Wen GN400i Inverter Generator User Manual

Wen GN400i Inverter Generator

SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: Before operating the generator, make sure to read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.

SAFETY INTRODUCTION

Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your tool works. This manual contains important information regarding the generator’s potential safety concerns, as well as preparation, operation, and maintenance instructions.

Before operating this generator, be sure to read and observe all warnings and instructions both on the generator labels and in this instruction manual. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in personal injury.

NOTE: The following safety information is not meant to cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. WEN reserves the right to change this product and specifications at any time without prior notice.

At WEN, we are continuously improving our products. If you find that your tool does not exactly match this manual, please visit wenproducts.com for the most up-to-date manual or contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195, M-F 8-5 CST.

Keep this manual available to all users during the entire life of the tool and review it frequently to maximize safety for both yourself and others.

SAVE THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.

GENERATOR SAFETY WARNINGS

DANGER: CARBON MONOXIDE

Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO). This is a poison gas you cannot see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are breathing CO. But even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.

NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or other partially enclosed areas. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas. Using a fan or opening windows and doors does NOT supply enough fresh air. ONLY use a generator outside and far away from windows, doors, and vents. These openings can pull in generator exhaust.

Even if you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS use a battery-powered or battery backup CO alarm in the home. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has been running, move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.

WARNING: RISK OF EXPLOSION. HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: This generator may emit highly flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A nearby open flame can lead to an explosion even if not directly in contact with gasoline.

• Do not operate near open flame, heat, or any other ignition source. Do not smoke near the generator.
• Always operate on a firm, level surface.
• Always turn the generator off before refueling. Allow the generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before removing the fuel cap. Loosen the cap slowly to relieve pressure in the tank.
• Do not overfill the fuel tank. Gasoline may expand during operation. Do not fill to the top of the tank. Allow for expansion. Always check for spilled fuel before operating.
• If fuel spills, move the generator at least 30 feet away from the spill and wipe clean any spilled fuel before starting the engine.
• Empty the fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator.

WARNING! Do not let comfort or familiarity with the product replace strict adherence to product safety rules. Failure to follow the safety instructions may result in serious personal injury.

OPERATING ENVIRONMENT

1. Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes. Only use a generator outside and far away from windows, doors, and vents.
2. Do not smoke near the generator.
3. Do not operate near open flame, heat, or flammable materials. This generator may emit highly flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A nearby open flame can lead to an explosion even if it isn’t directly in contact with gasoline.
4. Do not expose the generator to rainy or wet conditions; doing so significantly increases the risk of electrical shock. Never handle the generator, electronic devices, or any cord while standing in water, while barefoot, or when hands or feet are wet.
5. Always operate the generator on a dry, firm, level surface.
6. The generator should have at least 5 feet of clearance from buildings or other equipment during operation.
7. Do not allow children or non-qualified persons to operate the generator.

GENERATOR PREPARATION

1. Always ground the generator before using it to maximize safety (see “Ground the Generator” section).
2. Do not overfill the fuel tank, as gasoline may expand during operation. Do not fill to the very top of the tank. Leave room for gasoline expansion. Always check for spilled fuel before operating.
3. If any part of the generator, electrical device, or power cord is broken, damaged, or defective, make sure it is repaired or replaced before operation. Service should only be performed by a qualified technician. Do not use receptacles or cords that show signs of damage, such as broken or cracked insulation.
4. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in highly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel work. Extension cords with in-line GFCIs are recommended for these operations to maximize safety.
5. If connecting the generator to a building’s electrical system for standby power, you MUST consult a qualified electrician and install a transfer switch. Such connections must comply with local electrical laws and codes. Failure to comply can create a back-feed, which may result in serious injury or death to utility workers.
6. Never modify the generator in any way. Modifying or using the machine for any other purpose for which it is not designed may result in serious injuries, machine damage, and voiding of the warranty.

