Porter-Cable BSI550 User manual

Part No. D23665-0111-1
Generator
Instruction
manual
To learn more about Porter-Cable
visit our website at:
http://www.porter-cable.com
The Model and Serial No. plate is located on the frame. Record these
numbers in the spaces below and retain for future reference.
Model No.
Type
Serial No.
ESPAÑOL: PÁGINA 21
FRANÇAIS: PAGE 41
IMPORTANT
Please make certain that the person who is to use this equipment
carefully reads and understands these instructions before starting
operations.
Model
BSI550
PROFESSIONAL POWER TOOLS
Shown with optional portability kit

2 — ENG
SPECIFICATION
MODEL BSI550
HORSE POWER 10.0
RATED/SURGE WATTS 5500/9000
VOLTAGE 120/240
AMPERAGE 45.8/22.9A
PHASE SINGLE
FREQUENCY 60 Hz
ENGINE SPEED 3600 RPM
MAX. AMBIENT TEMP. 104° F
FUEL CAPACITY 7 GALLONS
RUN TIME @ 50%/100% 13.2/8.1 HRS
This product is not equipped with a spark arresting muffler. If the product will be used around
flammable materials, or on land covered with materials such as agricultural crops, forest, brush, grass, or
other similar items, then an approved spark arrester must be installed and is legally required in the state of
California. It is a violation of California statutes section 130050 and/or sections 4442 and 4443 of the Cal-
ifornia Public Resources Code, unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrestor, as defined in section
4442, and maintained in effective working order. Spark arresters are also required on some U. S. Forest
service land and may also be legally required under other statutes and ordinances.
This product may contain chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. This warning is given in compliance with California Proposition 65, as detectable
amounts of chemicals subject to proposition 65 may be contained in this product.
•
•

3 — ENG
WARRANTY
Porter-Cable Corporation
4825 Highway 45 North
P.O. Box 2468
Jackson, TN 38302-2468
1-888-559-8550
PORTER-CABLE CORPORATION warrants to the original purchaser that each new electric generator and service part is
free from defects in material and workmanship, and agrees to repair or replace under this warranty any defective product or
part as follows from the original date of purchase.
2 YEARS – Limited warranty on electric generator alternators and 1 year limited warranty on all other parts.
90 Days – Service parts
Engine warranties are the responsibility of the engine manufacturer. Warranties of merchandise sold by Porter-Cable which
has been manufactured by and identified as the product of another company are the responsibility of the manufacturer of
that product.
THIS WARRANTY IS NOT TRANSFERABLE AND DOES NOT COVER
•Products sold damaged or incomplete, sold “as is,” sold reconditioned, or used as rental equipment.
•Delivery, installation, or normal adjustments explained in the owner’s manual.
•Damage or liability caused by shipping, improper handling, improper installation, improper maintenance, improper mod-
ification, or the use of accessories and/or attachments not specifically recommended by PORTER-CABLE for the prod-
uct.
•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, or the failure to install, operate, maintain, and store the
product according to the instructions in the owner’s manual.
•Damage caused by cold, heat, rain, excessive humidity, corrosive environments and materials, or other contaminants.
•Expendable items that become worn during normal use such as fuel filters, air cleaners, spark plugs, and engine oil.
•Cosmetic defects that do not interfere with product functionality.
•Freight costs from customer to Porter-Cable.
•Repair and transportation costs of products or parts determined not to be defective.
•ANY INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS, DAMAGE, OR EXPENSE THAT MAY RESULT FROM
ANY DEFECT, FAILURE OR MALFUNCTION OF THE PRODUCT. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limita-
tion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
•IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PUR-
POSE, ARE LIMITED TO ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE. Some states do not allow limi-
tations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
WARRANTY SERVICE is available by delivering or shipping the defective product or part to any Porter-Cable authorized
warranty service location. To determine the nearest authorized warranty service location, call the toll free number, 1-888-
559-8550, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Specific instructions regarding servicing arrangements and scheduling may vary
depending on the type and size of the product and the availability of repair parts.
•DO NOT return the defective product to the retailer.
•Retain the original cash register sales receipt as proof of purchase for warranty work.
•Purchasers should contact Porter-Cable directly if they do not receive satisfactory results from the authorized warranty
service center.

