Westinghouse WGen5500 User manual

USER MANUAL
WGen5500
Portable Generator
5500 Running Watts | 6850 Peak Watts

2 | Westinghouse Portable Power
DISCLAIMERS:
All information, illustrations and specications in this manual are based on the latest information available at the time of
publishing. The illustrations used in this manual are intended as representative reference views only. Moreover, because
of our continuous product improvement policy, we may modify information, illustrations and/or specications to explain
and/or exemplify a product, service or maintenance improvement. We reserve the right to make any change at any time
without notice. Some images may vary depending upon which model is shown.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED:
No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form by any means – graphic, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying, recording, taping or information storage and retrieval systems – without the written permission
of MWE Investments LLC.
DANGER
This manual contains important instructions for operating this generator. For your safety
and the safety of others, be sure to read this manual thoroughly before operating the
generator. Failure to properly follow all instructions and precautions can cause you and
others to be seriously hurt or killed.
Model
Number
Running
Watts
Peak
Watts
Fuel
Tank
Size
(L/G)
Rated
Speed
(RPM)
Ignition
Type
Spark
plug
Engine
Disp (cc)
Stroke X
Bore
Oil
Capacity
(L) Oil Type THD
WGen5500 5500 6850 25/6.6 3600 TCI F7TC 420 66X90 1.10 10W30 <23%
NOTICE
Even with a carburetor modication, engine horsepower will decrease about 3.5% for each 300 meter (1,000 foot) increase in altitude.
The eect of altitude on horsepower will be greater if no carburetor modication is made. A decrease in engine horsepower will
decrease the power output of the generator. Contact our service team to order altitude kits.
FOR YOUR RECORDS:
Date of Purchase:
Generator Model Number:
Purchased from Store/Dealer:
Generator Serial Number:
WGen5500 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
HAVE QUESTIONS? Email us at [e-mail]
or call 1-855-944-3571
Operating, servicing and maintaining this equipment can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust,
carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine
except as necessary, service your equipment in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands
frequently when servicing your equipment. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
WARNING

Westinghouse Portable Power | 3
IMPORTANT: KEEP YOUR PURCHASE RECEIPT TO ENSURE TROUBLE-FREE
WARRANTY COVERAGE.
PRODUCT REGISTRATION
To ensure trouble-free warranty coverage, it is important you register your Westinghouse generator.
You can register your generator by either:
1. Filling in the product registration form below and mailing to:
Product Registration
MWE Investments LLC
777 Manor Park Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43228
2. Registering your product Online at wpowereq.com/register
To register your generator you will need to locate the serial number:
WESTINGHOUSE PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM
PERSONAL INFORMATION GENERATOR INFORMATION
First Name: _______________________________________ Model Number: _____________________________________
Last Name: _______________________________________ Serial Number:______________________________________
Street Address: ___________________________________ Date Purchased: ____________________________________
Street Address: ___________________________________ Purchased From:____________________________________
City, State, ZIP:____________________________________
Country: __________________________________________
Phone Number: ___________________________________
E-Mail: ___________________________________________
Made in China/ Fabriqu é en Chine
CSA Master Contract
Number :
Numéro de contrat
principa l de CSA
MWE Investments LLC
Columbus Ohio 43228 USA
Con u à columbus , Ohio,tats-Unis
MWE Investments LLC
Columbus Ohio 43228 Etats-Unis
Par t N 0.
Numéro de
pièc e
Designed in Columbus , Ohio USA
WHERE IS MY SERIAL NUMBER?

