North Star M165601AI User manual

M165601AI
Owner’s Manual
Instructions for Installation/Set-up, Operation, Servicing, & Storage
Portable, Outdoor Use-Only, Gasoline Generator
Can be used to power individual appliances plugged directly into the generator’s outlets, or as a back-up
connection to a building’s power supply (via a professionally installed UL-approved transfer switch).
WARNING
READ and UNDERSTAND this manual completely before using the generator! Failure to properly set up,
operate, and maintain this generator could result in serious injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning,
electric shock, fire/explosion, or burns. In particular, be aware of the following hazards:
CO Poisoning
Generators give off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.
•ONLY run generator OUTDOORS and at least 20 feet from the home, away from windows, vents and air intakes, to
allow proper ventilation. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using the generator, shut off the engine and get to
fresh air RIGHT AWAY. NEVER run generator inside any enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces, including homes,
basements, garages, sheds, boxes, RVs, boats or pick-up truck beds. These spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if
you run a fan or open windows.
•Install carbon monoxide alarms inside nearby structures/buildings (battery-operated, or plug-in with battery backup).
Electric shock / Electrocution
•High voltage electricity from generator can kill. DO NOT operate in wet locations. Be sure generator is properly
grounded. Use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated grounded extension cords of proper size.
•NEVER plug the generator directly into a wall outlet. ANY connection to a building’s electrical system MUST
ISOLATE THE GENERATOR FROM UTILITY POWER via a UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed
electrician. Otherwise, back feed from the generator into the power grid could kill utility workers.
Fire / Explosion
•DO NOT overload generator (per rated capacity), and OPERATE ONLY in an area with adequate cooling ventilation so
engine does not overheat. Exhaust can be extremely hot. Keep muffler at least 7 feet from all combustible objects.
•All fuels are flammable. Never fuel a running or hot engine. Never pump fuel directly into generator at gas station –use
approved container to transfer fuel. Ensure there are no fuel leaks, and keep sources of sparks and flames away.
•ALWAYS keep a fire extinguisher rated “ABC” nearby.
STOP!
CHOOSE THE RIGHT GENERATOR FOR YOUR NEEDS. See the “Power load Planning & Management” section
of this manual to determine your power load requirements and then compare to the generator’s rated capacity.
INSPECT COMPONENTS: Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged. See the “Unpacking
& Delivery Inspection” section for instructions on whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.
ARRANGE FOR PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION of a transfer switch if you will be connecting the generator to
your building’s electrical system. See the “Installation/Initial Set-Up” section for more information about this
requirement.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders
Call NorthStar Product Support 1-800-270-0810
Item Number: 165601, 165603, 165604,
165605, 165606, 165607
Serial Number: _____________

Hazard Signal Word Definitions
2

Table of Contents
3
Hazard Signal Word Definitions ........................................................................................................2
About Your Generator.........................................................................................................................4
Specifications ........................................................................................................................................6
Safety Label Locations.........................................................................................................................8
Machine Component Identification....................................................................................................9
Power Load Planning & Management.............................................................................................13
Installation / Initial Set-Up:
1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection...............................................................................................16
2. Planning the Power Load.............................................................................................................16
3. Set-up either as a BUILDING BACK-UP or PORTABLE Power Source .................................17
4. Selecting a Suitable Site..............................................................................................................21
5. Grounding the Generator.............................................................................................................23
6. Battery Installation ......................................................................................................................24
Operation:
1. General Safety Rules for Operation ............................................................................................25
2. Preparing for Operation...............................................................................................................28
3. Starting the Engine......................................................................................................................31
4. Checking Generator Output.........................................................................................................32
5. Connecting Loads........................................................................................................................33
6. Stopping the Engine ....................................................................................................................33
7. Storage & Exercise......................................................................................................................34
Maintenance & Repair.......................................................................................................................36
Troubleshooting..................................................................................................................................38
Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation............................................................39
Generator Exploded View .................................................................................................................43
Control Panel Parts List....................................................................................................................47
Generator Head Exploded View.......................................................................................................50
Limited Warranty
..............................................................................................................................................................59
California Proposition 65 Information.............................................................................................60