4 — ENG
Attempting to connect generator
directly to the electrical system of
any building structure.
Back feeding electricity through a
building’s electrical system to the
outside utility feed lines could endan-
ger repair persons attempting to re-
store service.
Attempting to connect to the incom-
ing utility service could result in elec-
trocution.
Restoration of electrical service while
the generator is connected to the
incoming utility could result in a fire
or serious damage if an isolator
switch is not installed.
Failure to use a double throw transfer
switch when connecting to a struc-
ture's electrical system can damage
appliances and WILL VOID the man-
ufacturer's warranty.
Never backfeed electricity through
a structure's electrical system.
To connect to a structure's electri-
cal system in a safe manner,
always have a Double-Throw
Transfer Switch installed by a quali-
fied electrician and in compliance
with local ordinances. (When in-
stalling a Double-Throw Transfer
Switch, a minimum of 10 gauge
wiring must be used.)
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT IT
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
RISK OF ELECTROCUTION AND FIRE
When using this product basic precautions should always be fol-
lowed including the following:
• SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS •
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY GUIDELINES - DEFINITIONS
URGENT SAFETY INFORMATION - A HAZARD
THAT WILL CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR
LOSS OF LIFE.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION - A HAZ-
ARD THAT MIGHT CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY
OR LOSS OF LIFE.
Information for preventing damage to
equipment.
Information that you should pay special
attention to.
This manual contains information that
is important for you to know and un-
derstand. This information relates to
protecting YOUR SAFETY and PRE-
VENTING EQUIPMENT PROB-
LEMS. To help you recognize this
information, we use symbols to the
right. Please read the manual and pay
attention to these sections.
Improper storage of extension
cord
Extension cord can come into contact
with hot engine parts resulting in
damage. Using a damaged extension
cord can result in electrocution or
death.
Never fold handle over hot engine
with extension cord wrapped on
storage bracket.

5 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
Use of worn, damaged, under-
sized or ungrounded extension
cords.
Placing generator on or against
highly conductive surface, such as
a steel walkway or metal roof.
Improper connection of items to
generator.
Operation of unit when damaged,
or with guards or panels removed.
Contact with worn or damaged ex-
tension cords could result in electro-
cution.
Use of undersize extension cords
could result in overheating of the
wires or attached items, resulting in
fire.
Use of ungrounded cordsets could
prevent operation of circuit breakers
and result in electrical shock.
Accidental leakage of electrical cur-
rent could charge conductive sur-
faces in contact with the generator.
Exceeding the load capacity of the
generator by attaching too many
items, or items with very high load
ratings to it could result in overheat-
ing of some items or their attachment
wiring resulting in fire or electrical
shock.
Attempting to use the unit when it
has been damaged, or when it is not
functioning normally could result in
fire or electrocution.
Removal of guarding could expose
electrically charged components and
result in electrocution.
Inspect extension cords before
use and replace with new cord if
required.
Use proper size (wire gauge) cord-
set for application see chart in the
Assembly section of this manual.
Always use a cordset having a
grounding wire with an appropri-
ate grounding plug. DO NOT use
an ungrounded plug.
Place generator on low conductiv-
ity surface such as a concrete
slab.
ALWAYS operate generator a min-
imum of six feet from any conduc-
tive surface.
Read the load rating chart and in-
structions in the Wattage Calcula-
tion section. Make sure that the
summation of electrical loads for
all attachments does not exceed
the load rating of the generator.
Do not operate generator with me-
chanical or electrical problem.
Have unit repaired by an Autho-
rized Service Center.
Do not operate generator with
protective guarding removed.
RISK OF ELECTROCUTION AND FIRE (cont’d)
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT ITWHAT COULD HAPPEN
Operation of generator in rain,
wet, icy, or flooded conditions.
Water is an excellent conductor of
electricity! Water which comes in con-
tact with electrically charged compo-
nents can transmit electricity to the
frame and other surfaces, resulting in
electrical shock to anyone contacting
them.
Operate generator in a clean, dry,
well ventilated area. Make sure
hands are dry before touching unit.

