Powerhorse 1661132 User manual
Owner’s Manual
Instructions for Installation/Set-up, Operation, Servicing, & Storage
Portable, Outdoor Use-Only, Gasoline Generator
1661132 - 5500 Watt Continuous (7000 Watt Surge) Capacity
Can be used to power individual appliances plugged directly into the generator’s outlets, or as a
back-up connection to a building’s power supply (via a professionally installed UL-approved
transfer switch.
WARNING
READ and UNDERSTAND this manual completely before using the generator! Failure to properly set up,
operate, and maintain this generator could result in serious injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning,
electric shock, fire/explosion, or burns. In particular, be aware of the following hazards:
CO Poisoning
Generators give off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.
ONLY run generator OUTDOORS and AWAY from building air intakes. NEVER run generator inside any enclosed or
semi-enclosed spaces, including homes, basements, garages, sheds, boxes, RVs, boats or pick-up truck beds. These
spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or open windows.
Install carbon monoxide alarms inside nearby structures/buildings (battery-operated, or plug-in with battery backup).
Electric shock / Electrocution
High voltage electricity from generator can kill. DO NOT operate in wet locations. Be sure generator is properly
grounded. Use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated grounded extension cords of proper size.
NEVER plug the generator directly into a wall outlet. ANY connection to a building’s electrical system MUST
ISOLATE THE GENERATOR FROM UTILITY POWER via a UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed
electrician. Otherwise, back feed from the generator into the power grid could kill utility workers.
Fire / Explosion
DO NOT overload generator (per rated capacity), and OPERATE ONLY in an area with adequate cooling ventilation so
engine does not overheat. Exhaust can be extremely hot. Keep muffler at least 7 feet from all combustible objects.
All fuels are flammable. Never fuel a running or hot engine. Never pump fuel directly into generator at gas station –use
approved container to transfer fuel. Ensure there are no fuel leaks, and keep sources of sparks and flames away.
ALWAYS keep a fire extinguisher rated “ABC” nearby.
STOP!
CHOOSE THE RIGHT GENERATOR FOR YOUR NEEDS. See the “Power load Planning & Management” section
of this manual to determine your power load requirements and then compare to the generator’s rated capacity.
INSPECT COMPONENTS: Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged. See the “Unpacking
& Delivery Inspection” section for instructions on whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.
ARRANGE FOR PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION of a transfer switch if you will be connecting the generator to
your building’s electrical system. See the “Installation/Initial Set-Up” section for more information about this
requirement.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders
Call Powerhorse Product Support 1-866-443-2576
M1661132B
ITEM NUMBER: 1661132
SERIAL NUMBER: _____________
Hazard Signal Word Definitions
2
Table of Contents
3
Hazard Signal Word Definitions ..................................................................................................2
About Your Generator ..................................................................................................................4
Specifications ..................................................................................................................................6
Safety Label Locations...................................................................................................................7
Machine Component Identification.............................................................................................10
Power Load Planning & Management.......................................................................................12
Installation / Initial Set-Up:
1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection..........................................................................................14
2. Planning the Power Load........................................................................................................14
3. Set-up as a PORTABLE or BUILDING BACK-UP Power Source ......................................15
4. Selecting a Suitable Site.........................................................................................................18
5. Grounding the Generator........................................................................................................20
6. Battery Installation .................................................................................................................21
Operation:
1. General Safety Rules for Operation .......................................................................................22
2. Preparing for Operation..........................................................................................................25
3. Starting the Engine.................................................................................................................28
4. Checking Generator Output....................................................................................................29
5. Connecting Loads...................................................................................................................30
6. Stopping the Engine ...............................................................................................................30
7. Storage & Exercise.................................................................................................................31
Maintenance & Repair..................................................................................................................33
Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................35
Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation.......................................................36
Engine Operation ..........................................................................................................................40
Engine Troubleshooting................................................................................................................46
Engine Specifications/Electrical Diagram...................................................................................47
Exploded Views .............................................................................................................................48
Wheel Kit Assembly......................................................................................................................54
Warranty Statement .....................................................................................................................55
About Your Generator
4
Thank you for purchasing your Powerhorse portable generator!
About Your Generator
This engine-driven, portable generator is designed to provide up to 7000Watts of
electrical power (5500 watts continuous, 7000 watts surge).
It can supply power:
1. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances directly into the generator’s
electrical outlets.