About Your Generator
4
Thank you for purchasing your NorthStar portable generator!
About Your Generator
This engine-driven, portable generator is designed to provide up to its rated amount of electrical
power. (See specifications section of this manual for model specific ratings)
It can supply power:
1. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances directly into the generator’s electrical
outlets.
2. As a back-up, standby power source for a building. A licensed electrician can connect the
generator to your building’s electrical system via the installation of an UL-approved transfer
switch. (See the “Installation & Initial Set-up” section of this manual to learn more about
specific requirements and precautions relating to wiring the generator to your building’s electrical
system.)
You must select a generator adequately sized for your power needs. You need to determine the
power needs of all the appliances/tools you wish to power at the same time and choose a generator rated
to provide at least that power level. See the “Power Load Planning & Management” section of this
manual to determine your specific power load requirements and then compare them to this generator’s
rated capacity. You must not overload the generator. Overloading will cause damage to the generator
and attached electrical devices, and may also result in fire.
Be sure to read about site selection and grounding requirements for running this generator. More
detailed information can be found in the “Installation & Initial Set-up, Steps 5 & 6 of this manual.
This generator is too heavy for one person to lift without mechanical assistance. An optional wheel
kit is available from NorthStar and is recommended if you will be moving the generator unassisted.
Other optional accessories available from NorthStar include a cover for storage, UL-approved transfer
switches, and extension cords.
Contact NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810 with questions about optional accessories
or to order.
Read this Manual
WARNING
Improper use or maintenance of this generator can result in serious injury or death from
carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock/electrocution, fire/explosion, or burns.
Read this manual completely before using the generator and follow all instructions and
safety rules.
You must follow all instructions and safety precautions presented throughout this manual. A summary
of important safety information can be found at the end of the manual. Keep this manual for reference
and review.
Proper preparation, operation, and maintenance will result in operator safety, as well as best
performance and long life of the generator. For detailed engine operation and maintenance information,
always refer to the engine Owner’s Manual furnished with the generator.

About Your Generator
5
NorthStar is constantly improving its products. The specifications outlined herein are subject to change
without prior notice or obligation. The purchaser and/or user shall assume liability for any modification
and/or alterations of this equipment from original design and manufacture.
Before using, the user shall determine the suitability of this product for its intended use and assumes
liability therein.
Contact NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810 for any questions about the appropriate
use of this generator.
Warranty Registration
Please fill in the warranty registration information in the back of this manual and have it on hand when
you call in on a warranty claim or replacement parts.
ATTENTION:
All Rental Companies and Private Owners who loan this
equipment to others!
All persons to whom you rent/loan this generator must have access to and read this manual.
Keep this owner’s manual with the generator at all times and advise all persons who will
operate the machine to read it. You must also provide personal instruction on how to safely
operate the generator and remain available to answer any questions a renter/borrower might
have.

