Wacker Neuson GPi 1700 User manual

5000186370 04 0611
5000186370
Operator’s Manual
Inverter Generator
GPi 1700

Copyright
notice
© Copyright 2011 by Wacker Neuson Production Americas LLC
All rights, including copying and distribution rights, are reserved.
This publication may be photocopied by the original purchaser of the machine. Any
other type of reproduction is prohibited without express written permission from
Wacker Neuson Production Americas LLC.
Any type of reproduction or distribution not authorized by Wacker Neuson Production
Americas LLC represents an infringement of valid copyrights. Violators will be
prosecuted.
Trademarks All trademarks referenced in this manual are the property of their respective owners.
Manufacturer Wacker Neuson Production Americas LLC
N92W15000 Anthony Avenue
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 U.S.A.
Tel: [phone] · Fax: [phone] · Tel: [phone]
www.wackerneuson.com
Original
instructions
This Operator’s Manual presents the original instructions. The original language of this
Operator’s Manual is American English.

Foreword
wc_tx001233gb.fm 3
Foreword
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS—This manual contains important instructions for
the machine models listed below. These instructions must be followed during
installation and maintenance of the generator (and battery, if equipped).
Machines
covered in
this manual
Machine
Documentation
Keep a copy of the Operator’s Manual with the machine at all times.
Use the separate Parts Book supplied with the machine to order replacement
parts.
If you are missing either of these documents, please contact Wacker Neuson
Corporation to order a replacement or visit www.wackerneuson.com.
Contact Wacker Neuson Product Support for information on servicing and
repairing the machine.
When ordering parts or requesting service information, be prepared to provide
the machine model number, item number, revision number, and serial number.
Expectations
for
information in
this manual
This manual provides information and procedures to safely operate and
maintain the above Wacker Neuson model(s). For your own safety and to
reduce the risk of injury, carefully read, understand, and observe all instructions
described in this manual.
Wacker Neuson Corporation expressly reserves the right to make technical
modifications, even without notice, which improve the performance or safety
standards of its machines.
The information contained in this manual is based on machines manufactured
up until the time of publication. Wacker Neuson Corporation reserves the right
to change any portion of this information without notice.
CALIFORNIA
Proposition
65 Warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components, contain
or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
Laws
pertaining to
spark
arresters
NOTICE: State Health Safety Codes and Public Resources Codes specify that in
certain locations spark arresters be used on internal combustion engines that use
hydrocarbon fuels. A spark arrester is a device designed to prevent accidental dis-
charge of sparks or flames from the engine exhaust. Spark arresters are qualified
and rated by the United States Forest Service for this purpose. In order to comply
with local laws regarding spark arresters, consult the engine distributor or the local
Health and Safety Administrator.
Manufacturer’s
approval
This manual contains references to approved parts, attachments, and
modifications. The following definitions apply:
Approved parts or attachments are those either manufactured or provided by
Wacker Neuson.
Machine Item Number
GPi 1700 0620777, 0620778

Foreword
4 wc_tx001233gb.fm
Approved modifications are those performed by an authorized Wacker
Neuson service center according to written instructions published by Wacker
Neuson.
Unapproved parts, attachments, and modifications are those that do not
meet the approved criteria.
Unapproved parts, attachments, or modifications may have the following
consequences:
Serious injury hazards to the operator and persons in the work area
Permanent damage to the machine which will not be covered under warranty
Contact your Wacker Neuson dealer immediately if you have questions about
approved or unapproved parts, attachments, or modifications.

Table of Contents
GPi 1700
wc_bo5000186370_04TOC.fm 5
Foreword 3
1 Safety Information 7
1.1 Signal Words Found in this Manual ...................................................... 7
1.2 Machine Description and Intended Use ............................................... 8
1.3 Safety Guidelines for Operating the Machine ....................................... 9
1.4 Operator Safety While Using Internal Combustion Engines ............... 11
1.5 Guidelines for Service Safety ............................................................. 12
1.6 Label Locations .................................................................................. 13
1.7 Machine Labels .................................................................................. 14
2 Operation 17
2.1 Overview ............................................................................................ 17
2.2 Preparing the Machine for First Use ................................................... 17
2.3 Features and Components ................................................................. 18
2.4 Lifting and Transporting ...................................................................... 19
2.5 Installation .......................................................................................... 19
2.6 Power Requirements .......................................................................... 20
2.7 Use of Extension Cords ...................................................................... 21
2.8 Control Panel ...................................................................................... 22
2.9 Customer Connections ....................................................................... 24
2.10 Grounding the Generator ................................................................... 25
2.11 Fueling the Machine ........................................................................... 26
2.12 Before Starting ................................................................................... 27
2.13 Starting the Generator ........................................................................ 28
2.14 Using AC Power ................................................................................. 29
2.15 Using DC Power ................................................................................. 30
2.16 Stopping the Generator ...................................................................... 31
2.17 Emergency Shutdown Procedure ....................................................... 31
3 Maintenance 32
3.1 Periodic Maintenance Schedule ......................................................... 32
3.2 Checking the Engine Oil ..................................................................... 33
3.3 Cleaning and Checking the Spark Plug .............................................. 34
3.4 Cleaning the Air Cleaner Assembly .................................................... 35
3.5 Changing the Engine Oil .................................................................... 36
3.6 Cleaning the Spark Arrester ............................................................... 37
3.7 Cleaning the Fuel Filter ...................................................................... 38
3.8 Storing the Generator ......................................................................... 40

