alternating current (AC) generator. It was designed to supply
electrical power for operating compatible electrical lighting,
appliances, tools and motor loads.The generator’s revolving
field is driven at about 3,600 rpm by a single-cylinder engine.
CAUTION! DO NOT exceed the generator’s
wattage/amperage capacity. See “Don’t Overload
Generator” on page 12.
Every effort has been made to ensure that information in this
manual is accurate and current. However, we reserve the
right to change, alter or otherwise improve the product and
this document at any time without prior notice.
The Emission Control System for this generator is warranted
for standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. For
warranty information refer to the engine owner’s manual.
SAFETY RULES
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to
alert you to potential personal injury hazards.
Obey all safety messages that follow this
symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
The safety alert symbol ( ) is used with a signal word
(DANGER, CAUTION,WARNING), a pictorial and/or a
safety message to alert you to hazards. DANGER indicates
a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury. WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury. CAUTION
indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might result in
minor or moderate injury. CAUTION, when used
without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could
result in equipment damage. Follow safety messages to
avoid or reduce the risk of injury or death.
Hazard Symbols and Meanings
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
WARNING
In the State of California a spark arrester is required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code).
Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on
federal lands. If you equip the muffler with a spark arrester,
it must be maintained in effective working order.
Fire
Explosion
Toxic Fumes
Hot Surface
Electrical Shock
Electrocution Electrical Shock
Explosive Pressure Chemical Burn

7000EXL Extended Life Generator
3
• Operate generator ONLY outdoors.
• Keep at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides of generator for
adequate ventilation.
• DO NOT operate generator inside any building or enclosure,
including the generator compartment of a recreational vehicle (RV).
Running generator gives off carbon monoxide,
an odorless, colorless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide will cause nausea,
fainting or death.
DANGER
• When using generator for backup power, notify utility
company. Use approved transfer equipment to isolate
generator from electric utility.
• Use a ground circuit fault 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.
• 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.
Generator produces powerful voltage.
Failure to isolate generator from power utility
can result in death or injury to electric utility
workers due to backfeed of electrical energy.
DANGER
• National Electric Code requires generator to be properly
grounded to an approved earth ground. Call an electrician for
local grounding requirements.
Failure to properly ground generator can result
in electrocution, especially if the generator is
equipped with a wheel kit.
DANGER
• 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 bodily injury and/or property
damage.
WARNING
• DO NOT allow any open flame, spark, heat, or lit cigarette
during and for several minutes after charging a battery.
• Wear protective goggles, rubber apron, and rubber gloves.
Storage batteries give off explosive hydrogen gas
during recharging.
Hydrogen gas stays around battery for a long
time after battery has been charged.
Slightest spark will ignite hydrogen and cause
explosion.
You can be blinded or severely injured.
Battery electrolyte fluid contains acid and is
extremely caustic.
Contact with battery fluid will cause severe
chemical burns.
DANGER
WHEN ADDING FUEL
• Turn generator OFF and let it cool at least 2 minutes before
removing gas cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors.
• DO NOT overfill tank.Allow space for fuel expansion.
• Keep fuel away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat, and
other ignition sources.
• DO NOT light a cigarette or smoke.
WHEN OPERATING EQUIPMENT
• DO NOT tip engine or equipment at angle which causes fuel
to spill.
• This generator is not for use in mobile equipment or marine
applications.
WHEN TRANSPORTING OR REPAIRING EQUIPMENT
• Transport/repair with fuel tank EMPTY or with fuel shutoff
valve OFF.
• 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 can ignite fuel vapors.
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and
explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or
death.
WARNING