6 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
RISK OF FIRE
Inadequate ventilation for generator
Use care in filling the tank to avoid
spilling fuel. Make sure fuel cap is
secured tightly and check engine
for fuel leaks before starting
engine. Move generator away
from refueling area or any spillage
before starting engine. Allow for
fuel expansion. Keep maximum
fuel level 1/2 inch below the tip of
the fuel tank. Never refuel with
the engine running.
Spilled fuel and its vapors can
become ignited from hot surfaces or
sparks.
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT ITWHAT COULD HAPPEN
Attempting to fill the fuel tank while
the engine is running.
Sparks, fire, hot objects
Improper storage of fuel
Tampering with factory set engine
speed settings.
Overfilling the fuel tank –
fuel spillage.
Gasoline and gasoline vapors can
become ignited by coming in contact
with hot components such as the
muffler, engine exhaust gases, or from
an electrical spark.
Cigarettes, sparks, fires, or other hot
objects can cause gasoline or gaso-
line vapors to ignite.
Improperly stored fuel could lead to
accidental ignition. Fuel improperly se-
cured could get into the hands of chil-
dren or other unqualified persons.
Materials placed against or near the
generator or operating the generator in
areas where the temperature exceeds
104° F. ambient (such as storage
rooms or garages) can interfere with its
proper ventilation features causing
overheating and possible ignition of the
materials or buildings.
Engine speed has been factory set to
provide safe operation. Tampering with
the engine speed adjustment could re-
sult in overheating of attachments and
could cause a fire.
Turn engine off and allow it to cool
before adding fuel to the tank.
Equip area of operation with a fire
extinguisher certified to handle
gasoline or fuel fires.
Add fuel to tank in well ventilated
area. Make sure there are no sourc-
es of ignition near the generator.
Store fuel in a OSHA approved
container designed to hold gaso-
line. Store container in secure loca-
tion to prevent use by others.
Operate generator in a clean, dry,
well ventilated area a minimum of
four feet from any building, object
or wall. DO NOT OPERATE UNIT
INDOORS OR IN ANY CONFINED
AREA.
Never attempt to “speed-up” the
engine to obtain more perfor-
mance. Both the output voltage
and frequency will be thrown out of
standard by this practice, endan-
gering attachments and the user.

7 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
RISK OF BREATHING - INHALATION HAZARD
Operate generator in clean, dry,
well ventilated area. Never operate
unit in enclosed areas such as
garages, basements, storage,
sheds, or in any location occupied
by humans or animals. Keep chil-
dren, pets and others away from
area of operating unit.
Breathing exhaust fumes will cause
serious injury or death.
Gasoline engines produce toxic car-
bon monoxide exhaust fumes.
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT IT
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
Risk of Injury and Property Damage When
Transporting Generator
If generator is equipped with a fuel
shut-off valve, turn the valve to the
off position before transporting to
avoid fuel leaks. If generator is not
equipped with a fuel shut-off valve,
drain the fuel from tank before
transporting. Transport fuel only in
an OSHA approved container.
Always place generator on a pro-
tective mat when transporting to
protect against damage to vehicle
from leaks. Remove generator from
vehicle immediately upon arrival at
your destination.
Fuel or oil can leak or spill and could
result in fire or breathing hazard, seri-
ous injury or death can result. Fuel or
oil leaks will damage carpet, paint or
other surfaces in vehicles or trailers.
Fire, Inhalation, Damage to Vehicle
Surfaces
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT IT
WHAT COULD HAPPEN

8 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
• Review and understand all of
the operating instructions and
warnings in this manual.
• Become familiar with the oper-
ation and controls of the gen-
erator. Know how to shut it off
quickly.
• Equip area of operation with a
fire extinguisher certified to
handle gasoline or fuel fires.
• Keep children or others away
from the generator at all times.
All sources of energy include the po-
tential for injury. Unsafe operation or
maintenance of your generator could
lead to serious injury or death to you
or others.
Operation of generator in careless
manner.
RISK OF UNSAFE OPERATION
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT ITWHAT COULD HAPPEN
Generator will not operate properly and
will cause damage to the generator
and could cause serious injury or death
to you or others.
Operating generator while suspend-
ed
Never operate generator while sus-
pended or in an unlevel position.
Always operate generate on a flat,
level surface.
Operation of voltage sensitive ap-
pliances without a voltage surge
protector.
Any gasoline operated household gen-
erator will incur voltage variations
causing damage to voltage sensitive
appliances or could result in fire.
Always use a U.L. listed voltage
sensitive surge protector to con-
nect voltage sensitive appliances
(TV, computer, stereo, etc.). Failure
to use a U.L. listed voltage surge
protector will void the warranty
on your generator.
Notice: A multiple outlet strip is
not a surge protector. Make sure
you use a U.L. listed voltage surge
protector.

