Power House PH4000Ri/E User manual

POWERHOUSE®
PH4000Ri/E Electronic Fuel-Injected
Digital Inverter Generator
Owner’s Manual
PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL
CAREFULLY BEFORE USING

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 2
Quick start
• Use outdoors only. Generators produce carbon monoxide — a poisonous, colorless, odorless gas that
can cause death or serious injury.
• Always operate on a level surface.
• Keep away from rain, snow or other wet conditions.
• Keep away from smoking materials, sparks, and other sources of combustion when refueling.
Pre-Operation
1. Add oil by removing the maintenance door and inspecting the dipstick. Fill the oil reservoir with 33.8  oz (1.0 L)
of oil, or to the full mark on the dipstick. Use appropriate grade, high-detergent, premium quality, 4-stroke engine
oil (synthetic or conventional). Use SAE 10W-30 or 15W-30 viscosity oil unless operating at ambient temperatures
below 32° F (0° C). For temperatures below 32° F, use SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 viscosity oil. Synthetic oil is also
recommended for temperatures below 32° F. Refer to Operating at Extreme Temperatures for more information.
2. Remove the maintenance door and connect the quick connect cable to the battery wiring harness. Refer to
Connecting The Battery for more information.
3. Replace the maintenance door.
4. Connect an external battery charger (such as the TC2-P Plug-In Trickle Charger, part number 19674) to the DC
receptacle in the Battery Charger section of the control panel.
• The TC2-P Battery Charger also includes an alligator clip cable that plugs into the T-style male DC
connector of the charger, allowing you to connect the clips to the terminals for batteries powering
other equipment. For POWERHOUSE®generators, for ease of use, it is suggested that you connect
the T-style male plug to the DC receptacle on the control panel, rather than attempting to charge the
generator battery directly.
5. Charge the battery for 3 hours or until it is fully charged. After the battery is fully charged, disconnect the battery
charger.
• If you are using the TC2-P Plug-In Trickle Charger, the status indicator will go from red to green when
the battery is fully charged.
WARNING
!
CAUTION
!
NOTE
!
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual3
6. Carefully add regular unleaded automotive gasoline up to the shoulder of the fuel strainer. To avoid spilling fuel,
use care to not ll too quickly or over ll. Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank. Do not use a blend that
contains more than 10% ethanol. Do not use gasoline containing methanol. An octane rating of 87 or higher is
recommended.
• Do not add 2-stroke oil to your fuel. Doing so will void your warranty.
• It is recommended that you use a fuel stabilizer, such as STA-BIL®, to help prevent fuel oxidation
(breakdown) and the formation of gum and varnish, and to inhibit corrosion in the fuel system.
Operation
1. Start the engine in one of the following ways.
A. Electric Start:
i. Insert the ignition key, and turn it to the ON position for three seconds. This will build up the appropriate
pressure in the fuel system, and allow the throttle valve to close.
ii. Turn the key to the START position and hold it there until the engine is running or for a maximum of 10
seconds. Release and repeat if necessary.
B. Manual Start: (Note: This option does not require a fully charged battery.)
i. Insert the ignition key, and turn it to the ON position for three seconds. This will build up the appropriate
pressure in the fuel system, and allow the throttle valve to close.
ii. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly out to start the generator.
C. Remote Start:
i. Turn the remote switch to the “ON” position.
ii. Push the start button on the remote twice and hold while the engine cranks 2-3 times without starting.
iii. Wait three seconds to allow the fuel pressure to build, and the throttle valve to close.
iv. Push the start button on the remote and hold until the engine has started or for a maximum of 10 seconds.
Release and repeat if necessary.
• Always place the remote switch on the control panel in the “OFF” position when not in use to prevent
running down the battery.
2. The digital display will illuminate and display data when the generator is ready for use. Before connecting any loads,
ground the generator with a length of heavy cable, connecting the generator’s grounding terminal to an external
ground source.
3. Make sure that all appliances to be connected have been switched off and are in good working order. Conrm that
the electrical rating does not exceed that of the generator.
4. Connect your appliances to the appropriate receptacle on the generator’s panel.
Shutdown
• In an emergency, pushing the STOP button on the control panel will automatically stop the engine
without the ignition key or remote, with or without a load.
• If you start your unit with the key in the ignition, shut it down with the key in the ignition. If you start
your unit with the remote fob, shut it down with the remote fob. Regardless of the way you start the
generator, the red STOP button will shut it down.
1. Use one of the following methods to turn off the generator.
A. If the remote switch is “OFF”: Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position.
B. If the remote switch is “ON”: Push and hold the stop button on the remote or on the panel.
• Make sure the remote switch is off. If the remote switch remains on for extended periods of time, it will
drain the battery. If the remote switch is on after the generator has been shut down, the remote switch
will ash to remind you to turn it off.
CAUTION
!
NOTE
!
NOTE
!
NOTE
!
CAUTION
!