4
7000EXL Extended Life Generator
• DO NOT touch hot surfaces.
• Allow equipment to cool before touching.
Running engines produce heat.Temperature of
muffler and nearby areas can reach or exceed
150°F (65°C).
Severe burns can occur on contact.
WARNING
• DO NOT tamper with governed speed. Generator supplies
correct rated frequency and voltage when running at governed
speed.
• DO NOT modify generator in any way.
Excessively high operating speeds increase risk of injury
and damage to generator.
Excessively low speeds impose a heavy load.
CAUTION
• See “Don’t Overload Generator” on page 12.
• 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.
Exceeding generators wattage/amperage capacity can
damage generator and/or electrical devices connected
to it.
CAUTION
WHEN ADJUSTING OR MAKING REPAIRS TOYOUR
GENERATOR
• Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and place
the wire where it cannot contact spark plug.
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or
electric shock.
WARNING
• Use generator only for intended uses.
• If you have questions about intended use, ask dealer or call
the Generac generator helpline at 1-800-270-1408.
• 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.
Improper treatment of generator can damage it and
shorten its life.
CAUTION

7000EXL Extended Life Generator
5
KNOWYOUR GENERATOR
Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before operating your generator.
Compare the illustrations with your generator, to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and
adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
120 Volt AC, 20 Amp
Duplex Receptacle
Fuel Tank
Idle Control Switch
Choke Lever
Start Button
12 Volt DC, 10 Amp
Receptacle
Run/Stop Switch
120 Volt AC, 30 Amp
Receptacle
Circuit Breakers (AC)
120/240 Volt AC,
30 Amp Receptacle
Spark Arrester Muffler
Air Cleaner
Grounding Fastener
12 Volt DC,10 Amp Receptacle — Recharge a
discharged 12 Volt automotive type battery through this
receptacle.
120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, Duplex Receptacle — May be
used to supply electrical power for the operation of
120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting,
appliance, tool and motor loads.
120 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle — May be
used to supply electrical power for the operation of
120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting,
appliance, tool and motor loads.
120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle — May
be used to supply electrical power for the operation of
120 and/or 240 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz
electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads.
Air Cleaner — Uses a dry type filter element and foam
pre–cleaner to limit the amount of dirt and dust sucked
into the engine.
Choke Lever — Used when starting a cold engine.
Circuit Breakers (AC) — Each receptacle is provided
with a "push to reset" circuit breaker to protect the
generator against electrical overload.
Fuel Tank — Capacity of seven (7) U.S. gallons.
Grounding Fastener — Used for proper grounding of
unit.
Idle Control Switch — With this switch set to ON,
generator automatically reduces engine speed when no
load is connected and increases engine to proper speed
when load is applied. However, be sure switch is OFF when
starting engine.
Run/Stop Switch — Set this switch to "Run" before
starting engine. Set switch to "Stop" to switch OFF engine.
Spark Arrester Muffler — Exhaust muffler lowers
engine noise and is equipped with a spark arrester screen.
Start Button — When pressed, cranks engine to start.

6
7000EXL Extended Life Generator
ASSEMBLY
Your generator requires attachment of the negative battery
cable and is ready for use after it has been properly
serviced with the recommended oil and fuel.
Check Battery / Attach Negative
Battery Wire
The sealed battery on the generator is fully charged and
pre–installed except for the negative (black) battery cable.
To install:
1. Cut off tie wrap securing loose end of negative (black)
cable.
2. Remove nut and washer on negative battery terminal.
3. Slide negative battery cable over screw on negative
terminal (Figure 1).
4. Reattach washer and nut and tighten.
5. Verify that connections to battery and generator are
tight and secure.
BEFORE STARTING THE
ENGINE
Add Engine Oil and Fuel
• Place generator on a level surface.
• Refer to engine owner’s manual and follow oil and fuel
recommendations and instructions.
NOTE: Check oil often during engine break–in. Refer to
engine owner’s manual for recommendations.
NOTE: The generator assembly rotates on a prelubricated
and sealed ball bearing that requires no additional
lubrication for the life of the bearing.
Figure 1 — Negative Battery Connection
Positive battery cable
Screw
Negative
battery
cable
Washer
Nut
CAUTION
• Refer to engine manual for oil and fuel fill information.
• Damage to equipment resulting from failure to follow this
instruction will void warranty.
Any attempt to crank or start the engine before it has
been properly filled with the recommended oil will result
in equipment failure.

