ESPAÑOL: PÁGINA 21
FRANÇAIS: PAGE 41
Instruction
manual
Generator
Model
BSI550
Shown with optional portability kit
IMPORTANT
To learn more about Porter-Cable
visit our website at:
Please make certain that the person who is to use this equipment
carefully reads and understands these instructions before starting
operations.
The Model and Serial No. plate is located on the frame. Record these
numbers in the spaces below and retain for future reference.
Model No.
Type
PROFESSIONAL POWER TOOLS
Serial No.
Part No. D23665-0111-1
WARRANTY
PORTER-CABLE CORPORATION warrants to the original purchaser that each new electric generator and service part is
free from defects in material and workmanship, and agrees to repair or replace under this warranty any defective product or
part as follows from the original date of purchase.
2 YEARS – Limited warranty on electric generator alternators and 1 year limited warranty on all other parts.
90 Days – Service parts
Engine warranties are the responsibility of the engine manufacturer. Warranties of merchandise sold by Porter-Cable which
has been manufactured by and identified as the product of another company are the responsibility of the manufacturer of
that product.
THIS WARRANTY IS NOT TRANSFERABLE AND DOES NOT COVER
•
•
•
Products sold damaged or incomplete, sold “as is,” sold reconditioned, or used as rental equipment.
Delivery, installation, or normal adjustments explained in the owner’s manual.
Damage or liability caused by shipping, improper handling, improper installation, improper maintenance, improper mod-
ification, or the use of accessories and/or attachments not specifically recommended by PORTER-CABLE for the prod-
uct.
•
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, or the failure to install, operate, maintain, and store the
product according to the instructions in the owner’s manual.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Damage caused by cold, heat, rain, excessive humidity, corrosive environments and materials, or other contaminants.
Expendable items that become worn during normal use such as fuel filters, air cleaners, spark plugs, and engine oil.
Cosmetic defects that do not interfere with product functionality.
Freight costs from customer to Porter-Cable.
Repair and transportation costs of products or parts determined not to be defective.
ANY INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS, DAMAGE, OR EXPENSE THAT MAY RESULT FROM
ANY DEFECT, FAILURE OR MALFUNCTION OF THE PRODUCT. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limita-
tion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
•
IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PUR-
POSE, ARE LIMITED TO ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE. Some states do not allow limi-
tations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
WARRANTY SERVICE is available by delivering or shipping the defective product or part to any Porter-Cable authorized
warranty service location. To determine the nearest authorized warranty service location, call the toll free number, 1-888-
559-8550, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Specific instructions regarding servicing arrangements and scheduling may vary
depending on the type and size of the product and the availability of repair parts.
•
•
•
DO NOT return the defective product to the retailer.
Retain the original cash register sales receipt as proof of purchase for warranty work.
Purchasers should contact Porter-Cable directly if they do not receive satisfactory results from the authorized warranty
service center.
Porter-Cable Corporation
4825 Highway 45 North
P.O. Box 2468
Jackson, TN 38302-2468
1-888-559-8550
3 — ENG
SAFETY GUIDELINES - DEFINITIONS
This manual contains information that
is important for you to know and un-
derstand. This information relates to
protecting YOUR SAFETY and PRE-
VENTING EQUIPMENT PROB-
LEMS. To help you recognize this
information, we use symbols to the
right. Please read the manual and pay
attention to these sections.
Information for preventing damage to
equipment.
URGENT SAFETY INFORMATION - A HAZARD
THAT WILL CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR
LOSS OF LIFE.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION - A HAZ-
ARD THAT MIGHT CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY
OR LOSS OF LIFE.
Information that you should pay special
attention to.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS •
When using this product basic precautions should always be fol-
lowed including the following:
RISK OF ELECTROCUTION AND FIRE
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
HAZARD
HOW TO PREVENT IT
Back feeding electricity through a
building’s electrical system to the
outside utility feed lines could endan-
ger repair persons attempting to re-
store service.
Never backfeed electricity through
a structure's electrical system.
Attempting to connect generator
directly to the electrical system of
any building structure.
