2240-00
12
60706-236
All engines have a tendency to slow down when a
load is applied. When the electrical load is connected
to the generator, the engine is more heavily loaded,
and as a result the speed drops slightly. This slight
decrease in speed, together with the voltage drop
within the generator itself, results in a slightly lower
voltage when the generator is loaded to its full capac-
ity than when running no load. The slight variation
in speed also affects the frequency of the output
current. This frequency variation has no appreciable
effect in the operation of motors, lights and most ap-
pliances. However, electronic equipment and clocks
will be affected if correct RPM is not maintained. See
Load vs. Output chart.
Although individual units and models vary slightly, the
normal voltage and frequency of the engine-genera-
tor described in this manual are approximately as
follows, under varying loads:
LOAD VS. OUTPUT
Generator
Load
Speed
(RPM)
Frequency
(Hz)
Voltage
None
3690
61.5
125V
Half
3600
60.0
120V
Full
3510
58.5
115V
The speed of the engine was carefully adjusted at
the factory so that the generator produces the proper
voltage and frequency. For normal usage, the speed
setting should not be changed. If the generator
is being run continuously on a very light load, it is
often advisable to lower the operating speed slightly.
Reference “D” below is the speed adjustment for this
engine.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
SPEED ADJUSTMENTS SHOULD ONLY BE
MADE BY A QUALIFIED SERVICE TECH.
Whenever making any speed adjustments, check
the unit with a voltmeter and a frequency meter
or tachometer and be sure the voltage and speed
are correct.
Lower voltage may damage both the generator and
any load connected to it. Running the engine at ex-
cessively high speeds results in high voltage, which
may significantly shorten the life of appliances being
used.
Output voltage should be checked periodically to
ensure continued proper operation of the generat-
ing plant and appliances. If the generator is not
equipped with a voltmeter, it can be checked with a
portable meter.
CONNECTING THE LOADS
APPLYING THE LOADS
Allow the engine to warm up for two or three minutes
before applying any load. This will allow the engine to
reach normal operating temperature and oil to circu-
late throughout the engine. A short warm-up time will
permit the engine to work more efficiently when the
load is applied and will reduce the wear in the engine,
extending its life.
Receptacles have been provided to allow loads to
be connected to the generator. The loads should be
added one at a time. If a large motor is being started;
or multiple motors are being started, they should be
started individually and the largest should be started
first.
CAUTION: EQUIPMENT OVERLOAD
Keep the generator load within the generator and
receptacle nameplate rating. Overloading may cause
damage to the generator and/or the loads .
Most electric tools and appliances will have the volt-
age and amperage requirements on their individual
nameplates. When in doubt, consult the manufacturer
or a local electrician. The nameplate amperage rating
for electric motors can be misleading. See “Starting
Electric Motors” in Unit Capabilities (page 4).
These engine-generator sets are inherently self regu-
lating based on engine speed. The engine governor
will automatically adjust itself to the load. No harm
to the generator will result if it is operated with no
load connected. Proper utilization of the receptacles
located on the control panel is necessary to prevent
damage to either the receptacles or the generator.
D