2. As a back-up, standby power source for a building. A licensed electrician can connect
the generator to your building’s electrical system via the installation of an UL-approved
transfer switch. (See the “Installation & Initial Set-up” section of this manual to learn
more about specific requirements and precautions relating to wiring the generator to your
building’s electrical system.)
You must select a generator adequately sized for your power needs. You need to
determine the power needs of all the appliances/tools you wish to power at the same time and
choose a generator rated to provide at least that power level. See the “Power Load Planning &
Management” section of this manual to determine your specific power load requirements and
then compare them to this generator’s rated capacity. You must not overload the generator.
Overloading will cause damage to the generator and attached electrical devices, and may also
result in fire.
Be sure to read about site selection and grounding requirements for running this
generator. More detailed information can be found in the “Installation & Initial Set-up, Steps
5 & 6” of this manual.
Contact Powerhorse Product Support at 1-866-443-2576 with questions about optional
accessories or to order.
Read this Manual
WARNING
Improper use or maintenance of this generator can result in serious injury or death from
carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock/electrocution, fire/explosion, or burns.
Read this manual completely before using the generator and follow all instructions and
safety rules.
You must follow all instructions and safety precautions presented throughout this manual. A
summary of important safety information can be found at the end of the manual. Keep this
manual for reference and review.
About Your Generator (cont’d)
5
Proper preparation, operation, and maintenance will result in operator safety, as well as best
performance and long life of the generator. For detailed engine operation and maintenance
information, always refer to the engine Owner’s Manual furnished with the generator.
Powerhorse is constantly improving its products. The specifications outlined herein are
subject to change without prior notice or obligation. The purchaser and/or user shall assume
liability for any modification and/or alterations of this equipment from original design and
manufacture.
Before using, the user shall determine the suitability of this product for its intended use and
assumes liability therein.
Contact Powerhorse Product Support at 1-866-443-2576 for any questions about the
appropriate use of this generator.
Warranty Registration
Please fill in the warranty registration information and have it on hand when you call in on a
warranty claim or replacement parts.
ATTENTION:
All Rental Companies and Private Owners who loan this
equipment to others!
All persons to whom you rent/loan this generator must have access to and read this manual.
Keep this owner’s manual with the generator at all times and advise all persons who will
operate the machine to read it. You must also provide personal instruction on how to safely
operate the generator and remain available to answer any questions a renter/borrower might
have.
Specifications
6
Item Number
#1661132
Maximum Output
7000 Watts (W)
Continuous Output
5500 Watts (W)
Voltage
120/240 Volt (V)
Continuous Amperage
45.8/22.9 Amps (A)
Phase
Single phase (4-wire)
Frequency
56.5 - 63.3 Hertz (Hz)
Power Factor
1.0 p.f.
Total Harmonic Distortion
less than 5%
Engine
420cc
Engine Speed
3750 RPM
Fuel Type
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Capacity
6.6 gallons (25 L)
Oil Capacity
1.05 US quarts (1.0 L)
Starting Method
Recoil/Electric Start
120/240 V Receptacles
4 - 20 Amp (A) duplex
(NEMA 5-20R)
1 –30 Amp 120/240V locking
(NEMA L14-30R)
Circuit Breakers
1-8 Amp (A) thermal, push to reset
4-20 Amp (A) thermal, push to reset
2-23 Amp (A) thermal, push to reset
Dimensions
Length
28”
Width
20”
Height
23”
Dry Weight
185 lbs.
Battery Specs
(Battery Not Included)
12 Volt DC
Sealed Lead Acid
180 CCA
10.5 Amp hours
Terminal Style –T2
5.94” x 2.52” x 4.84”
Northern Tool & Equipment Item # 33528
Safety Label Locations
7
Part # 790386
Part # 782554
Part # 782933
Part # 782629
Part # 790384
(1 of 2)
Part # 782927
Part # 782925
Part # 782929
Part # 782636
Part # 782628
Safety Labels Locations
8
Part # 782633
Part # 790385
Part # 782630
(1 of 2)
Part # 790384
(2 of 2)
Part # 782630
(2 of 2)
Safety Label Locations
9
Always make sure safety labels are in place and in good condition. If a safety label
is missing or not legible, order new labels or unsafe operation could result.
To order replacement safety labels, call Powerhorse Product Support at 1-866-443-2576.
Machine Component Identification
10
Ref.
Description
Ref.
