Smart Generators Operating Instructions
SG13001
feeding”. This is an extremely
dangerous practice that presents an
electrocution risk to utility workers and
neighbors served by the same utility
transformer. It also bypasses some of
the built-in household circuit
protection devices.
If you must connect the generator to
the house wiring to power appliances,
have a qualified electrician install the
appropriate equipment in accordance
with local electrical codes. Or, check
with your utility company to see if
it can install an appropriate power
transfer switch.
For power outages, permanently
installed stationary generators are
better suited for providing backup
power to the home. Even a properly
connected portable generator can
become overloaded. This may result
in overheating or stressing the
generator components, possibly
leading to a generator failure.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. If it
should malfunction or breakdown,
grounding provides a path of least
resistance for electric current to
reduce the risk of electric shock.
Improper connection of the equipment-
grounding conductor can result in a risk
of electrocution. Check with a qualified
electrician or service person if you
are in doubt as to whether the unit is
properly grounded.
The ground terminal on the frame
must always be used to connect the
generator to a suitable ground source.
The ground path should be made with
#8 size wire. Connect the terminal of
the ground wire between two star
washers and nut then tighten the nut
fully. Connect the other end of the
wire securely to a suitable ground
source.
The National Electric Code contains
several practical ways in which to
establish a good ground source.
Examples given below illustrate a few
of the ways in which a good ground
source may be established.
A metal underground water pipe
in direct contact with the earth
for at least 10 feet can be used as
a grounding source. If an pipe is
unavailable, an 8 foot length of pipe or
rod may be used as the ground
source.
The pipe should be 3/4 inch trade size
or larger and the outer surface must
be non corrosive. If a steel or iron rod
is used it should be at least 5/8 inch
diameter and if a nonferrous rod is
used it should be at least 1/2 inch
diameter and be listed as material for
grounding. Drive the rod or pipe to a
depth of 8 feet. If a rock bottom is
encountered less than 4 feet down,
bury the rod or pipe in a trench. All
electrical tools and appliances
operated from this generator, must be
properly grounded by use of a third
wire or be
“Double Insulated”.
It is recommended to:
1. Use electrical devices with 3 prong
power cords.
2. Use an extension cord with a 3 hole
receptacle and a 3 prong plug at the
opposite ends to ensure continuity of
the ground protection from the
generator to appliance.
We strongly recommend that all
applicable federal, state and local
regulations relating to grounding
specifications be checked and
followed.
LINE TRANSFER SWITCH
If this generator is used for standby
service, it must have a transfer switch
between the utility power service and
the generator. The transfer switch not
only prevents the utility power from
feeding into the generator, but is also
prevents the generator form feeding
out into the utility company’s lines.
This is intended to protect the
serviceman who may be working on a
damaged line.
THIS INSTALLATION MUST BE DONE BY
A LICENSED ELECTRICIAN AND ALL
LOCAL CODES MUST BE FOLLOWED.
ENGINE OIL
Oil is a major factor affecting
performance and service life. Use 4-
stroke automotive detergent oil.
Recommended Oil: Use 4-stroke
motor oil that meets or exceeds
the requirements for API service
classification SJ, SL, or equivalent.
Always check the API service label on
the oil container to be sure it includes
the letters SJ, SL, or equivalent.
SAE 10W-30 is recommended for
general use. Other viscosities shown
in the chart may be used when the
average temperature in your area is
within the indicated range.
Pre-Operation
To fill with oil:
1. Level the engine to ensure accurate
inspection and to prevent overfilling.
2. Remove the dipstick and wipe it
clean.
3. Fully insert the dipstick then
remove it to check the oil level.
NOTE: When checking the oil be sure the
engine is level.
4. If the oil level is low, remove the
filler cap, and fill to the upper limit
mark on the dipstick with the
recommended oil.
5. Reinstall the filler cap.
NOTE: Running the engine with a low
oil level can cause engine damage.
The Oil Alert system (applicable
types) will automatically stop the
engine before the oil level falls below
the safe limit. However, to avoid the
inconvenience of an unexpected
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