How to Guide

GEN1000 1000 Surge Watts/900 Running Watts Portable Generator 11
Step 2 - 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 as illustrated in Figure 3.
A No. 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire is generally an acceptable grounding wire.
The other end of this grounding wire should be connected to a copper or brass grounding rod that is
driven into the earth.
Grounding codes can vary by location. Contact a local electrician for information on grounding
regulations for your area.
IMPORTANT:
• Use only fresh UNLEADED gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
• Never use old and/or contaminated gasoline.
• Only use a mixture of oil and gasoline with rate of 1:50.
• Avoid getting dirt and/or water in the fuel tank.
• Never store generator for extended time with gasoline in the fuel tank.
STARTING THE GENERATOR
STOP!
Before starting this generator, confirm that all the steps in the section titled, “Preparing the Generator for Use,” of this manual have been
correctly completed. If unsure about how to perform any of these steps, call 1-866-460-9436, Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4 PM Central Time.
Disconnect all electrical loads from this generator before attempting to start.
To start this generator:
1. Confirm that there are no electrical devices connected to this generator. Connected devices may increase the difficulty in starting the engine.
2. Confirm that this generator is properly grounded. (See “Ground the Generator” section of this manual.)
3. Turn the fuel valve to the “on” position.
4. Move the choke lever to the “closed” position.
5. Set the engine switch to the “on” position.
6. 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.
7. If the engine fails to start, repeat step 6. NOTE: After repeated attempts to start the engine, consult the troubleshooting guide before attempting
again. If problems persist, call 1-866-460-9436, Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4 PM Central Time.
8. Once the engine has started and runs for about a minute, move the choke lever towards the “open” position.
9. Allow this generator to run for several minutes before connecting any electrical devices.
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.
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
USING THE GENERATOR
• USE THIS GENERATOR ONLY OUTDOORS IN NON-CONFINED AREAS. DO NOT SECURE THE GENERATOR WITH A CHAIN OR ROPE, AS
THIS WILL MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO MOVE IN AN EMERGENCY.
• Keep at least several feet of clearance on all sides to allow proper ventilation for this generator.
After the engine has been running for several minutes, electrical devices may be connected to this generator.
Figure 3
The Grounding Terminal
is located on the side of
the generator.