Description
1
Vibration Isolation Mount
11
Engine Switch
2
Oil Drain Plug
12
8A Circuit Breaker
3
Recoil
13
12VDC Supply
4
Handle
14
Voltmeter
5
Air Cleaner
15
23A Circuit Breaker
6
Gas Cap
16
120V, 20A Duplex Receptacle
7
6.6 Gallon Gas Tank
17
20A Circuit Breaker
8
Generator Head
18
120/240V, 30A Locking Receptacle
9
Muffler
19
Grounding Post
10
Low Oil Warning
20
Fuel Shut Off
10
12
11
13
14
15
17
18
19
9
16
8
9
2
1
7
3
6
4
2
6
20
5
Machine Component Identification
11
REFERENCE GUIDE
Reference 1 –Vibration Isolation
Mount
The engine and generator head are mounted on rubber cylinders
that absorb most of the engine vibration. This feature eliminates
the tendency of the machine to “walk” which is common in engine-
powered equipment.
Reference 2 –Oil Drain Plug
Refer to your engine manual for oil change recommendations.
Reference 3 –Recoil
Grasp firmly when starting engine.
Reference 4 –Handle
Pivot to move the generator.
Reference 5 –Air Cleaner
Refer to your engine manual for air cleaner care.
Reference 6 –Gas Cap
The gas cap is extra large, creating a large hole for refilling and
a comfortable grip.
Reference 7 - Gas Tank
Large tank allows for extended run capabilities. Always allow
room for gasoline expansion by not filling the gas tank
completely.
Reference 8 - Generator Head
The electricity producing part of the generator.
Reference 9 - Muffler
This generator is equipped with a quiet style muffler. The
muffler is designed to allow moisture (condensation) to drain
from the bottom of the canister. Always check for loose
fasteners
Reference 10 –Low Oil Warning
Lamp turns on if oil is low.
Reference 11 –Engine Switch
On / Off for power to engine for starting.
Reference 12 - Circuit Breaker
Circuit breakers protect against electrical overloads.
Reference 13 –12VDC Supply
12 volts for charging battery and operating other 12 volt
devices.
Reference 14 –Voltmeter
Voltmeter needle should be in appropriate voltage range
during all generator load conditions.
Reference 15 –Circuit Breaker
Circuit breakers protect against electrical overloads.
Reference 16 - 120V, 20A Duplex
Receptacle
The generator has a control panel with four duplex (two
receptacles in a common housing) receptacles. Each duplex is
a 120 volt (V) 20 amp (A) straight blade receptacle, National
Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA) number 5-20R.
This receptacle accepts NEMA plug numbers 5-15P and 5-20P.
Reference 17 –Circuit Breaker
Circuit breakers protect against electrical overloads.
Reference 18 –120/240V, 30 A
Locking Receptacle
The generator has a control panel with a 120/240 volt (V) 30
amp (A) locking receptacle, National Electrical Manufacturer’s
Association (NEMA) number L14-30R.
Reference 19 –Grounding Post
Used to prevent electrical shock.
Reference 20 –Fuel Shut Off
The engine is equipped with an ON-OFF valve located on the
left side of the recoil. ALWAYS keep this valve closed when
the generator is not in use.
Power Load Planning & Management
12
WARNING
NEVER exceed the rated wattage capacity of your generator.
OVERLOADING may cause SERIOUS DAMAGE to the generator and
attached electrical devices, and may result in fire.
Your generator MUST BE SIZED PROPERLY to provide both the running and starting (surge)
wattage of the devices you will be powering. Before using your generator, determine the running
and starting wattage requirements of all the electrical devices you will be powering simultaneously.
The sum of the running and starting wattages of the devices being powered must not exceed the
continuous output rating of your generator. (The continuous output rating of your generator is listed
in the “Specifications” section of this manual.) Note that:
Devices without electric motors such as light bulbs, radios, and televisions have the same
running and starting wattage.
Devices with electric motors such as refrigerators, compressors, and hand tools typically
require a starting wattage that is 3 to 5 times greater than the running wattage.
The running and starting wattage requirements are often listed on a device’s nameplate. If wattage
is not given on the device’s nameplate, the wattage may be calculated by multiplying the nameplate
voltage by nameplate amperage, Watts = Volts X Amps.
Example conversion to watts:
120 Volts X 5 Amps = 600 Watts
If only the running voltage is given on the nameplate for a device with an electric motor, the starting
wattage can be approximated to be three to five times the running wattage.
Estimates for the running wattage requirements for common devices are listed in Table 1 below.
Guidance for starting wattages is provided in the table’s footnotes.
