MODEL 8000 PPG, ITEM # 165914
Professional Portable Generator
M165914G
P r o v e n P e r f o r m a n c e
OWNER’S MANUAL
Call Customer Service at 1-800-270-0810
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday 7:30 to 11:30 AM CST
SPECIFICATIONS
Item Number
Maximum Output
Continuous Output
Voltage
#165914
8000 Watts (W)
6600 Watts (W)
120 / 240 Volt (V)
Phase
Frequency
Power Factor
Engine
Engine Speed
Fuel Type
Single phase (4-wire)
56.5-63.3 Hertz (Hz)
100%
13 HP Honda GX390
3390 - 3798 RPM
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Capacity
Oil Capacity
Starting Method
120 VReceptacle
6.5 gallons (24.6 L)
1.16 US quarts (1.1 L)
Recoil
15 Amp (A) duplex
(NEMA 5-15R) & 20 Amp (A) duplex
(NEMA 5-20R)
120/240 VReceptacle
Circuit Breakers
30 Amp (A) locking device
(NEMAL14-30R)
30 Amp (A), Qty. 2; 20 Amp (A), Qty. 2;
15 Amp (A), Qty. 1; thermal, push to
reset style
Grounding Post
Dimensions
Length
Width
Height
Receives 12 Ga. wire or fork terminal
31.75” (80.6 cm)
23.63” (60.0 cm)
22.25” (56.5 cm)
210 lb. (95 kg)
Dry Weight
Gross Weight
250 lb. (114 kg)
2
MACHINE COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION
Figure 1 (Ref. 1-10)
00585
Ref. Description
Ref. Description
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Circuit Breakers
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Super Silent Muffler
120/240V 30A Locking Rec.
Grounding Post
120V 20A Duplex Rec.
120V 15A Duplex Rec.
Oil Drain Plug
Engine Stop Switch
Starting/Stopping Instructions
Air Cleaner
Gas Cap with Gauge
6.5 Gal. Gas Tank
Generator Head
Vibration Isolation Mount
Recoil
Fuel Valve Lever
Choke Lever
Figure 2 (Ref. 11-17)
01805
3
Reference 14 - Vibration Isolation Mounts. The
engine and generator 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.
GENERATOR FEATURES
Reference 1 - Circuit Breakers. This portable
single phase generator has 1, 15 amp (A) 2, 20A, and
2, 30A push to reset circuit breakers to protect against
electrical overloads.
Reference 15 - Recoil.
Grasp firmly when
starting engine.
Reference 2 - 120/240V Receptacle. The locking
device is a 120/240V 30A NEMA L14-30R receptacle.
This receptacle accepts a NEMA plug number L14-
30P. Use this receptacle if installing a transfer switch,
which is compatible with a Gentran transfer switch,
item #16412.
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.
Reference 16 – Fuel Valve Lever. The generator
tank has an ON-OFF valve mounted underneath the
tank.
Always keep this valve closed when the
generator is not in use.
Reference 17 - Choke Lever. Used during cold
starts. Refer to the starting/stopping instructions and
the Honda engine manual for usage.
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.
WARNINGContact a licensed electrician
to wire electrical plugs and/or cord-sets. Improper
wiring could result in a fire or electrical shock.
Reference 3 - Grounding Post. Ground the
generator via the grounding post, to a copper pipe or
rod that is driven into moist soil.
INTRODUCTION
Reference 4 - 120V Receptacle. The second
duplex is a 120V 20A straight blade receptacle,
National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA)
number 5-20R. This receptacle accepts NEMA plug
numbers 5-15P and 5-20P. Each receptacle on this
duplex is capable of drawing 20A.
Reference 5 - 120V Receptacle. The generator
has a control panel with two duplex (two receptacles in
a common housing) receptacles. The one duplex is a
120 volt (V) 15 amp (A) straight blade receptacle,
National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA)
number 5-15R. This receptacle accepts NEMA plug
number 5-15P. The duplex is capable of drawing 15A
out of either receptacle or a combination of both.
Reference 6 - Oil Drain Plug. Refer to your
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 engine operation and maintenance always
refer to the Honda engine owner’s manual furnished
with the generator (Honda refers to the 13 Hp engine
as a GX390).
