Power House PH6500Ri User manual

PH6500Ri Digital Inverter Generator
OWNER’S MANUAL
PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL
CAREFULLY BEFORE USING
POWERHOUSE®

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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. Use the embedded handles to move the generator on flat terrain. Use the folding handles to move the
generator on rough or uneven terrain. Refer to the Using the Handles section for more information.
2. Add oil by removing the maintenance door and inspecting the dipstick. Fill the oil reservoir with 37.2 fl oz
(1.1 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 15W-40 viscosity oil unless operating at ambient
temperatures below 32° F (0° C). For temperatures below 32° F, use SAE 0W-40 viscosity oil. Synthetic
oil is also recommended for temperatures below 32° F. Refer to the Operating at extreme temperatures
section for more information.
3. Remove the maintenance door and connect the quick connect cable to the battery wiring harness. Refer
to the Connecting the battery section for more information.
4. Replace the maintenance door.
5. 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.
Connected

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6. 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.
7. Carefully add regular unleaded automotive gasoline up to the shoulder of the fuel strainer. To avoid
spilling fuel, use care to not fill too quickly or over fill. 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 and carburetor.
Operation
1. Ensure that no loads have been connected to the AC receptacles.
2. Open the fuel valve.
3. Start the engine in one of the following ways.
A. Electric Start:
Insert the ignition key, and turn it all the way to the START position. Hold key at this position
until the engine is running or for a maximum of 10 seconds. Release and repeat if necessary.
B. Remote Start:
Turn the remote switch to the “ON”position.
Push the start button on the remote twice 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.
4. 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.
5. Use the voltage selector switch to select either 120V-only operation or 120V/240V operation. For the
location of the voltage selector switch, refer to the PH6500Ri Control Panel section.
Do not use the switch while a load is connected. Switching the voltage while a load is
connected may burn out the voltage selector switch.
6. Make sure that all appliances to be connected have been switched off and are in good working order.
Confirm that the electrical rating does not exceed that of the generator.
7. Connect your appliances to the appropriate receptacle on the generator’s panel.
8. To minimize fuel consumption and noise, push the economy switch to the “ON” position. This setting
regulates the engine’s speed so that it matches the needs of the connected loads. Do not use the
economy setting if you are connecting items with electric motors that have a high amperage draw during
startup or with appliances that cycle on and off rapidly.

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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. However,
continually stopping the generator without disconnecting all loads can cause damage
to the generator or appliances.
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. Turn off all connected appliances and disconnect from the generator.
2. 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 indicator light will flash to remind you to turn it off.
3. Turn the fuel valve off.
FCC INFORMATION
Trade Name: Coast Distribution Inc.
Model: PH6500PRi
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 modifications 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.

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PREFACE
Thank you for purchasing a POWERHOUSE®generator.
This manual covers the operation and maintenance of the POWERHOUSE®generator model PH6500Ri.
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 877-544-4449 from 8am to 6pm ET, email us at [e-mail] or send a
fax to 800-263-0280.
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. Apermanently installed stationary generator is designed to be safely
used for this specific 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 /The Coast Distribution System, Inc. 2012

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PH6500Ri Digital Inverter Generator..............................................................................................................................1
QUICK START................................................................................................................................................................2
Pre-Operation .............................................................................................................................................................2
Operation ....................................................................................................................................................................3
Shutdown....................................................................................................................................................................4
FCC INFORMATION.......................................................................................................................................................4
Notice..........................................................................................................................................................................4
PREFACE .......................................................................................................................................................................5
1. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS..........................................................................................................................................8
To ensure safe operation ............................................................................................................................................8
2. COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION...............................................................................................................................9
2.1 PH6500Ri Generator ............................................................................................................................................9
2.2 PH6500Ri Control Panel.....................................................................................................................................10
2.3 Serial number and bar code identification and location......................................................................................11
3. USING THE HANDLES ............................................................................................................................................12
4. PRE-OPERATION CHECK.......................................................................................................................................13
4.1 Check the Engine Oil Level ................................................................................................................................13
4.2 Check the fuel level.............................................................................................................................................14
4.3 Check the air cleaner..........................................................................................................................................15
4.4 Connecting the battery........................................................................................................................................16
4.5 Battery removal and replacement.......................................................................................................................17
5. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.................................................................................................................................18
5.1 Starting the engine..............................................................................................................................................18
5.2 Starting procedure using the Ignition Key...........................................................................................................18
5.3 Starting procedure using the remote function.....................................................................................................19
5.4 High Altitudes......................................................................................................................................................19
5.5 Operating at extreme temperatures....................................................................................................................19
5.6 Generator use.....................................................................................................................................................20
5.7 120V/240V Operation .........................................................................................................................................21
5.8 Digital display......................................................................................................................................................22
5.9 AC application.....................................................................................................................................................23
5.10 Overload conditions..........................................................................................................................................25
5.11 Low voltage protection ......................................................................................................................................26
5.12 DC application...................................................................................................................................................27
5.13 Low oil alarm system ........................................................................................................................................29
5.14 Economy switch................................................................................................................................................30
5.15 Stopping the engine..........................................................................................................................................31
5.16 Air conditioner operation...................................................................................................................................32
6. MAINTENANCE........................................................................................................................................................33
6.1 Emission Control System....................................................................................................................................33
6.2 Maintenance Schedule .......................................................................................................................................35
6.3 Changing oil........................................................................................................................................................36
6.4 Air cleaner service...............................................................................................................................................37
6.5 Spark plug service ..............................................................................................................................................38
6.6 Spark arrester maintenance ...............................................................................................................................39
7. TRANSPORTING & STORAGE ...............................................................................................................................40
7.1 Transporting the Generator.................................................................................................................................40
7.2 Short term storage of the Generator...................................................................................................................40
7.3 Infrequent use.....................................................................................................................................................41
7.4 Exercising the Generator....................................................................................................................................41