Table 1
Device
Running
Watts
Device
Running
Watts
Air conditioner (12.000 BTU)
1700 (a,b)
Jet pump
800 (a)
Battery charger (20 Amp)
500
Lawn mower
1200
Belt sander (3”)
1000
Light bulb (100 Watt)
100
Chain saw
1200
Microwave oven
700
Circular saw (6½”)
2000 (a,b)
Milk cooler
1100 (a)
Coffee maker
1800 (a,b)
Oil burner on furnace
300
Compressor (1 HP)
1400 (a,b)
Oil-fired space heater (140,000 Btu)
400
Compressor (3/4 HP)
1800 (a)
Oil-fired space heater (85,000 Btu)
225
Compressor (1/2 HP)
1400 (a)
Oil-fired space heater (30,000 Btu)
150
Curling iron
700
Oven
4500
Dishwasher
1200
Paint sprayer, Airless (1/3 HP)
600 (a)
Edge trimmer
500
Paint sprayer, Airless (handheld)
150
Electric nail gun
1200
Radio
200
Electric range (1 element)
1500
Refrigerator
600 (b)
Electric skillet
1250
Slow cooker
200
Power Load Planning & Management (cont’d)
13
Device
Running
Watts
Device
Running
Watts
Furnace fan (1/3 HP)
1200 (a)
Submersible pump (1-1/2 HP)
2800 (a)
Freezer
800 (b)
Submersible pump (1 HP)
2000 (a)
Hair dryer
1200
Submersible pump (1/2 HP)
1500 (a)
Hand drill (1”)
1100
Sump pump
600 (a)
Hand drill (1/2”)
875
Table saw
2000 (a)
Hand drill (3/8”)
500
Television
500
Hand drill (1/4”)
250
Toaster
1000
Hedge trimmer
450
Vacuum cleaner
250
Home computer
150
VCR
70
Impact wrench
500
Water Heater
3000
Weed trimmer
500
(a) Hard-starting motors require 3-5 times the rated running watts
(b) For extremely hard to start loads such as air conditioners and air compressors, consult the equipment dealer to
determine maximum wattage
To calculate the running and starting wattage requirements for the devices you will be
powering, follow these steps:
1. Make a list of all electrical devices you will be powering at the same time with the generator.
2. List the greater of the running or starting wattage next to each device as obtained from the
devices’ nameplate or Table 1. If only the running wattage for a device with an electric
motor is known, the starting wattage can be estimated to be at least 3 times the running
wattage.
3. Add the wattages for all devices on your list. This total must be lower than the continuous
output rating of your generator.
Example:
Device to be Powered
Greater of
Starting/Running Wattage
Light Bulb
75 W
Refrigerator –18 Cu. Ft.
1600 W
Microwave
700 W
Window AC
1800 W
Sump pump (1/3 hp)
2100 W
Total
6275W
In this example, the generator must have a continuous output of at least 6275 W in order to
power all of the devices simultaneously.
You can increase the number of devices your generator can power by staggering the load on the
generator. For example, you could alternately power your refrigerator and air conditioner for
limited periods of time -- powering only one of the devices at a time and never powering both at the
same time.
STAGGERING LOADS
Installation/Initial Set-Up
14
There are a number of important steps required to set up your generator for initial use. These
steps are:
Steps for Installation / Initial Set-Up
1. Unpacking & delivery inspection.
2. Planning the power load to stay within the generator’s rated
capacity.
3. Setting up generator for the type of power generation you need:
a. portable power source, or
b. connected to a building as a back-up power source.
4. Selecting a site for using the generator.
5. Grounding.
6. Battery installation (electric start models only).
Each of these steps is discussed in detail below:
1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection
You should inspect the generator immediately after you receive delivery.
See the “Machine Component Identification” section of this manual for a
diagram of the generator and its components.
If you have missing components, contact Product Support at 1-866-443-2576.
If you have damaged components, contact the freight company that delivered the unit and file a
claim.
2. Planning the Power Load
Plan your power load so that you do not exceed the generator’s rated capacity.
See the “Power Load Planning & Management” section of this manual to review how to plan and
manage power loads for the generator.
Installation/Initial Set-Up
15
3. Set-up either as a BUILDING BACK-UP or PORTABLE Power Source
This generator is designed to provide up to 7000 watts of electrical power. It can supply electricity
in two ways:
1. As a back up, standby power source for a building. For this application, you must arrange
for a licensed electrician to connect the generator to your building’s electrical system via the
installation of an UL-approved transfer switch. The transfer switch must be installed in
accordance with building electrical code and guidelines supplied by your power company.
2. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances or tools directly into the generator’s
electrical outlets.
Specific requirements for each are given below.