4 | Westinghouse Portable Power
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WGEN5500 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS........2
PRODUCT REGISTRATION.....................3
Locate Serial Number .......................3
Product Registration .......................3
Product Registration Form ...................3
SAFETY.....................................5
Safety Denitions ..........................5
Safety Symbol Denitions ...................5
General Safety Rules ........................6
Safety Labels and Decals ....................7
UNPACKING.................................9
What Comes in the Box......................9
Wheel Kit Accessories Box ...................9
ASSEMBLY .................................10
Installing Wheels and Feet....................10
FEATURES .................................11
Generator Features .........................11
Control Panel Features .....................13
OPERATION .................................14
Before Starting the Generator .................14
Altitude Conversion Kit ......................14
Power Cord ..............................15
Using Extension Cords ...................15
Using Westinghouse Power Cord ...........15
Transfer Switch Connections..................16
How to Float the Neutral Ground ............16
Engine Fluids and Fuel.......................16
Adding Gasoline to the Fuel Tank ...........17
Power Output and Demand ...................18
Starting the Generator ......................18
Manual Start ............................18
Stopping the Generator ......................19
Normal Operation .......................19
During an Emergency ....................19
MAINTENANCE ..............................20
Maintenance Schedule ......................20
Inspecting and Cleaning the Spark Arrestor ......21
Draining the Carburetor Float Bowl .............21
Engine Oil Maintenance .....................22
Engine Oil Specication ...................22
Checking Engine Oil .....................22
Adding Engine Oil .......................22
Changing Engine Oil .....................23
Air Filter Maintenance .......................23
Cleaning the Air Filter ....................23
Spark Plug Maintenance .....................24
Checking and Adjusting Valve Lash ..............25
Testing GFCI Outlets ........................25
Cleaning the Generator ......................25
Storage ..................................26
TROUBLE SHOOTING .........................26
EXPLODED AND ENGINE VIEWS................28
WGen5500 Exploded View ...................28
WGen5500 Engine View .....................30
SCHEMATICS................................32
WGen5500 Schematic .......................32
GENERATOR SPECIFICATIONS .................33

Westinghouse Portable Power | 5
SAFETY DEFINITIONS
The words DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and
NOTICE are used throughout this manual to highlight
important information. Be certain that the meanings of
these alerts are known to all who work on or near the
equipment.
This safety alert symbol appears
with most safety statements. It
means attention, become alert, your
safety is involved! Please read and
abide by the message that follows
the safety alerts symbol.
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a situation which can cause damage
to the generator, personal property and/or the
environment, or cause the equipment to operate
improperly.
NOTE: Indicates a procedure, practice or condition
that should be followed in order for the
generator to function in the manner
intended.
SAFETY
SAFETY SYMBOL DEFINITIONS
Explosion Hazard
Fire Hazard
Electrical Shock Hazard
Lifting Hazard
Pinch-Point Hazard
Read Manufacturer’s Instructions
Read Safety Messages
Before Proceeding
Wear Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE)
Safety Alert Symbol
Asphyxiation Hazard
Burn Hazard
Burst/Pressure Hazard
Don’t leave tools in the area
Symbol Description

6 | Westinghouse Portable Power
DANGER
Never use the generator in a location that is wet or damp. Never expose the generator to rain, snow, water
spray or standing water while in use. Protect the generator from all hazardous weather conditions. Moisture
or ice can cause a short circuit or other malfunction in the electrical circuit.
Never operate the generator in an enclosed area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide. Only operate
the generator outside and away from windows, doors and vents.
WARNING
Voltage produced by the generator could result in death or serious injury.
• Never operate the generator in rain or a ood plain unless proper precautions are taken to avoid
being subject to rain or a ood.
• Never use worn or damaged extension cords.
• Always have a licensed electrician connect the generator to the utility circuit.
• Never touch an operating generator if the generator is wet or if you have wet hands.
• Never operate the generator in highly conductive areas such as around metal decking or steel works.
• Always use grounded extension cords. Always use three-wire or double-insulated power tools.
• Never touch live terminals or bare wires while the generator is operating.
• Be sure the generator is properly grounded before operating.
WARNING
Gasoline and gasoline vapors are extremely ammable and explosive under certain conditions.
• Always refuel the generator outdoors, in a well-ventilated area.
• Never remove the fuel cap with the engine running.
• Never refuel the generator while the engine is running. Always turn engine o and allow the generator
to cool before refueling.
• Only ll fuel tank with gasoline.
• Keep sparks, open ames or other form of ignition (such as match, cigarette, static electric source)
away when refueling.
• Never overll the fuel tank. Leave room for fuel to expand. Overlling the fuel tank can result in a
sudden overow of gasoline and result in spilled gasoline coming in contact with HOT surfaces.
Spilled fuel can ignite. If fuel is spilled on the generator, wipe up any spills immediately. Dispose of
rag properly. Allow area of spilled fuel to dry before operating the generator.
• Wear eye protection while refueling.
• Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.
• Store any containers containing gasoline in a well-ventilated area, away from any combustibles or
source of ignition.
• Check for fuel leaks after refueling. Never operate the engine if a fuel leak is discovered.
WARNING
Never operate the generator if powered items overheat, electrical
output drops, there is sparking, ames or smoke coming from the
generator, or if the receptacles are damaged.
Never use the generator to power medical support equipment.
Always remove any tools or other service equipment used during
maintenance from the generator before operating.
NOTICE
Never modify the generator.
Never operate the generator if it
vibrates at high levels, if engine
speed changes greatly or if the
engine misres often.
Always disconnect tools or
appliances from the
generator before starting.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
SAFETY