9 — ENG
RISK FROM LIFTING
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT ITWHAT COULD HAPPEN
The generator is too heavy to be
lifted by one person. Obtain assis-
tance from others before you try
to move it.
Serious injury can result from attempt-
ing to lift too heavy an object.
Lifting a very heavy object.
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
RISK OF MOVING PARTS
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT IT
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
Never operate generator with
guarding or cover plates removed.
Avoid wearing loose fitting clothing
or jewelry which could be caught
by moving parts.
The generator contains parts which
rotate at high speed during operation.
These parts are covered by guarding
to prevent injury.
Contact with moving parts can re-
sult in serious injury.
HAZARD HOW TO PREVENT IT
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
During operation, touch only the
control surfaces of the generator.
Keep children away from the gen-
erator at all times. They may not be
able to recognize the hazards of
this product.
Contact with hot surfaces, such as en-
gines exhaust components, could re-
sult in serious burns.
Contact with hot engine and gener-
ator components.
RISK OF HOT SURFACES

10 — ENG
Extension Cord Wire Gauge Chart
Amperage
*Up to 20 amp draw
Up to 30 amp draw
Cord
Length
0 to 100 ft.
0 to 100 ft.
Wire Gauge
Size
12 ga.
10 ga.
*NOTE: When amperage exceeds 20 amps; a 12
gauge extension cord should not be used for long dis-
tances.
Extension Cords
When using an appliance or tool at a considerable dis-
tance from the generator, a 3-wire extension cord that
has a 3-blade grounding plug and a 3-slot receptacle
that accepts the tool's plug MUST be used in order to
reduce the risk of electrical shock. A cord of adequate
size must be used. Using the following chart to deter-
mine the minimum wire size required.
An extension cord that is hot to the touch is
overloaded. Repair or replace damaged exten-
sion cords immediately.
Double Throw Transfer Switch
Potential hazards exist when a portable electric genera-
tor is connected to the main electrical supply coming
into the house. It is at that point that the electrical gen-
erator could feed back into the utility company's sys-
tem causing possible electrocution of workers who are
repairing the electrical lines.
To avoid back feeding of electricity into utility systems,
a double-throw transfer switch must be installed
between the generator and utility power. The Double-
Throw Transfer Switch should be installed by a licensed
electrician and in compliance with all state and local
electrical codes. (When installing a Double-Throw
Transfer Switch, a minimum of 10 gauge wiring
must be used.)
The electrician should also install a sub-panel to isolate
the circuits you would want to use during an emergen-
cy or electrical power outage. Your generator will not
be large enough to handle the load of all the lights, ap-
pliances, TV, etc. at one time. To select which items to
run during the electrical power outage, see Wattage
Calculation section in this manual.
ASSEMBLY
Read this manual. Do not attempt to operate
equipment until you have read this Manual for
Safety, Operation, and Maintenance Instruc-
tions.
Grounding Lug
OBTAINING ELECTRICITY FROM THE
GENERATOR
There are basically 2 ways to obtain electricity from a
generator:
1. Use of extension cords directly from the generator
to the appliance, lights, tools, etc.
2. Use of a double-throw transfer switch installed
directly to the main electrical supply outside of
house.
NOTE: This manual is a general manual. Informa-
tion in this manual may or may not pertain to your
model. Please read carefully.
NOTE: Left and right describes the location of a
part with the operator facing the outlet panel.
REMOVE GENERATOR FROM CARTON
• Open carton from top.
• Cut carton along dotted lines.
• Remove all carton inserts.
• Remove generator through opening in carton.
• (If equipped) See portability Kit instructions to
assemble the portability kit.
IMPORTANT: Before any attempt to start your genera-
tor be sure to check engine oil (See Engine Operator's
manual)
GROUNDING THE GENERATOR
A grounding lug is supplied with the generator for use
when required by local electrical ordinances. Refer to
article 250 of the National Electrical Code to clarify any
needed grounding information. Your local electric com-
pany or a certified electrician should be able to help
you with this information.
NOTE: Your engine is already grounded to the frame by
a grounding strap.

