Your generator requires some assembly and is ready for use after it has been properly serviced with the recommended oil and fuel.
If you have any problems with the assembly of your generator, please call the generator helpline at (800) 743-4115. If calling for assistance, please have the model, revision, and serial number from the identification label available. See Controls and Features for identification label location.
The generator is supplied with:
NOTICE Wheel kit is not intended for over-the-road use.
You will need the following tools to install these components:
Install the wheel kit as follows:
Your unit is equipped with electric start capability but can be started manually. If you choose not to use the electric start feature, you do not need to connect the negative battery cable.
The sealed battery on the generator pre-installed except for the negative (black) battery cable.
To install:
NOTICE If your battery is discharged, charge prior to use following the instructions in the section Battery Charger.
NOTICE |mproper treatment of generator could damage it and shorten its life.
*DO NOT attempt to crank or start the engine before it has been properly serviced with the recommended oil. This could result in an engine failure.
Fuel must meet these requirements:
NOTICE Use of unapproved fuels could damage generator and voids warranty.
To protect the fuel system from gum formation, mix in a fuel stabilizer when adding fuel. See Storage. All fuel is not the same. If you experience starting or performance problems after using fuel, switch to a different fuel provider or change brands. This engine is certified to operate on gasoline. The emission control system for this engine is EM (Engine Modifications).
High Altitude
At altitudes over 5,000 feet (1524 meters), a minimum 85 octane / 85 AKI (89 RON) gasoline is acceptable. To remain emissions compliant, high altitude adjustment is required. Operation without this adjustment will cause decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and increased emissions. See a Briggs & Stratton Authorized Dealer for high altitude adjustment information. Operation of the engine at altitudes below 2,500 feet (762 meters) with the high altitude kit is not recommended.
The generator has a system ground that connects the generator frame components to the ground terminals on the AC output receptacles. The system ground is connected to the AC neutral wire (the neutral is bonded to the generator frame).
Special Requirements
There may be Federal or State Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, local codes, or ordinances that apply to the intended use of the generator. Please consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or the local agency having jurisdiction:
Connections for standby power to a building's electrical system must use a listed transfer switch installed by a current licensed electrician. The connection must isolate the generator power from the utility power and must comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
A - Battery Float Charger Jack — Use battery float charger jack to keep the starting battery charged and ready for use.
B - Hour Meter — Displays and records how many hours your generator has run (up to 9,999.9).
C - 12 Volt DC Receptacle — Use this receptacle with battery charge cables to charge a 12 Volt battery.
D - Start Switch — Push to start the engine.
E - Oil Fill Cap /Dipstick — Check and add engine oil here. used to supply electrical power for the operation of
H - 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle — May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads.
F - Oil Drain Plug — Drain engine oil here.
G - 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp Duplex Receptacle — May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads.
J - Grounding Fastener — If required, please consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or local agency having jurisdiction.
K - 120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle — May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 and/or 240 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads.
L - Identification Label — Provides model, revision and serial number of generator. Please have these readily available if calling for assistance.
M - GFCI Circuit Breaker — A GFCI circuit breaker is provided to protect against electrical ground fault and protect the generator against electrical overload.
N - Spark Arrester Muffler — Exhaust muffler lowers engine noise and is equipped with a spark arrester screen.
P - Engine Identification (stamped on side of valve cover)— Provides model, type and code of engine. Please have these readily available if calling for assistance.
R - Air Cleaner — Protects engine by filtering dust and debris out of intake air.
S - Recoil Starter — Used to start the engine.
T - Rocker Switch — Set this switch to on (I) before starting engine. Set switch to off (0) to turn off engine.
U - Choke Lever — Used when starting a cold engine.
V - Fuel Valve — Used to turn fuel supply on and off to engine.
W - Fuel Tank — Capacity of seven (7) U.S. gallons.
Use only high quality, well-insulated, grounded extension cords with the generator's 120 Volt duplex receptacle.
Inspect extension cords before each use.
Check the ratings of all extension cords before you use them. Extension cord sets used should be rated for 125 Volt AC loads at 20 Amps or greater for most electrical devices. Some devices, however, may not require this type of extension cord. Check the operator's manuals of those devices for the manufacturer's recommendations.
120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, Locking Receptacle
Use a NEMA L14-30 plug with this receptacle. Connect a 4-wire cord set rated for 250 Volt AC loads at 30 Amps (or greater). You can use the same 4-wire cord if you plan to run a 120 Volt load.
This receptacle powers 120/240 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase loads requiring up to 5,000 watts of power (5.0 kW) at 20.8 Amps for 240 Volts or two independent 120 Volt loads at 20.8 Amps each. The outlet is protected by a 2 pole GFCI circuit breaker.