Westinghouse Portable Power | 7
SAFETY
SAFETY LABELS AND DECALS
4
5
1
1
3
3
4
2
Made in China/ Fabriqu é en Chine
CSA Master Contract
Number :
Numéro de contrat
principa l de CS A
MWE Investments LLC
Columbus Ohio 43228 USA
Con u à columbus , Ohio,tats-Unis
MWE Investments LLC
Columbus Ohio 43228 Etats-Unis
Par t N 0.
Numéro de
pièc e
Designed in Columbus , Ohio USA
4
25
5
ON = COLD START
OFF = RUN/WARM START
SERIAL NUMBER

8 | Westinghouse Portable Power
SAFETY
SAFETY LABELS AND DECALS
8
9
7
10
89
6
6
7
5
10

Westinghouse Portable Power | 9
1. Washer (2 used)
2. Flange Bolt M8 x16mm (4 used)
3. Hairpin Cotter Pin (2 used)
4. Wheel Axle Pin (2)
CAUTION
Always have assistance when lifting
the generator. The generator is heavy;
lifting it could cause bodily harm.
Avoid cutting on or near staples
to prevent personal injury.
Tools required – box cutter or similar device.
1. Carefully cut the packing tape on top of the carton.
2. Fold back top aps to reveal the manual.
3. Remove the Wheel Kit Accessories cardboard box.
4. Carefully cut two sides of the carton to
remove the generator.
WHAT COMES IN THE BOX
Manual
Quick Start Guide/Maintenance Schedule
1.1 Liter Bottle of SAE 10W30 Oil (1)
Spark Plug Socket Wrench (1)
Wheel Kit Accessories Box
Funnel (1)
WHEEL KIT ACCESSORIES BOX
Open the Wheel Kit Accessories box and verify the
contents against the list right. If any parts are missing,
please locate an authorized Westinghouse Generator
dealer at [email protected] or call
1-855-944-3571.
UNPACKING
Wheel and Feet Kit Hardware
1
2
3
4

