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4500-WATT

PORTABLE GENERATOR

Instruction Manual

MODEL GN4500

IMPORTANT: 

Your new tool has been engineered and manufactured to WEN’s highest standards for dependability, 

ease of operation, and operator safety. When properly cared for, this product will supply you years of rugged, 

trouble-free performance. Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation, warnings, and cautions. If you use 

your tool properly and for its intended purpose, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable service.

NEED HELP? CONTACT US!

Have product questions? Need technical support? Please feel free to contact us:

[email protected]

1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8AM-5PM CST)

For replacement parts and the most up-to-date instruction manuals, visit 

WENPRODUCTS.COM

EPA III CERTIFIED CARB COMPLIANT

Summary of Contents for GN4500

Page 1: ...ree performance Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation warnings and cautions If you use your tool properly and for its intended purpose you will enjoy years of safe reliable service NEED HELP CONTACT US Have product questions Need technical support Please feel free to contact us TECHSUPPORT WENPRODUCTS COM 1 800 232 1195 M F 8AM 5PM CST For replacement parts and the most up to date in...

Page 2: ...PERATION MAINTENANCE 14 Starting Your Generator 14 Using Your Generator 16 Shutting Off Your Generator 19 Maintenance 20 Transportation Storage 25 Troubleshooting Guide 26 Wiring Diagram 27 Exploded View Parts List 28 Warranty Statement 33 To purchase accessories for your tool visit WENPRODUCTS COM Wheel Handle Kit Model No GNA410 Magnetic Oil Dipstick Model No 55201 and Generator Cover Model No 5...

Page 3: ...1 4 in 18 in 18 3 4 in GENERATOR Engine Type 4 stroke OHV single cylinder with forced air cooling system Engine Displacement 212cc Fuel Tank Capacity 4 US gallons 15 L 87 octane minimum Oil Capacity 20 3 fl oz 0 6 L Half Load Run Time 13 hours Lubrication System Splash Spark Plug Type NGK BP7ES Torch F7TC Spark Plug Gap 0 7 0 8 mm 0 028 0 031 in Spark Plug Torque turn after gasket contacts base or...

Page 4: ..._______________ Purchased From ________________________________________________ Serial Number _________________________________________________ TO MAXIMIZE THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR GENERATOR We recommend running your generator at least once a month for 20 to 30 minutes Start the generator according to the instructions and plug a small load in to make sure the outlet is producing electricity SERVICE RE...

Page 5: ... all users during the entire life of the tool and review it frequently to maximize safety for both yourself and others SAVE THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAFETY SYMBOLS The purpose of following safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers The safety symbols and their explanations deserve your careful attention and understanding The safety warnings do not by themselves eliminate any ...

Page 6: ...rectly in contact with gasoline Do not operate near open flame heat or any other ignition source Do not smoke near the generator Always operate on a firm level surface Always turn generator off before refueling Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before removing fuel cap Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank Do not overfill fuel tank Gasoline may expand during operation Do not f...

Page 7: ...hould only be performed by a qualified technician Do not use receptacles or cords that show signs of damage such as broken or cracked insulation 4 Use a ground fault circuit interrupter GFCI in high ly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel work Extension cords with in line GFCIs are recom mended for these operations to maximize safety 5 If connecting the generator to a building s electri...

Page 8: ...transporting the generator Do not store generator or gasoline near fur naces water heaters or any other appliances that pro duce heat or have automatic ignitions Store the genera tor and fuel away from sparks open flames pilot lights heat and other sources of ignition 12 Always wash hands after handling generator CAUTION Misuse of this generator can damage it or shorten its lifespan TO MAXIMIZE TH...

Page 9: ... F indicates full Choke Lever Adjusts the amount of air allowed into the engine during startup Fuel Valve Allows fuel to enter the engine from the fuel tank Air Filter A case with a sponge like element that filters the air entering the engine Recoil Starter Pull the cord to start the engine Fuel Cap Access to the fuel tank to add gasoline Control Panel Refer to the next page for more information O...

Page 10: ... before connecting devices ENGINE SWITCH ON OFF BREAKER BREAKER ON OFF AC 120V 20A 5 20R AC 120V 20A 5 20R ON OFF 1 8 6 7 5 4 4 2 5 3 1 Engine ON OFF Switch Use to turn the engine ON and OFF 2 Data Meter Displays voltage frequency total runtime HHHH and session runtime HH MM Press the MODE button to switch between displays 3 AC Main Breaker Push the button to reset the circuit 4 AC 120V NEMA 5 20R...

Page 11: ...ed operating temperature For general use above 40 F we recommend using 30W engine oil Fig 2 Fig 3 Lower Fill Line Upper Fill Line CAUTION Keep the generator level Tilting the genera tor to assist in filling will cause oil to flow into the wrong areas of the engine and cause damage TO ADD OIL 1 Place the generator on a level surface Make sure the engine is OFF before adding or checking oil 2 Unscre...

