Generac XT8000E Series Portable Generator User Manual

Generac XT8000E Series Portable Generator

Unit Information

Use this page to record important information about your generator set.

Record the information found on your unit data label on this page. The location of the unit data label is shown here.

When contacting an Authorized Service Dealer about parts and service, always supply the complete model number and serial number of the unit.

Operation and Maintenance

Proper maintenance and care of the generator ensures a minimum number of problems and keeps operating expenses at a minimum. It is the operator’s responsibility to perform all safety checks, to make sure that all maintenance for safe operation is performed promptly, and to have the equipment checked periodically by an Authorized Service Dealer. Normal maintenance, service, and replacement of parts are the responsibility of the owner/operator and, as such, are not considered defects in materials or workmanship within the terms of the warranty. Individual operating habits and usage may contribute to the need for additional maintenance or service.

When the generator requires servicing or repairs, contact an Authorized Lowe’s Service Dealer for assistance. Authorized service technicians are factory-trained and are capable of handling all service needs.

General Information

UNPACKING

• Remove all packaging material.
• Remove separate items.
• Remove the generator from the carton.

Documents and Accessories
(not shown)

Check all contents. If any parts are missing or damaged, call 1-888-77LOWES.

• Product Registration Card
• Warranty and Emission Sheets
• 1 – Owner’s Manual
• 1 – Quart Oil – SAE 30W
• 1 – 20 ft. Extension Cord
• 1 – Battery Charger
• 1 – Oil Funnel

Loose Components

• 1 – Hardware Bag (containing the following):
• 2 – Cotter Pins (A)
• 2 – Washers (B)
• 2 – Never-Flat Wheels (C)
• 2 – Axle Pins (D)
• 2 – Frame Foot Assembly (E)
• 4 – Hex Flanged Nuts (M8) (F)
• 4 – Hex Bolts (M8) (G)
• 1 – Gasket (H)
• 1 – Control Guard (J)
• 4 – Allen Screw (4 mm) (K)
• 1 – Handle Assembly (L) (not in hardware bag)
• 2 – Hex Bolt (M8 X 55 mm) (M)
• 4 – Washer, Nylon (N)
• 2 – Nut, Hex Lock (P)
• 1 – Allen Hex Wrench (4 mm) (not shown)

ASSEMBLY

The generator requires some assembly before usage. If problems arise when assembling the generator, call 1-888-77LOWES.

Required Tools

• 1 – Ratchet wrench
• 1 – 13 mm socket
• 2 – 8 mm wrenches
• 1 – 13 mm wrench
• 1 – Needle-nosed pliers

Installing Wheels

NOTE: The wheels are not intended for over-the-road use.

1. Install the Wheels as follows (Figure 2-1):
   • Slide the Axle Pin through the Wheel, Wheel Bracket on the frame, and a 5/8″ Flat Washer.
   • Insert the Cotter Pin through the Axle Pin. Use the needle nosed pliers to bend open to lock in place.

Installing Frame Feet and Control Guard

1. Install the Frame Foot Assemblies as shown (Figure 2-2).
   • Slide the M8 Hex Bolts through the holes in the Frame Rail.
   • Slide the Frame Foot onto the Hex Head Bolts. Then install the Locking Flange Nuts. Tighten securely using a ratchet, 13 mm socket and 13 mm wrench.
2. Install the Gasket and Control Guard (Figure 2-2).
   • Place the Gasket and Control Guard in place against the side panel opening. While holding the Gasket and Control Guard, install the four retaining screws. Thread all screws loosely before final tightening any of them. Final tighten securely with the 4 mm Allen wrench (provided).

Installing Handle

1. Place the handle brackets between the frame tabs as shown. Place a flat washer on the inside of each frame tab (Figure 2-3).
2. Slide bolts through the handle brackets, washers, and tabs.
3. Place a nut on each bolt and tighten securely using a ratchet, 13 mm socket, and 13 mm wrench.