UNPACKING & PACKING LIST

UNPACKING

With the help of a friend or trustworthy foe, carefully remove the generator from the packaging and place it on a sturdy, flat surface. Make sure to take out all contents and accessories. Do not discard the packaging until everything is removed. Check the packing list on page 9 to make sure you have all of the parts and accessories. If any part is missing or broken, please contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST) or email [email protected].

PACKING LIST

REMOVING THE SHIPPING BRACKET

Your generator comes with two shipping brackets that protect the generator during delivery. These brackets should be removed before using the generator. The shipping brackets are located on the two lower beams of the generator. Use the included 8mm/10mm wrench to remove the two bolts on each bracket, then slide the brackets off. You will not need the bracket or bolts; please discard appropriately.

ASSEMBLY & ADJUSTMENTS

HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATION ABOVE 3000 FEET

The fuel system on this generator may be affected by operation at high altitudes. Proper operation can be ensured by installing an altitude kit at altitudes higher than 3000 feet above sea level. At elevations above 8000 feet, the engine may experience a decrease in performance, even with the proper altitude kit. Operating this generator without the high altitude kit at elevations above 3000 feet may increase the engine’s emissions and decrease both fuel economy and performance.

INSTALLING THE HIGH ALTITUDE KIT

This kit should be installed by a qualified mechanic. Contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST), or email [email protected] for information about service centers near you.

Gather the parts in the high-altitude kit. Refer to the page. 9.

1. Flip the engine switch to the STOP position.
2. Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
3. Prepare an approved gasoline-storage container to catch any spilled fuel. Place it near the fuel valve.
4. The carburetor can be accessed from the backside of the generator between the engine and the air filter. Loosen the bolt (Fig. 2) on the bottom of the carburetor with a Phillips-head screwdriver (not included). CAUTION! The carburetor bowl may have gas in it, which will leak upon removing the bolt.
5. Remove the bolt, bolt seal, fuel cup, fuel cup seal, and main jet from the body of the carburetor assembly. Refer to Fig. 2.
6. Replace the main jet with the replacement jet needed for your altitude range (3000-6000 ft or 6000-8000 ft). NOTE: The fuel cup seal and bolt seal may be damaged during removal and should be replaced with the new ones from the kit.
7. Reassemble the fuel cup seal, fuel cup, bolt seal, and bolt. Tighten with a Phillips-head screwdriver to secure.
8. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting the engine. WARNING! To prevent fire, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.

WARNING! To prevent serious injury from fire, follow the kit installation procedures in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources. If the engine is hot from use, shut the engine off and wait for it to cool before proceeding. Do not smoke near the generator. Warranty will be void if adjustments are not made for high-altitude use.

CAUTION! UNINSTALL the high altitude kit when operating at altitudes below 3000 feet.

CAUTION! UNINSTALL the high altitude kit when operating at altitudes below 3000 feet.

KNOW YOUR GENERATOR

Refer to the following diagrams to become familiar with all the parts and controls of your generator. The components will be referred to later in the manual for assembly and operation instructions.

GENERATOR

• FUEL GAUGE: Indicates the amount of fuel inside the fuel tank. E indicates empty, F indicates full.
• MUFFLER: Dampens the noise level of the generator.
• FUEL VALVE: Allows fuel to enter the engine from the fuel tank.
• AIR FILTER: A case with a sponge-like element that filters the air entering the engine.
• RECOIL STARTER: Pull the cord to start the engine.
• FUEL CAP: Access to the fuel tank to add gasoline.
• OIL FILL AND DIPSTICK: Access to the oil tank to check oil levels and add oil.
• OIL DRAIN PLUG: Drain oil, refer to maintenance on p. 23.
• CONTROL PANEL: Refer to the next page for more information.

