
10 REV E
OPM-107
OPERATING SPEED
The engine-generator must be run at the correct speed in order to
produce the proper electrical voltage and frequency.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
The output voltage should be checked to ensure the generator is
working properly prior to connecting a load to the generator. Failure to
do so could result in damage to equipment plugged into the unit and
possible injury to the individual.
All engines have a tendency to slow down when a load is applied.
When the electrical load is connected to the generator, the engine is
more heavily loaded, and as a result, the speed drops slightly. This
slight decrease in speed, together with the voltage drop within the
generator itself, results in a slightly lower voltage when the generator
is loaded to its full capacity than when running no load. The slight
variation in speed also affects the frequency of the output current.
This frequency variation has no appreciable effect in the operation of
motors, lights, and most appliances. However, electronic equipment
and clocks will be affected if correct RPM is not maintained. See Load
vs. Output chart.
Although individual units and models vary slightly, the normal voltage
and frequency of the engine-generator described in this manual are
approximately as follows, under varying loads:
LOAD vs. OUTPUT
Generator
Load
Speed
(RPM)
Frequency
(Hz)
Voltage
120V
Recpt
240V
Recpt
None 3690 61.5 125V 258V
Half 3600 60.0 120V 240V
Full 3510 58.5 115V 230V
The speed of the engine was carefully adjusted at the factory so that
the generator produces the proper voltage and frequency. For normal
usage, the speed setting should not be changed. If the generator is
being run continuously on a very light load, it is often advisable to lower
the operating speed slightly.
The engine will govern itself at full speed. Intentionally overriding the
governor and operating the generator at low voltage may damage both
the generator and any load connected to it. Running the engine at
excessively high speeds results in high voltage, which may signicantly
shorten the life of light bulbs and appliances being used, as well as
possibly damaging the engine.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
SPEED ADJUSTMENTS SHOULD ONLY BE MADE BY A QUALIFIED
SERVICE TECH. Whenever making any speed adjustments, check the
unit with a voltmeter and a frequency meter or a tachometer and be
sure the voltage and speed are correct.
Output voltage should be checked periodically to ensure continued
proper operation of the generating plant and appliances. If the
generator is not equipped with a voltmeter, it can be checked with a
portable meter.
CONNECTING THE LOADS
The engine-generator covered in this manual was designed for portable
use. Do NOT operate indoors. The unit should be stored in a warm, dry
location. Move the unit outdoors to a at, dry location for use.
WARNING: PERSONAL DANGER:
Operating any engine driven generator without proper air ow can
result in personal injury or death. DO NOT operate this unit inside a
home or garage, near vents or windows, or anywhere carbon monoxide
gas could accumulate.
APPLYING THE LOADS
Allow the engine to warm up for two or three minutes before applying
any load. This will allow the engine to reach normal operating
temperature and oil to circulate throughout the engine. A short warm-
up time will permit the engine to work more efciently when the load
is applied and will reduce the wear in the engine, extending its life.
Receptacles have been provided to allow loads to be connected to the
generator.
The loads should be added one at a time. If a large motor is being
started: or multiple motors are being started, they should be started
individually and the largest should be started rst.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT OVERLOAD
Keep the generator load within in the generator and receptacle
nameplate rating. Overloading may cause damage to the generator
and/or the loads.
Most electric tools and appliances will have the voltage and amperage
requirements on their individual nameplates. When in doubt, consult
the manufacturer or a local electrician. The nameplate amperage rating
for electric motors can be misleading. See “Starting Electric Motors” in
the Unit Capabilities.
These engine-generator sets are inherently self regulating based on
engine speed. The engine governor will automatically adjust itself to the
load. No harm to the generator will result if it is operated with no load
connected.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
Diesel engines should never be run for an extended period of time with
a very light load or no load on them, it may do permanent damage to
the engine if run under these conditions.
Proper utilization of the receptacles located on the control panel
is necessary to prevent damage to either the receptacles or the
generator. The generator is a limited source of electrical power,
therefore, pay special attention to the receptacle and generator ratings.
The nameplate rating can be obtained through a single receptacle as
long as the receptacles amperage rating is not exceeded.