120 Volt AC, 30 Amp Locking Receptacle
Use a NEMA L5-30 plug with this receptacle. Connect a 3-wire cord set rated for 125 Volt AC loads at 30 Amps to the plug.
Use this receptacle to operate 120 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase loads requiring up to 2,500 watts (2.5 kW) of power at 20.8 Amps. The outlet is protected by a 2 pole GFCI circuit breaker.
120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, Duplex Receptacle
The duplex receptacle is protected against overload by a 2 pole GFCI circuit breaker.
Use receptacle to operate 120 Volt AC, single-phase, 60 Hz electrical loads requiring up to 2,400 watts (2.4 kW) at 20 Amps of current. Use cord sets that are rated for 125 Volt AC loads at 20 Amps (or greater). Inspect cord sets before each use.
12 Volt DC, 10 Amp Receptacle
This receptacle allows you to recharge a 12 Volt automotive or utility style storage battery with the battery charge cables provided.
This receptacle can not recharge 6 Volt batteries and can not be used to crank an engine having a discharged battery. See the section Charging a Battery before attempting to recharge a battery.
This unit is equipped with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). This device meets applicable federal, state and local codes.
The GFCI protects against electrical shock that may be caused if your body becomes a path which electricity travels to reach ground. This could happen if you touch a “Live” appliance or wire, or are touching plumbing or other materials that connect to the ground.
When protected by a GFCI, one may still feel a shock, but the GFCI should cut current off quickly enough so that a person in normal health should not suffer any serious electrical injury.
Test GFCI Circuit Breaker
Test your GFCI circuit breaker every month, as follows:
During Generator Use
If circuit breaker trips during use, it usually indicates faulty electrical equipment or cords. However, test the circuit breaker as follows;
NOTICE If circuit breaker tests correctly:
Use battery float charger jack to keep the starting battery charged and ready for use. Battery charging should be done ina dry location, such as inside a garage.
NOTICE See Battery Maintenance for additional information.
NOTICE Always unplug the battery float charger before starting the generator.
Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator. Use the following start instructions:
1. Make sure unit is on a level surface.
NOTICE Failure to start and operate the unit on a level surface will cause the unit not to start or shut down during operation.
2. Turn the fuel valve (A) to the “On” position.
3. Push engine rocker switch to on position (1).
4. Push choke lever (B) to “Choke” position.
5A. For electric starting, push and hold the start switch in “Start” position until generator starts. To prolong the life of starter components, DO NOT hold start switch in “Start” position for more than 5 seconds, and pause for at least 1 minute between starting attempts.
NOTICE If battery is discharged, use manual starting instructions.
5B. For manual starting, grasp recoil handle and pull slowly until slight resistance is felt. Then pull rapidly one time only to start engine.
6. Move choke lever to “Half” choke position, and pull recoil handle twice or push and hold the start switch in the “Start” position as described in step 5A.
7. Slowly move choke lever to “Run” position. If engine falters, move choke lever to “Half” choke position until engine runs smoothly, and then to “Run” position.
NOTICE If engine floods, push choke handle all the way in and crank until engine starts.
NOTICE If engine starts after 3 pulls but fails to run, or if unit shuts down during operation, make sure unit is on a level surface and check for proper oil level in crankcase. This unit may be equipped with a low oil protection device. If so, oil must be at proper level for engine to start.
If engine oil pressure drops below a preset level, an oil switch will stop the engine. Check oil level with dipstick.
If oil level is hetween ADD and FULL mark on dipstick:
If oil level is helow ADD mark on dipstick:
Your generator has the capability of recharging a discharged 12 Volt automotive or utility style storage battery.
To recharge 12 Volt batteries, proceed as follows:
NOTICE Use an automotive hydrometer to test battery state of charge and condition. Follow the hydrometer manufacturer's instructions carefully. Generally, a battery is considered to be at 100% state of charge when specific gravity of its fluid (as measured by hydrometer) is 1.260 or higher.
Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occurs first. More frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions noted below.
First 5 Hours
Every 8 Hours or Daily
Every 25 Hours or Yearly
Every 50 Hours or Yearly
Every 100 Hours or Yearly
Every 250 Hours or Yearly
General Recommendations
Regular maintenance will improve the performance and extend the life of the generator. See any authorized dealer for service.
The generator's warranty does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, the operator must maintain the generator as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your generator.
All service and adjustments should be made at least once gach season. Follow the requirements in the Maintenance Schedule chart above.
NOTICE Once a year you should clean or replace the spark plug and replace the air filter. A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper fuel-air mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.
Emissions Control
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emissions control devices and systems may he performed hy any non-road engine repair establishment or individual.
