North Star Portable Generator 5500 IPG User Manual

MODEL 5500 IPG, ITEM # 165926  
Industrial Portable Generator  
M165926A  
P r o v e n P e r f o r m a n c e  
OWNER’S MANUAL  
5500 IPG  
00219  
Shown with Optional Wheel Kit (Item # 165916)  
Any Questions, Comments, or Problems?  
Call Customer Service at 1-800-270-0810  
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM  
Saturday 7:30 to 11:30 AM CST  
 
SPECIFICATIONS  
Item Number  
Maximum Output  
Continuous Output  
Voltage  
#165926  
5500 Watts (W)  
4500 Watts (W)  
120 / 240 Volt (V)  
Phase  
Single phase (4-wire)  
Frequency  
58.0-63.0 Hertz (Hz)  
Power Factor  
Engine  
1.0 p.f.  
9 HP Honda GX270  
Engine Speed  
Fuel Type  
3480-3780 RPM  
Unleaded gasoline  
Fuel Capacity  
Oil Capacity  
Starting Method  
120 VReceptacle  
6.5 gallons (24.6 L)  
1.16 US quarts (1.1 L)  
Electric Start / Recoil  
(2) 20 Amp (A) duplex GFCI (NEMA 5-20R)  
(1) 30 Amp (A) twistlock (NEMA L5-30R)  
(1) 50 Amp (A) Straight Blade (NEMA 5-50R)  
20 Amp (A) twistlock (NEMA L14-20R)  
(2) 20 Amp (A) Thermal, push to reset  
(1) 30 Amp (A) Thermal, push to reset  
(1) 20 Amp (A) Magnetic, 2 Pole  
Receives 10 Ga. wire or fork terminal  
120/240 VReceptacle  
Circuit Breaker  
Grounding Post  
Dimensions  
Length  
Width  
Height  
Dry Weight  
Gross Weight  
31.75” (80.6 cm)  
23.63” (60.0 cm)  
22.25” (56.5 cm)  
195 lb. (88.6 kg)  
240 lb. (109 kg)  
2
 
MACHINE COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION  
Figure 1 (Ref. 1-7)  
Ref. Description  
00229  
Ref. Description  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Air Cleaner  
9
Gas Line Valve  
Generator Head  
Battery & Box  
Starting/Stopping Instructions  
Oil Drain Plug  
Control Panel  
Gas Cap with Gauge  
6.5 Gallon Gas Tank  
Super Silent Muffler  
Gas Drain Valve  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
Vibration Isolation Mount  
Recoil  
Fuel Valve Lever  
Choke Lever  
8
Electric Stop/Start Switch  
Figure 2 (Ref. 8-16)  
00230  
3
 
CONTROL PANEL IDENTIFICATION  
GENERATOR FEATURES  
Reference 1 - Air Cleaner. Refer to your Honda  
engine manual for air cleaner care.  
Reference 2 - Starting/Stopping Instructions.  
Reference 3 - Oil Drain Plug. Refer to your Honda  
engine manual for oil change recommendations.  
Reference 4 - Control Panel. See Fig. 3 for details.  
Reference 5 - Gas Cap with Gauge. The gas cap is  
extra large, creating a large hole for refilling and a  
comfortable grip. You can always monitor the fuel level  
without removing the cap by using the fuel level indicator  
built into the gas cap.  
Reference 6 - 6.5 Gallon Gas Tank. Large tank  
allows for extended run capabilities. ALWAYS allow room  
for gasoline expansion by not filling the gas tank  
completely full.  
Reference 7 - Super Silent Muffler. 8 dB less than  
Honda’s standard muffler. NEVER operate generator  
without the exhaust deflector attached in the upright  
position.  
Reference 8 - Gas Drain Valve. The generator is  
equipped with a unique feature. A gas drain valve is  
installed to drain gasoline from the tank without  
disconnecting the gas line feeding the engine. This valve  
is intended to be used to drain gas prior to extended  
periods of non use. It is recommended that if the period of  
non use is longer than 30 days, the gas should be drained,  
and the engine ran until all the gas is evacuated from the  
carburetor. ALWAYS make sure this valve is closed prior  
to filling the gas tank.  