Note: Regardless of whether you use your generator as a back-up power source connected to a
building or as a portable power source, you must not overload the generator. Overloading
may cause serious damage to the generator and attached electrical devices.
Using as a
Back-up Power
Source for a
Building
Contact a licensed electrician to install a UL-approved transfer switch if
you want to use your generator as a back-up power source for a building.
What does a transfer switch do? It:
a) Safely connects the generator to your building’s electrical system by
isolating your generator from your utility company’s power lines,
AND
b) Connects your generator to a critical subset of your building’s circuits
that are needed for emergency power needs.
If your generator will be connected to your building’s electrical system, it
MUST ALWAYS be isolated from the utility power grid with a UL-approved
transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician in compliance with all
applicable building and electrical codes, and in accordance with guidelines
supplied by your power company.
DANGER:
A transfer switch must be installed in order to isolate your
generator from the utility power grid. If your generator is NOT
properly isolated from the utility system, serious hazards will
arise:
When your generator is running, it’s output will back feed into
the utility power line and transformer that are normally used to
provide you with power. The transformer will step up the
current to the normal line voltage. An unsuspecting utility line
worker working on what he thinks is a deactivated line could
be electrocuted.
If your generator is connected (running or not) when utility
power is restored, your generator will be destroyed. It could
also explode or cause fire.
In addition to isolating your generator from the utility system, the transfer
switch connects your generator to a limited set of circuits in your building
that have been chosen as critical to operate during a power outage.
Installation/Initial Set-Up
16
The generator cannot power your entire home -- you must work with the
installing electrician to determine which devices/appliances you wish to
power during an outage. The electrician can help you determine which
circuits and devices can be powered simultaneously without overloading the
generator.
(See the previous section of this manual entitled “Power Load Planning &
Management” for more information on load application and selection.)
Using as a
Portable Power
Source
When using the generator as a portable power source, you can plug
electric devices and appliances directly into the generator’s electrical
outlets.
There are two different kinds of electrical outlets on the generator:
1. Four 120 Volt, 20 Amp duplex straight-blade receptacles (NEMA 5-
20R duplex receptacles compatible with NEMA 5-20P or 5-15P
mating plugs).
2. One 120/240 Volt, 30 Amp Locking receptacle (NEMA L14-30R)
compatible with NEMA L14-30P mating plugs).
(See more technical detail about these receptacles and their associated
circuit breakers in the “Machine Component Identification” section of this
manual.)
Make sure you plug each electrical device/appliance into the correct
generator outlet based on the device’s plug configuration and
voltage/amperage rating. Never exceed the amperage rating of an outlet.
5-20R
L14-30R
Installation/Initial Set-Up
17
Extension cords may be used to power devices that are located at a
distance from the generator. However, use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated,
grounded extension cords of the proper size. Use Table 2 below to choose
an adequately sized extension cord according to the amperage of the
device being used and the length of the cord.
Table 2
Current/Power
Maximum Extension Cord Length
Amps at
240V
Load
(watts)
#10 Ga.
Cord
#12 Ga.
Cord
#14 Ga.
Cord
#16 Ga.
Cord
10
2400
250’
150’
100’
75’
20
4800
125’
75’
50’
25’
30
7200
60’
35’
25’
10’
40
9600
30’
15’
10’
*
50
12000
15’
*
*
*
WARNING:
Use of under sized extension cords can cause electric shock, fire, or
damage to connected devices.
All extension and appliance cords must be in good condition and not worn,
bare, frayed, or otherwise damaged.
WARNING:
Use of damaged electric cords can cause electric shock or fire.
Note: If an extension cord becomes hot to the touch, it is overloaded or
damaged and must be replaced.
Northern Tool is NOT responsible for damage or injury resulting from
customer use of inadequate extension cords.
Installation/Initial Set-Up
18
4. Select a Suitable Site
Before using the generator, you must select a suitable OUTDOOR location for installation and
operation. This location should meet all of the criteria listed below.
WARNING:
You must choose a suitable site for operating your generator to avoid equipment damage
and/or injury and possible death from carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock, or fire.
Choose a site that meets all of the criteria specified.
Dry, level
surface
The generator should be positioned on a dry, firm, level surface.
Ensure that the generator sits level and will not slide or shift during operation.
If applicable, block the generator’s wheels to prevent sliding and shifting.
Outdoors only –
dangerous
carbon
monoxide
exhaust
WARNING: Carbon monoxide poisoning hazard
The exhaust from your generator contains carbon monoxide (CO), a
poisonous gas that can kill. You cannot smell it, see it, or taste it.