10 | Westinghouse Portable Power
INSTALLING WHEELS AND FEET
BEFORE ASSEMBLING THE
GENERATOR, REVIEW THE SAFETY
SECTION STARTING ON PAGE 5.
CAUTION
Never lift the generator without
assistance. The generator is heavy
and lifting without assistance could
result in personal injury.
Never use the handles as a lifting point
to support the entire weight of the
generator. Only use the handles to move
the generator by lifting the handles and
using the wheels to move the generator.
Use caution when collapsing the
handles. Hands and ngers could get
caught and pinched.
NOTICE
Assembling the generator will require lifting the unit
on one side. Make sure all engine oil and fuel are
drained from the unit prior to assembling. Once
assembled, the wheel kit is not intended for on-
road use. The wheel kit is designed for use on this
generator only.
INSTALLING FEET TO FRAME
1. Place generator on a at surface.
2. Place a piece of cardboard or other soft material to
tip the generator onto, to protect the frame paint and
prevent the generator from sliding. Tip the generator
onto the side.
3. Install the mounting feet to the frame using the M8
ange bolts included.
1 - Mounting Foot
2 - Flange Bolts M8
1
2
Figure 1 - Assemble Mounting Feet to Frame
INSTALLING WHEELS TO FRAME
1. Insert axle pin through washer and wheel.
2. Install the wheel with axle pin through the axle
bracket on the frame. The eye of the bolt should be
facing toward the inside of the generator.
21
3
Figure 3 - Assemble Wheel to Frame
3. Install the hairpin cotter through the axle pin to lock it
in place.
1 - Axle Bracket
2 - Hairpin Clip
3 - Axle Pin
4. Repeat previous steps on other wheel.
ASSEMBLY
Figure 2 -Wheel Assembly

Westinghouse Portable Power | 11
FEATURES
Engine Control Switch: Allows fuel to ow to
engine and energizes the ignition system.
Fuel Cap: Close until clicking sound is heard.
Control Panel: Contains the circuit breakers
and outlets.
Oil Fill Plug/Dipstick: Must be removed to add
and check oil.
Oil Drain Plug: Must be removed to drain
engine oil
Never Flat Wheels: For easy portability
Fuel Shut o Valve: Controls the ow of fuel
to the engine.
Manual Choke: Choke must be set manually by
adjusting choke lever.
Single Piece Handle: Includes rubber grip. Allows
you to easily push or pull unit with one hand.
1
1
5
6
7
8
9
2
3
4
3
5
4
9
8
7
6
2

12 | Westinghouse Portable Power
Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level.
Spark Plug Boot (Wire): Must be removed when servicing the engine or the
spark plug.
CARB Canister: Required for models sold into and used in California.
Muer and Spark Arrester: Avoid contact until engine is cooled down.
Spark arrestor prevents sparks from exiting the muer. It must be removed
for servicing.
Alternator Cover: Gain access to alternator wiring.
FEATURES
12
13
14
15
16
12
13
14
15
16

Westinghouse Portable Power | 13
CONTROL PANEL FEATURES
FEATURES
120-Volt, 20-Amp Duplex GFCI Outlets
(NEMA 5-20R): Each outlet is capable of carrying
a maximum of 20 amps on a single receptacle or
a combination of both receptacles.
20-Amp Circuit Breakers: Each circuit breaker
limits the current that can be delivered through
the 120-volt duplex outlets to 20amps.
Ground Terminal: The ground terminal is used to
ground the generator.
Engine Control Switch: Allows fuel to ow to
engine and energizes the ignition system.
Data Center: The VFT Meter is an LED display that
will rotate through volts, frequency, and lifetime run
hours. You can press the MODE button to cycle
through the dierent displays.
The frequency and voltage can vary +/- 5% and
still be within tolerance.
Frequency in hertz
Lifetime run hours
Voltage
Main Circuit Breaker: The main circuit breaker
controls total output of all outlets to protect the
generator.
120/240-Volt, 30-Amp Twist Lock Outlet
(NEMA L14-30R): Outlet can supply either
120V or 240V output.
1
6
7
2
3
4
5
345621
7
Figure 4 - Control Panel Features