Figure 3 (Ref. 17-29)  
00242  
Ref.  
Description  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
27  
28  
29  
Voltmeter  
Full Power Switch  
Idle Control On/Off Switch  
Adjustable Idle Delay  
120/240V 20A Twistlock Receptacle  
Grounding Post  
120V 30A Twistlock Receptacle  
120V 50A Straight Blade Receptacle  
120V 20A GFCI Duplex Receptacle  
30A Circuit Breaker  
20A Circuit Breaker  
Main Line Circuit Breaker 20A  
Hour Meter  
Reference 9 - Gas Line Valve. The generator tank  
has an ON-OFF valve mounted underneath the tank.  
ALWAYS keep this valve closed when the generator is not  
in use or being transported.  
Reference 10 - Generator Head. The electricity  
producing part of the generator.  
Reference 17 - Voltmeter. Voltmeter needle should  
be in green area during all generator load conditions.  
Reference 18 - Full Power Switch. The switch  
reconnects the two generator windings from parallel (120V  
only) to series (120/240V).  
Reference 11 - Battery and Box. The power source  
for electric starter.  
Reference 12 - Vibration Isolation Mounts. The  
engine and generator head are mounted on rubber  
cylinders that absorb most of the engine vibration. This  
feature eliminates the tendency of the machine to “walk”  
which is common in engine powered equipment.  
Reference 13 - Recoil. Grasp firmly when starting  
engine.  
120V Only: Allows all 4500 watts (37.5A) to be used  
in any combination of 120 volt receptacles. The  
120/240V receptacle is disabled.  
120/240V : Allows all 4500 watts to be used for 240V.  
However, only half the power or 2250 watts (18.8A),  
can be used at any one 120V receptacle. 120V output  
can total 4500 watts.  
Reference 14 - Fuel Valve Lever. Additional valve for  
fuel shut off.  
Reference 19 - Idle Control - On/Off Switch. This  
feature senses the load on the generator. With no load on  
the generator the engine speed drops to idle. This saves  
fuel and lengthens engine life. When a load is applied, the  
engine speed returns to 3600 RPM nominal. Turning the  
switch off disables the sensing device and the generator  
will run at 3600-3780 RPM whether or not a load is  
applied.  
Reference 20 - Adjustable Idle Delay. Adj usts the  
amount of time from when the generator senses there is no  
load to when the generator actually idles down. The  
Reference 15 - Choke Lever. Used during cold  
starts. Refer to the starting/stopping instructions and the  
Honda engine manual for usage.  
Reference 16 - Electric Start/Stop Switch. The  
engine key is located on the engine. Always locate this  
switch and be familiar with its location before operating the  
generator.  
minimum delay is  
5
seconds. The maximum is  
approximately 1 minute.  
4
 
Reference 21 - 120/240V 20A Receptacle.  
One  
engine operation and maintenance always refer to the  
Honda engine owner’s manual furnished with the  
generator (Honda refers to the 9 HP engine as a GX270).  
North Star is constantly improving its products. The  
specifications outlined herein are subject to change  
without prior notice or obligation. The purchaser and/or  
user assumes liability of any modification and/or  
alterations on this equipment from original design and  
manufacture.  
twistlock 120/240V receptacle capable of drawing 20  
amps, (NEMA) number L14-20R. This receptacle accepts  
only NEMA 14-20P plugs, one of which is shipped with the  
generator. Use this receptacle if installing a transfer switch.  
Compatible with Gentran transfer switch, item #16411.  
Reference 22 - Grounding Post.  
Ground the  
generator via the grounding post, to a copper pipe or rod  
that is driven down until it reaches moist soil.  
References 23-25 - 120V Receptacles.  
generator has a control panel with:  
The  
Before using, the user shall determine the suitability of  
this product for its intended use and assumes liability  
therein.  
Reference 23 - two duplex (two receptacles in a  
common housing) 120V GFCI straight-blade  
receptacles capable of drawing 20 amp, National  
Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA) part  
ANSI SAFETY DEFINITIONS  
number 5-20R.  
These receptacles accept NEMA  
numbers 5-15P or 5-20P plugs.  