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8. TROUBLESHOOTING..............................................................................................................................................42
8.1 Engine will not start.............................................................................................................................................42
8.2 Engine will not crank with the key or remote start ..............................................................................................43
8.3 Appliance does not operate ................................................................................................................................43
8.4 No output at the DC receptacle ..........................................................................................................................44
8.5 Digital display is illuminated but there is no data................................................................................................44
9. SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................................................................................45
10. WARRANTYAND CONSUMER INFORMATION...................................................................................................47
CALIFORNIA EMISSIONS CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT.........................................................................48
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY ........................................................................................................49
11. APPENDIX A - EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM....................................................................................................50
12. APPENDIX B - SAFETY AND CHARGING INSTRUCTIONS................................................................................51

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1. 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 muffler becomes very hot during operation and remains hot for several minutes
after stopping the engine.
Be careful not to touch the muffler while it is hot.
Let the engine cool before storing the generator indoors.
To ensure safe operation
Gasoline is extremely flammable 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 can be used as a standby power supply, but it is very important to get a
qualified electrician to set it up. If the unit is not properly set up, 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.
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, fire. It may also lead to death by asphyxiation.
Do not modify the enclosure of this generator.

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2. COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION
2.1 PH6500Ri Generator
Pneumatic
tires
Fuel gauge
Fuel cap
Muffler grill
Stabilizing
rubber feet
Folding
handles
Maintenance
door
Control panel
Fuel valve

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2.2 PH6500Ri Control Panel
A
Remote indicator
B
120V 30 Acircuit breaker for L5-30R lock twist receptacle
C
Remote switch
D
L1 25 Acircuit breaker for L14-30R lock twist receptacle
E
Voltage selector switch
F
L2 25 Acircuit breaker for L14-30R lock twist receptacle
G
Low oil indicator
H
Overload L1 indicator
I
Overload L2 indicator
J
Digital display
K
12 V DC –8.3 Abattery charge receptacle (internal and external)
L
DC circuit breaker
M
Ignition switch
N
Stop button (Red)
O
Overload reset button (Green)
P
Economy switch
Q
Grounding terminal
R
L14-30R lock twist receptacle (240VAC –50 A, 120V/L1 and 120V/L2)
S
L5-30R lock twist receptacle (120VAC –30 A)
T
5-20R split duplex receptacle (120VAC –20 A)
U
120VAC –20 A circuit breakers for 5-20R split duplex receptacle
A
C
B
E
D
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U

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2.3 Serial number and bar code identification 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 The Coast Distribution
System, Inc. for warranty administration and must be supplied before any work can be done.
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 muffler grill, close to the bottom.
2. On the back of this owner’s manual.
You can also find the BCN number on the foil label on the shipping carton, right below the bar code.
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 significantly speed the process in the event warranty service is necessary.
For warranty assistance:
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: warrant[email protected]
190F 12000440

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3. USING THE HANDLES
Using the handles without locking them properly in place can damage the handle
brackets.
This generator includes a total of four (4) handles. Two of the handles are fixed into the top of the cabinet on the
ends (one handle over the control panel and one handle over the muffler grill). These handles are good for
rolling the generator along even, smooth terrain or for tie-down during transportation. There are also two folding
handles for ease in moving the generator along rough or uneven terrain. The handles fold down when not in use,
locked in place on either side of the control panel by retaining clips. The handles extend upward parallel with the
top of the unit and lock in place so that the generator may be moved wheelbarrow-style with stability.
Each folding handle has a locking mechanism at the handle bracket consisting of a spring-secured locking rod
with a round, black lock knob on the end of it. To lock or unlock the folding handle in its extended position, push
the lock knob in to unlock the handle so that the handle can slide forward or backward freely within the handle
bracket.
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.
To extend and lock the folding handles:
1. Pull each handle free from its retaining clip and rotate it upward until it is fully extended.
2. Push the lock knob in and push the handle inward (toward the generator) so that the handle can slide to a
fully seated position.
3. Release the lock knob, securing the handle in the handle bracket.
4. Repeat to extend and lock the other handle.
To unlock the extended handles and stow them properly:
1. Push the lock knob in and pull the handle outward (away from the generator).
2. Release the plastic lock knob.
3. Rotate each handle downward and snap it into its retaining clip.
Embedded
handle
Embedded
handle
Folding
handle
Folding
handle
Lock knob
Handle stowed
and locked in
the retaining
clip
Push handle toward generator to lock.
Rotate handle upward.