To connect to a structure's electri-
cal system in a safe manner,
always have a Double-Throw
Transfer Switch installed by a quali-
fied electrician and in compliance
with local ordinances. (When in-
stalling a Double-Throw Transfer
Switch, a minimum of 10 gauge
wiring must be used.)
Attempting to connect to the incom-
ing utility service could result in elec-
trocution.
Restoration of electrical service while
the generator is connected to the
incoming utility could result in a fire
or serious damage if an isolator
switch is not installed.
Failure to use a double throw transfer
switch when connecting to a struc-
ture's electrical system can damage
appliances and WILL VOID the man-
ufacturer's warranty.
Improper storage of extension
cord
Extension cord can come into contact Never fold handle over hot engine
with hot engine parts resulting in
damage. Using a damaged extension
cord can result in electrocution or
death.
with extension cord wrapped on
storage bracket.
4 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
RISK OF ELECTROCUTION AND FIRE (cont’d)
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
HOW TO PREVENT IT
Operate generator in a clean, dry,
HAZARD
Operation of generator in rain,
wet, icy, or flooded conditions.
Water is an excellent conductor of
electricity! Water which comes in con- well ventilated area. Make sure
tact with electrically charged compo-
nents can transmit electricity to the
frame and other surfaces, resulting in
electrical shock to anyone contacting
them.
hands are dry before touching unit.
Contact with worn or damaged ex-
tension cords could result in electro-
cution.
Inspect extension cords before
use and replace with new cord if
required.
Use of worn, damaged, under-
sized or ungrounded extension
cords.
Use of undersize extension cords
could result in overheating of the
wires or attached items, resulting in
fire.
Use proper size (wire gauge) cord-
set for application see chart in the
Assembly section of this manual.
Always use a cordset having a
grounding wire with an appropri-
ate grounding plug. DO NOT use
an ungrounded plug.
Use of ungrounded cordsets could
prevent operation of circuit breakers
and result in electrical shock.
Accidental leakage of electrical cur-
rent could charge conductive sur-
faces in contact with the generator.
Place generator on low conductiv-
ity surface such as a concrete
slab.
Placing generator on or against
highly conductive surface, such as
a steel walkway or metal roof.
ALWAYS operate generator a min-
imum of six feet from any conduc-
tive surface.
Exceeding the load capacity of the
generator by attaching too many
items, or items with very high load
ratings to it could result in overheat-
ing of some items or their attachment
wiring resulting in fire or electrical
shock.
Read the load rating chart and in-
structions in the Wattage Calcula-
tion section. Make sure that the
summation of electrical loads for
all attachments does not exceed
the load rating of the generator.
Improper connection of items to
generator.
Attempting to use the unit when it
has been damaged, or when it is not
functioning normally could result in
fire or electrocution.
Do not operate generator with me-
chanical or electrical problem.
Have unit repaired by an Autho-
rized Service Center.
Operation of unit when damaged,
or with guards or panels removed.
Removal of guarding could expose
electrically charged components and
result in electrocution.
Do not operate generator with
protective guarding removed.
5 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
RISK OF FIRE
HAZARD
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
HOW TO PREVENT IT
Attempting to fill the fuel tank while Gasoline and gasoline vapors can
Turn engine off and allow it to cool
before adding fuel to the tank.
Equip area of operation with a fire
the engine is running.
become ignited by coming in contact
with hot components such as the
muffler, engine exhaust gases, or from extinguisher certified to handle
an electrical spark.
gasoline or fuel fires.
Sparks, fire, hot objects
Cigarettes, sparks, fires, or other hot
objects can cause gasoline or gaso-
line vapors to ignite.
Add fuel to tank in well ventilated
area. Make sure there are no sourc-
es of ignition near the generator.
Improper storage of fuel
Improperly stored fuel could lead to
accidental ignition. Fuel improperly se-
cured could get into the hands of chil-
dren or other unqualified persons.
Store fuel in a OSHA approved
container designed to hold gaso-
line. Store container in secure loca-
tion to prevent use by others.
Inadequate ventilation for generator
Materials placed against or near the Operate generator in a clean, dry,
generator or operating the generator in well ventilated area a minimum of
areas where the temperature exceeds four feet from any building, object
104° F. ambient (such as storage or wall. DO NOT OPERATE UNIT
rooms or garages) can interfere with its INDOORS OR IN ANY CONFINED
proper ventilation features causing AREA.
overheating and possible ignition of the
materials or buildings.