11 — ENG
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
Read this General Manual and Safety Rules before
operation of your Generator. Compare the illustration
in your parts manual with your generator to familiarize
yourself with the location of various controls and ad-
justments. Save all manuals for future references.
GENERATOR CAPACITY
IMPORTANT: Exceeding the rated capacity of your
generator can result in serious damage to your genera-
tor and connected electrical devices. See the Wattage
Calculation section in this manual to assist you in de-
termining the appliances and tools that can be ran with
the wattage capacity of your generator.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Each receptacle has a circuit breaker to protect the
generator from overloading. If the circuit breaker trips,
unplug all electrical loads from the generator. Let the
circuit breaker cool down. Push circuit breaker button
to reset.
down. Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline
with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with
gasoline.
Never fill fuel tank completely. Fill tank to 1/2"
below the bottom of the filler neck to provide
space for fuel expansion. Wipe any fuel spillage
from engine and equipment before starting en-
gine.
Never fill fuel tank indoors. Never fill fuel tank
when engine is running or hot. Do not smoke
when filling fuel tank.
Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poor
ventilated areas, engine exhaust contains car-
bon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
3. Make sure generator is grounded in accordance
with local requirements.
4. All electrical loads MUST be disconnected
Engine speed has been factory set to provide
safe operation. Tampering with the engine
speed adjustment could result in overheating of
attachments and could cause a fire. Never
attempt to “speed-up” the engine to obtain
more performance. Both the output voltage and
frequency will be thrown out of standard by this
practice, endangering attachments and the
user.
You MUST unplug any load from the generator
before starting to prevent permanent damage to
any appliances.
BEFORE START UP
This generator has been shipped from the fac-
tory without oil in the crankcase. Operating the
unit without oil can damage the engine.
Always check engine oil level before every start.
Running engine low of oil or out of oil could
result in serious damage to the engine.
Follow the steps listed below before starting gener-
ator:
1. Check engine oil. Refer to the Engine Operator's
Manual for correct grade and quantity of oil.
2. Check fuel level, fill as required. Make sure genera-
tor is turned off and has been allowed time to cool
LOW OIL PROTECTION
To protect the generator engine from damage, the
engine is equipped with a Low Oil Protection reliability
feature.
When the engine has been shut down for refueling or
other purposes and the oil level is low, the Low Oil
Protection will prevent the engine from restarting until
sufficient oil has been added. NOTE: The Low Oil
Protection mechanism is very sensitive. You must fill
the engine to the full mark on the dipstick to inactivate
this safety device.
IMPORTANT: Low Oil Protection will not automatically
shut down the engine if oil level becomes low while
the engine is running. Always check engine oil level
before starting the engine.

12 — ENG
TO START THE ENGINE
Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poor
ventilated areas, engine exhaust contains car-
bon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
1. Open the fuel shut-off valve.
2. Move the choke control located on the engine to
the “Choke” position.
NOTE: No choke is required on warm engines. make
sure choke is in the “RUN” position on warm engine
starts.
3. On the engine there is a
ON/OFF switch located on
the front panel of the engine.
Place this switch to the "ON"
position.
4. Grasp handle on rope starter and pull slowly until
resistance is felt. Let the rope rewind slowly. Pull
rope with a rapid full arm stroke. Let rope rewind
slowly. Repeat if necessary.
5. When engine starts, gradually move the choke to
the “RUN” position
IMPORTANT: Allow generator to run at no load for 5
minutes upon each initial start-up to allow engine and
generator to stabilize.
STOPPING ENGINE
1. Disconnect all electrical loads.
2. Turn ON/OFF switch to "OFF" position.
3. Close fuel shut-off valve.
CONNECTING ELECTRICAL LOADS
1. Let engine run and warm up for five minutes after
starting with no electrical load.
Connect loads in the following manner to prevent dam-
age to equipment:
2. Connect inductive load equipment first, inductive
loads consist of refrigerators, freezers, water
pumps, air conditioners, or small hand tools.
Connect the items that require the most wattage
first. See Wattage Calculation Section in this
manual.
3. Connect the lights next.
4. Voltage sensitive equipment should be the last
equipment connected to the generator. Plug volt-
age sensitive appliances such at TV's, VCR's, mi-
crowaves, ovens, computers, and cordless tele-
phones into a UL listed voltage surge protector,
then connect the UL listed voltage surge protector
to the generator.
Failure to connect and operate equipment in this
sequence can cause damage to equipment and
will void the warranty on your generator.
Follow the wattage calculation table in the
Wattage Calculation section of this manual.
Overloading the generator will cause power fluctu-
ations and can damage equipment and appli-
ances.
Porter-Cable Corporation will only be responsible
for damage to customer's equipment when the
generator is determined to be defective. This
determination will only be made by an authorized
representative of Porter-Cable Corporation and
this decision will be final. Porter-Cable
Corporation reserves the right to inspect the elec-
trical connections at the customer's site of opera-
tion and test the generator for proper operation
before any determination of liability is made.
Failure to maintain the equipment or wiring for
inspection will void any claim for damages by the
customer. Porter-Cable Corporation will not be
responsible for equipment damaged as a result of
voltage surges, improper operation or improper
installation of the generator.