Page 12: ...xplosive gasoline vapors which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited A nearby open flame can lead to explosion even if not directly in contact with gasoline Do not operate near open flame heat or any other ignition source Do not smoke near the generator Always operate on a firm level surface Always turn generator off before refueling Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before ...

Page 13: ... nut to secure the grounding wire 2 Connect the other end of the grounding wire to a copper brass or steel grounding rod that is driven into the earth Fuel Cap Fig 5 Fuel Gauge WARNING Failure to properly ground the generator increases your risk of electric shock NOTE Grounding wire and grounding rods are not included with the generator A general ly acceptable grounding wire is a No 12 AWG America...

Page 14: ...xhaust Even if you use a generator correctly CO may leak into the home ALWAYS use a battery powered or battery backup CO alarm in the home If you start to feel sick dizzy or weak after the generator has been running move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY See a doctor You may have carbon monoxide poisoning WARNING The exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause canc...

Page 15: ...ve had repeated failed attempts to start the engine please consult the troubleshooting guide before attempting to start the generator If problems persist please call 1 800 232 1195 M F 8 5 CST STARTING THE GENERATOR 1 Turn the fuel valve to the ON position Fig 7 2 Move the choke lever to the CLOSE START position Fig 7 3 Flip the engine ON OFF switch page 9 to the ON position 4 Pull on the recoil s...

Page 16: ...nformation of each device you plan to connect The information should be listed on the device or in its instruction manual or you may refer to page 17 Table 2 Estimated Wattages of Common Electrical Appliances The wattage can be calculated using this equation Watts Volts x Amperes To calculate the total running watts of your devices Add up the running wattages of all the device s you plan to connec...

Page 17: ...Window Air Conditioner 1200 1800 Saw Miter 1200 1200 Microwave 1000 0 Well Water Pump 1000 1000 Sump Pump 800 1200 Refrigerator Freezer 800 1200 Furnace Blower 800 1300 Computer 800 0 Electric Drill 600 900 Television 500 0 Deep Freezer 500 500 Garage Door Opener 480 0 Stereo 400 0 Box Fan 300 600 Clock Radio 300 0 Security System 180 0 DVD Player VCR 100 0 Common Light Bulb 75 0 Table 2 Estimated...

Page 18: ...me time SOME NOTES ABOUT POWER CORDS Long or thin extension cords can drain the power provided to your electrical devices Refer to the following chart in determining the necessary gauge extension cord for each of your devices Round up to the higher amperage in the chart to maximize safety Table 3 Power Cord Requirement Guide NR Not Recommended Device Requirements Max Cord Length ft by Wire Gauge A...

Page 19: ...f time over 2 months with fuel in the fuel tank Refer to Storing The Generator on page 25 IMPORTANT Always ensure that the fuel valve and the engine switch are in the OFF position when the generator is not in use MANUAL SHUTOFF 1 Turn off all electrical devices prior to unplugging them from the generator Unplugging running devices can cause damage to the generator Never start or stop the generator...

Page 20: ...vice at 1 800 232 1195 M F 8 5 CST or email techsupport wenproducts com IMPORTANT GENERATOR MAINTENANCE TIPS Drain your carburetor after each use and before storage to prevent it from clogging Do not store the generator with fuel inside the tank for more than 2 months the fuel will go bad Run the generator for 20 to 30 minutes every month to maximize its lifespan Recommended Maintenance Schedule E...

Page 21: ...le with the WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick not included available for purchase at wenproducts com The dipstick s industrial strength magnetic tip will collect metal shavings from your generator s oil tank to help preserve the engine and extend your generator s lifespan DRAINING CHANGING OIL Change the oil according to the Recommended Maintenance Schedule refer to page 20 Table 4 Change the oil mo...

Page 22: ...G CLEANING THE AIR FILTER Inspect and clean the air filter every 50 hours of operation refer to page 20 Table 4 Routine maintenance of the air filter helps maintain proper airflow to the carburetor Occasionally check that the air filter is free of excessive dirt Clean air filter more frequently in dirty or dusty conditions 1 Remove the air filter cover by unscrewing the cover lock knob at the bott...

Page 23: ...mportant for proper engine operation Check the spark plug regularly to maintain proper engine operation A good spark plug should be intact free of deposits and properly gapped 1 Gently pull on the spark plug boot to remove it Be care ful not to tear insulation or wire See Fig 13 2 Use the included spark plug wrench Fig 14 to unscrew the spark plug from the engine Remove the spark plug from the eng...

Page 24: ...e it near the fuel valve 2 Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position 3 Locate the fuel line between the fuel valve and the carbu retor Disconnect the fuel line from the fuel valve See Fig 16 NOTE A small amount of fuel may leak from the fuel line during removal 4 Place a funnel below the fuel valve opening and direct the other end of the funnel over the prepared container 5 Turn the fuel valve to th...