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 4
FCC Information
Trade Name: Coast Distribution Inc.
Model: PH4000Ri/E
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
Pursuant to FCC regulations, do not to make any changes or modications to the remote control transmitter or receiver
that are not expressly approved by Coast Distribution Inc. Doing so could void your authority to operate the equipment
and will void the warranty.
Notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual5
Preface
Thank you for purchasing a POWERHOUSE®generator.
This manual covers the operation and maintenance of the POWERHOUSE® generator model PH4000Ri/E.
All information in this publication is based on the latest product information available at the time of approval for printing.
We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation.
No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission.
This manual should be considered a permanent part of the generator and should remain with it if it is resold.
Pay special attention to statements preceded by the following words:
• Indicates a strong possibility of severe personal injury or death if instructions are not followed.
• Indicates a possibility of personal injury or equipment damage if instructions are not followed.
• Gives helpful information.
If you have a problem with this generator, do not return it to the store where you purchased it. For warranty support call
1-877-544-4449 from 8am to 6pm ET, email us at [email protected] or send a fax to 1-855-242-
8922.
• Failure to properly follow these precautions can result in property damage, serious injury, or DEATH!
• Read all labels and the owner's manual before operating this generator.
• Generators produce carbon monoxide — a poisonous, colorless, odorless gas that can cause death
or serious injury.
• Indoor use of a generator can kill quickly. Generators should be used outdoors only.
• Generators should only be used outdoors, away from garages and open windows, but protected from
rain and snow.
• Check for spilled fuel or leaks. Clean and/or repair before use.
• Always stop engine before refueling. Wait 5 minutes before restarting.
• Keep any source of ignition away from fuel tank, at all times.
• The portable generator is not meant to be used as a permanent back-up power system for the home.
A permanently installed stationary generator is designed to be safely used for this specic purpose.
• Our generators are designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to
instructions. Read and understand the owner's manual before operating the generator. Failure to do
so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.
© Copyright DTS Manufacturing, 2014. All rights reserved.
WARNING
!
CAUTION
!
NOTE
!
WARNING
!

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 6
Contents
Quick start ..............................................................................................................................................................................2
FCC Information .....................................................................................................................................................................4
Preface ...................................................................................................................................................................................5
1. The PH4000Ri/E computer-controlled fuel and ignition system.......................................................................................7
2. Using the handles ............................................................................................................................................................8
3. Safety instructions............................................................................................................................................................9
4. Component identication ...............................................................................................................................................10
4.1. PH4000Ri/E Generator.......................................................................................................................................10
4.2. PH4000Ri/E Control Panel ................................................................................................................................. 11
5. Pre-operation check.......................................................................................................................................................13
5.1. Check the Engine Oil Level ................................................................................................................................13
5.2. Check the fuel level ...........................................................................................................................................14
5.3. Check the Air Cleaner.........................................................................................................................................15
5.4. Connecting the Battery .......................................................................................................................................15
5.5. Battery Removal and Replacement ....................................................................................................................16
5.6. Understanding Your Battery................................................................................................................................16
6. Operating instructions ....................................................................................................................................................17
6.1. Starting the engine..............................................................................................................................................17
6.2. Starting procedure using the Ignition Key...........................................................................................................17
6.3. Manual Start ......................................................................................................................................................18
6.4. Starting procedure using the remote function.....................................................................................................18
6.5. High Altitudes......................................................................................................................................................19
6.6. Operating at extreme temperatures....................................................................................................................19
6.7. Generator use.....................................................................................................................................................20
6.8. Digital display......................................................................................................................................................21
6.9. Fault codes .........................................................................................................................................................22
6.10. AC application...................................................................................................................................................23
6.11. Generator Overload ..........................................................................................................................................24
6.12. Overspeed Protection .......................................................................................................................................24
6.13. DC Application ..................................................................................................................................................25
6.13.1. Charging External Batteries........................................................................................................................25
6.13.2. Powering 12V DC devices..........................................................................................................................26
6.13.3. Back-charging the generator battery ..........................................................................................................26
6.13.4. Jump-starting the generator .......................................................................................................................26
6.14. Low oil alarm system ........................................................................................................................................27
6.15. Stopping the engine..........................................................................................................................................27
6.16. Air Conditioner Operation .................................................................................................................................28
7. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................................................29
7.1. Emission Control System....................................................................................................................................29
7.2. Maintenance Schedule .......................................................................................................................................31
7.3. Changing oil .......................................................................................................................................................32
7.4. Air cleaner service ..............................................................................................................................................33
7.5. Spark plug service ..............................................................................................................................................34
7.6. Spark arrester maintenance ...............................................................................................................................35
8. Transporting & storage...................................................................................................................................................36
8.1. Transporting the Generator.................................................................................................................................36
8.2. Short term storage of the Generator...................................................................................................................36
8.3. Infrequent use.....................................................................................................................................................37
8.4. Exercising the Generator ....................................................................................................................................37
9. Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................38
9.1. Engine will not start.............................................................................................................................................38
9.2. Engine will not crank with the key or remote start ..............................................................................................39
9.3. Appliance does not operate ................................................................................................................................40
9.4. No output at the DC receptacle ..........................................................................................................................40
10. Specications.................................................................................................................................................................41
11. Warranty and consumer information ..............................................................................................................................42
12. APPENDIX A - EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM...........................................................................................................45
13. APPENDIX B - SAFETY AND CHARGING INSTRUCTIONS........................................................................................46