Table of Contents GPi 1700
6
4 Schematic 42
4.1 Schematic Components ......................................................................43
5 Basic Troubleshooting 44
6 Technical Data 45
6.1 Engine .................................................................................................45
6.2 Generator Data ....................................................................................46
7 Emission Control Systems Information and Warranty 47

GPi 1700 Safety Information
wc_si000347gb.fm 7
1 Safety Information
1.1 Signal Words Found in this Manual
This manual contains DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, NOTICE, and NOTE
signal words which must be followed to reduce the possibility of personal injury,
damage to the equipment, or improper service.
NOTICE: Used without the safety alert symbol, NOTICE indicates a situation
which, if not avoided, could result in property damage.
Note: A Note contains additional information important to a procedure.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal hazards.
fObey all safety messages that follow this symbol.
DANGER
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death
or serious injury.
fTo avoid death or serious injury from this type of hazard, obey all safety messages that
follow this signal word.
WARNING
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
fTo avoid possible death or serious injury from this type of hazard, obey all safety mes-
sages that follow this signal word.
CAUTION!
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
minor or moderate injury.
fTo avoid possible minor or moderate injury from this type of hazard, obey all safety mes-
sages that follow this signal word.

Safety Information GPi 1700
wc_si000347gb.fm
8
1.2 Machine Description and Intended Use
This machine is a portable electric power source. The Wacker Neuson Inverter
Generator consists of a gasoline engine, a fuel tank, and an electric alternator and
inverter. Controls and receptacles are provided on a control panel mounted on the
side of the machine. As the engine runs, the generator converts mechanical energy
into AC power and DC power. The operator connects loads to the AC power
receptacles or DC terminals.
This machine is intended for the purpose of supplying electrical power to
connected loads. Refer to the product specifications for the output voltage and
frequency of this generator, and for the maximum output power limit of this
generator.
This machine has been designed and built strictly for the intended use described
above. Using the machine for any other purpose could permanently damage the
machine or seriously injure the operator or other persons in the area. Machine
damage caused by misuse is not covered under warranty.
The following practices are some examples of misuse:
Connecting a load that has voltage and frequency requirements that are
incompatible with the generator output
Overloading the generator with a load that draws excessive power during either
continuous running or start-up
Operating the generator in a manner that is inconsistent with all federal, state
and local codes and regulations.
Using the machine as a ladder, support, or work surface
Using the machine to carry or transport passengers or equipment
Operating the machine outside of factory specifications
Operating the machine in a manner inconsistent with all warnings found on the
machine and in the Operator’s Manual
This machine has been designed and built in accordance with the latest global
safety standards. It has been carefully engineered to eliminate hazards as far as
practicable and to increase operator safety through protective guards and labeling.
However, some risks may remain even after protective measures have been taken.
They are called residual risks. On this machine, they may include exposure to:
Heat, noise, exhaust, and carbon monoxide from the engine
Fire hazards from improper refueling techniques
Fuel and its fumes
Electric shock and arc flash
Personal injury from improper lifting techniques
To protect yourself and others, make sure you thoroughly read and understand the
safety information presented in this manual before operating the machine.