NorthStar is constantly improving its products.
The specifications outlined herein are subject to
change without prior notice or obligation.
The
purchaser and/or user shall assume liability of any
modification and/or alterations on this equipment from
original design and manufacture.
Before using, the user shall determine the
suitability of this product for its intended use and
assumes liability therein.
Honda
engine
manual
for
oil
change
recommendations.
Reference 7 - Engine Stop Switch. The red
engine stop switch is located on the engine. Always
locate this switch and be familiar with its location
before operating the generator.
Reference 8 - Starting/Stopping Instructions.
Reference 9 - Air Cleaner. Refer to your Honda
engine manual for air cleaner care.
Reference 10 - Super Silent Muffler. 4 dB less
than Honda’s standard muffler.
Reference 11 - 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 12 - 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 13 - Generator Head. The electricity
producing part of the generator.
4
ANSI SAFETY DEFINITIONS
ALWAYS remove all oil or gasoline deposits and
accumulated dirt from generator and immediate area.
Keep generator head and engine clean.
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the
most extreme situations.
NEVER operate the generator under the following
conditions:
A. Excessive change in engine speed, slow or
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, could result in a
death or seri ous i nj ury.
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.
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.
H. Enclosed compartments, or confined areas.
I. Flame or smoke.
J. Rain, snow or wet conditions.
K. Operator non-attendance.
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:
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.
WARNINGKeep a fire extinguisher close
by your generator and be familiar on how to use it.
Consult your local fire department for correct
extinguisher type.
WARNING This generator is equipped
with a grounding post, which is located on the control
panel. Always complete the grounding path from the
generator to a copper pipe/rod that is driven into moist
earth, to prevent electrical shock.
INSTALLATION
OUTDOORS: Choose locations 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.
ALWAYS use electrical cords that are in good
condition. Worn, bare, frayed or otherwise damaged
cords can cause electric shock.
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.
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. Inside installation can cause health hazards or
death.
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.
DANGER Remember, exhaust fumes are
deadly carbon monoxide gas, and must be vented to
the outside where there are no people. Cooling air of
sufficient amounts must be brought in and exhausted
out to ensure proper cooling of the engine and
generator head.
NEVER touch hot muffler, hot exhaust manifold or
engine cooling fins.
5
Starting Amps
RI type Cap type SP type
120V, 60 Hz Motors
Hp motor Running
Watts
LOAD APPLICATION
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
1/6
1/4
1/3
1/2
1
1 1/2
2
3
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
11-18
15-25
24-40
30-50
36-60
51-85
84-140
5
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.
multiplying
amperage.
nameplate voltage by nameplate
VOLTS X AMPS = WATTS
Example: 120V X 5A
= 600W
When connecting a resistive 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 full rated output can be used.
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.
Always allow the generator to reach operating
speed before a load is applied.
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 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.
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.
EXTENSION CORDS
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.
Current/Power Maximum Extension Cord Length
Amps
at
Load
(watts)
#10
Ga.
#12
Ga.
#14
Ga.
#16
Ga.
240V
Cord
Cord
Cord
Cord
10
20
2400
4800
250’
125’
150’
75’
100’
50’
75’
25’
6
30
40
50
7200
9600
12000
60’
30’
15’
35’
15’
*
25’
10’
*
10’
*
*
Water Heater
Weed Trimmer
3000
500
*Not recommended
CAUTION: Equipment damage can result from the
low voltage caused by using an extension cord with a
sm all wi re si ze.
(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.
NOTE: For extremely hard to start loads such as
air conditioners and air compressors, consult the
equipment dealer to determine the maximum wattage.
Use this chart to estimate the total load on your
generator.
For Determining Generator Load Requirements
Device
Running Watts
1700 (a)
500
Air Conditioner (12,000 Btu)
Battery Charger (20 Amp)
Belt Sander (3”)
PRE-START PREPARATIONS
1000
Chain Saw
Circular Saw (6-1/2”)
Coffee Maker
Compressor (1 HP)
Compressor (3/4 HP)
Compressor (1/2 HP)
Curling Iron
1200
900
1000
2000 (a)
1800 (a)
1400 (a)
700
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, loose or missing nuts and bolts. If the
aforementioned problems occur, call customer service
at 1-800-270-0810.