13 — ENG
MAINTENANCE
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty of the generator does not cover items
that have been subjected to operator abuse or negli-
gence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator
must maintain the generator as instructed in this manu-
al.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Refer to the Engine Operator's manual for service and
maintenance of the engine.
Note 1: Change oil after first two (2) operating hours and every 50 operating hours thereafter, more often if oper-
ated in extreme dusty or dirty conditions.
Note 2: Check oil after 5 hours of operation
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES TABLE
MAINTENANCE TASK
Before each
use
Every 25
Hours of Every
Season
Every 50
Hours of Every
Season
Every 100
Hours of Every
Season
Check oil level
Change oil
Clean Air Filter Assembly
Check Spark Plug
Prepare Unit for Storage Prepare unit for storage if it is to remain idle for more than 30 days.
GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
Your generator should be kept clean and dry at all
times. The generator should not be stored or operated
in environments that includes excessive moisture, dust
or any corrosive vapors. If these substances are on the
generator, clean with a cloth or soft bristle brush. Do
not use a garden hose or anything with water pressure
to clean the generator. Water may enter the cooling air
slots and could possibly damage the rotor, stator and
the internal windings of the generator head.
STORAGE
If you are going to store your generator for more than
30 days, use the following information as a guide to
prepare the generator for storage.
Never store generator with fuel in the tank in-
doors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas,
where fumes can reach an open flame, spark or
pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes
dryer or other gas appliances.
Engine Preparation
1. Add fuel stabilizer to fuel tank to minimize the for-
mation of fuel gum deposits during storage.
2. Run engine at least 5 minutes after adding stabiliz-
er to allow it to enter the fuel system.
3. Next shut off engine.
4. Disconnect the spark plug wire and remove the
spark plug.
5. Add one teaspoon of oil through the spark plug
hole.
6. Place rag over spark plug hole and pull the recoil a
few times to lubricate the combustion chamber.
7. Replace the spark plug, but do not connect the
spark plug wire.
NOTE: If a fuel stabilizer is not used, all gasoline must
be drained from the tank and carburetor to prevent
gum deposits from forming on these parts and causing
possible malfunction of the engine.
Generator
• Clean the generator as outlined in the Mainte-
nance Section on this manual.
• Check that cooling air slots and openings on gen-
erator are open and unobstructed.
XSee Note 2
See Note 1
X
X