GPi 1700 Safety Information
wc_si000347gb.fm 9
1.3 Safety Guidelines for Operating the Machine
Operator
qualifications
Only trained personnel are permitted to start, operate, and shut down the machine.
They also must meet the following qualifications:
have received instruction on how to properly use the machine
are familiar with required safety devices
The machine must not be accessed or operated by:
children
people impaired by alcohol or drugs
Personal
Protective
Equipment
(PPE)
Wear the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while operating this
machine:
Close-fitting work clothes that do not hinder movement
Safety glasses with side shields
Hearing protection
Safety-toed footwear
Before
starting the
machine
Before starting this machine:
Follow starting and stopping instructions described in this manual. Know how to
operate and stop the generator before starting it.
Do not start a machine in need of repair.
DANGER
Carbon monoxide. Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO). This is a poison you cannot
see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are breathing CO. But
even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.
fNEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, or other partly
enclosed areas. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas.
Using a fan or opening windows and doors does NOT supply enough fresh air.
fONLY use a generator outside and far away from windows, doors, and vents.
These openings can pull in generator exhaust.
fEven when you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS
use a battery-powered or battery-backup CO alarm in the home.
fIf you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has been running,
move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You could have carbon monoxide
poison.
WARNING
Machines operated improperly or by untrained personnel can be hazardous.
fRead the operating instructions contained in both this Operator’s Manual and
the engine operator’s manual.
fFamiliarize yourself with the location and proper use of all controls.
fInexperienced operators should receive instruction from someone familiar with
the machine before being allowed to operate it.

Safety Information GPi 1700
wc_si000347gb.fm
10
Make sure the machine is on a firm, level surface and will not tip, roll, slide, or
fall while operating.
Remove all tools, cords, and other loose items from the generator before
starting it.
Electrical
safety
To increase electrical safety while operating this machine:
Do not operate the generator, or tools attached to the generator, with wet hands.
Do not use worn electrical cords. Severe electrical shock and equipment
damage may result.
Do not operate generator in standing water.
Make certain the machine is well-grounded and securely fastened to a good
earthen ground per national and local regulations.
Do not overload the generator. The total amperage of the tools and equipment
attached to the generator must not exceed the load rating of the generator.
.
Generator
vibration
Generators vibrate in normal use. During and after the use of the generator, inspect
the generator as well as extension cords and power supply cords connected to it
for damage from vibration.
Have damaged items repaired or replaced as necessary.
Do not use plugs or or cords that show signs of damage such as broken or
cracked insulation or damaged blades.
Operating
safety
To increase operating safety while running this machine:
Do not operate the generator when open containers of fuel, paint, or other
flammable liquids are in the vicinity of the generator.
Do not place flammable material or liquids near the generator.
Do not operate the machine indoors.
Do not touch the hot engine, exhaust, or generator components. Burns will
result.
Always do the following:
Wear hearing protection when operating equipment.
Keep the machine at least one meter (three feet) away from structures,
buildings, and other equipment during use.
Keep the area immediately surrounding and underneath the machine clean,
neat, and free of debris and combustible materials. Make sure that the area
WARNING
Backfeed from the generator into the public power distribution system can seriously
injure or kill utility workers!
fImproper connection of generator to a building’s electrical system can allow
electrical current from the generatorto backfeed into utility lines. This may result
in electrocution of utility workers, fire, or explosion.
fConnections to a building’s electrical system must be made by a qualified elec-
trician and comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
fIf connected to a building’s electrical system, the generator must meet the
power, voltage, and frequency requirements of the equipment in the building.

GPi 1700 Safety Information
wc_si000347gb.fm 11
overhead is clear of debris that could fall onto or into the machine or exhaust
compartment.
Storing the
machine
Store the machine properly when it is not being used. The machine should be
stored in a clean, dry location out of the reach of children.
1.4 Operator Safety While Using Internal Combustion Engines
Refueling
safety
When refueling the engine:
Do not smoke.
Do not refuel if the generator is sitting in a truck fitted with a plastic bed liner.
Static electricity can ignite the fuel or fuel vapors.
Do not refuel a hot or running engine.
Do not refuel the engine near an open flame.
When refueling the engine, always:
Refill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area.
Replace the fuel tank cap after refueling.
Operating
safety
When operating the generator:
Check the fuel lines and the fuel tank for leaks and cracks before starting the
engine.
Do not run the machine if fuel leaks are present or the fuel lines are loose.
Do not run the engine near open flames.
Do not start the engine if fuel has spilled or a fuel odor is present. Move the
generator away from the spill and wipe the generator dry before starting.
Do not smoke while operating the machine.
WARNING
Internal combustion engines present special hazards during operation and fueling.
Failure to follow the warnings and safety standards could result in severe injury or
death.
fRead and follow the warning instructions in the engine owner’s manual and the
safety guidelines below.
DANGER
fCarbon monoxide. Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust containscarbon monoxide (CO). This is a poison you cannot
see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are breathing CO. But
even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.