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous  
Reference 24 - one straight-blade 120V receptacle  
capable of drawing 50 amp, NEMA 5-50R. This  
accepts only NEMA 5-50P plugs, one of which is  
shipped with the generator.  
situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or  
serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the most  
extreme situations.  
Reference 25 - one  
twistlock 120V receptacle  
WARNING indicates  
situation which, if not avoided, could result in a death or  
serious injury.  
a
potentially hazardous  
capable of drawing 30 amps, (NEMA) number L5-30R.  
This receptacle accepts only NEMA number 5-30P  
plugs, one of which is shipped with the generator.  
ALWAYS use grounded male plugs. The neutral line  
of the generator is mechanically grounded to the  
frame. Matching NEMA male plugs must always be  
used.  
CAUTION indicates  
a
potentially hazardous  
situation, which if not avoided, may result in minor or  
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against  
unsafe practices.  
WARNING Contact a licensed electrician to  
wire electrical plugs and/or cordsets. Improper wiring  
could result in a fire or electrical shock. Never use  
defective or broken plugs or receptacles.  
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATIONS  
Safety precautions are essential when operating this  
generator. Respectful and cautious operation will  
considerably lessen the possibilities of a personal injury.  
This manual will warn of specific personal injury potential,  
and these will be designated by the symbol:  
References 26-28 - Circuit Breakers. This portable  
single phase generator has  
Reference 26 - (2) 20 amp (A) push-to-reset circuit  
breakers.  
Reference 27 - (1) 30A push-to-reset circuit breaker  
Reference 28 - (1) 20A magnetic 2 pole main circuit  
breaker to protect against electrical overloads.  
Reference 29 - Hour Meter.  
Allows for a better  
maintenance schedule of the generator.  
WARNING This generator is equipped with a  
grounding post, located on the control panel for your  
protection. Always complete the grounding path from the  
generator to a copper pipe/rod that is driven into moist  
earth, to prevent electrical shock.  
Low Oil Shutdown. The Honda engine is protected  
against damage resulting from low oil level. As the oil falls  
below the safe level, the engine automatically shuts off  
(the engine stop switch remains in the on position). The  
engine will not start until the oil is refilled to above the safe  
level.  
ALWAYS use electrical cords that are in good  
condition. Worn, bare, frayed or otherwise damaged cords  
can cause electric shock.  
INTRODUCTION  
NEVER operate the generator, or handle any electrical  
equipment while standing in water, while barefoot, while  
hands are wet or while in the rain or snow. Electric shock  
may result.  
ALWAYS use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)  
in damp or highly electrical conductive areas and on  
construction job-sites to prevent electric shock.  
Before starting your generator, thoroughly study the  
instructions and cautions in this manual to assure you are  
fully acquainted with the operation of all components of  
this generator. Proper preparation, operation and  
maintenance will result in operator safety, best  
performance and long life of the generator. For detailed  
5
 
Foreign matters, such as dust, dirt, sand, lint, or  
abrasive materials can cause damage to the generator  
head and engine if allowed into its cooling system.  
ALWAYS remove the spark plug or spark plug wire  
before working on the engine or generator, to prevent  
accidental starting.  
NEVER install your generator inside confined areas.  
ALWAYS provide adequate ventilation. Do not operate  
generator in any enclosed or narrow space. Engines  
consume oxygen and give off deadly carbon monoxide  
poisonous gas. Improper ventilation will cause damage to  
generator and possible injury to people.  
Inside installation can cause health hazards or death.  
DANGER Remember, exhaust fumes are  
deadly carbon monoxide gas, and must be vented to the  
outside where there are no people.  
Cooling air of  
NEVER touch hot muffler, hot exhaust manifold or  
engine cooling fins.  
sufficient amounts must be allowed to flow in and  
exhausted out to ensure proper cooling of the engine and  
generator head.  
ALWAYS remove all oil or gasoline deposits and  
accumulated dirt from generator and immediate area.  
Keep generator head and engine clean.  