Specifications
6
Item Number
#165601
#165603
Maximum Output
5500 Watts (W)
8000 Watts (W)
Continuous Output
4500 Watts (W)
6600 Watts (W)
Voltage
120 / 240 Volt (V)
120 / 240 Volt (V)
Phase
Single phase (4-wire)
Single phase (4-wire)
Frequency
56.5-63.3 Hertz (Hz)
56.5-63.3 Hertz (Hz)
Power Factor
1.0 p.f.
1.0 p.f.
Engine
Honda GX270
Honda GX390
Engine Speed
3390 - 3798 RPM
3390 - 3798 RPM
Fuel Type
Non-leaded automobile
gasoline
Non-leaded automobile
gasoline
Fuel Capacity
6.5 gallons
6.5 gallons
Oil Capacity
1.16 US quarts
1.16 US quarts
Starting Method
Recoil
Recoil
Spark Arrester
Included on muffler
Included on muffler
Dimensions
Length
27”
27”
Width
21.25”
21.25”
Height
22.63”
22.63”
Dry Weight
174 lb.
200 lb.
Item Number
#165604
#165605
Maximum Output
8000 Watts (W)
10000 Watts (W)
Continuous Output
6600 Watts (W)
8500 Watts (W)
Voltage
120 / 240 Volt (V)
120 / 240 Volt (V)
Phase
Single phase (4-wire)
Single phase (4-wire)
Frequency
56.5-63.3 Hertz (Hz)
56.5-63.3 Hertz (Hz)
Power Factor
1.0 p.f.
1.0 p.f.
Engine
Honda GX390
Honda GX630
Engine Speed
3390 - 3798 RPM
3390 - 3798 RPM
Fuel Type
Non-leaded automobile
gasoline
Non-leaded automobile
gasoline
Fuel Capacity
6.5 gallons
11 gallons
Oil Capacity
1.16 US quarts
see Honda Manual
Starting Method
Electric
Electric
Battery (not included)
12VDC. 18AH
12VDC. 35AH
Battery Dimensions
(L x W x H) 7.13” x 3” x 6.57”
(L x W x H) 7.69” x 5.13” x 7”
Spark Arrester
Included on muffler
Included in manual bag
Dimensions
Length
27”
32.38”
Width
21.25”
24.38”
Height
22.63”
26.90”
Dry Weight
206 lb.
209 lb.

Specifications
7
Item Number
#165606
#165607
Maximum Output
13000 Watts (W)
15000 Watts (W)
Continuous Output
10500 Watts (W)
13500 Watts (W)
Voltage
120 / 240 Volt (V)
120 / 240 Volt (V)
Phase
Single phase (4-wire)
Single phase (4-wire)
Frequency
56.5-63.3 Hertz (Hz)
56.5-63.3 Hertz (Hz)
Power Factor
1.0 p.f.
1.0 p.f.
Engine
Honda GX630
Honda GX690
Engine Speed
3390 - 3798 RPM
3390 - 3798 RPM
Fuel Type
Non-leaded automobile
gasoline
Non-leaded automobile
gasoline
Fuel Capacity
11 gallons
11 gallons
Oil Capacity
see Honda Manual
see Honda Manual
Starting Method
Electric
Electric
Battery (not included)
12VDC. 35AH
12VDC. 35AH
Battery Dimensions
(L x W x H) 7.69” x 5.13” x 7”
(L x W x H) 7.69” x 5.13” x 7”
Spark Arrester
Included in manual bag
Included in manual bag
Dimensions
Length
32.38”
32.38”
Width
24.38”
24.38”
Height
26.90”
26.90”
Dry Weight
313 lb.
325 lb.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders
Call NorthStar Product Support 1-800-270-0810

Safety Label Locations
8
Always make sure safety labels are in
place and in good condition. If a safety
label is missing or not legible, order new
labels or unsafe operation could result.
To order replacement safety labels, call
NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-
0810.
Part #
Description
Qty
786635
Burn Hazard
1
785265
Danger Warning
1
786837
Over Fill Warning
1
782397
Battery Hazard
1
Models: 165601, 165603, 165604
Models: 165605, 165606, 165607
ALWAYS use eye protection. Caustic acid and explosive
gases can cause blindness or severe burns.
NO smoking, sparks, or flames.
NEVER touch both battery terminals at the same time with your
hand or any non-insulated tools.
FLUSH immediately with water if battery acid contacts eyes,
skin, or clothing.
CONNECT cables in correct sequence: FIRST RED to POSITIVE
terminal, then BLACK to NEGATIVE terminal. When disconnecting,
DISCONNECT BLACK cable first, then RED.
NEVER charge a visibly damaged or frozen battery. ALWAYS
read and follow charger instructions.
BATTERIES:
1) contain caustic acid, 2) emit explosive gases,
3) can cause electric shock
WARNING - BATTERY HAZARDS
782397