However, to obtain “no charge” emissions control service, the work must be performed by a factory authorized dealer. See the Emissions Warranty.
Generator maintenance consists of keeping the unit clean and dry. Operate and store the unit in a clean dry environment where it will not be exposed to excessive dust, dirt, moisture, or any corrosive vapors. Cooling air slots in the generator must not become clogged with snow, leaves, or any other foreign material.
NOTICE DO NOT use water or other liquids to clean generator. Liquids can enter engine fuel system, causing poor performance and/or failure to occur. In addition, if liquid enters generator through cooling air slots, some of the liquid will be retained in voids and cracks of the rotor and stator winding insulation. Liquid and dirt buildup on the generator internal windings will eventually decrease the insulation resistance of these windings.
Cleaning
Daily or before use, look around and underneath the generator for signs of oil or fuel leaks. Clean accumulated debris from inside and outside the generator. Keep the linkage, spring and other engine controls clean. Keep the area around and behind the muffler free from any combustible debris. Inspect cooling air slots and openings on generator. These openings must be kept clean and unobstructed.
Engine parts should be kept clean to reduce the risk of overheating and ignition of accumulated debris:
Use a damp cloth to wipe exterior surfaces clean.
NOTICE Improper treatment of generator could damage it and shorten its life.
Other than float charging, described elsewhere, no maintenance is required for the starting battery. Keep the battery and terminals clean and dry.
NOTICE Battery charging should be performed in a dry location, such as inside a garage.
The fuel valve is equipped with a fuel sediment cup, screen, retaining ring and o-ring that need to be cleaned.
1. Move fuel valve to “Off” position.
2. Remove sediment cup (A) from fuel valve. Remove o-ring (B), retaining ring (C) and screen (D) from fuel valve.
3. Wash sediment cup, o-ring, retaining ring, and screen in a nonflammable solvent. Dry them thoroughly.
4. Place screen, retaining ring, and o-ring into fuel valve. Install sediment cup and tighten securely.
5. Move fuel valve to “On” position, and check for leaks. Replace o-ring if there is any leakage.
Oil Recommendations
We recommend the use of Briggs & Stratton Warranty Certified oils for best performance. Other high-quality detergent oils are acceptable if classified for service SF, SG, SH, SJ or higher. DO NOT use special additives.
Outdoor temperatures determine the proper oil viscosity for the engine. Use the chart to select the best viscosity for the outdoor temperature range expected.
Checking Oil Level
Oil level should be checked prior to each use or at least every 8 hours of operation. Keep oil level maintained.
Adding Engine Oil
Changing Engine Oil
If you are using your generator under extremely dirty or dusty conditions, or in extremely hot weather, change the oil more often.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. DON'T POLLUTE. CONSERVE RESOURCES. RETURN USED OIL TO COLLECTION CENTERS.
Change the oil while the engine is still warm from running, as follows:
1. Make sure unit is on a level surface.
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and place the wire where it cannot contact spark plug.
3. Clean area around oil drain plug (A). The oil drain plug is located at base of engine, under recoil.
4. Remove oil drain plug and drain oil completely into a suitable container.
5. Reinstall oil drain plug and tighten securely. Remove oil cap/dipstick.
6. Slowly pour recommended oil (about 28 oz.) into oil fill opening. Pause to permit oil to settle. Fill to “Full” mark on dipstick.
7. Wipe dipstick clean each time oil level is checked. DO NOT overfill.
8. Reinstall cil cap/dipstick. Tighten cap securely.
9. Wipe up any spilled oil.
Service Air Cleaner
Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged if you run it with a dirty air cleaner. Clean or replace more often if operating under dusty or dirty conditions.
To service the air cleaner, follow these steps:
1. Loosen screws (B) and remove air cleaner cover (CG).
2. Carefully remove foam pre-filter (D) and paper filter (E).
3. Wipe clean inside of base (F) and cover thoroughly.
4. Clean or replace the foam pre-filter. To clean, wash pre- filter in a solution of household detergent and warm water, then rinse thoroughly. Squeeze dry in a clean cloth.
5. Clean paper filter by tapping it gently on a solid surface. If the paper filter is too dirty, replace it with a new one. Dispose of the old filter properly.
6. Insert the foam pre-filter into the air cleaner cover, then the paper filter.
7. Assemble air cleaner cover onto base and tighten screws.
Service Spark Plug
Changing the spark plug will help your engine to start easier and run better.
Inspect the muffler for cracks, corrosion, or other damage. Remove the spark arrester, if equipped, and inspect for damage or carbon blockage. If replacement parts are required, make sure to use only original equipment replacement parts.