Safety Information GPi 1700
wc_si000347gb.fm
12
1.5 Guidelines for Service Safety
Personal
Protective
Equipment
(PPE)
Wear the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while servicing or maintaining
this machine:
 Close-fitting work clothes that do not hinder movement
 Safety glasses with side shields
 Hearing protection
 Safety-toed footwear
In addition, before servicing or maintaining the machine:
 Tie back long hair.
 Remove all jewelry (including rings).
Prerequisites Before servicing this machine:
 Stop the engine.
 If the engine has an electric starter, disconnect the negative terminal on the battery.
 Attach a “DO NOT START” sign to the machine. This will notify everyone that the
machine is being serviced and will reduce the chance of someone inadvertently
trying to start the machine.
Ground
connection
 The generator must be connected to a good earthen ground for proper operating
safety!
 Ground the generator in accordance with the standards defined in national, state,
and local regulations.
Personal
injury
avoidance
 Let the engine and muffler cool before transporting or servicing the machine.
 Do not service the machine if your clothing or skin is wet.
 Do not allow untrained personnel to service this machine. Only trained electrical
technicians should be allowed to service the electrical components of this machine.
Service safety  Do not modify the machine without the express written approval of the manufacturer.
 Do not allow water to accumulate around the base of the machine. If water is
present, move the machine and allow the machine to dry before servicing.
..
Replacing
parts and
labels
 Replace worn or damaged components.
 Use only spare parts recommended by Wacker Neuson.
 Keep the fuel lines in serviceable condition. Leaking fuel and fumes are extremely
explosive!
 Replace all missing and hard-to-read labels. Labels provide important operating
instructions and warn of dangers and hazards.
 Check all external fasteners at regular intervals.
WARNING
A poorly maintained machine can be a personal injury hazard.
fFollow the Periodic Maintenance schedule in this Operator’s Manual.
fRepair or replace any damaged or defective components immediately.

GPi 1700 Safety Information
wc_si000347gb.fm 13
1.6 Label Locations
wc_gr006811
D
E
B
H
F
G
C
A

Safety Information GPi 1700
wc_si000347gb.fm
14
1.7 Machine Labels
Wacker Neuson machines use international pictorial labels where needed. These
labels are described below.
Ref. Label Definition
ADANGER
Using a generator indoorsCAN KILL YOU IN
MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains
carbon monoxide. This is a poison you
cannot see or smell.
NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN
IF doors and windows are open.
Only use OUTSIDE and far away from
windows, doors, and vents.
B Oil fill location

GPi 1700 Safety Information
wc_si000347gb.fm 15
C WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read
and understand instruction manual.
Exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon
monoxide.
Do not use in poorly ventilated area.
The operator may suffer severe elecrtric
shock.
Do not touch with wet hands.
The operator may suffer burns.
Do not touch hot muffler.
Potential danger of explosion or fire.
Stop engine during fuel supply. Keep
flammable things away.
Be careful not to spill fuel during refueling.
Use unleaded gasoline only.
Keep open flames away from the
generator.
Do not operate in rain or snow.
Do not connect to a household circuit.
D This equipment does not meet California
EVP emission regulations for small off-road
engines.
E WARNING
Improper connection of the generator to a
building’s electrical system can allow
electrical current from the generator to
backfeed into utility lines. This may result in
electrocution of utility workers, fire, or
explosion. Connections to a building’s
electrical system must be made by a
qualified electrician and comply with all
applicable laws and electrical codes.
F A nameplate listing the model number, item
number, revision number, and serial number
is attached to each unit. Please record the
information found on this nameplate so it will
be available should the nameplate become
lost or damaged. When ordering parts or
requesting service information, you will
always be asked to specify the model
number, item number, revision number, and
serial number of the unit.
Ref. Label Definition

Safety Information GPi 1700
wc_si000347gb.fm
16
GWARNING
Hot surface! Do not touch.
DANGER
Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep a safe distance away from the
machine.
HWARNING
Hot surface! Do not touch.
Ref. Label Definition