Carbon monoxide exhaust is given off whether you are using gasoline,
natural gas, or propane as the fuel source to power the generator.
Follow the directions below for choosing a location to operate your
generator in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
The location you choose to operate the generator must be OUTDOORS
and away from all air intakes:
Never run the generator inside any closed or semi-enclosed spaces (even if
outdoors), including homes, garages, basements, sheds, or boxes. These
spaces can trap poisonous gases, even if you run a fan or open windows.
Place the generator so that the exhaust fumes will not be directed towards
people or building air intakes.
Ensure that working, battery-operated or battery back-up carbon monoxide
alarms are used in any dwelling/structure that is in close proximity to the
running generator.
Note that this generator is NOT designed or approved for use in vehicles or
marine applications. Never run the generator inside RVs or other vehicles,
on boats, or on pick-up truck beds.
WARNING:
Never attempt to attach ductwork to the muffler system to allow for
installation inside an enclosure. This could cause hot air deflection,
heat build-up, and increased exhaust back-pressure, resulting in
possible exhaust leakage or damage to the generator.
Adequate
cooling
ventilation
The generator needs adequate, unobstructed flow of air to allow for
proper cooling of engine and generator head.
WARNING:
Heat build-up from inadequate ventilation can result in fire, posing a
serious risk to nearby persons and structures.
Situate so there is adequate clearance around generator to allow for cooling
airflow so that heat does not build up.
Installation/Initial Set-Up
19
Never place the generator immediately adjacent to a building or other
structure –allow at least 7 feet clearance.
Do not run the generator in close proximity to other heat-generating
equipment, such as another generator. The combined heat that is generated
may raise air temperature in the immediate area and there will not be
adequate cooling ventilation.
Do not allow debris to accumulate and block airflow.
Do not operate with a tarp, blanket, or cover surrounding the generator.
No wet
conditions
Choose a location where the generator will NOT be exposed to rain, snow,
or direct sunlight. Exposure to water can cause electric shock.
You may operate the generator under an outdoor, canopy-like structure of
heat-resistant material that is open on all sides. Make sure that all parts of
canopy are at least 7 feet from exhaust, and allow for adequate clearance
above generator so that heat does not build up.
Hot exhaust
clearance
The exhaust gas from your generator is extremely hot and can cause
combustible materials to catch on fire.
Make sure your generator’s exhaust system is at least 7 feet from all
combustible materials and buildings/structures.
Equip the engine with a spark arrestor if the generator will be used near any
ignitable forest, brush, or grassy land. (See the “Specifications” section of
this manual to determine if your generator is already equipped.) Make sure
you comply with applicable local, state, and federal codes.
Keep a fire extinguisher rated “ABC” nearby. Keep it properly charged and
be familiar with its use.
Away from
dust/dirt
Do not use the generator in extremely dusty or dirty conditions. Excessive
dust and dirt can cause premature failure of the machine.
Hearing
protection
Generators can produce noise levels of up to 95 dB in close proximity,
which can be dangerous to human hearing with prolonged exposure.
Hearing protection may be required for persons working within 15-20 feet of
the running generator for an extended period of time.
WARNING:
Never attempt to attach ductwork to the muffler system to lower noise
levels. This could cause hot air deflection, heat build-up, and increased
exhaust back-pressure, resulting in possible exhaust leakage or damage
to the generator.
Installation/Initial Set-Up
20
5. Grounding the generator
Always ensure the generator is properly grounded to prevent electrical shock.
You must always ground the generator by the following method when using the generator as a
portable electrical source:
1) Drive a ¾” or 1” copper pipe or rod into the ground close to the generator. The pipe/rod
must penetrate moist earth –the depth required will be dictated by local soil conditions.
Consult with an electrician.
2) Connect an approved ground clamp to the pipe.
3) Run a 10 gauge wire from the clamp to the generator grounding post located on the rear of
the generator head.
4) Do not connect the generator grounding post to a water pipe or a ground used by a radio
system.
If a licensed electrician installs the generator with a connection to your building’s electrical circuit
for use as a back-up power system, grounding may alternatively be completed through the
building’s grounding system. Ask your electrician. If the generator is not grounded through your
building’s electrical system, follow the procedure above.
WARNING:
Operating the generator when it is not properly grounded can result in electrical shock.
Control Panel Face
Grounding Post
10 Ga. wire
Copper
Pipe/Rod
Ground
Table of contents
Other Powerhorse Generator manuals