14 | Westinghouse Portable Power
No Connected Loads – Make sure the generator has no
connected loads before starting it. To ensure there are no
connected loads, unplug any electrical extension cords that
are plugged into the control panel receptacles.
NOTICE
Starting the generator with loads already applied to it could result in
damage to any appliance being powered o the generator during the
brief start-up period.
Grounding the Generator – The National Electric Code
(NEC), as well as many local electrical codes, may require
the generator to be connected to earth ground. The most
common application that requires a ground rod is when you
are using the generator as a separately derived system to
provide back up power to your house. Typically this is when a
transfer switch has a switched neutral.
As the generator application has many variables that cannot
be determined by the manufacturer of the generator, a
licensed electrician will need to determine if a grounding rod is
needed.
If a licensed electrician has determine the application requires
a ground rod, make sure it is connected to earth ground by
connecting the ground terminal on the control panel to earth
ground using copper wire (minimum 10 AWG). Consult a
qualied electrician for local grounding requirements.
Neutral Bonded: There is a permanent conduct or between
the generator (stator winding) and the frame.
WARNING
Be sure the generator is properly connected to
earth ground before operating. The generator
must be grounded to prevent electrical shock
due to faulty appliances.
High Altitude Operation
Engine power is reduced the higher you operate above sea
level. Output will be reduced approximately 3.5% for every
1000ft of increased altitude from sea level. This is a natural
occurrence and cannot be adjusted by engine. Increased
exhaust emissions can also result due to increased fuel
mixture. Other issues include hard starting, increased fuel
consumption and spark plug fouling. Contact our service
team 1-855-944-3571 for altitude part kits.
High Altitude Carburetor Kit Part Number: 140545
BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR
BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR,
REVIEW SAFETY SECTION STARTING ON
PAGE 5.
Location Selection – Before starting the generator, avoid
exhaust and location hazards by verifying:
• You have selected a location to operate the generator
that is outdoors and well ventilated.
• You have selected a location with a level and solid
surface on which to place the generator.
• You have selected a location that is at least 15 feet
(4.5 m) away from any building, other equipment or
combustible material.
• If the generator is located close to a building, make
sure it is not located near any windows, doors and/or
vents.
WARNING
Always operate the generator on a level surface.
Placing the generator on non level surfaces can
cause the generator to tip over, causing fuel and
oil to spill. Spilled fuel can ignite if it comes in
contact with an ignition source such as a very hot
surface.
NOTICE
Only operate the generator on a solid, level surface. Operating the
generator on a surface with loose material such as sand or grass
clippings can cause debris to be ingested by the generator that
could:
• Block cooling vents
• Block air intake system
Weather – Never operate your generator outdoors during
rain, snow or any combination of weather conditions that
could lead to moisture collecting on, in or around the
generator.
Dry Surface – Always operate the generator on a dry
surface free of any moisture.
OPERATION

Westinghouse Portable Power | 15
POWERCORD
Using Extension Cords
Westinghouse Portable Power assumes no responsibility for the content within this table. The use of this table is the
responsibility of the user only. This table is intended for reference only. The results produced by using this table are
not guaranteed to be correct or applicable in all situations as the type and construction of cords are highly variable.
Always check with local regulations and a licensed electrician prior to installing or connecting an electrical appliance
Using Westinghouse Power Cord
Use the extension cord chart to determine the size
of the conductor for extension cord applications.
Determine the distance of the generator to the
appliance on the top line of the chart. Then select the
rated amperage of the generator on the left side of the
chart. Where the two meet is the size of the conductor
required for the application.
When using the WCG25/WCG20 power cord (sold
separate) connect to the 120/240V outlet. The opposite
end of the power cord is a fan tail receptacle with
2 green receptacles and 2 red receptacles. Each
receptacle is rated at 120 volts AC. To balance the
load on the generator’s alternator, use the red and
green identiers on the fan tail receptacle. To keep
the load balanced, connect the loads so that both
color receptacles are used. An example is one in red
and one in green. Do not connect 2 in red and none in
green, or 2 in green and none in red. If only one color
receptacle is used with multiple loads, the alternator
may experience an unbalanced load, causing undue
vibration to generator.
OPERATION
1
2
- WCG25/WCG20 Extension Cord
Red Dots
Green Dots