Machine Component Identification
Items: 165601, 165603, 165604
9
Ref.
Description
Ref.
Description
1
Recoil
9
Generator Head
2
Fuel Valve Lever
10
6.5 Gallon Gas Tank
3
Engine Key Switch (165604 only)
11
Muffler
4
Vibration Isolation Mount
12
Gasoline Tank Cap
5
Oil Drain Plug
13
Carbon Canister
6
Oil Fill Port
14
Air Cleaner
7
Battery (not included, 165604 only)
15
Choke Lever
8
Control Panel

Machine Component Identification
Items: 165601, 165603, 165604
10
REFERENCE GUIDE
Reference 1 –Recoil
Grasp firmly when starting engine.
Reference 2 –Fuel Valve Lever
The Honda engine has an ON-OFF valve. Always
keep this valve closed when the generator is not in
use. Always keep this valve closed while
transporting the generator.
Reference 3 –Engine Key Switch
The engine key switch is located on the control
panel. Always locate this switch and be familiar
with its location before operating the generator.
Reference 4 –Vibration Isolation
Mount
The engine and generator are mounted on rubber
cylinders that absorb most of the engine vibration.
This feature eliminates the tendency of the machine
to “walk” which is common in engine-powered
equipment.
Reference 5 –Oil Drain Plug
Refer to your Honda engine manual for oil change
recommendations.
Reference 6 –Oil Fill Port
Refer to your Honda engine manual for oil change
recommendations.
Reference 7 –Battery (not included)
Type required: 12VDC. 18AH
Reference 8 –Control Panel
An electrical device that contains outlets and meters
for controlling other electrical devices
Reference 9 –Generator Head
The electricity producing part of the generator.
Reference 10 –6.5 Gallon Gas Tank
Large tank allows for extended run capabilities.
Always allow room for gasoline expansion by not
filling the gas tank completely full.
Reference 11 –Muffler
An acoustic device installed onto the exhaust system
that is designed to reduce noise.
Reference 12 –Gasoline Tank Cap
The gasoline tank cap is extra-large, creating a large
hole for refilling and a comfortable grip.
Reference 13 –Carbon Canister
Prevents gasoline vapors from exiting the fuel
system.
Reference 14 –Air Cleaner
Refer to your Honda engine manual for air cleaner
care.
Reference 15 –Choke Lever
Used during cold starts. Refer to the Honda engine
manual for usage.

Machine Component Identification
Items: 165605, 165606, 165607
11
Ref.
Description
Ref.
Description
1
Air Cleaner
8
Battery (not included)
2
11 Gallon Gas Tank
9
Control Panel
3
Gasoline Tank Cap
10
Vibration Isolation Mount
4
Choke
11
Generator Head
5
Engine Key Switch
12
Carbon Canister
6
Oil Drain Plug
13
Fuel Valve Lever
7
Oil Fill Port
14
Muffler

Machine Component Identification
Items: 165605, 165606, 165607
12
REFERENCE GUIDE
Reference 1 –Air Cleaner
Refer to your Honda engine manual for air cleaner
care.
Reference 2 –11 Gallon Gas Tank
Large tank allows for extended run capabilities.
Always allow room for gasoline expansion by not
filling the gas tank completely full.
Reference 3 –Gasoline Tank Cap
The gasoline tank cap is extra-large, creating a large
hole for refilling and a comfortable grip.
Reference 4 –Choke
Used during cold starts. Refer to the Honda engine
manual for usage.
Reference 5 –Engine Key Switch
The engine key switch is located on the engine.
Always locate this switch and be familiar with its
location before operating the generator.
Reference 6 –Oil Drain Plug
Refer to your Honda engine manual for oil change
recommendations.
Reference 7 –Oil Fill Port
Refer to your Honda engine manual for oil change
recommendations.
Reference 8 –Battery (not included)
Type required: 12VDC. 35AH
Reference 9 –Control Panel
An electrical device that contains outlets and meters
for controlling other electrical devices
Reference 10 –Vibration Isolation
Mount
The engine and generator are mounted on rubber
cylinders that absorb most of the engine vibration.
This feature eliminates the tendency of the machine
to “walk” which is common in engine-powered
equipment.
Reference 11 –Generator Head
The electricity producing part of the generator.
Reference 12 –Carbon Canister
Prevents gasoline vapors from exiting the fuel
system
Reference 13 –Fuel Valve Lever
The Honda engine has an ON-OFF valve. Always
keep this valve closed when the generator is not in
use. Always keep this valve closed while
transporting the generator.
Reference 14 –Muffler
An acoustic device installed onto the exhaust
system that is designed to reduce noise.