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual7
1. The PH4000Ri/E computer-controlled fuel and ignition system
This generator has a computer-controlled fuel and ignition system. An on-board computer, referred to in this manual as
an ECU (Engine Control Unit) utilizes a series of virtual maps (lookup tables) that provide values for various aspects
of engine performance. The ECU analyzes data provided through the various engine sensors to determine the best
combination of values from these lookup tables to provide optimum performance. This is communicated to the generator
components through the use of digital signals. This is in contrast to non-computer-controlled ignition systems that rely on
mechanical feedback, and sometimes vacuum, to control the motion of the various components.
This generator is equipped with an Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system, which provides increased efciency over
carbureted fuel systems. In a carbureted fuel system, the fuel and air are mixed in a carburetor that relies on a mechanical
choke system controlling the rate of air intake to maintain the vacuum necessary to mix the fuel with air for combustion.
In a fuel injection system, the ECU calculates and adjusts the fuel mixture directly, based on real-time feedback, allowing
for greater fuel and emissions efciency. The ECU also controls the timing for the spark plug, dynamically controlling the
speed of the engine depending on requirements for power generation.
When there is a problem reported by a generator component (such as an engine sensor), the ECU stores a fault code
for it. These fault codes can be read in the Wattage (P) eld of the digital display, and then used to identify the issue and
correct it. For more information on fault codes and how to access them, refer to the Fault codes section of this manual.
For more information on the digital display and its use, refer to the Digital display section of this manual.

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 8
2. Using the handles
• Using the telescoping handles to move the generator without locking them properly can make
movement unstable, leading to injury or generator damage.
This generator includes a total of four (4) handles. Two of the handles are embedded into the top of the cabinet on the
ends (one handle over the control panel and one handle over the mufer grill). These handles are appropriate for rolling
the generator along even, smooth terrain, or for tie-down during transportation. There are also two telescoping handles
that make moving the generator along rough or uneven terrain easier. The handles extend outward parallel with the top
of the unit and lock in place so that the generator may be moved, wheelbarrow-style, with stability. When not in use, the
handles slide into the interior of the generator, locked in place by rotating them clock-wise until tight.
• For safety reasons, it is better to shut the generator down before moving it. You should also unplug
all cords connected to the generator to prevent a tripping hazard and/or damage to the cords or
receptacles.
• Ensure that the telescoping handles are properly stowed and locked when they are not being used to
move the generator.
• The handles tighten in place when locked. They should not wobble or otherwise move.
To extend and lock the telescoping handles:
1. Rotate each rubber grip counter-clockwise to unlock the handles.
2. Pull the handles outward from the body of the generator until they are fully extended.
3. Rotate each grip clockwise to lock the handles in place.
To unlock the extended handles and stow them properly:
1. Rotate each rubber grip counter-clockwise to unlock the handles.
2. Slide the handles into the body of the generator until they are fully seated.
3. Rotate each grip clockwise to lock the handles in place.
WARNING
!
CAUTION
!
NOTE
!
Embedded Handle
Telescoping
handle
Telescoping
handle
Embedded Handle Handle stowed
and locked
Locking rotation
Unlocking rotation