Engine speed has been factory set to
provide safe operation. Tampering with
the engine speed adjustment could re-
sult in overheating of attachments and
could cause a fire.
Tampering with factory set engine
speed settings.
Never attempt to “speed-up” the
engine to obtain more perfor-
mance. Both the output voltage
and frequency will be thrown out of
standard by this practice, endan-
gering attachments and the user.
Spilled fuel and its vapors can
Use care in filling the tank to avoid
become ignited from hot surfaces or spilling fuel. Make sure fuel cap is
Overfilling the fuel tank –
fuel spillage.
sparks.
secured tightly and check engine
for fuel leaks before starting
engine. Move generator away
from refueling area or any spillage
before starting engine. Allow for
fuel expansion. Keep maximum
fuel level 1/2 inch below the tip of
the fuel tank. Never refuel with
the engine running.
6 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
Risk of Injury and Property Damage When
Transporting Generator
HAZARD
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
HOW TO PREVENT IT
If generator is equipped with a fuel
shut-off valve, turn the valve to the
off position before transporting to
avoid fuel leaks. If generator is not
equipped with a fuel shut-off valve,
drain the fuel from tank before
transporting. Transport fuel only in
an OSHA approved container.
Always place generator on a pro-
tective mat when transporting to
protect against damage to vehicle
from leaks. Remove generator from
vehicle immediately upon arrival at
your destination.
Fire, Inhalation, Damage to Vehicle
Surfaces
Fuel or oil can leak or spill and could
result in fire or breathing hazard, seri-
ous injury or death can result. Fuel or
oil leaks will damage carpet, paint or
other surfaces in vehicles or trailers.
RISK OF BREATHING - INHALATION HAZARD
HOW TO PREVENT IT
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
Gasoline engines produce toxic car- Breathing exhaust fumes will cause
HAZARD
Operate generator in clean, dry,
well ventilated area. Never operate
unit in enclosed areas such as
garages, basements, storage,
sheds, or in any location occupied
by humans or animals. Keep chil-
dren, pets and others away from
area of operating unit.
bon monoxide exhaust fumes.
serious injury or death.
7 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
RISK OF UNSAFE OPERATION
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
HOW TO PREVENT IT
HAZARD
Operation of generator in careless
manner.
All sources of energy include the po-
tential for injury. Unsafe operation or
maintenance of your generator could
lead to serious injury or death to you
or others.
•
•
Review and understand all of
the operating instructions and
warnings in this manual.
Become familiar with the oper-
ation and controls of the gen-
erator. Know how to shut it off
quickly.
•
•
Equip area of operation with a
fire extinguisher certified to
handle gasoline or fuel fires.
Keep children or others away
from the generator at all times.
Always use a U.L. listed voltage
sensitive surge protector to con-
nect voltage sensitive appliances
(TV, computer, stereo, etc.). Failure
to use a U.L. listed voltage surge
protector will void the warranty
on your generator.
Any gasoline operated household gen-
erator will incur voltage variations
causing damage to voltage sensitive
appliances or could result in fire.
Operation of voltage sensitive ap-
pliances without a voltage surge
protector.
Notice: A multiple outlet strip is
not a surge protector. Make sure
you use a U.L. listed voltage surge
protector.
Never operate generator while sus-
pended or in an unlevel position.
Always operate generate on a flat,
level surface.
Generator will not operate properly and
will cause damage to the generator
and could cause serious injury or death
to you or others.
Operating generator while suspend-
ed
8 — ENG
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE GENERATOR.
RISK OF HOT SURFACES
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
Contact with hot engine and gener- Contact with hot surfaces, such as en- During operation, touch only the
HAZARD
HOW TO PREVENT IT
ator components. gines exhaust components, could re- control surfaces of the generator.
sult in serious burns.
Keep children away from the gen-
erator at all times. They may not be
able to recognize the hazards of
this product.
RISK OF MOVING PARTS
HOW TO PREVENT IT
HAZARD
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
Contact with moving parts can re- The generator contains parts which Never operate generator with
sult in serious injury.
rotate at high speed during operation. guarding or cover plates removed.