LOAD APPLICATION  
NEVER operate the generator under the following  
conditions:  
It is important to determine the total electrical load  
before it is connected to the generator. The two major  
factors in determining the life of a generator head are: heat  
build up, caused by overloading the generator and  
corrosive contaminants, that attack the wiring insulation. If  
the generator is overloaded, the wires become excessively  
hot and cause the insulation to break down, reducing its  
ability to resist corrosive contaminants. Over time the  
effectiveness of the insulation is eliminated and a dead  
short can result.  
Always compare the generator nameplate data with  
that of the equipment to be used to ensure that watts,  
volts, amperage, and frequency requirements are suitable  
for operating equipment. The wattage listed on the  
equipment nameplate is its rated output. However, some  
equipment may require three to ten times more wattage  
than its rating on the nameplate, as the wattage is  
influenced by the equipment efficiency, power factor and  
starting system. NOTE: If wattage is not given on  
equipment nameplate, approximate wattage may be  
determined by multiplying nameplate voltage by nameplate  
amperage.  
A. Excessive change in engine speed, slow or  
fast.  
B. Overheating in load connecting devices.  
C. Sparking or arcs from generator.  
D. Loss of electrical output.  
E. Damaged receptacles.  
F. Engine misfire.  
G. Excessive vibration.  
H. Enclosed compartments, or confined areas.  
I. Flame or smoke.  
J. Rain, snow or wet conditions.  
K. Operator non-attendance.  
L. Excessive overload of generator.  
M. Wire with too small a gauge for the load.  
WARNING Check fuel system on a regular  
basis. Look for signs of leaks, deterioration, chafed or  
spongy fuel hose, loose or missing fuel hose clamps,  
damaged fuel tank or a defective fuel shut-off valve.  
Correct any defects before operation.  
VOLTS X AMPS = WATTS  
Example: 120V X 5A  
= 600W  
WARNING Keep fire extinguisher close by  
your generator and be familiar on how to use it. Consult  
your local fire department for correct extinguisher type.  
When connecting resistive  
a
load such as  
incandescent lights, heaters or common electric power  
tools, a capacity of up to the generator full rated wattage  
output can be used.  
When connecting a resistive-inductive load such as a  
fluorescent or mercury light, transformers or inductive  
coils, a capacity of up to 0.6 times the generator’s full rated  
output can be used.  
Always allow the generator to reach operating speed  
before a load is applied.  
INSTALLATION  
OUTDOORS: Choose a location where the generator  
will not be exposed to rain, snow or direct sunlight.  
Position the generator on secure, level ground so it will not  
tip or slide down a hill. Place the generator so that the  
exhaust fumes will not be directed towards people.  
The installation site must be free from water, moisture,  
or dust. All electrical components should be protected  
from excessive moisture or the insulation system will  
deteriorate and result in grounding or shorting out the  
generating system.  
STARTING ELECTRIC MOTORS  
Electric motors require much more current (amps) to  
start than to run. Some motors, particularly low cost split-  
phase motors, are very hard to start and require 5 to 7  
times more current to start than to run. Capacitor motors  
6
 
are easier to start and usually require 2 to 4 times as much  
current to start than to run. Repulsion Induction motors  
are the easiest to start and require 1.5 to 2.5 times as  
much to start than to run.  
Current/Power Maximum Extension Cord Length  
Amps  
Load  
#10  
#12  
#14  
#16  
at  
240V  
(watts)  
Ga.  
Cord  
Ga.  
Cord  
Ga.  
Cord  
Ga.  
Cord  
Most fractional motors take about the same amount of  
current to run them whether they are of Repulsion-  
Induction (RI), Capacitor (Cap), or Split-Phase (SP) type.  
The following chart shows the approximate current  
required to start and run various types and sizes of 120  
volt 60 cycle electric motors under various conditions.  
10  
20  
30  
40  
50  
2400  
4800  
7200  
9600  
12000  
250’  
125’  
60’  
30’  
15’  
150’  
75’  
35’  
15’  
*
100’  
50’  
25’  
10’  
*
75’  
25’  
10’  
*
*
*Not recommended  
Starting Amps  
RI type Cap type SP type  
120V, 60 Hz Motors  
Hp motor Running  
Watts  
CAUTION: Equipment damage can result from the low  
voltage caused by using an extension cord with a small  
wire size.  