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual9
3. Safety instructions
• This generator is designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to instructions.
• Read and understand this owner's manual before operating the generator. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury or equipment damage.
• Exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Never run the generator in an enclosed area.
• Be sure to provide adequate ventilation.
• The mufer becomes very hot during operation and remains hot for several minutes after stopping the
engine.
• Be careful not to touch the mufer while it is hot.
• Let the engine cool before storing the generator indoors.
To ensure safe operation
• Gasoline is extremely ammable and explosive under certain conditions. Refuel in a well ventilated
area with the engine stopped.
• Keep away from cigarette smoke and sparks when refueling the generator.
• Wipe up spilled gasoline at once.
• This generator is not intended, nor designed, for use as a standby power supply and should never
be used as such. Severe property damage and/or severe personal injury or death may result. Never
connect this generator to an automatic transfer switch (ATS). Severe damage to the generator will
occur.
• Never connect this generator to an automatic transfer switch (ATS). Severe damage to the generator
will occur.
• To avoid accidents or equipment damage, always make a pre-operation inspection before you start
the engine.
• Place the generator at least 3 ft (1 m) away from buildings or other equipment during operation.
• Operate the generator on a level surface. If the generator is tilted, fuel spillage may result.
• Know how to stop the generator quickly and understand operation of all controls. Never permit
anyone to operate the generator without proper instructions.
• Keep children and pets away from the generator when it is in operation.
• Keep away from moving parts while the generator is running.
• Generators are a potential source of electrical shocks when misused; do not operate with wet hands.
• Do not operate the generator in rain or snow and do not let it get wet.
• Do not install this generator inside a compartment. Doing so may lead to overheating and
consequently, re. It may also lead to death by asphyxiation.
• Do not modify the enclosure of this generator.
WARNING
!
WARNING
!

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 10
4. Component identication
4.1. PH4000Ri/E Generator
Control
panel
Gas gauge
Gas cap
Starter grip
Engine oil
access door
Pneumatic
tire
Maintenance
door
Stabilizing
rubber feet
Telescoping
handle

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual11
4.2. PH4000Ri/E Control Panel
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
Digital display
Ignition switch
Fault code button
120 V circuit breakers
120 V duplex receptacle Stop button (red)
Ground terminal
120 V locking receptacle
Low oil alarm light (red)
Overload Reset button (green)
Remote switch
Battery charge circuit breaker
Battery charge receptacle

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 12
Serial number and bar code identication and location
The generator bar code number and the engine serial number identify your particular unit and are necessary when
ordering parts and accessories. These two numbers are used by your dealer and DTS Manufacturing for warranty
administration and must be supplied before any work can be done.
Serial
Number
The engine serial number can be found stamped on the engine block near the oil dipstick. It
is visible when the maintenance door is removed.
The BCN number label is found in two locations:
1. On the side of the generator toward the mufer grill, close to the bottom.
2. On the back of this owner’s manual.
You can also nd the BCN number on the foil label on the shipping carton.
Please record this information below and keep this manual in a safe place along with the bill of sale.
Engine Serial Number
Bar Code Number (BCN)
Date of Purchase
Name of Selling Dealership
Please go to www.powerhouse-products.com/register and register your unit today. Online registration will be accepted
as proof of purchase. Online registration will make sure you are protected in the event you have lost your receipt, and will
signicantly speed the process in the event warranty service is necessary.
For warranty assistance:
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
BCN # 100122377055322