Initial Unpacking & Set-Up
13
WARNING
NEVER exceed the rated wattage capacity of your generator.
OVERLOADING may cause SERIOUS DAMAGE to the generator and
attached electrical devices, and may result in fire.
Your generator MUST BE SIZED PROPERLY to provide both the running and starting (surge)
wattage of the devices you will be powering. Before using your generator, determine the running
and starting wattage requirements of all the electrical devices you will be powering simultaneously.
The sum of the running and starting wattages of the devices being powered must not exceed the
continuous output rating of your generator. (The continuous output rating of your generator is listed
in the “Specifications” section of this manual.) Note that:
•Devices without electric motors such as light bulbs, radios, and televisions have the same
running and starting wattage.
•Devices with electric motors such as refrigerators, compressors, and hand tools typically
require a starting wattage that is 3 to 5 times greater than the running wattage.
The running and starting wattage requirements are often listed on a device’s nameplate. If wattage
is not given on the device’s nameplate, the wattage may be calculated by multiplying the nameplate
voltage by nameplate amperage, Watts = Volts X Amps.
Example conversion to watts:
120 Volts X 5 Amps = 600 Watts
If only the running voltage is given on the nameplate for a device with an electric motor, the starting
wattage can be approximated to be three to five times the running wattage.
Estimates for the running wattage requirements for common devices are listed in Table 1 below.
Guidance for starting wattages is provided in the table’s footnotes.
Table 1
Device
Running Watts
(Continuous)
Starting Watts
(Surge)
10in. Table Saw
1800
4500
7-1/4in. Circular Saw
1400
2300
8in. Bench Grinder
1400
2500
Air Conditioner - Central (24,000 BTU)
3800
4950
Air Conditioner - RV (13,500 BTU)
1500
3000
Air Conditioner - Window (10,000 BTU)
1200
2200
Battery Charger: 100 Amp with 300 Amp Boost
2400
7800
Battery Charger: 15 Amp
380
-
Battery Charger: 60 Amp with 250 Amp Boost
1500
5750
Belt Sander
1200
2400
Ceiling Fan
800
1200
Clock Radio
100
-
Clothes Dryer (electric)
1800
5750
Clothes Dryer (gas)
700
1200

Power Load Planning & Management (cont’d)
14
Device
Running Watts
(Continuous)
Starting Watts
(Surge)
Clothes Washer
1150
2300
Coffee Maker
1750
-
Deep Freezer
700
1000
Desktop Computer w/ 17" monitor
800
-
Dishwasher (Hot Dry)
1500
1500
Drill: 1/2in., 5.4 Amps
600
900
Drill: 3/8in., 4 Amps
440
600
DVD/CD Player
100
-
Electric Fence: 25 Miles
2500
-
Electric Fry Pan
1300
-
Electric Range: 8in. Element
2100
-
Furnace Fan (Gas or fuel oil): 1/2 HP
875
2350
Furnace Fan (Gas or fuel oil): 1/4 HP
600
1000
Furnace Fan (Gas or fuel oil): 1/8 HP
300
500
Garage Door Opener
750
1200
Hair Dryer
1250
-
Hot Plate
2100
-
Inkjet Printer
80
-
Iron
1200
-
Laser Printer
950
-
Lights (Ten 75 Watt light bulbs)
750
-
Microwave Oven 1000W
1000
-
Milk Cooler
1100
1800
Milker (Vacuum Pump): 2 HP
1000
2300
Miter Saw - 10"
1650
2400
Oscillating Fan
200
400
Portable Heater (Kerosene, Diesel: 150,000 BTU
625
1000
Pressure Washer: 1 HP
1200
3600
Quartz Halogen Work light
1000
-
Reciprocating Saw
1200
2000
Refrigerator Freezer
700
1500
Security System
500
-
Space Heater
1800
-
Stereo Receiver
450
-
Sump Pump: 1/2 HP
1050
2150
Sump Pump: 1/3 HP
800
1300
Television 27"
500
-
VCR
100
-
Water Heater (Electric 40gal)
4000
-
Water Well Pump (1/3hp 220v)
1000
2000
(a) Hard-starting motors require 3-5 times the rated running watts
(b) For extremely hard to start loads such as air conditioners and air compressors, consult the equipment dealer to
determine maximum wattage