16 | Westinghouse Portable Power
ADDING / CHECKING ENGINE
FLUIDS AND FUEL
BEFORE ADDING/CHECKING ENGINE
FLUIDS AND FUEL, REVIEW SAFETY
SECTION STARTING ON PAGE 5.
DANGER
Filling the fuel tank with gasoline while
the generator is running can cause
gasoline to leak and come in contact
with hot surfaces that can ignite the
gasoline.
Before starting the generator, always check the level of:
• Engine oil
• Gasoline in the fuel tank
Once the generator is started and the engine gets warm,
it is not safe to add gasoline to the fuel tank or engine oil
to the engine while the engine is running or the engine
and muer are hot.
CHECKING AND / OR ADDING ENGINE OIL
WARNING
Internal pressure can build in the
engine crankcase while the engine
is running. Removing the oil ll plug/
dipstick while the engine is hot can
cause extremely hot oil to spray out
of the crankcase and can severely
burn skin. Allow engine oil to cool for
several minutes before removing the
oil ll plug/dipstick.
The unit as shipped does not contain oil in the engine.
You must add engine oil before starting the generator
for the rst time. See Checking Engine Oil and Adding
Engine Oil on page 22 for instructions on checking engine
oil level and the procedure for adding engine oil.
NOTICE
The engine does not contain engine oil as shipped.
Attempting to start the engine can damage
engine components. The owner of the generator
is responsible to ensure the proper oil level is
maintained during the operation of the generator.
Failure to maintain the proper oil level can result in
engine damage.
OPERATION
CONNECTING THE GENERATOR TO A
BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
It is recommended to use a manual transfer switch
when connecting directly to a buildings electrical
system. Connecting a portable generator to a buildings
electrical system must be made in strict compliance
with all national and local electrical codes and laws,
and be completed by a qualied electrician.
TRANSFER SWITCH CONNECTIONS
The Westinghouse generator is wired with the neutral
bonded to ground. If you are connecting your generator
to a panel board transfer switch, a licensed electrician
will need to consider removing the bonded neutral to
ensure proper operation of household GFCI circuits.
Begin by removing the alternator cover (16 on page
12). Once the cover is o remove the nut that holds
the bonded ground jumper wire (see “2” in Figure 6).
Once the nut is removed take the bonded jumper wire
o and re-secure the nut. Next remove the screw holding
the neutral ground wire (see “1” in Figure 6). Attach the
bonded jumper wire (2) to the neutral ground (1) and
tighten the screw.
If the bonded neutral is removed the generator must be
relabeled as oating neutral on the control panel.
If your generator is equipped with GFCI receptacles,
removing the bonded neutral may not allow proper
operation of the GFCI receptacles. Always keep the
jumper wire in case it is needed for future use when not
connected to a transfer switch.
1
11
2
2
2
Figure 6
REMOVE
MOVE WIRE HERE
Alternator Neutral Ground Wire (white/Green)
Alternator Bonded Jumper Wire (white/Green)