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual13
5. Pre-operation check
• Be sure to check the generator on a level surface with the engine stopped.
5.1. Check the Engine Oil Level
• Do not use non-detergent oil or 2-stroke engine oil. It will void the warranty and will shorten the
engine's service life.
• Use a high-detergent, premium quality 4-stroke engine oil, certied to meet or exceed U.S.
automobile manufacturer's requirements for API Service Classication SG/SF. Synthetic oil is
approved for use in POWERHOUSE®generators, and is recommended for operating the generator in
temperatures below 32° F.
• Change the oil in a new engine within the rst 4 to 6 hours of operation to clean manufacturing debris
and contamination.
• Use SAE 10W-30 or 15W-30 viscosity oil unless operating at ambient temperatures below
32° F (0° C). For temperatures below 32° F, use SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 viscosity oil. Refer to
Operating at Extreme Temperatures for more information.
• Synthetic oil is approved for use in POWERHOUSE®generators generally, and is recommended
when operating the generator in temperatures below 32° F. You can use synthetic oil the rst time you
ll the oil well of your generator, and you can use it for subsequent oil changes.
1. Loosen the oil access cover screw and remove the cover.
2. Remove the dipstick, wipe it with a clean rag and reinsert it into the ller neck, screwing it down completely.
3. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level.
4. If the oil level is at or below the lower level on the dipstick, rell with the recommended oil up to the top of the upper
level marking. Do not overll.
5. Reinsert the dipstick and be sure to screw it down until it is tight.
6. Reinstall the oil access cover and tighten the screw securely.
• Running the engine with insufcient oil can cause serious engine damage.
• The Low oil alarm system will automatically stop the engine before the oil level falls below a safe
limit. However, to avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected shutdown, it is still advisable to visually
inspect the oil level regularly.
Engine oil capacity: 33.8  oz. (2.11 pt) / 1.0 L
WARNING
!
CAUTION
!
NOTE
!
WARNING
!
OVERLOAD RUN LOWOIL
OVERLOAD
RESET
STOP
12VDC 8.3 A
ON
OFF
REMOTE
CONTROL
ECONOMY
SWITCH
START
ON
OFF
HOURS 1/1 0
BATTERYCHAR GE
ON OFF ON OFF
120VAC RECEPTACLE S
120VAC CIRCUIT BREA KERS
20A 30A
20A
30A
Oil
reservoir

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 14
5.2. Check the fuel level
• Use automotive unleaded regular gasoline only.
• It is recommended that you use a fuel stabilizer, such as STA-BIL®, to help prevent fuel oxidation
(breakdown) and the formation of gum and varnish, and to inhibit corrosion in the fuel system.
• Never use an oil/gasoline mixture or dirty gasoline.
• Avoid getting dirt, dust or water in the fuel tank.
1. If the fuel level is low, rell to the shoulder of the fuel strainer.
2. After refueling, tighten the fuel ller cap securely.
• Gasoline is extremely ammable and is explosive under certain conditions.
• Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. Keep all smoking materials, sparks, and any
other source of combustion away from the generator during refueling.
• Do not overll the fuel tank (there should be no fuel above the upper limit mark). After refueling, make
sure the tank cap is closed properly and securely.
• Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling. Spilled fuel or fuel vapor may ignite. If any fuel is spilled,
make sure the area is dry before starting the engine.
• Avoid repeated or prolonged contact of fuel with skin or breathing of fuel vapor. KEEP OUT OF
REACH OF CHILDREN.
Fuel tank capacity: 4.5 gal (17.0 L)
Fuel Cap
Fuel Level
Fuel Strainer
E F
Fuel Level
Gasoline containing alternate fuels
Do not use a blend that contains more than 10% ethanol. Do not use gasoline containing methanol. Octane rating of 87 or
higher is recommended.
• Fuel system damage or engine performance problems resulting from the use of fuels that contain an
improper alcohol blend, or by adding oil to the fuel, are not covered under warranty.
• Before buying fuel from an unfamiliar station, determine if the fuel contains ethanol and if it does,
conrm the type and percentage of ethanol used. If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms
while using a gasoline that contains ethanol, or one that you think contains ethanol, replace it with a
gasoline that you know has the proper blend.
NOTE
!
WARNING
!
NOTE
!

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual15
5.3. Check the Air Cleaner
1. Loosen the cover screws and remove the maintenance cover.
2. Remove the air cleaner cartridge retaining screws. Remove the air cleaner cartridge and check the element.
Clean or replace the element if necessary.
3. Replace the air cleaner element and cover. Tighten the screws securely.
4. Replace the maintenance cover and tighten the screw securely.
• Never run the engine without the air cleaner element. Rapid engine wear will result from
contaminants, such as dust and dirt, being drawn through the fuel system into the engine.
5.4. Connecting the Battery
This generator ships with the internal battery disconnected, meaning you will have to connect the battery before you begin
using the generator.
• Due to the nature of lead acid batteries, it may be necessary to charge the battery before using the
generator the rst time, or after long term storage. It is recommended to connect a battery charger
(for example, the TC2-P Plug-In Trickle Charger) to the DC receptacle in the “Battery Charger”
section of the control panel to charge the battery, as described in Pre-Operation. If the battery has
a low enough voltage, the generator will not start, even using the recoil start method. There must be
enough voltage on the battery to run the ECU and the fuel pump.
1. Loosen the cover screws and remove the maintenance door.
2. Connect the quick connect cable to the battery wiring harness.
3. Replace the maintenance door and tighten the cover screws.
CAUTION
!
Air Cleaner Cartridge
Air Cleaner Element
Maintenance Door
Air Cleaner Case
NOTE
!