GPi 1700 Operation
wc_tx001234gb.fm 17
2 Operation
2.1 Overview
Generator
application
This generator is an exceptionally quiet, compact, and lightweight machine
designed to provide single phase power for construction, commercial, and
residential applications. State-of-the-art inverter technology ensures a consistent
flow of clean and stable power suitable for operating not only tools, but also
delicate electronic equipment.
Safety notices Do not exceed the power output of the generator. Damage to tools or generator
will occur. Refer to Technical Data.
Do not exceed the rated current limit of any receptacle.
2.2 Preparing the Machine for First Use
Preparing for
first use
To prepare your machine for first use:
1. Make sure all loose packaging materials have been removed from the machine.
2. Check the machine and its components for damage. If there is visible damage,
do not operate the machine! Contact your Wacker Neuson dealer immediately
for assistance.
3. Take inventory of all items included with the machine and verify that all loose
components and fasteners are accounted for.
4. Attach component parts not already attached.
5. Add fluids as needed and applicable, including fuel, engine oil, and battery acid.
6. Move the machine to its operating location.
DANGER
Carbon monoxide. Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO). This is a poison you cannot
see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are breathing CO. But
even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.
fNEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, or other partly
enclosed areas. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas.
Using a fan or opening windows and doors does NOT supply enough fresh air.
fONLY use a generator outside and far away from windows, doors, and vents.
These openings can pull in generator exhaust.
fEven when you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS
use a battery-powered or battery-backup CO alarm in the home.
fIf you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has been running,
move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You could have carbon monoxide
poison.

Operation GPi 1700
wc_tx001234gb.fm
18
2.3 Features and Components
l
wc_gr006650
a
b
c
f
g
n
h m
o
l
k
i
j
d
e

GPi 1700 Operation
wc_tx001234gb.fm 19
2.4 Lifting and Transporting
Lifting and
carrying the
machine
This generator is designed be lifted and carried by one person. However, its dry
weight of 20.5 kg (45 lbs.) is heavy enough to cause injury if proper lifting
techniques are not used. Observe the following guidelines when lifting and carrying
the generator.
Use only the designated carrying handle.
Bend at the knees, not from the waist, when lifting the generator.
Transporting
the machine
Observe the following guidelines when transporting the generator to and from the
job site.
Drain the fuel tank before transporting the generator.
Ensure that the generator is securely strapped down in the transport vehicle to
prevent it from sliding or tipping.
Do not refuel the generator in or on the transport vehicle. Move the generator to
its operating location and then fill the fuel tank.
2.5 Installation
Locating the
generator
Follow the practices below when choosing an appropriate location for the
generator.
Place the generator in an area where it will not be exposed to rain, snow, or
direct sunlight.
Position the generator on firm, level ground so that it will not slide or shift.
Position the engine exhaust away from areas where people may be present.
The surrounding area must be free from water and moisture. All components
must be protected from excessive moisture.
NOTICE: The generator has a built-in forced air cooling system, and may become
overheated if it is enclosed. Therefore, do not enclose the generator or cover it with
a box.
Ref. Description Ref. Description
a Recoil starter i OIl drain plug
b Control panel j Right side panel
c Left side panel k Oil filler / oil gauge
d Air cleaner l Spark plug cap
e Fuel drain screw m Spark arrester
f Carrying handle n Fuel filter
g Fuel tank cap cover o Rear cover
h Exhaust outlet — —

Operation GPi 1700
wc_tx001234gb.fm
20
2.6 Power Requirements
Application This generator is designed to operate single-phase, 60 Hz equipment running at
120 VAC. It also provides DC power strictly intended for charging 12V automotive
style batteries.
Check the nameplate or label provided on tools and equipment to make sure their
power requirements are met by the power output of the generator. If the wattage is
not given for a particular tool or piece of equipment, contact the tool manufacturer
for wattage requirements.
NOTICE: Do not exceed the continuous rated output of the generator. Damage to
tools or generator can occur. See Technical Data.
About power
requirements
Some pieces of equipment and tools require a surge of current when starting. This
means that the amount of power needed to initially start the equipment is larger
than the power required to keep it running. The generator must be capable of
supplying this "surge" current. Other equipment may require more power than is
actually stated on its nameplate.
Approximate
startingpower
requirements
The information in the following chart is offered only as a general guideline to help
you determine power requirements for different types of equipment. Contact your
nearest Wacker Neuson dealer, or the manufacturer or dealer of the tool or
equipment, with questions regarding power requirements.
Equipment type Wattage needed to start Comments
Incandescent lights
Appliances such as
irons and hot plates
Same wattage as is stated on
their nameplates These have resistive- type heating ele-
ments.
Fluorescent and
mercury lamps 1.2–2 times their stated wattage
Electrical motors
Certain electrical tools Depends on motor type and use
Most electrical tools 1.2–3 times their stated wattage
Submersible pumps
Air compressors 3–5 times their stated wattage
Other equipment Calculate by multiplying its
voltage and amperage
requirements
Volts x Amps = Watts