These parts are covered by guarding Avoid wearing loose fitting clothing
to prevent injury.
or jewelry which could be caught
by moving parts.
RISK FROM LIFTING
WHAT COULD HAPPEN
HOW TO PREVENT IT
HAZARD
Lifting a very heavy object.
Serious injury can result from attempt- The generator is too heavy to be
ing to lift too heavy an object.
lifted by one person. Obtain assis-
tance from others before you try
to move it.
9 — ENG
ASSEMBLY
Extension Cords
When using an appliance or tool at a considerable dis-
tance from the generator, a 3-wire extension cord that
has a 3-blade grounding plug and a 3-slot receptacle
that accepts the tool's plug MUST be used in order to
reduce the risk of electrical shock. A cord of adequate
size must be used. Using the following chart to deter-
mine the minimum wire size required.
Read this manual. Do not attempt to operate
equipment until you have read this Manual for
Safety, Operation, and Maintenance Instruc-
tions.
NOTE: This manual is a general manual. Informa-
tion in this manual may or may not pertain to your
model. Please read carefully.
Extension Cord Wire Gauge Chart
NOTE: Left and right describes the location of a
part with the operator facing the outlet panel.
Wire Gauge
Size
Cord
Length
Amperage
REMOVE GENERATOR FROM CARTON
12 ga.
10 ga.
0 to 100 ft.
0 to 100 ft.
*Up to 20 amp draw
Up to 30 amp draw
•
•
•
•
•
Open carton from top.
Cut carton along dotted lines.
Remove all carton inserts.
*NOTE: When amperage exceeds 20 amps; a 12
gauge extension cord should not be used for long dis-
tances.
Remove generator through opening in carton.
(If equipped) See portability Kit instructions to
assemble the portability kit.
IMPORTANT: Before any attempt to start your genera-
tor be sure to check engine oil (See Engine Operator's
manual)
An extension cord that is hot to the touch is
overloaded. Repair or replace damaged exten-
sion cords immediately.
GROUNDING THE GENERATOR
A grounding lug is supplied with the generator for use
when required by local electrical ordinances. Refer to
article 250 of the National Electrical Code to clarify any
needed grounding information. Your local electric com-
pany or a certified electrician should be able to help
you with this information.
Double Throw Transfer Switch
Potential hazards exist when a portable electric genera-
tor is connected to the main electrical supply coming
into the house. It is at that point that the electrical gen-
erator could feed back into the utility company's sys-
tem causing possible electrocution of workers who are
repairing the electrical lines.
NOTE: Your engine is already grounded to the frame by
a grounding strap.
To avoid back feeding of electricity into utility systems,
a double-throw transfer switch must be installed
between the generator and utility power. The Double-
Throw Transfer Switch should be installed by a licensed
electrician and in compliance with all state and local
electrical codes. (When installing a Double-Throw
Transfer Switch, a minimum of 10 gauge wiring
must be used.)
The electrician should also install a sub-panel to isolate
the circuits you would want to use during an emergen-
cy or electrical power outage. Your generator will not
be large enough to handle the load of all the lights, ap-
pliances, TV, etc. at one time. To select which items to
run during the electrical power outage, see Wattage
Calculation section in this manual.
Grounding Lug
OBTAINING ELECTRICITY FROM THE
GENERATOR
There are basically 2 ways to obtain electricity from a
generator:
1. Use of extension cords directly from the generator
to the appliance, lights, tools, etc.
2. Use of a double-throw transfer switch installed
directly to the main electrical supply outside of
house.
10 — ENG
OPERATION
down. Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline
with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with
gasoline.
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
Read this General Manual and Safety Rules before
operation of your Generator. Compare the illustration
in your parts manual with your generator to familiarize
yourself with the location of various controls and ad-
justments. Save all manuals for future references.
GENERATOR CAPACITY
IMPORTANT: Exceeding the rated capacity of your
generator can result in serious damage to your genera-
tor and connected electrical devices. See the Wattage
Calculation section in this manual to assist you in de-
termining the appliances and tools that can be ran with
the wattage capacity of your generator.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Never fill fuel tank completely. Fill tank to 1/2"
below the bottom of the filler neck to provide
space for fuel expansion. Wipe any fuel spillage
from engine and equipment before starting en-
gine.