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 16
5.5. Battery Removal and Replacement
Removal
1. To remove the battery for maintenance or replacement, loosen the cover screws and remove the side maintenance
door.
2. Unplug the quick connect cable from the wiring harness, remove the battery clamp and lift the battery out.
3. Replace the maintenance door and tighten the door screws.
Replacement
1. To replace the battery, loosen the cover screws and remove the side maintenance door.
2. Connect the quick connect cable to the wiring harness, seat the battery and the battery clamp, then tighten the
screw for the battery clamp.
3. Replace the maintenance door and tighten the door screws.
5.6. Understanding Your Battery
When the key is turned to the ON position the display illuminates, the ECU turns on, the fuel pump turns on long enough
to bring up the fuel pressure, and the stepper motor is energized for proper throttle position for starting. Because of the
power requirements of these components, the battery in this generator is considered dead at a higher voltage than it
would be in other types of equipment. The battery must have a charge of at least 10V to be able to start the generator.
During normal use, the generator engine will be shut off with either the remote fob, the ignition key, or by pressing the
red STOP button on the control panel. This manual provides instructions, notes, and warnings dealing with each of those
methods of stopping the generator. But the engine may shut off for any of the following reasons:
• The generator may run out of gas.
• An overload condition may occur.
• The generator may run low on oil.
• The ECU may shut off the engine due to an error reported by a sensor.
These shutdowns may occur when you are not present. When the generator engine shuts off, there will still be a drain
on the battery due to the display, the ECU, and the stepper motor, as long as the key is in the ON position. Although the
PH4000Ri/E is equipped with a sleep mode that shuts down these components when the generator is not running, the
sleep mode circuit will still be monitoring the generator, and over time this circuit will drain the battery below the 10V
necessary to start the generator. You must turn the key to the OFF position, and turn off the remote switch, to shut off the
electronics completely.
If you are operating the generator through the remote fob and the engine is not running, the remote switch will blink red to
remind you to turn the remote switch off. Whenever the remote switch is on, it is drawing current from the battery. When
the engine is not running, the battery will not be charged to compensate for the load from the remote receiver, and over
time the battery will be drained below the 10V necessary to start the generator. You must turn off the remote switch when
you will not use the remote fob to start the generator.
If the generator will not start, check the battery voltage with a voltmeter. You can access the battery through the left
maintenance door, or you can simply check the voltage through the battery charge receptacle on the control panel. This
receptacle is connected directly to the battery, so it can be used without the generator running, or the key in the ON
position, or the remote switch on.
If the battery voltage is below 10V, you must charge the battery by connecting a 12V trickle charger to the battery charge
receptacle on the control panel (“back-charging”), or directly to the battery leads. Allow the battery to charge fully before
attempting to start the generator.

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual17
6. Operating instructions
6.1. Starting the engine
• The unit can be started by the ignition key or remote. When the unit is started with the ignition key,
it can be shut down by the ignition key or the STOP button on the control panel; but NOT by the
remote. When the unit is started by the remote, it can be shut down by the remote. If you want to
shut down the unit with the ignition key when the unit has been started by remote, you will need to
turn the remote control switch on the control panel to the “OFF” position before you can shut off the
unit with the ignition key. The unit can always be shut down by the STOP button on the control panel
regardless of how you start the unit.
• If the battery charge is just high enough to run the fuel pump and the ECU, the generator can be
started by recoil, but not by the ignition key or remote. You must either charge the battery, or start the
generator by recoil and let it run, to build the battery charge.
6.2. Starting procedure using the Ignition Key
1. Move the remote selector switch on the control panel to the “OFF” position.
2. Insert the ignition key, and turn it to the ON position for three seconds. This will build up the appropriate pressure in
the fuel system, and allow the throttle valve to close.
3. Turn the key to the START position and hold it there until the engine is running or for a maximum of 10 seconds.
Release and repeat if necessary.
NOTE
!
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
SYSTEM FLOATING
RESEAU FLOTTANT
Remote Switch
Electric Start
Ignition Switch