Clean and inspect the spark arrester as follows:
1. To remove muffler heat shield (A) from muffler (B), remove four screws that connect guard to muffler bracket.
2. Remove four screws that attach spark arrester screen (CG).
3. Inspect screen and obtain a replacement if torn, perforated or otherwise damaged. DO NOT use a defective screen. If screen is not damaged, clean it with commercial solvent.
4. Reattach screen and muffler guard.
Clean Cooling System
Over time debris may accumulate in cylinder cooling fins and cannot be observed without partial engine disassembly. For this reason, we recommend you have an authorized service dealer clean the cooling system (D) per recommended intervals (see Maintenance Schedule in the Maintenance section). Equally important is to keep top of engine free from debris. Also see Cleaning.
Regular valve clearance check and adjustment will improve performance and extend engine life. This procedure cannot be done without partial engine disassembly and the use of special tools. For this reason we recommend that you have an authorized Service Dealer check and adjust valve clearance at recommended intervals (see Maintenance Schedule in the Maintenance section).
Carburetor Adjustment
The carburetor on this engine is low emission. It is equipped with a non-adjustable idle mixture valve. Top speed has been set at the factory. If adjustment is required, see an authorized service dealer.
The generator should be started at least once every seven days and allowed to run at least 30 minutes. If this cannot be done and you must store the unit for more than 30 days, use the following guidelines to prepare it for storage.
Generator Storage
Long Term Storage Instructions
Fuel can become stale when stored over 30 days. Stale fuel causes acid and gum deposits to form in the fuel system or on essential carburetor parts. To keep fuel fresh, use Briggs &Stratton® Advanced Formula Fuel Treatment & Stabilizer, available wherever Briggs & Stratton genuine service parts are sold.
For engines equipped with a FRESH START® fuel cap, use Briggs & Stratton FRESH START® available in a drip concentrate cartridge.
There is no need to drain gasoline from the engine if a fuel stabilizer is added according to instructions. Run the engine for 2 minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the fuel system before storage.
If gasoline in the engine has not been treated with a fuel stabilizer, it must be drained into an approved container. Run the engine until it stops from lack of fuel. The use of a fuel stabilizer in the storage container is recommended to maintain freshness.
While engine is still warm, drain oil from crankcase. Refill with recommended grade. See Changing Engine Oil in Engine Maintenance.
Other Storage Tips
Problem | Cause | Correction |
| 1. GFCI circuit breakers is open. | 1. Reset circuit breaker. |
Engine is running, but no AC output is available. | 2. Fault in generator. | 2. Contact Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer. |
| 3. Poor connection or defective cord set. | 3. Check and repair. |
| 4. Connected device is bad. | 4. Connect another device that is in good condition. |
| 1. Short circuit in a connected load. | 1. Disconnect shorted electrical load. |
Engine runs good at no-load but "bogs down" when loads are connected. | 2. Engine speed is too slow. | 2. Contact Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer. |
| 3. Generator is overloaded. | 3. See Don 't Overload Generator. | |
| 4. Shorted generator circuit. | 4. Contact Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer. | |
| 5. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. | 5. Clean or replace fuel filter. |
| 1. Engine switch set to off (0) position. | 1. Set switch to on (1) position. |
| 2. Fuel valve is in ’Off' position. | 2. Turn fuel valve to 'On' position. |
| 3. Low oil level. | 3. Fill crankcase to proper level or place generator on level surface. |
| 4. Dirty air cleaner. | 4. Clean or replace air cleaner. |
| 5. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. | 5. Clean or replace fuel filter. |
| 6. Out of fuel. | 6. Fill fuel tank. |
| 7. Stale fuel. | 7. Drain fuel tank and carburetor; fill with fresh fuel. |
Engine will not start, starts and runs rough or shuts down when running. | 8. Spark plug wire not connected to spark plug. | 8. Connect wire to spark plug. |
| 9. Bad spark plug. | 9. Replace spark plug. |
| 10. Water in fuel. | 10. Drain fuel tank and carburetor; fill with fresh fuel. |
| 11. Flooded. | 11. Wait 5 minutes and recrank engine. |
| 12. Excessively rich fuel mixture. | 12. Contact Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer. |
| 13. Intake valve stuck open or closed. | 13. Contact Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer. |
| 14. Engine has lost compression. | 14. Contact Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer. |
| 1. Load is too high. | 1. See Don't Overload Generator. |
Engine lacks power. | 2. Dirty air filter. | 2. Replace air filter. |
| 3. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. | 3. Clean or replace fuel filter. |
Engine "hunts" or falters. | 1. Carburetor is running too rich or too lean. | 1. Contact Briggs & Stratton authorized dealer. |
| 2. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. | 2. Clean or replace fuel filter. |