1/6  
1/4  
1/3  
1/2  
1
525  
700  
875  
1175  
1925  
2400  
2900  
4075  
6750  
7-11  
9-15  
9-18  
12-23  
14-29  
20-40  
32-64  
40-80  
48-96  
68-136  
112-224  
16-22  
22-32  
26-35  
NA  
NA  
NA  
NA  
NA  
NA  
Use this chart to estimate the total load on your  
generator.  
11-18  
15-25  
24-40  
30-50  
36-60  
51-85  
84-140  
For Determining Generator Load Requirements  
1 1/2  
Device  
Running Watts  
1700 (a)  
500  
2
3
5
Air Conditioner (12,000 Btu)  
Battery Charger (20 Amp)  
Belt Sander (3”)  
Chain Saw  
1000  
1200  
The figures given above are for an average load such  
as a blower or fan. If the electric motor is connected to a  
hard starting load such as an air compressor, it will require  
more starting current. If it is connected to a light load or no  
load such as a power saw, it will require less starting  
current. The exact requirement will also vary with the  
brand or design of the motor.  
Generators respond to severe overloading differently  
than the power line. When overloaded, the engine is not  
able to supply enough power to bring the electric motor up  
to operating speed. The generator responds to the high  
initial starting current, but the engine speed drops sharply.  
The overload may stall the engine. If allowed to operate at  
very low speeds, the electric motor starting winding will  
burn out in a short time. The generator head winding  
might also be damaged.  
Running the generator under these conditions may  
result in damage to the generator stator as well as the  
motor windings. Because the heavy surge of current 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. If difficulties in starting a motor are experienced,  
turn off all other electrical loads and if possible reduce the  
load on the electric motor.  
Circular Saw (6-1/2”)  
Coffee Maker  
900  
1000  
Compressor (1 HP)  
Compressor (3/4 HP)  
Compressor (1/2 HP)  
Curling Iron  
2000 (a)  
1800 (a)  
1400 (a)  
700  
Dishwasher  
Edge Trimmer  
1200  
500  
Electric Nail Gun  
Electric Range (one element)  
Electric Skillet  
Freezer  
Furnace Fan (1/3 HP)  
Hair Dryer  
1200  
1500  
1250  
800 (b)  
1200 (a)  
1200  
Hand Drill (1”)  
1100  
875  
500  
250  
450  
150  
500  
800 (a)  
Hand Drill (1/2”)  
Hand Drill (3/8”)  
Hand Drill (1/4”)  
Hedge Trimmer  
Home Computer  
Impact Wrench  
Jet Pump  
Lawn Mower  
Light Bulb  
1200  
100  
Microwave Oven  
700  
EXTENSION CORDS  
Load Requirements Continued  
Milk Cooler  
1100 (a)  
300  
When electric power is to be provided to various loads  
at some distance from the generator, extension cords can  
be used. These cords should be sized to allow for  
distance in length and amperage so that the voltage drop  
between the set and point of use is held to a minimum.  
Oil Burner on Furnace  
Oil Fired Space Htr (140,000 Btu)  
Oil Fired Space Htr (85,000 Btu)  
Oil Fired Space Htr (30,000 Btu)  
Oven  
Paint Sprayer, Airless (1/3 HP)  
Paint Sprayer, Airless (handheld)  
Radio  
400  
225  
150  
4500  
600 (a)  
150  
200  
Refrigerator  
600 (b)  
7
 
Slow Cooker  
200  
2800 (a)  
2000 (a)  
1500 (a)  
600 (a)  
2000 (a)  
500  
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 capacity than when it is running with no  
load. The slight variation has no appreciable effect in the  
operation of motors, lights and most appliances. Electronic  
equipment and clocks will be affected if correct RPM is not  
maintained. See Load vs. Output chart.  
Submersible Pump (1-1/2 HP)  
Submersible Pump (1 HP)  
Submersible Pump (1/2 HP)  
Sump Pump  
Table Saw (10”)  
Television  
Toaster  
Vacuum cleaner  
1000  
250  
VCR  
Water Heater  
70  
3000  
Load  
Output  
Frequency  
Weed Trimmer  
500  
Percent of  
Generator  
Output  
0 %  
50 %  
100 %  
Speed  
(RPM)  
Generator  
Voltage at 120V  
Receptacle  
(Hz)  
(a) Hard-starting motors require 3 to 5 times the rated  
running watts.  