Westinghouse Portable Power | 17
ADDING GASOLINE TO THE FUEL TANK
WARNING
Never refuel the generator while the
engine is running.
Always turn the engine o and allow
the generator to cool before refueling.
Required Gasoline – Only use gasoline that meets the
following requirements:
• Unleaded gasoline only
• Gasoline with maximum 10% ethanol added
• Gasoline with an 87 octane rating or higher
Filling the Fuel Tank – Follow the steps below to ll the
fuel tank:
1. Shut o the generator.
2. Allow the generator to cool down so all surface areas
of the muer and engine are cool to the touch.
3. Move the generator to a at surface.
4. Clean area around the fuel cap.
5. Remove the fuel cap by rotating counterclockwise.
6. Slowly add gasoline into the fuel tank. Be very careful
not to overll the tank. The gasoline level should NOT
be higher than the ller neck (see Figure 7).
7. Install the fuel cap by rotating clockwise until
you hear a click, indicating the cap is completely
installed.
Figure 7 - Maximum Gasoline Fill Level
CAUTION
Avoid prolonged skin contact with
gasoline. Avoid prolonged breathing of
gasoline vapors.
BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR
BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR,
REVIEW SAFETY SECTION STARTING ON
PAGE 5.
Before attempting to start the generator,
verify the following:
• The engine is lled with engine oil. See Checking Engine
Oil on page 22.
• The generator is situated in a proper location (Location
Selection on page 14).
• The generator is on a dry surface (Weather and Dry
Surface on page 14).
• All loads are disconnected from the generator (No
Connected Loads on page 14).
• The generator is properly grounded the Generator
(page 14).
DANGER
Never use the generator in a location
that is wet or damp. Never expose the
generator to rain, snow, water spray or
standing water while in use. Protect the
generator from all hazardous weather
conditions. Moisture or ice can cause a
short circuit or other malfunction in the
electrical circuit.
Never operate the generator in an
enclosed area. Engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide. Only operate the
generator outside and away from
windows, doors and vents.
NOTICE
The engine is equipped with a low oil shutdown switch. If the
oil level becomes low, the engine may shut down and not start
until the oil is lled to the proper level. Poor oil quality may
interfere with the operation of the low oil shutdown switch.
The owner of the generator is responsible to ensure the proper
oil level is maintained during the operation of the generator.
Failure to maintain the proper oil level can result in engine
damage.
NOTICE
DO NOT connect 240V loads to a 120V receptacles. DO NOT
connect 3-phase loads to the generator. DO NOT connect 50Hz
loads to the generator. Let engine stabilize and warm up for a
few minutes before adding load.
OPERATION

18 | Westinghouse Portable Power
OPERATION
POWER OUTPUT AND DEMAND
The generator should not be run completely unloaded
for extended periods otherwise the engine may be
damaged. It is recommended that the generator should
always be operated with at least one-third of its rated
120-Volt AC power output. 120-Volt AC devices have two
dierent electric power demands that must be taken into
consideration, namely the running power and the starting/
peak power. Both are measured in Watts (typically
abbreviated as “W”).
The steady state continuous load is the running power
demand and this is often marked on the device near its
model number or serial number. Sometimes the device
might only be marked with its voltage (i.e. 120 V) and current
draw (e.g. 6 Amp or 6 A), in which case the running power
demand in Watts can be obtained by multiplying the voltage
times the current, e.g. 120 V × 20 A = 2,400 W.
Simple resistive 120-Volt AC devices such as incandescent
bulbs, toasters, heaters, etc. have no extra power demand
when starting, and so their starting power demands are the
same as their running power demands.
More complex120-Volt AC devices containing inductive
or capacitive elements such as electric motors have a
momentary extra power demand when starting, which can
be up to seven times the running power demand or more.
Manufacturers of such devices rarely publish this starting
power demand and so it’s often necessary to estimate it.
A rule of thumb for devices tted with an electric motor
is to apply a starting power multiplier of 1.2 for small
hand-held or portable devices and a value of 3.5 for larger
stationary devices. For example, a 900 W angle grinder can
be assumed to have a starting power demand of at least
1.2 × 900 W, which equals 1,080 W. Similarly, a 1,650 W
air compressor can be assumed to have a starting power
demand of at least 3.5 × 1,650 W, which equals 5,775 W.
To prevent overloading of the generator’s 120-Volt AC
system:
1. Add up the running power demand of all the 120-Volt
AC devices that will be connected to the generator
at one time. This total must not be greater than the
generator’s specied running power output.
2. Add up the running power demand again, but for the
largest motor-driven device use the value of its starting
power demand instead of its running power demand.
This total must not be greater than the generator’s
specied starting power output.
3. The total running power demand of all the devices that
will be connected to any one of the generator’s outlets
must not exceed the generator’s specied running
power output or 3,700 W, whichever is the lesser.
STARTING THE GENERATOR
Be sure to check oil levels before starting. If it is the rst
time starting make sure to add oil (see Adding Engine Oil
page 22).
1. Make sure nothing is plugged into power outlets
2. Make sure the circuit breakers are properly set (see
Figure 8).
Figure 8 - Breakers
1 240/120VMain Circuit Breaker Operating Position
2 240/120V Main Circuit Breaker Tripped Position
3 120V Circuit Breaker Operating Position
4 120V Circuit Breaker Tripped Position
3. Move the fuel shuto valve to the ON position (see
Figure 9).
ON
OFF
Figure 9 - Fuel Shut O - ON
4. If the engine is cold, move the choke lever to the ON
position (see Figure 10 below). If the engine is warm
turn choke OFF.
Figure 10 - Choke - ON