7000EXL Extended Life Generator
7
GROUNDING THE
GENERATOR
The National Electrical Code requires that the frame and
external electrically conductive parts of this generator be
properly connected to an approved earth ground. Local
electrical codes may also require proper grounding of the
unit. For that purpose, a GROUNDING FASTENER is
provided on the generator end (Figure 2).
Generally, connecting a No. 12 AWG (American Wire
Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding wing nut
and to an earth–driven copper or brass grounding rod
(electrode) provides adequate protection against electrical
shock. Be careful to keep the grounding wire attached after
connecting the stranded copper wire. However, local codes
may vary widely. Consult with a local electrician for
grounding requirements in your area.
Properly grounding the generator helps prevent electrical
shock if a ground fault condition exists in the generator or
in connected electrical devices, especially when the unit is
equipped with a wheel kit. Proper grounding also helps
dissipate static electricity, which often builds up in
ungrounded devices.
OPERATING THE
GENERATOR
IMPORTANT: Always unplug the battery float charger
before starting the generator.
Starting the Engine
Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator. Follow
these start instruction steps in numerical order:
1. Turn fuel valve to “On” position (Figure 3).The fuel
valve handle should be vertical (pointing toward
ground) for fuel to flow.
2. Make sure Idle Control switch is in “Off” position
(Figure 4).
3. Start engine according to instructions given in engine
owner’s manual.
Figure 2 — Grounding Fastener
Grounding
Fastener
Figure 3 — FuelValve
Fuel Valve is shown
in the On position
Figure 4 — Idle Control Switch
• See “Don’t Overload Generator” on page 12.
• 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.
Exceeding generators wattage/amperage capacity can
damage generator and/or electrical devices connected
to it.
CAUTION

8
7000EXL Extended Life Generator
Connecting Electrical Loads
• Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after
starting.
• Plug in and turn on the desired 120 and/or 240 Volt AC,
single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.
• DO NOT connect 240 Volt loads to the 120 Volt
receptacles.
• DO NOT connect 3–phase loads to the generator.
• DO NOT connect 50 Hz loads to the generator.
•DO NOT OVERLOAD GENERATOR. See “Don’t
Overload Generator” on page 12.
Stopping the Engine
1. Unplug all electrical loads from generator panel
receptacles. NEVER start or stop engine with electrical
devices plugged in and turned on.
2. Put idle control switch in “Off” position.
3. Let engine run at no–load for 30 seconds to stabilize
internal temperatures of engine and generator.
4. Turn engine off according to instructions given in
engine owner’s manual.
5. Move fuel valve to “Off” position.
Operating Automatic Idle Control
This switch is designed to greatly improve fuel economy.
When this switch is turned ON, the engine will only
run at its normal high governed engine speed when an
electrical load is connected.When an electrical load is
removed, the engine will run at a reduced speed. With the
switch off, the engine will run at the normal high engine
speed. Always have the switch off when starting and
stopping the engine.
Charging a Battery
Your generator has the capability of recharging a discharged
12 Volt automotive or utility style storage battery. DO
NOT use the unit to charge any 6 Volt batteries. DO NOT
use the unit to crank an engine having a discharged battery.
To recharge 12Volt batteries, proceed as follows:
1. Check fluid level in all battery cells. If necessary, add
ONLY distilled water to cover separators in battery
cells. DO NOT use tap water.
2. If battery is equipped with vent caps, make sure they
are installed and are tight.
3. If necessary, clean battery terminals.
4. Connect battery charge cable connector plug to panel
receptacle identified by the words “12-VOLTS D.C.”.
5. Connect battery charge cable clamp with red handle
to the positive (+) battery terminal (Figure 5).
• DO NOT allow any open flame, spark, heat, or lit cigarette
during and for several minutes after charging a battery.
• Wear protective goggles, rubber apron, and rubber gloves.
Storage batteries give off explosive hydrogen gas
during recharging.
Hydrogen gas stays near battery for a long time
after battery has been charged.
Slightest spark will ignite hydrogen and cause
explosion.
You can be blinded or severely injured.
Battery electrolyte fluid contains acid and is
extremely caustic.
Contact with battery fluid will cause severe
chemical burns.
DANGER
Figure 5 — Battery Connections