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4. PRE-OPERATION CHECK
Be sure to check the generator on a level surface with the engine stopped.
4.1 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, certified to meet or exceed
U.S. automobile manufacturer's requirements for API Service Classification 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 first 4 to 6 hours of operation to clean
manufacturing debris and contamination.
Use SAE 15W-40 viscosity oil unless operating at ambient temperatures below 32° F
(0° C). For temperatures below 32° F, use SAE 0W-40 viscosity oil. See page 18 for
more information about operating at extreme temperatures.
1. Loosen the maintenance door screws and remove the cover.
2. Remove the dipstick, wipe it with a clean rag and reinsert it into the filler neck. You do not have to screw
the dipstick 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, refill with the recommended oil up to the top of
the upper level marking. Do not overfill.
5. Reinsert the dipstick and be sure to screw it down until it is tight.
6. Reinstall the maintenance door and tighten the screws securely.
Running the engine with insufficient 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: 37.2 fl oz. (2.33 pt) / 1.1 L
Upper limit
Lower limit
Upper level
Lower level

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4.2 Check the fuel level
You can check the fuel level two ways:
Check the mechanical fuel gauge located on top of the generator
Check the fuel reading on the digital display, which provides a series of bars indicating fuel level
For more information on the digital display, including the fuel reading, refer to the Digital display section.
Use automotive unleaded regular gasoline only.
1. If the fuel level is low, refill to the shoulder of the fuel strainer.
2. Never use an oil/gasoline mixture or dirty gasoline.
3. Avoid getting dirt, dust or water in the fuel tank.
4. After refueling, tighten the fuel filler cap securely.
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 and carburetor.
Gasoline is extremely flammable 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 overfill 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: 5.8 gal (22 L)
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, confirm 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.
Digital display
Fuel strainer
Fuel level
Mechanical
fuel gauge
Fuel cap

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4.3 Check the air cleaner
1. Loosen the cover screws and remove the maintenance door.
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 screw securely.
4. Replace the maintenance door 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 carburetor, into the
engine.
Air cleaner cartridge
Air cleaner element
Maintenance door
Air cleaner case

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4.4 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.
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.
Due to the nature of lead acid batteries, it may be necessary to charge the battery
before using the generator the first 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 the Pre-Operation section of this manual.
Wiring harness
Quick connect cable
Connected

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4.5 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.

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5. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 Starting the engine
The unit can be started by either 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.
When starting the generator after adding fuel for the first time or after long term
storage, or after running out of fuel, turn the fuel valve to the "ON" position, then wait
for 10 to 20 seconds before starting the engine.
Before starting the engine, disconnect any load from theAC receptacles.
5.2 Starting procedure using the Ignition Key
1. Turn the fuel valve to the “ON”position.
2. Move the remote selector switch on the control panel to the “OFF” position.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the “START”position until the engine has started. Do not operate the starter for
more than 10 seconds. Repeat if necessary.
Remote switch
Fuel valve
Ignition
switch
Electric start

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5.3 Starting procedure using the remote function
1. Turn the fuel valve lever to the “ON” position.
2. Move the remote selector switch on the control panel to the “ON” position.
3. Push the start button on the remote twice and hold until the engine has started. Do not operate the starter
for more than 10 seconds. 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
indicator light will illuminate and flash if the remote switch is on while the generator is
not running.
5.4 High Altitudes
At high altitude, the standard carburetor air-fuel mixture will be excessively rich, performance will decrease, and
fuel consumption will increase.
High altitude performance can be improved by installing a smaller diameter main fuel jet in the carburetor. If you
always operate the generator at altitudes higher than 5000 feet (1500 meters) above sea level, have your
authorized dealer install a high altitude main jet.
Even with suitable carburetor jetting, engine horsepower will decrease approximately 3.5% for each 1000 foot
(305 meters) increase in altitude. The effect of altitude on the horsepower will be greater than this if no
carburetor modification is made.
Be sure to have any carburetor modification reversed before operating at lower
altitudes. Operation of the generator at an altitude lower than the carburetor is jetted for
may result in reduced performance, overheating, and serious engine damage caused
by an excessively lean air/fuel mixture.
5.5 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 difficult to start.
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).
(-18° C)
(0° C)
(45° C)
Start
button

20 PH6500Ri OM
5.6 Generator use
Be sure to ground the generator when loads are connected.
BREAK-IN PERIOD: For maximum performance, run your new generator at no more
than 50% of the rated load of the generator for 4 hours before you apply a full load for
the first time.
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
qualified 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 fires 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 specified 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 flexible 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.