Westinghouse Portable Power | 19
5. Push the engine control switch into the RUN position
(see Figure 11).
Figure 11 - Engine Control Switch - RUN
6. Firmly grasp and pull the recoil handle slowly until
you feel increased resistance. At this point, apply a
rapid pull while pulling up and slightly away from the
generator (see Figure 12).
Figure 12 - Engine Recoil Handle - Pull
7. As the engine starts and stabilizes, gradually move
the choke lever back to the OFF position.
8. Plug in electric devices.
OPERATION
STOPPING THE GENERATOR
Normal Operation
During normal operation, use the following steps to stop
your generator:
1. Remove any connected loads from the control panel
receptacles.
2. Allow the generator to run at “no load” to reduce and
stabilize engine and alternator temperatures.
3. Position the engine control switch to STOP.
Figure 13 - Stopping the generator
NOTE If you plan to store the generator after use,
stop the generator by turning the fuel shuto
valve to the OFF position and allow the fuel to be
consumed from the carburetor.
4. Turn the fuel shuto valve to the OFF position.
During an Emergency
If there is an emergency and the generator must be
stopped quickly, position the engine control switch to the
STOP position immediately.

20 | Westinghouse Portable Power
WARNING
Avoid accidentally starting the generator during maintenance by removing the spark plug boot from the spark plug. For
electric start generators, also disconnect the battery cables from the battery (disconnect the black negative (-) cable
rst) and place the cables away from the battery posts to avoid arcing.
Allow hot components to cool to the touch prior to performing any maintenance procedure.
Internal pressure can build in the engine crankcase while the engine is running. Removing the oil ll plug/ dipstick while
the engine is hot can cause extremely hot oil to spray out of the crankcase and can severely burn skin. Allow engine oil
to cool for several minutes before removing the oil ll plug/dipstick.
Always perform maintenance in a well- ventilated area. Gasoline fuel and fuel vapors are extremely ammable and can
ignite under certain conditions.
MAINTENANCE
BEFORE PERFORMING MAINTENANCE ON THE GENERATOR, REVIEW THE SAFETY SECTION START-
ING ON PAGE 5, AS WELL AS THE FOLLOWING SAFETY MESSAGES.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
WARNING
Failure to perform periodic maintenance or not following maintenance procedures can cause the generator to
malfunction and could result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE
Periodic maintenance intervals vary depending on generator operating conditions. Operating the generator under severe conditions,
such as sustained high-load, high-temperature, or unusually wet or dusty environments, will require more frequent periodic
maintenance. The intervals listed in the maintenance schedule should be treated only as a general guideline.
CAUTION
Avoid skin contact with engine oil or gasoline. Prolonged skin contact with engine oil or gasoline can be harmful.
Frequent and prolonged contact with engine oil may cause skin cancer. Take protective measures and wear protective
clothing and equipment. Wash all exposed skin with soap and water.
TABLE 1: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE - OWNER PERFORMED
Maintenance Item
Before Every
Use
After First 20
Hours or First
Month of Use
After 50 Hours
of Use or Every
6 Months
After 100 Hour
of Use or Every
6 Months
After 300 Hours of
Use or Every Year
Engine Oil Check Level Change Change - -
Cooling Features Check/Clean - - - -
Air Filter Check - Clean* - Replace
Spark Plug - - - Check/Clean Replace
Spark Arrestor - - - Check/Clean -
*Service more frequently if operating in dry and dusty conditions
Following the maintenance schedule is important to keep the generator in good operating condition. The
following is a summary of maintenance items by periodic maintenance intervals.