Each receptacle has a circuit breaker to protect the
generator from overloading. If the circuit breaker trips,
unplug all electrical loads from the generator. Let the
circuit breaker cool down. Push circuit breaker button
to reset.
LOW OIL PROTECTION
To protect the generator engine from damage, the
engine is equipped with a Low Oil Protection reliability
feature.
When the engine has been shut down for refueling or
other purposes and the oil level is low, the Low Oil
Protection will prevent the engine from restarting until
sufficient oil has been added. NOTE: The Low Oil
Protection mechanism is very sensitive. You must fill
the engine to the full mark on the dipstick to inactivate
this safety device.
Never fill fuel tank indoors. Never fill fuel tank
when engine is running or hot. Do not smoke
when filling fuel tank.
Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poor
ventilated areas, engine exhaust contains car-
bon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
IMPORTANT: Low Oil Protection will not automatically
shut down the engine if oil level becomes low while
the engine is running. Always check engine oil level
before starting the engine.
3. Make sure generator is grounded in accordance
with local requirements.
4. All electrical loads MUST be disconnected
BEFORE START UP
Engine speed has been factory set to provide
safe operation. Tampering with the engine
speed adjustment could result in overheating of
attachments and could cause a fire. Never
attempt to “speed-up” the engine to obtain
more performance. Both the output voltage and
frequency will be thrown out of standard by this
practice, endangering attachments and the
user.
This generator has been shipped from the fac-
tory without oil in the crankcase. Operating the
unit without oil can damage the engine.
Always check engine oil level before every start.
Running engine low of oil or out of oil could
result in serious damage to the engine.
Follow the steps listed below before starting gener-
ator:
You MUST unplug any load from the generator
before starting to prevent permanent damage to
any appliances.
1. Check engine oil. Refer to the Engine Operator's
Manual for correct grade and quantity of oil.
2. Check fuel level, fill as required. Make sure genera-
tor is turned off and has been allowed time to cool
11 — ENG
TO START THE ENGINE
STOPPING ENGINE
1. Disconnect all electrical loads.
2. Turn ON/OFF switch to "OFF" position.
Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poor
ventilated areas, engine exhaust contains car-
bon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
1. Open the fuel shut-off valve.
3. Close fuel shut-off valve.
2. Move the choke control located on the engine to
the “Choke” position.
CONNECTING ELECTRICAL LOADS
1. Let engine run and warm up for five minutes after
starting with no electrical load.
Connect loads in the following manner to prevent dam-
age to equipment:
2. Connect inductive load equipment first, inductive
loads consist of refrigerators, freezers, water
pumps, air conditioners, or small hand tools.
Connect the items that require the most wattage
first. See Wattage Calculation Section in this
manual.
NOTE: No choke is required on warm engines. make
sure choke is in the “RUN” position on warm engine
starts.
3. Connect the lights next.
3. On the engine there is a
ON/OFF switch located on
the front panel of the engine.
Place this switch to the "ON"
position.
4. Grasp handle on rope starter and pull slowly until
resistance is felt. Let the rope rewind slowly. Pull
rope with a rapid full arm stroke. Let rope rewind
slowly. Repeat if necessary.
4. Voltage sensitive equipment should be the last
equipment connected to the generator. Plug volt-
age sensitive appliances such at TV's, VCR's, mi-
crowaves, ovens, computers, and cordless tele-
phones into a UL listed voltage surge protector,
then connect the UL listed voltage surge protector
to the generator.
Failure to connect and operate equipment in this
sequence can cause damage to equipment and
will void the warranty on your generator.
5. When engine starts, gradually move the choke to
the “RUN” position
Follow the wattage calculation table in the
Wattage Calculation section of this manual.
Overloading the generator will cause power fluctu-
ations and can damage equipment and appli-
ances.
Porter-Cable Corporation will only be responsible
for damage to customer's equipment when the
generator is determined to be defective. This
determination will only be made by an authorized
representative of Porter-Cable Corporation and
this decision will be final. Porter-Cable
Corporation reserves the right to inspect the elec-
trical connections at the customer's site of opera-
tion and test the generator for proper operation
before any determination of liability is made.
