5
REV A
OPM-119
PREPARING THE UNIT
UNPACKING
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
THIS UNIT HAS BEEN SHIPPED WITH OIL. Failure to maintain the
engine oil at the proper level will result in serious engine damage.
When you unpack your engine-generator set be sure to remove all the
information sheets and manuals from the carton.
1. As you receive your unit, it is critical to check it for any damage. If
any damage is noted, it is always easiest to refuse the shipment and
let WINCO take care of the freight claim. If you sign for the unit, the
transfer of the ownership requires that you file the freight claim
2. Before proceeding with the preparations of your new generator
for operation, take a couple of minutes to ensure the unit you have
received is the correct model and review the specification pages in this
manual to ensure that this unit meets your job requirements.
LUBRICATION
Before starting the engine, fill the crankcase to the proper level with
a good quality oil. The recommended grade oil and quantity of oil
required is listed in the engine operator’s manual and under the service
tab in this manual. The engine normally holds 38.4 ounces (1.2 quarts)
of oil. When filling the crankcase the first time, use the dipstick to
ensure that you do not over fill the crankcase. The full oil level mark on
the dipstick is depicted in the following image.
Oil is added to the engine by removing the oil cap and adding oil at
this point. After filling the crankcase to the proper level, be sure you
properly tighten the oil fill cap.
NOTE: This engine generator must be on a level surface before you
check or add oil to the system.
The necessity of using the correct oil and keeping the crankcase full
cannot be overemphasized. Engine failures resulting from inadequate
or improper lubricant are considered abuse and not covered by the
generator or engine manufacturer’s warranty.
OIL RECOMMENDATIONS
Outdoor temperatures determine the proper oil viscosity for the
engines. Use the chart to select the best viscosity for the outdoor
temperature range expected.
OIL ALERT SYSTEM
This generator is equipped with a low oil shutdown system. This
Honda engine uses an float switch mounted inside the engine. If the
oil level drops below a certain point the low oil module on the engine
will shut it down. This low oil warning system will automatically stop the
engine before the oil level reaches critical danger point. This feature is
designed to prevent costly repairs and downtime.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
Allowing the engine to shutdown repeatedly on low oil level may cause
excessive wear which can be cumulative.
GASOLINE
When using gasoline, always use fresh, clean, unleaded fuel. The
engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a minimum
octane rating of 87 or higher. Gasoline containing no more the 10%
ethanol is acceptable.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
Do not use unapproved gasolines, such as E15 or E85. Do not mix
oil in the gasoline. Use of unapproved fuels will damage the engine
components and void the engine warranty.
Use of fuels with content of ethanol greater than shown above may
cause starting and/or performance problems. Always ensure that the
fuel is clean and free of all impurities.
WARNING: FIRE DANGER
Gasoline and its fumes are VERY explosive when proper precautions
are not taken.
Never use gasoline that has been stored for an extended period of
time as the fuel will lose its volatile properties and you will be left with
varnish residue. The varnish like substance will clog the carburetor and
will not burn properly.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
Running the generator set under these conditions may result in
damage to the generator stator as well as the motor winding.
The heavy surge of current required for starting motors is required for
only an instant. The generator will not be damaged if it can bring the
motor up to speed in a few seconds of time. If difficulty is experienced
in starting motors, turn all other electrical loads off and if possible
reduce the load on the electric motor.