(b) These loads may require up to 15 minutes to  
restart due to its normal build up of compressor head  
pressure.  
3780  
3600  
3480  
63.0  
60.0  
58.0  
129V  
120V  
112V  
NOTE: For extremely hard to start loads such as air  
conditioners and air compressors, consult the equipment  
dealer to determine the maximum wattage.  
Output voltage should be checked periodically to  
ensure continued proper operation of the generating plant  
and appliances, it can be checked with a portable meter.  
Frequency can be checked by using an electric clock with  
a sweep second hand. Timed against a wrist watch or a  
stop watch the clock should be correct within +/- 2 seconds  
per minute. All speed setting adjustments should be done  
by a qualified technician.  
PRE-START PREPARATIONS  
Your generator has been thoroughly tested prior to  
shipment from the factory. A factory test report has been  
included with this manual. However, damage can occur  
during shipping, so be sure to check for damaged parts or  
loose or missing nuts and bolts. If the aforementioned  
problems occur, call Customer Service at 1-800-270-0810.  
BEFORE STARTING  
1. Make sure the generator is positioned on firm level  
surface.  
2. Check the crankcase for oil and maintain at a proper  
level.  
3. Check fuel level and fill tank with fresh unleaded  
gasoline. Never fill fuel tank completely to the top. Always  
wipe up and remove any spilled gasoline.  
4. Make sure that the exhaust fumes are directed  
away from people.  
GROUNDING - All units must be grounded. Drive a  
3/4” or 1” copper pipe or rod into the ground close to the  
generator. The pipe/rod must penetrate moist earth.  
Connect an approved ground clamp to the pipe. Run a no.  
10 Ga. wire from the clamp to the generator grounding  
post located on the control panel. Do not connect to a  
water pipe or a ground used by a radio system.  
CAUTION: The engine has been shipped without oil.  
Fill the crankcase with oil before trying to start. Low oil  
shut-down prevents your generator from starting without  
sufficient oil.  
STARTING - MANUAL  
1. Disconnect all loads to generator.  
2. Turn gas line valve to ON position.  
3. Turn key to the ON position.  
OPERATING SPEED  
4. For cold engine, move choke lever to full choke  
position, for warm engine, move choke lever to half choke  
or to RUN position.  
5. Firmly grasp recoil handle and pull.  
6. When engine starts, move choke lever to RUN  
position.  
The generator must be run at the correct speed in  
order to produce the proper electrical voltage and  
frequency. The speed of the engine was carefully adjusted  
at the factory so that the generator produces the proper  
voltage and frequency.  
The output voltage should be checked to ensure the  
generator is working properly before connecting a load to  
the generator. Failure to do so could result in damage to  
equipment plugged into the unit and possible injury to the  
individual.  
7. Loads may now be connected to generator.  
All engines have a tendency to slow down when a load  
is applied. When the electrical load is connected to the  
8
 
STARTING - ELECTRIC  
WARNING, Stand-by Operation  
If your generator is to be used as a standby electric  
power source in case of utility failure, it must be installed  
by a registered and licensed electrician and in compliance  
with all applicable state and local electrical codes. Also,  
local Fire Departments must be consulted concerning  
proper and safe handling procedures for gasoline. NEVER  
connect any generator to any existing electrical system  
without an isolating, UL approved transfer switch, installed  
by a licensed electrician.  
1. Disconnect all loads to generator.  
2. Turn gas line valve to ON position.  
3. For cold engine, move choke lever to full choke  
position, for warm engine, move choke lever to half choke  
or to RUN position.  
4. Turn key to start position.  
5. When engine starts, move choke lever to RUN  
position.  
6. Loads may now be connected to generator.  
STOPPING  
1. Disconnect all loads to generator.  
2. Place key to the OFF position.  
3. Turn gas line valve to OFF position.  
ENGINE CARE  
Refer to your Honda Owner’s Manual for proper care  
and maintenance.  