Failure to maintain the equipment or wiring for
inspection will void any claim for damages by the
customer. Porter-Cable Corporation will not be
responsible for equipment damaged as a result of
voltage surges, improper operation or improper
installation of the generator.
IMPORTANT: Allow generator to run at no load for 5
minutes upon each initial start-up to allow engine and
generator to stabilize.
12 — ENG
MAINTENANCE
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES TABLE
Before each
use
Every 25
Hours of Every
Season
Every 50
Hours of Every
Season
Every 100
Hours of Every
Season
MAINTENANCE TASK
See Note 2
X
X
Check oil level
See Note 1
Change oil
Clean Air Filter Assembly
Check Spark Plug
Prepare Unit for Storage
X
Prepare unit for storage if it is to remain idle for more than 30 days.
Note 1: Change oil after first two (2) operating hours and every 50 operating hours thereafter, more often if oper-
ated in extreme dusty or dirty conditions.
Note 2: Check oil after 5 hours of operation
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
The warranty of the generator does not cover items
that have been subjected to operator abuse or negli-
gence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator
must maintain the generator as instructed in this manu-
al.
Your generator should be kept clean and dry at all
times. The generator should not be stored or operated
in environments that includes excessive moisture, dust
or any corrosive vapors. If these substances are on the
generator, clean with a cloth or soft bristle brush. Do
not use a garden hose or anything with water pressure
to clean the generator. Water may enter the cooling air
slots and could possibly damage the rotor, stator and
the internal windings of the generator head.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Refer to the Engine Operator's manual for service and
maintenance of the engine.
STORAGE
If you are going to store your generator for more than
30 days, use the following information as a guide to
prepare the generator for storage.
4. Disconnect the spark plug wire and remove the
spark plug.
5. Add one teaspoon of oil through the spark plug
hole.
6. Place rag over spark plug hole and pull the recoil a
few times to lubricate the combustion chamber.
Never store generator with fuel in the tank in-
doors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas,
where fumes can reach an open flame, spark or
pilot light as on a furnace, water heater, clothes
dryer or other gas appliances.
7. Replace the spark plug, but do not connect the
spark plug wire.
NOTE: If a fuel stabilizer is not used, all gasoline must
be drained from the tank and carburetor to prevent
gum deposits from forming on these parts and causing
possible malfunction of the engine.
Engine Preparation
Generator
1. Add fuel stabilizer to fuel tank to minimize the for-
mation of fuel gum deposits during storage.
•
Clean the generator as outlined in the Mainte-
nance Section on this manual.
2. Run engine at least 5 minutes after adding stabiliz-
er to allow it to enter the fuel system.
•
Check that cooling air slots and openings on gen-
erator are open and unobstructed.
3. Next shut off engine.
13 — ENG
WATTAGE CALCULATIONS
IMPORTANT
Never exceed the rated capacity of your generator. Serious damage to the generator or appliance could
result from an overload.
1. Starting and running wattage requirements should always be calculated when matching a generators
wattage capacity to the appliance or tool.
2. There are two types of electrical appliances that can be powered by your generator:
A. Items such as radios, light bulbs, television sets, and microwaves have a "resistive load". Starting
wattage and running wattage are the same.
B. Items such as refrigerators, air compressors, washer, dryer, and hand tools that use an electrical
motor have an "inductive load". Inductive load appliances and tools require approximately 2 to 4
times the listed wattage for starting the equipment. This initial load only lasts for a few seconds on
start-up but is very important when figuring your total wattage to be used.
C.
Always start your largest electric motor first, and then plug in other items, one at a time.
NOTE: On 120-volt loads the maximum starting wattage should NOT exceed one half of the rated genera-
tor wattage. Example: a 5000 rated wattage generator = 2500 maximum starting wattage.
DETERMINING WATTAGE REQUIREMENTS
Before operating this generator list all of the appliances and/or tools that are going to operate at the same time.
(Then determine the starting wattage requirements and the running wattage requirements by following example
and/or refer to wattage calculator on page 16.)