7000EXL Extended Life Generator
9
6. Connect battery charge cable clamp with black handle
to the negative (–) battery terminal (Figure 5).
7. Start engine. Let engine run while battery recharges.
8. When battery has charged, shut down engine
NOTE: Use an automotive hydrometer to test battery
state of charge and condition. Follow the hydrometer
manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Generally, a battery is
considered to be at 100% state of charge when specific
gravity of its fluid (as measured by hydrometer) is 1.260 or
higher.
COLD WEATHER
OPERATION
Under certain weather conditions (temperatures below
40°F [4°C] and a high dew point), your generator may
experience icing of the carburetor and/or the crankcase
breather system.
Build a structure that will enclose three sides and the top
of the generator:
• Make sure entire muffler-side of generator is exposed.
Note that your generator may appear different from that
shown in Figure 6.
• Ensure a minimum of two feet clearance between open
side of box and nearest object.
• Face exposed end away from wind and elements.
• Enclosure should hold enough heat created by the
generator to prevent problems.
Figure 6 — Permanent Cold Weather Shelter
Wind
• Operate generator ONLY outdoors.
• Keep at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides of generator for
adequate ventilation.
• DO NOT operate generator inside any building or enclosure,
including the generator compartment of a recreational vehicle (RV).
• Remove generator from shelter when temperature is above
40°F [4°C].
Running generator gives off carbon monoxide,
an odorless, colorless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide will cause nausea,
fainting or death.
DANGER

10
7000EXL Extended Life Generator
How to Use the Battery Charger
Use battery float charger jack to keep the starting battery
charged and ready for use. Battery charging should be done
in a dry location, such as inside a garage.
1. Plug charger into unit’s “Battery Float Charger” jack,
which is located on starter switch (Figure 7). Plug
battery charger into a 120Volt AC wall receptacle.
2. Unplug charger from unit and wall outlet when
generator is being started and while it is in operation.
3. Keep this charger plugged in when generator is not in
use to prolong battery life.The charger has a built in
float equalizer and will not overcharge battery, even
when plugged in for an extended period of time.
IMPORTANT: See “Battery Maintenance” on page 13 for
additional information.
EXTENDA PANEL™
The generator is equipped with a 25’ Extenda Panel™
device designed for a 240Volt, 30 Amp grounded neutral
circuit (Figure 8).The Extenda Panel™ provides a
convenient supply of emergency power into your dwelling
so that your generator can be operated safely outside.
The maximum load on each outlet is 20 Amps.The
maximum total load on both yellow wire outlets or black
wire outlets is 30 Amps.
NOTE: Follow all safety precautions when connecting any
extension cord or device to the generator.
RECEPTACLES
120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking
Receptacle
Use a NEMA L14-30 plug with this receptacle. Connect a
4-wire cord set rated for 250 Volt AC loads at 30 Amps (or
greater) (Figure 9).You can use the same 4-wire cord if you
plan to run a 120 Volt load.
Figure 7 — Battery Charger Jack
Figure 8 — Extenda Panel™
Figure 9 — 120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp Receptacle
4-Wire Cord Set
240V
120V 120V
W (Neutral)
X (Hot)
Y (Hot)
NEMA L14-30 Ground (Green)
• NEVER attempt to power a device requiring more
amperage than generator or receptacle can supply.
• DO NOT overload the generator. See “Don’t Overload
Generator”.
Receptacles may be marked with rating value greater
than generator output capacity.
CAUTION