Dishwasher
1200
Edge Trimmer
500
1200
1500
1250
1200 (a)
800 (b)
1200
1100
875
500
250
450
150
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. 12 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
sy stem .
CAUTION: The engine has been shipped without
oil. Fill the crankcase with oil before trying to start.
Low oil shutdown prevents your generator from
starting without sufficient oil.
Electric Nail Gun
Electric Range (one element)
Electric Skillet
Furnace Fan (1/3 HP)
Freezer
Hair Dryer
Hand Drill (1”)
Hand Drill (1/2”)
Hand Drill (3/8”)
Hand Drill (1/4”)
Hedge Trimmer
Home Computer
Impact Wrench
Jet Pump
500
800 (a)
Lawn Mower
Light Bulb
1200
100
OPERATING SPEED
Microwave Oven
Milk Cooler
700
1100 (a)
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.
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
300
400
225
150
4500
600 (a)
150
200
Refrigerator
Slow Cooker
600 (b)
200
Submersible Pump (1-1/2 HP)
2800 (a)
Load Requirements, continued
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 capacity
than when it is running with no load. The slight
Submersible Pump (1 HP)
Submersible Pump (1/2 HP)
Sump Pump
2000 (a)
1500 (a)
600 (a)
2000 (a)
500
Table Saw (10”)
Television
Toaster
1000
Vacuum cleaner
VCR
250
70
7
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.
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.
Load
Output
Frequency
Percent of
Generator
Output
0 %
50 %
100 %
Speed
(RPM)
Generator
Voltage at 120V
Receptacle
GENERATOR CARE
(Hz)
The generator head is a 2-pole, 3600 rpm, 60 Hz,
brushless, revolving field and synchronous type with
one sealed radial roller bearing. The rotor of the
generator head is directly connected to the engine
crankshaft and the stator is rigidly coupled to the
engine casting via the generator head casting.
3750
3600
3510
62.5
60.0
58.5
129V
120V
112V
Output voltage should periodically be checked to
ensure continued proper operation of the generating
plant and appliances. Voltage can be checked with a
portable meter. Frequency can be checked using an
electric clock with a sweep second hand. Timed
against a wristwatch or a stopwatch the clock should
be correct within +/- 2 seconds per minute. Speed
adjustments should be performed by a qualified
technician.
Exercising the Generator - The generator
should be operated every four weeks. Warm the
unit by running the engine 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. Major generator
service, including installation or replacement of parts
should be performed only by a qualified electrical
BEFORE STARTING
1. Make sure the generator is positioned on firm
l evel surface.
service technician.
APPROVED REPAIR PARTS. Obtain factory parts
from Customer Service at 1-800-270-0810.
USE ONLY FACTORY
2. Check the crankcase for oil and maintain at a
A. Bearing - The bearing used in these generators
is a heavy duty sealed roller 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.
proper level.
3. Check fuel level and fill tank 7/8 full with fresh
unleaded automotive 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.
STARTING
WARNING, Stand-by Operation
1. Disconnect all loads to generator.
2. Turn gas line valve to ON position.
3. Turn engine on-off switch located on engine to
ON position.
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. Grasp recoil handle and pull.
6. When engine starts, move choke lever to RUN
position.
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.
7. Loads may now be connected to generator.
STOPPING
1. Disconnect all loads to generator.
2. Place engine on-off switch to OFF position.
3. Turn gas line valve to OFF position.
8
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.
a) Engine speed too slow.
d) Place switch in ON position.
a) Bring generator to a qualified
technician for adjustment.
Voltage too low.
b) Generator is overloaded.
b) Reduce the load. (See Load
Application section of this manual.)
a) Disconnect load.
Circuit breaker trips.
Voltage too high.
a) Defective load connected to generator.
b) Defective receptacle.
b) Replace receptacle.
c) Generator overloaded.
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.
a) Reduce the load. (See Load
Application section of this manual.)
b) Clean or replace air filter.
a) Fill fuel tank.
Engine lacks power.
b) Dirty air filter.
a) Out of fuel.
b) Low oil level.
Engine shuts down
during operation.
b) Fill crankcase to proper oil level.
9
|