1. First total the running wattage of all appliances and/or tools that will be operated at the same time.
Running Watts
Starting Watts
Example 1:
Lights
Television
Slow Cooker
=
=
=
100 Watts
300 Watts
250 Watts
0
0
0
TOTAL
=
650 Watts
0
2. Next the starting wattages of any appliances and/or tools that will start and stop during operation.
Running Watts
500 Watts
Starting Watts
2000 Watts
Example 2:
TOTAL
Small Refrigerator
=
500 Watts
2000 Watts
3. The running wattage of examples 1 & 2 totals 1150 watts. The starting wattage of the small refrigerator is 2000
watts which is 1500 watts more than the running watts. Take this difference of 1500 starting watts from the re-
frigerator and add to the total running watts of 1150.
Example 3:
1500 Starting Watts
1150 Running Watts
TOTAL
=
2650 Total Watts
Generator must have a maximum capacity of at least 2650 watts.
14 — ENG
WATTAGE CALCULATIONS
2. To determine the approximate starting wattage
STARTING WATTAGE REQUIREMENTS
requirement for most appliances and tools with
inductive type motors, multiply the wattage that
was calculated by 2 to 4 times to assure adequate
generator capacity. If the nameplate information is
not available use the values on the following chart
as a guide.
1. Some appliances and tools will list on the motor
name plate the starting and running voltage and
amperage requirements. Use the following formula to
convert voltage and amperage to wattage:
Volts X Amp = Watts
3. Remember that the starting and running wattage
for resistive loads are the same. (Example: a 100
watt light bulb requires only 100 watts to start.)
Most resistive loads will be listed in wattage.
120 volts x 10 amps = 1200 watts
Application Guide
To select the right generator for your needs, total the wattage
of the items to be run at the same time.
Run
Start
Wattage
Electric Appliance
3/8" Hand Drill
Jigsaw
1/3 HP Airless Sprayer
6" Bench Grinder
Belt Sander
Demolition Hammer
7 1/4" Circular Saw
Light Bulb
Home Security
Television
Microwave
Toaster Oven
Portable Heater (5,000 BTU)
Furnace Fan
Refrigerator/Freezer
Sump Pump
Clothes Washer
Water Heater
Air Conditioner (20,000 BTU)
12V DC Battery Charger
Radio
Slow Cooker
Electric Blanket
Electric Skillet
Coffee Maker
Small Refrigerator
The wattage ratings shown are averages. Wattage requirements may vary
with different brands of appliances.
15 — ENG
WATTAGE CALCULATIONS
HOUSEHOLD WATTAGE CALCULATOR
DEVICES WITH HIGH STARTING (INDUCTIVE)LOADS
APPLIANCE OR
LOAD DEVICE*
TYPICAL DEVICE
WATTAGE**
RUN WATTS
TIMES (X) START FACTOR
TOTAL
REFRIGERATOR/
FREEZER
=
=
=
x
x
800
600
3
3
3
2
3
2
2400
=
SMALL REFRIGERATOR
AIR COND.(ROOM)
SUMP PUMP 1/2 HP
1800
2400
1000
800
x
x
=
=
=
=
7200
2000
=
=
=
x
x
FURNACE FAN 1/3 HP
WELL PUMP 1/2 HP
2400
2000
=
1000
=
=
=
=
1500
HOT PLATE
TELEVISION
MICROWAVE
CAUTION !!
300
800
CAUTION !!
DO NOT CONNECT VOLTAGE SENSITIVE
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (TV SET, COMPUTER,
ETC.) DIRECTLY TO YOUR GENERATOR. IF YOU USE
THE GENERATOR TO POWER SENSITIVE EQUIPMENT
YOU MUST USE A U.L. LISTED VOLTAGE SURGE
PROTECTOR.
=
=
=
=
=
=
NOTICE: FAILURE TO USE A U.L. LISTED VOLTAGE
SURGE PROTECTOR WILL DAMAGE YOUR
EQUIPMENT AND VOID YOUR WARRANTY.
SPACE HEATER
WATER HEATER
1500
4000
THE IDLE CONTROL MUST BE IN THE
OFF POSITION WHEN OPERATING
LARGE MOTOR LOADS (FREEZERS,
REFRIGERATORS,ETC.) OR VOLTAGE
SENSITIVE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
(TV, COMPUTERS, ETC.)