14 — ENG
Never exceed the rated capacity of your generator. Serious damage to the generator or appliance could
result from an overload.
1. Starting and running wattage requirements should always be calculated when matching a generators
wattage capacity to the appliance or tool.
2. There are two types of electrical appliances that can be powered by your generator:
A. Items such as radios, light bulbs, television sets, and microwaves have a "resistive load". Starting
wattage and running wattage are the same.
B. Items such as refrigerators, air compressors, washer, dryer, and hand tools that use an electrical
motor have an "inductive load". Inductive load appliances and tools require approximately 2 to 4
times the listed wattage for starting the equipment. This initial load only lasts for a few seconds on
start-up but is very important when figuring your total wattage to be used.
C. Always start your largest electric motor first, and then plug in other items, one at a time.
NOTE: On 120-volt loads the maximum starting wattage should NOT exceed one half of the rated genera-
tor wattage. Example: a 5000 rated wattage generator = 2500 maximum starting wattage.
IMPORTANT
DETERMINING WATTAGE REQUIREMENTS
Before operating this generator list all of the appliances and/or tools that are going to operate at the same time.
(Then determine the starting wattage requirements and the running wattage requirements by following example
and/or refer to wattage calculator on page 16.)
1. First total the running wattage of all appliances and/or tools that will be operated at the same time.
Running Watts Starting Watts
Example 1:
Lights = 100 Watts 0
Television = 300 Watts 0
Slow Cooker = 250 Watts 0
TOTAL = 650 Watts 0
2. Next the starting wattages of any appliances and/or tools that will start and stop during operation.
Running Watts Starting Watts
Example 2: Small Refrigerator 500 Watts 2000 Watts
TOTAL = 500 Watts 2000 Watts
3. The running wattage of examples 1 & 2 totals 1150 watts. The starting wattage of the small refrigerator is 2000
watts which is 1500 watts more than the running watts. Take this difference of 1500 starting watts from the re-
frigerator and add to the total running watts of 1150.
Example 3: 1500 Starting Watts
1150 Running Watts
TOTAL = 2650 Total Watts
Generator must have a maximum capacity of at least 2650 watts.
WATTAGE CALCULATIONS

15 — ENG
STARTING WATTAGE REQUIREMENTS
1. Some appliances and tools will list on the motor
name plate the starting and running voltage and
amperage requirements. Use the following formula to
convert voltage and amperage to wattage:
Volts X Amp = Watts
120 volts x 10 amps = 1200 watts
2. To determine the approximate starting wattage
requirement for most appliances and tools with
inductive type motors, multiply the wattage that
was calculated by 2 to 4 times to assure adequate
generator capacity. If the nameplate information is
not available use the values on the following chart
as a guide.
3. Remember that the starting and running wattage
for resistive loads are the same. (Example: a 100
watt light bulb requires only 100 watts to start.)
Most resistive loads will be listed in wattage.
WATTAGE CALCULATIONS
The wattage ratings shown are averages. Wattage requirements may vary
with different brands of appliances.
Application Guide
To select the right generator for your needs, total the wattage
of the items to be run at the same time.
Run
Electric Appliance
Wattage
ContractorEmergency ReliefRecreational
3/8" Hand Drill
Jigsaw
1/3 HP Airless Sprayer
6" Bench Grinder
Belt Sander
Demolition Hammer
7 1/4" Circular Saw
Light Bulb
Home Security
Television
Microwave
Toaster Oven
Portable Heater (5,000 BTU)
Furnace Fan
Refrigerator/Freezer
Sump Pump
Clothes Washer
Water Heater
Air Conditioner (20,000 BTU)
12V DC Battery Charger
Radio
Slow Cooker
Electric Blanket
Electric Skillet
Coffee Maker
Small Refrigerator
100 250 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6500 7000 7500
Start

16 — ENG
HOUSEHOLD WATTAGE CALCULATOR
WATTAGE CALCULATIONS
APPLIANCE OR
LOAD DEVICE*
REFRIGERATOR/
FREEZER
800
SMALL REFRIGERATOR
AIR COND.(ROOM)
SUMP PUMP 1/2 HP
600
TELEVISION
CAUTION !!
HOT PLATE
MICROWAVE
SPACE HEATER
2400
1000
3
2
LIGHTING
60 WATT BULBS
75 WATT BULBS
100 WATT BULBS
300 WATT BULBS
ELECTRIC LOAD GRAND TOTAL
THIS TOTAL MUST BE LESS THAN YOUR GENERATOR RATING
WATTAGE RATING OF YOUR GENERATOR
TOTAL
THIS TOTAL MUST BE GREATER THAN YOUR HOUSEHOLD WATTAGE LOAD
TYPICAL DEVICE
WATTAGE**
2400
1800
7200
2000
300
1500
800
1500
WATER HEATER 4000
TIMES NUMBER
OF BULBS
60
75
100
300
CAUTION !!
WATTS
DEVICES WITH HIGH STARTING (INDUCTIVE)LOADS
RUN WATTS TIMES (X) START FACTOR
DO NOT CONNECT VOLTAGE SENSITIVE
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (TV SET, COMPUTER,
ETC.) DIRECTLY TO YOUR GENERATOR. IF YOU USE
THE GENERATOR TO POWER SENSITIVE EQUIPMENT
YOU MUST USE A U.L. LISTED VOLTAGE SURGE
PROTECTOR.
NOTICE: FAILURE TO USE A U.L. LISTED VOLTAGE
SURGE PROTECTOR WILL DAMAGE YOUR
EQUIPMENT AND VOID YOUR WARRANTY.
3
3
THE IDLE CONTROL MUST BE IN THE
OFF POSITION WHEN OPERATING
LARGE MOTOR LOADS (FREEZERS,
REFRIGERATORS,ETC.) OR VOLTAGE
SENSITIVE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
(TV, COMPUTERS, ETC.)
FURNACE FAN 1/3 HP
800 32400
WELL PUMP 1/2 HP
1000 22000
*FOR PRODUCTS NOT
LISTED REFER TO
CALCULATION
INSTRUCTIONS
**AVERAGE VALUES -
ACTUAL INDIVIDUAL
DEVICE VOLTAGES MAY
BE HIGHER OR LOWER
x
x
x
x
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
x
x
x
x
x
x
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=

