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- How do I start my generator?
If you are using your generator for the first time, please see the process listed under the heading "How do I prepare my Generator for its first use?" under the section "Preparing
My Generator For Use" , and then proceed to the steps below.
First, follow the steps below to verify your generator is ready for use and then follow the procedure for starting your generator.
Step 1 - Verify Oil Level
It is important to check the oil level in the engine crankcase before each use to ensure that there is sufficient quantity.
Verify that this generator is on a level surface.
Unscrew the oil filler/dipstick cap from the engine.
With a dry cloth, wipe the oil off of the dipstick that is located on the inside of the cap.
Fully insert the dipstick without screwing the filler/dipstick cap and then remove again. There should be oil on the dipstick. If there is no oil on the dipstick, or oil is visible only at
the very end of the dipstick, add oil until the engine crankcase is filled.
(Please see the "How do I add oil to my generator?" under the Generator Maintenance & Care section of this guide.)
Confirm that the oil filler/dipstick cap is properly screwed in place when finished verifying the oil level.
Step 2 - Verify Gas Level
Before starting this generator, verify that there is sufficient gasoline in the fuel tank. The fuel gauge, located on the top of this generator, indicates the gas level currently in the
fuel tank. If necessary, add fresh unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. (Please see the "How do I add gas to my generator?" under the Generator
Maintenance & Care section of this guide.)
Model GEN1850 Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.8 gallons / 7 Liters
Model GEN1850 Fuel Type: Fresh, Unleaded Gasoline Octane Rating 87 or Higher
Gasoline and gasoline fumes are highly flammable and explosive. Handling fuel can result in serious injury or burns.
Do not fill the fuel tank near heat, sparks or an open flame. Keep gasoline away from appliance pilot lights, barbecues, electric appliances, power tools, etc.
Always allow several minutes for the engine to cool before refueling.
Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always check for fuel spills and immediately wipe them up. Spilled fuel is a fire hazard and causes environmental damage.
IMPORTANT:
Use only fresh UNLEADED gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
Never use old and/or contaminated gasoline.
Never use a mixture of oil and gasoline.
Avoid getting dirt and/or water in the fuel tank.
Never store generator for extended time with gasoline in the fuel tank.
Step 3 - Ground the Generator
Failure to properly ground this generator can result in electrocution. Ground this generator by tightening the grounding nut against a grounding wire. A generally acceptable
grounding wire is a No. 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire (not included). The other end of this grounding wire should be connected to a copper or brass
grounding rod (not included) that is driven into the earth.
Grounding codes can vary by location. Contact a local electrician for information on grounding regulations for your area.
STOP! Before starting this generator, confirm that all the steps in the section titled, "How do I prepare the generator for its first use?" under the Preparing My Generator For
Use section of this guide have been correctly completed.
Disconnect all electrical loads from this generator before attempting to start the motor. Always use this generator OUTSIDE. Using the generator indoors (even in a garage with
the door and windows open) can kill you in minutes.
To start this generator:
Make sure oil has been added.
Make sure gas has been added.
Confirm that there are no electrical devices connected to this generator. Connected devices may increase the difficulty in starting the engine.
Confirm that this generator is properly grounded. (See
How do I ground my generator? in the
Using My Generator section of this manual.)
Turn the fuel valve to the "On" position.
Move the choke lever to the "Closed/Choke" position.
Set the engine switch to the "On" position.
Slowly pull on the recoil starter handle until a slight resistance is felt. Then pull briskly to start the engine. Gently return the cord into the generator to avoid damage to the
starter or housing. Never allow the cord to snap back.
If the engine fails to start, repeat step 6. NOTE: After repeated attempts to start the engine, consult the troubleshooting guide before attempting again.
Once the engine has started and runs for about a minute, move the choke lever approximately half way towards the "Open/Run" position. Wait an additional 30 seconds and
then move the choke lever completely over to the "Open/Run" position.
Allow this generator to run for several minutes before connecting any electrical devices. After the engine has been running for several minutes to, electrical devices may be
connected to this generator.
What is the Fuel Cock?
The fuel cock is located between the fuel tank and carburetor. When the fuel cock is in the ON position, fuel is allowed to flow from the fuel tank to the carburetor. Be sure to
return the fuel cock to the OFF position after stopping the engine.
What is the Choke Rod ?
The choke is used to provide an enriched fuel mixture when starting a cold engine. It can be opened and closed by operating the choke rod manually. Pull the rod out toward
CLOSED to enrich the mixture for cold starting.
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