Power Load Planning & Management (cont’d)
15
To calculate the running and starting wattage requirements for the devices you will be
powering, follow these steps:
1. Make a list of all electrical devices you will be powering at the same time with the generator.
2. List the greater of the running or starting wattage next to each device as obtained from the
devices’ nameplate or Table 1. If only the running wattage for a device with an electric
motor is known, the starting wattage can be estimated to be at least 3 times the running
wattage.
3. Add the wattages for all devices on your list. This total must be lower than the continuous
output rating of your generator.
Example:
Device to be Powered
Greater of
Starting/Running Wattage
Light Bulbs (10 –75 watt)
750 W
Refrigerator Freezer
1500 W
Microwave Oven 1000W
1000 W
Air Conditioner, Window (10,000 BTU)
2200 W
Sump pump (1/3 hp)
1300 W
Total
6750W
In this example, the generator must have a continuous output of at least 6750 watts in order to
power all of the devices simultaneously.
You can increase the number of devices your generator can power by staggering the load on the
generator. For example, you could alternately power your refrigerator and air conditioner for
limited periods of time -- powering only one of the devices at a time and never powering both at the
same time.
STAGGERING LOADS

Installation / Initial Set-Up
16
There are a number of important steps required to set up your generator for initial use. These
steps are:
Steps for Installation / Initial Set-Up
1. Unpacking & delivery inspection.
2. Planning the power load to stay within the generator’s rated
capacity.
3. Setting up generator for the type of power generation you need:
a. portable power source, or
b. connected to a building as a back-up power source.
4. Selecting a site for using the generator.
5. Grounding.
6. Battery installation (electric start models only).
Each of these steps is discussed in detail below:
1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection
You should inspect the generator immediately after you receive delivery.
See the “Machine Component Identification” section of this manual for a
diagram of the generator and its components.
•If you have missing or damaged components, contact Product Support at 1-800-270-0810.
2. Planning the Power Load
Plan your power load so that you do not exceed the generator’s rated capacity.
See the “Power Load Planning & Management” section of this manual to review how to plan and
manage power loads for the generator.

Installation / Initial Set-Up
17
3. Set-up either as a BUILDING BACK-UP or PORTABLE Power Source
This generator is designed to provide up to its rated amount of electrical power. It can supply
electricity in two ways:
1. As a back-up, standby power source for a building. For this application, you must arrange
for a licensed electrician to connect the generator to your building’s electrical system via the
installation of an UL-approved transfer switch. The transfer switch must be installed in
accordance with building electrical code and guidelines supplied by your power company.
2. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances or tools directly into the generator’s
electrical outlets.
Specific requirements for each are given below.
Note: Regardless of whether you use your generator as a back-up power source connected to a
building or as a portable power source, you must not overload the generator. Overloading
may cause serious damage to the generator and attached electrical devices.
Using as a
Back-up Power
Source for a
Building
Contact a licensed electrician to install an UL-approved transfer switch if
you want to use your generator as a back-up power source for a building.
What does a transfer switch do? It:
a) Safely connects the generator to your building’s electrical system by
isolating your generator from your utility company’s power lines,
AND
b) Connects your generator to a critical subset of your building’s circuits
that are needed for emergency power needs.
If your generator will be connected to your building’s electrical system, it
MUST ALWAYS be isolated from the utility power grid with a UL-approved
transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician in compliance with all
applicable building and electrical codes, and in accordance with guidelines
supplied by your power company.
DANGER:
A transfer switch must be installed in order to isolate your
generator from the utility power grid. If your generator is NOT
properly isolated from the utility system, serious hazards will
arise:
When your generator is running, it’s output will back feed into
the utility power line and transformer that are normally used to
provide you with power. The transformer will step up the
current to the normal line voltage. An unsuspecting utility line
worker working on what he thinks is a deactivated line could
be electrocuted.
If your generator is connected (running or not) when utility
power is restored, your generator will be destroyed. It could
also explode or cause fire.
In addition to isolating your generator from the utility system, the transfer
switch connects your generator to a limited set of circuits in your building
that have been chosen as critical to operate during a power outage.