NOTE: When changing the oil on a hot engine, the oil  
might overshoot the oil drain hole on the generator base.  
Use a deflector (piece of cardboard or paper) to direct the  
oil down the hole.  
GENERATOR CARE  
The generator head is a two pole, 3600 RPM, 60 Hz,  
brushless, revolving field and synchronous type with one  
sealed ball bearing. The rotor of the generator head is  
directly connected to the engine crank shaft and the stator  
is rigidly coupled to the engine casting via the generator  
head casting.  
Exercising The Generator - The generator should  
be operated every four weeks. This is accomplished by  
starting the engine and applying a load for 10 to 15  
minutes.  
This will dry out any moisture that has  
accumulated in the windings. If left, this moisture can  
cause corrosion in the winding. Frequent operation of the  
engine generator will also ensure that the set is operating  
properly should it be needed in an emergency.  
Generator Maintenance - The generator head is  
brushless and maintenance free. Any major generator  
service including the installation or replacement of parts  
should be performed only by a qualified electrical service  
technician. USE ONLY NORTHSTAR APPROVED  
REPAIR PARTS AVAILABLE AT 1-800-270-0810.  
A. Bearing - The bearing used in these generators is a  
heavy duty sealed ball bearing. They require no  
maintenance or lubrication.  
B. Receptacles - Quality receptacles have been  
utilized. If a receptacle should become cracked or  
otherwise damaged, replace it.  
Using cracked or  
damaged receptacles can be both dangerous to the  
operator and destructive to the equipment.  
9
 
TROUBLESHOOTING  
Problem  
Possible Causes  
Possible Remedies  
Engine will not start.  
a) Low oil level.  
b) Fouled spark plug.  
c) Out of fuel.  
a) Fill crankcase to proper oil level.  
b) Clean or replace spark plug.  
c) Fill fuel tank.  
d) Stop switch in OFF position.  
e) Battery has lost its charge.  
d) Place switch in ON position.  
e) Battery has low electrolyte and/or  
needs to be charged or replaced.  
a) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for adjustment.  
b) Reduce the load. (See Load  
Application section of this manual.)  
c) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for inspection.  
Voltage too low.  
a) Engine speed too slow.  
b) Generator is overloaded.  
c) Idle control is malfunctioning.  
Circuit breaker trips.  
Voltage too high.  
a) Defective load connected to generator.  
b) Defective receptacle.  
c) Generator overloaded.  
a) Disconnect load.  
b) Replace receptacle.  
c) Reduce the load. (See Load  
Application section of this manual.)  
a) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for adjustment.  
a) Engine speed too high.  
Generator overheating. a) Generator is overloaded.  
b) Insufficient ventilation.  
a) Reduce the load. (See Load  
Application section of this manual.)  
b) Make sure there is at least 3 feet of  
clearance on all sides of generator.  
a) Disconnect load.  
No output voltage.  
a) Defective load connected to generator.  
b) Broken or loose wire.  
b) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for repair.  
c) Defective receptacle.  
d) Defective stator.  
c) Replace receptacle.  
d) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for repair.  
e) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for repair.  
e) Defective rotor.  
f) Defective capacitor.  
a) Generator is overloaded.  
f) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for repair.  
Engine lacks power.  
a) Reduce the load. (See Load  
Application section of this manual.)  
b) Clean or replace air filter.  
a) Place switch in ON position.  
b) Check for 24VDC at solenoid. Check  
coil resistance, it should be 73.9Ω ±5%.  
Check for sticking in mechanism and  
solenoid. Replace idle assembly if  
necessary.  
b) Dirty air filter.  
a) Switch is in OFF position.  
b) Solenoid failure.  
Idle control doesn’t  
work.  
c) Defective circuit board.  
d) Defective capacitor.  
e) Circuit breaker tripped  
c) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for repair.  
d) Bring generator to a qualified  
technician for repair.  
e) Reset circuit breaker.  
Engine shuts off during a) Out of fuel.  
operation. b) Low oil level.  
a) Fill fuel tank.  
b) Fill crankcase to proper oil level.  
10  
 

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