17 —ENG
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Engine will not start
No electrical output
Repeated circuit breaker
tripping
Generator overheating
1. Low on fuel or oil.
2. Ignition switch in "Off" position.
3. Faulty spark plug.
4. Choke in wrong position.
5. Fuel shut-off valve in closed
position.
6. Unit loaded during start-up.
7. Spark plug wire loose.
1. Faulty receptacle.
2. Circuit breaker kicked out.
3. Defective capacitor.
4. Faulty power cord.
1. Overload
2. Faulty cords or equipment.
1. Generator overloaded.
2. Insufficient ventilation.
1. Add fuel or oil.
2. Turn to "ON" position
3. Replace spark plug.
4. Adjust choke accordingly.
5. Open fuel shut-off valve.
6. Remove load from unit.
7. Attach wire to spark plug.
1. Have Service Center replace.
2. Depress and reset.
3. Have Service Center replace
capacitor.
4. Repair or replace cord.
1. Reduce load.
2. Check for damaged, bare, or
frayed wires on equipment.
Replace.
1. Reduce load.
2. Move to adequate supply of
fresh air.

18 —ENG
NOTES

19 —ENG
NOTES

Porter-Cable Corporation
4825 Highway 45 North
P.O. Box 2468
Jackson, TN 38302-2468
1-888-559-8550
ALWAYS REFER TO THE MANUALS SUPPLIED WITH THIS UNIT
Generator Quick Facts
CALL 1-888-559-8550 TO FIND A LOCAL AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER NEAR YOU
FOR REPAIRS AND SERVICE PART PURCHASES
ENGINE
GAS
ENGINE OIL
WATTAGE
WIRING
BATTERY
VOLT REG.
ENGINE
STORAGE
OPERATION
Use clean, fresh gasoline with a minimum 87 octane rating. Do not add gaso-
line during or immediately after use.
Refer to engine owner's manual for oil recommendations.
Most generators are equipped with low oil protection. If the oil is low or if the
Generator is not level, the engine will not start.
Make wattage calculations before use. Refer to general operator's manual for
further instructions.
Contact an electrician for any wiring instructions. If wiring into a house, a
double-throw transfer switch and a heavy duty cord set must be used.
Use a standard (12V) lawn and garden battery with a minimum of 45 A.H. or
210 CCA.
The voltage and frequency are regulated by the rpm's of the engine. Do not
adjust the throttle or governor to achieve higher performance. This will only
alter the factory Pre-set settings and damage anything connected to the gen-
erator.
Be sure a volt/amp surge protector is used when sensitive electronic equip-
ment is used, such as: televisions, computers, stereos, and etc…The damage
of such equipment without the use of a protector WILL NOT be covered under
warranty.
Do not adjust or attempt maintenance without consulting engine manual or an
authorized engine service center.
Add stabilizer to fuel tank and run engine for 5 minutes before storage.
When in long term storage, operate the generator every 60 days for at least 10
minutes with a load on it. This will prevent the loss of residual magnetism that
produces the electricity.
Allow the generator to run 5 minutes at no load for the engine and the gen-
head to stabilize.
Make sure the adequate size of extension cord is used. Refer to the
Grounding Instructions/Extension Cord section of the owners manual.
If the generator is operating equipment that is drawing half of the rated watts
it is considered 50% load. Using all of the rated watts is considered 100%
load.