Installation / Initial Set-Up
18
The generator may not power your entire home -- you must work with the
installing electrician to determine which devices/appliances you wish to
power during an outage. The electrician can help you determine which
circuits and devices can be powered simultaneously without overloading the
generator.
(See the previous section of this manual entitled “Power Load Planning &
Management” for more information on load application and selection.)
Using as a
Portable Power
Source
When using the generator as a portable power source, you can plug
electric devices and appliances directly into the generator’s electrical
outlets.
There are different kinds of electrical outlets on your generator:
1. 120/240 Volt, 30 Amp locking receptacle (NEMA L14-30R locking
receptacle compatible with L14-30P mating plug).
2. 120 Volt, 20 Amp duplex straight-blade receptacles (NEMA 5-20R
duplex receptacle compatible with NEMA 5-20P or 5-15P mating
plugs).
3. 120 Volt, 30 Amp locking receptacle (NEMA L5-30R receptacle
compatible with NEMA L5-30P mating plug)
4. 120 Volt, 20 Amp, duplex GFCI-protected straight-blade receptacles
(NEMA 5-20R duplex receptacles compatible with NEMA 5-20P or
5-15P mating plugs) (ONLY APPLIES TO ITEM #165604)
5. 120/240 Volt, 50 Amp straight-blade receptacle (NEMA 14-50R
receptacle compatible with NEMA 14-50P mating plug)
6. 120/240 Volt, 60 Amp straight-blade receptacle (NEMA 14-60R
receptacle compatible with NEMA 14-60P mating plug)
Item #
165601
Item #
165603

Installation / Initial Set-Up
19
1. Make sure you plug each electrical device/appliance into the correct
generator outlet based on the device’s plug configuration and
voltage/amperage rating. Never exceed the amperage rating of an
outlet.
2. Extension cords may be used to power devices that are located at a
distance from the generator. However, use only UL-listed, outdoor-
rated, grounded extension cords of the proper size. Use Table 2 below
to choose an adequately sized extension cord according to the
amperage of the device being used and the length of the cord.
Item #
165604
Item #
165605 &
165606
Item #
165607

Installation / Initial Set-Up
20
Table 2
Current/Power
Maximum Extension Cord Length
Amps at
240V
Load
(watts)
#10 Ga.
Cord
#12 Ga.
Cord
#14 Ga.
Cord
#16 Ga.
Cord
10
2400
250'
150'
100'
75'
20
4800
125'
75'
50'
25'
30
7200
60'
35'
25'
10'
40
9600
30'
15'
10'
*
50
12000
15'
*
*
*
WARNING:
Use of under sized extension cords can cause electric shock, fire, or
damage to connected devices.
3. All extension and appliance cords must be in good condition and not
worn, bare, frayed, or otherwise damaged.
WARNING:
Use of damaged electric cords can cause electric shock or fire.
Note: If an extension cord becomes hot to the touch, it is overloaded or
damaged and must be replaced.
Northern Tool is NOT responsible for damage or injury resulting from
customer use of inadequate extension cords.