CONTROL PANEL

1. AC 120V NEMA L5-30R Receptacle: 120V, 60Hz of power.
2. Engine Switch: This switch makes the engine run or stop.
3. Eco-Mode Switch: Flip this switch to ON to increase fuel economy and runtime when the load is below 2400W (75% load).
4. Indicator Lights: The output light (green) will turn on when the receptacles have power, the overload light (red) will turn on if the generator is overloaded, and the oil light (yellow) will turn on if the oil is low.
5. Choke Button: Adjusts the amount of air allowed into the engine during startup.
6. Overload Reset: If the overload light is ON, press this button to reset your generator.
7. Parallel Connection: Connect your generator to another generator with a parallel kit to gain more power.
8. AC 120V NEMA 5-20R Duplex Receptacles (20A): Standard household outlets provide 120V 60Hz power.
9. DC 5V USB Ports: The upper USB port provides 2.1A, while the lower port provides 1A of power.
10. Circuit Breaker: Push the button to reset the NEMA 5-20R circuit.
11. Grounding Nut: Ground the generator to reduce the risk of electric shock. Refer to “Step 3 – Ground The Generator” on page 15.

STARTING YOUR GENERATOR

Before starting the generator, make sure you have read and performed the steps in the “Generator Preparation” section of this manual, pages 14-16. If you are unsure about how to perform any of the steps in this manual, please call 1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST) for customer service.

DANGER: CARBON MONOXIDE

Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO). This is a poison gas you cannot see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are breathing CO. But even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.

NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or other partially enclosed areas. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas. Using a fan or opening windows and doors does NOT supply enough fresh air. ONLY use a generator outside and far away from windows, doors, and vents. These openings can pull in generator exhaust.

Even if you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS use a battery-powered or battery backup CO alarm in the home. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has been running, move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.

WARNING: The exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

WARNING: Do not operate the generator near open flame or flammable materials. This generator may emit highly flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A nearby open flame can lead to an explosion even if it isn’t directly in contact with gasoline. Do not smoke near the generator.

WARNING: This generator produces powerful voltage, which can result in electrocution.

WARNING: Do not use in rainy or wet conditions. Do not touch bare wires or receptacles (outlets). Do not allow children or non-qualified persons to operate.

WARNING: The Generator should only be connected to electrical devices, either directly or with an extension cord. NEVER connect to a building electrical system without a qualified electrician and connected to a transfer switch as a separately derived system. Such connections must comply with local electrical laws and codes.

Failure to comply can create a back-feed, which may result in serious injury or death to utility workers.

Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in highly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel work. GFCIs are available in-line with some extension cords.

BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR

1. Verify that the generator is outside on a dry, level surface. Allow at least two feet of clearance on all sides of the generator.
2. To maximize safety, check that the generator is properly grounded. Refer to “Step 3 – Ground The Generator” on page 15.
3. Check that there is a sufficient level of oil in the crankcase. Add oil if necessary. Refer to “Step 1 – Add/Check Oil” on page 13.
4. Check that there is a sufficient level of fuel in the fuel tank. Add gas if necessary. Refer to “Step 2 – Add/Check Fuel” on page 14.
5. Make sure all electrical devices are unplugged from the generator during ignition. Otherwise, it will be difficult for the engine to start.

STARTING THE GENERATOR

1. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
2. Pull the choke button out to the CLOSE/START position.
3. Flip the engine switch (page 12) to the RUN position.
4. Pull on the recoil starter handle (page 11) slowly until a slight resistance is felt, then pull quickly to start the engine. Return the cord gently into the recoil starter. Never allow the cord to snap back.
5. If the engine fails to start, repeat this step.
6. Once the engine has started, slowly push the choke button into the OPEN/RUN position.
7. Allow the engine to run for several minutes before attempting to connect any electrical devices. This allows the generator to stabilize its speed and temperature. Follow the instructions in the next section for properly connecting your electrical devices.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

WARNING! Stop using the generator immediately if any of the following problems occur or risk serious personal injury. If you have any questions, please contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST), or email [email protected].

IMPORTANT: Repairs and replacements should only be performed by an authorized technician. Parts and accessories that wear down over the course of normal use are not covered by the two-year warranty.

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Wen GN400i Inverter Generator-FAQs