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 18
6.3. Manual Start
1. Move the remote selector switch to the “OFF” position.
2. Insert the ignition key, and turn it to the ON position for three seconds. This will build up the appropriate pressure in
the fuel system, and allow the throttle valve to close.
3. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly out to start the generator.
• Do not allow the starter grip to snap back. Return it slowly by hand.
• Do not let the starter rope rub against the generator body or the rope will wear out prematurely.
6.4. Starting procedure using the remote function
1. Move the remote selector switch on the control panel to the “ON” position.
2. Push the start button on the remote twice and hold while the engine cranks 2-3 times without starting.
3. Wait three seconds to allow the fuel pressure to build, and the throttle valve to close.
4. Push the start button on the remote and hold until the engine has started or for a maximum of 10 seconds. Release
and repeat if necessary.
• The maximum operating range is 75’ based on a clear line of site.
• Always place the remote switch on the control panel in the “OFF” position when not in use for an
extended period of time, to prevent running down the battery. The remote switch will ash if the
remote switch is on while the generator is not running.
CAUTION
!
NOTE
!
Stop Button

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual19
6.5. High Altitudes
At high altitude, performance will decrease, and fuel consumption will increase. Even with the fuel injection system in this
generator, engine horsepower will decrease approximately 3.5% for each 1000 feet (305 meters) increase in altitude.
6.6. Operating at extreme temperatures
High temperature adversely affects generator operation. Generator performance will decrease 1% for each 10°F (5.5°C)
increase in temperature above 85°F (29°C). The normal operating range of this generator is 0° to 113° F (-18° to 45°C).
Although the generator can operate at 0° F (-18° C) it will be necessary to use a lower viscosity engine oil such as SAE
0W-40. Synthetic oil is recommended for temperatures below 32° F. Even with cold weather oils, the engine will be more
difcult to start.
• In very cold weather the engine will actually take longer than normal to warm up because the oil is
thinner and there is less internal friction throughout the warm up period. Once the engine reaches
operating temperature 0W-40 oil is no thinner than straight 40W.
• Do not operate the generator when the ambient temperature is below 0°F (-18°C).
• Do not operate the generator when the ambient temperature is above 113° F (45° C).
NOTE
!
CAUTION
!

PH4000Ri/E Owner’s Manual 20
6.7. Generator use
• To prevent electrical shock from faulty appliances, the generator should be grounded. Connect a
length of heavy cable between the generator's grounding terminal and an external ground source.
• Connections for standby power to a building's electrical system must be made by a qualied
electrician and must comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes. Improper connections can
allow electrical current from the generator to back feed into the utility lines. Such back feed may
electrocute utility company workers or others who contact the lines during a power outage. When
utility power is restored the generator may explode, burn, or cause res in the building's electrical
system.
• Do not connect the generator to an automatic transfer device. Severe damage to the inverter module
may result.
• Do not attempt to connect generators in parallel.
• Indoor use of a generator can kill quickly. Generators should be used outdoors only.
• The total wattage of all appliances connected must be considered.
• Do not exceed the current limit specied for any one receptacle.
• Do not connect the generator to a household circuit. This could cause damage to the generator or to
electrical appliances in the house.
• Do not modify or use the generator for purposes other than its intended use.
• Do not connect an extension to the exhaust pipe.
• When an extension cord is required, be sure to use a rubber sheathed exible cord. Also be sure to
use the proper size and length cord.
– 16 Gauge Cords - a 16 gauge cord between 0 and 100 feet long will safely handle tool and appliance
loads up to 10 amps.
– 14 Gauge Cords - a 14 gauge cord between 0 and 50 feet long will safely handle tool and appliance
loads between 10 and 15 amps.
– 12 Gauge Cords - a 12 gauge cord between 50 and 100 feet will safely handle tool and appliance loads
between 10 and 15 amps.
• Keep the generator away from other electric cables or wires such as commercial power supply lines.
• The DC receptacle (in the Battery Charge section of the control panel) can be used while the AC
power is in use. If you use both at the same time, be sure not to exceed the total power for AC and
DC.
• Most appliance motors require more than their rated wattage for start-up.
• It is normal for the run time indicator to have 1-2 hours on the meter from the factory for testing and
quality assurance inspections.
WARNING
!
CAUTION
!
NOTE
!