Page 25: ...h fuel Filling the fuel tank full reduces the amount of air in the tank and helps fight deterioration of fuel For Extended Periods Over 60 Days Drain the fuel tank and carburetor Refer to Draining The Fuel Tank on page 24 and Draining The Carburetor on page 22 Never store generator with fuel in the tank for more than two months Change the engine oil Refer to Checking Adding Oil on page 21 WARNING ...

Page 26: ...lace damaged cords immediately Bad electrical device connected to the generator Try connecting a different device Voltage regulator is bad Check voltage regulator with a multimeter replace if necessary Carbon brushes worn or need adjustment Check carbon brushes adjust so that both brushes extrude the same length or replace if worn Generator runs but does not support all electrical devices connecte...

Page 27: ...LB Br R G Y Bl W Brown Red Green Yellow Black White Brown Br W ALTERNATOR ENGINE CONTROL PANEL AVR Oil Sensor Spark Plug Engine Switch L5 30R TT 30R 5 20R 5 20R Ignition Coil Stator Coil Sub Field Coil Rotor Coil Multi Meter Breaker Breaker 20A Breaker 20A Neutral Bonded Ground Terminal ...

Page 28: ...54 53 3 52 57 51 69 9 1 9 71 48 2 4 10 11 37 2 12 42 18 72 12 3 39 36 67 62 31 61 29 33 32 35 59 19 60 44 41 30 48 22 24 26 73 27 20 21 23 25 28 45 49 68 50 48 46 38 40 48 47 48 5 12 8 9 16 17 14 17 13 15 6 7 43 66 70 64 63 12 34 ENGINE EXPLODED VIEW ...

Page 29: ...o Description Qty 26 DF475 126 Push Rod Guide Plate 1 27 DF475 127 Rocker Assembly 2 28 DF475 128 Rotator 1 29 DF475 129 Stud Bolt Carburetor 2 30 DF475 130 Stud Bolt 2 31 GN4500 131 Carburetor Assembly 1 32 GN4500 132 Fuel Line 1 33 DF475 060 Clip Fuel Line Ø7 5mm 1 34 DF475 134 Governor Arm 1 35 DF475 168 Fuel Line Sleeve 1 36 DF475 136 Nut M6 2 37 GN4500 137 Crankshaft Assembly 1 38 GN4500 138 ...

Page 30: ...Throttle Return Spring 1 65 GN4500 165 Recoil Starter Assembly 1 N P GN4500 165 1 Recoil Starter 1 66 GN4500 166 Upper Shroud Assembly 1 67 GN4500 167 Air Filter Assembly 1 N P GN4500 167 1 Air Filter Element 1 68 DF475 167 Breather Tube 1 69 GN4500 169 Clip 1 70 DF475 169 Governor Spring 1 71 GN4500 171 Oil Level Switch Amplifier 1 72 DF475 171 Dipstick Assembly 1 73 DF475 175 Rocker Arm Adjuster...

Page 31: ... of normal use are not covered by the two year warranty Not all parts may be available GENERATOR EXPLODED VIEW 21 32 21 32 21 32 41 40 13 11 2 11 1 30 37 36 3 37 36 37 36 11 5 27 24 37 36 12 25 6 43 10 1 39 4 21 21 32 22 22 9 22 22 9 22 22 8 26 26 1 31 20 35 35 35 21 46 33 17 34 35 38 15 47 18 2 28 21 45 19 7 16 21 23 42 21 44 22 29 21 14 21 14 21 14 21 14 29 8 29 5 29 4 29 3 29 1 29 2 29 6 29 7 2...

Page 32: ...6 1 GN4500 026 1 Spark Arrestor 1 27 DF475 027 Lock Washer 8mm 2 28 DF475 062 Bolt M6x40 1 29 GN4500 029 Control Panel Assembly 1 No Part No Description Qty 29 1 GN4500 029 1 Engine Switch 1 29 2 GN4500 029 2 Multi meter 1 29 3 GN4500 029 3 NEMA 5 20R 120V 20A Duplex Receptacle 2 29 4 GN4500 029 4 AC Breaker 20A 2 29 5 GN4500 029 5 NEMA TT 30R 120V 30A RV Receptacle 1 29 6 GN4500 029 6 NEMA L5 30R...

Page 33: ...be sent to WEN before the replace ments can be shipped out Upon the confirmation of a WEN representative your product may qualify for repairs and service work When re turning a product for warranty service the shipping charges must be prepaid by the purchaser The product must be shipped in its original container or an equivalent properly packed to withstand the hazards of shipment The product must...

Page 34: ...34 NOTES NOTES ...

Page 35: ...35 NOTES ...

Page 36: ...v 2019 09 25 THANKS FOR REMEMBERING ...

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