TIMES NUMBER
OF BULBS
LIGHTING
WATTS
60
=
60 WATT BULBS
x
=
=
=
75 WATT BULBS
100 WATT BULBS
300 WATT BULBS
x
x
x
75
100
300
*FOR PRODUCTS NOT
LISTED REFER TO
CALCULATION
ELECTRIC LOAD GRAND TOTAL
INSTRUCTIONS
THIS TOTAL MUST BE LESS THAN YOUR GENERATOR RATING
**AVERAGE VALUES -
ACTUAL INDIVIDUAL
DEVICE VOLTAGES MAY
BE HIGHER OR LOWER
WATTAGE RATING OF YOUR GENERATOR
THIS TOTAL MUST BE GREATER THAN YOUR HOUSEHOLD WATTAGE LOAD
16 — ENG
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PROBLEM
CAUSE
CORRECTION
Engine will not start
1. Add fuel or oil.
1. Low on fuel or oil.
2. Turn to "ON" position
3. Replace spark plug.
2. Ignition switch in "Off" position.
3. Faulty spark plug.
4. Adjust choke accordingly.
5. Open fuel shut-off valve.
4. Choke in wrong position.
5. Fuel shut-off valve in closed
position.
6. Remove load from unit.
7. Attach wire to spark plug.
6. Unit loaded during start-up.
7. Spark plug wire loose.
1. Have Service Center replace.
2. Depress and reset.
1. Faulty receptacle.
No electrical output
2. Circuit breaker kicked out.
3. Defective capacitor.
3. Have Service Center replace
capacitor.
4. Repair or replace cord.
4. Faulty power cord.
1. Reduce load.
1. Overload
2. Faulty cords or equipment.
Repeated circuit breaker
tripping
2. Check for damaged, bare, or
frayed wires on equipment.
Replace.
1. Generator overloaded.
2. Insufficient ventilation.
1. Reduce load.
Generator overheating
2. Move to adequate supply of
fresh air.
17 — ENG
NOTES
18 — ENG
NOTES
19 — ENG
Generator Quick Facts
CALL 1-888-559-8550 TO FIND A LOCAL AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER NEAR YOU
FOR REPAIRS AND SERVICE PART PURCHASES
Use clean, fresh gasoline with a minimum 87 octane rating. Do not add gaso-
line during or immediately after use.
ENGINE
GAS
Refer to engine owner's manual for oil recommendations.
ENGINE OIL
Most generators are equipped with low oil protection. If the oil is low or if the
Generator is not level, the engine will not start.
WATTAGE
WIRING
Make wattage calculations before use. Refer to general operator's manual for
further instructions.
Contact an electrician for any wiring instructions. If wiring into a house, a
double-throw transfer switch and a heavy duty cord set must be used.
Use a standard (12V) lawn and garden battery with a minimum of 45 A.H. or
210 CCA.
The voltage and frequency are regulated by the rpm's of the engine. Do not
adjust the throttle or governor to achieve higher performance. This will only
alter the factory Pre-set settings and damage anything connected to the gen-
erator.
BATTERY
VOLT REG.
Be sure a volt/amp surge protector is used when sensitive electronic equip-
ment is used, such as: televisions, computers, stereos, and etc… The damage
of such equipment without the use of a protector WILL NOT be covered under
warranty.
Do not adjust or attempt maintenance without consulting engine manual or an
authorized engine service center.
ENGINE
Add stabilizer to fuel tank and run engine for 5 minutes before storage.
When in long term storage, operate the generator every 60 days for at least 10
minutes with a load on it. This will prevent the loss of residual magnetism that
produces the electricity.
STORAGE
Allow the generator to run 5 minutes at no load for the engine and the gen-
head to stabilize.
Make sure the adequate size of extension cord is used. Refer to the
Grounding Instructions/Extension Cord section of the owners manual.
OPERATION
If the generator is operating equipment that is drawing half of the rated watts
it is considered 50% load. Using all of the rated watts is considered 100%
load.
ALWAYS REFER TO THE MANUALS SUPPLIED WITH THIS UNIT
Porter-Cable Corporation
4825 Highway 45 North
P.O. Box 2468
Jackson, TN 38302-2468
1-888-559-8550
|