Battery Cables

NOTE: The battery shipped with the generator has been fully charged. The positive and negative cables are NOT connected and must be attached before operation.
The NEGATIVE (black) (-) battery cable should:

1. Always be DISCONNECTED FIRST.
2. Always be CONNECTED LAST.
   Use two 8 mm wrenches to tighten battery hardware.

NOTE:
A battery may lose some of its charge when not in use for prolonged periods. If the battery is unable to crank the engine, plug in the 12V charger included in the accessory box (see the Charging a Battery – Section 4: Maintenance). RUNNING THE GENERATOR DOES NOT CHARGE THE BATTERY.

EMISSIONS INFORMATION

The Environmental Protection Agency (and California Air Resources Board for generators certified to CA standards) requires that this generator comply with exhaust and evaporative emission standards. Locate the emissions compliance decal on the engine to determine what standards the generator meets and to determine which warranty applies. This generator is certified to operate on gasoline. The emission control system includes the following components (if equipped):

• Air Induction System
  • Intake Pipe / Manifold
  • Air Cleaner
• Fuel System
  • Carburetor/Mixer Assembly
  • Fuel Regulator
• Ignition System
  • Spark Plug
  • Ignition Module
• Exhaust System
  • Exhaust Manifold
  • Muffler
  • Pulsed Air Valve
  • Catalyst

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Generator Specifications

• Rated Power ……. 8 kW
• Surge Power…………. 10 kW
• Rated AC Voltage…………120/240
• Rated AC Load
  • Current @ 240V …………… 33.3 Amps**
  • Current @ 120V ……………. 66.6 Amps**
• Rated Frequency ……………………………0 Hz@3600 RPM
• Phase …………….. Single Phase
• Operating Temperature Range… 0° F (-17° C) to 110° F (43° C)*

* Operating temperature range: 0° F (-18° C) to 104° F (40° C). When operated above 77°F(25 °C), there may be a decrease in power.

** Maximum wattage and current are subject to, and limited by, such factors as fuel Btu content, ambient temperature, altitude, engine condition, etc.. Maximum power decreases about 3.5% for each 1,000 feet above sea level; and will also decrease about 1% for each 10° F (-12.2° C) above 60° F (16° C) ambient temperature.

Engine Specifications

• Displacement ………………………………………………..420 cc
• Spark Plug Type…………………………….. Champion N9YC
• Spark Plug Gap…….0.028-0.031 inch or (0.70-0.80 mm)
• Fuel Capacity …………………………..7.5 gallons/ 28.4 liters
• Oil Type…………………………………………see Section 2.6.1
• Oil Capacity…………………………….1.06 Quarts (1.0 liters)
• Run Time at 50% Load ………………………………. 11 Hours

KNOW THE GENERATOR

Compare the generator to Figures 2-5 through 2-7 to become familiarized with the locations of various controls and adjustments.

Read the Owner’s Manual and Safety Rules before operating this generator.

1. 120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp, Locking Receptacle – Supplies electrical power for the operation of 120 and/or 240 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single-phase, 60 Hz electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads.
2. Hourmeter – Tracks hours of operation to perform required maintenance.
3. Circuit Breakers (AC) – A 2-pole circuit breaker protects the rated output of the 30-amp Twistlock outlet. Each duplex receptacle is provided with a push-to-reset circuit breaker to protect against electrical overload.
4. 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp GFCI Duplex Outlets – Supplies electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, single-phase, 60 Hz, electrical lighting, appliance, tool and motor loads. It also provides protection with an integral Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, complete with a press-to-test and “Reset” button.
5. Off/Run/Start Switch – Controls the operation of the generator.
6. Battery Charger Input – Permits recharging of the battery. A 12-volt charger is included. A 1.50-amp inline fuse is located behind the control panel to protect the battery when charging.
7. Powerbar – Indicates the amount of power being used from the generator. Each section is approximately 20%.
8. Idle Control Switch – operates the engine at normal (high) rpm when there is an electrical load present and automatically reduces the engine to a lower rpm when a load is not present. The system can also be turned off to operate the engine at a higher rpm at all times.
9. Grounding Location – Ground the generator to an approved earth ground here. See “Grounding the Generator” for details.
10. Spark Arrestor – Reduces fire hazards by containing sparks. (California CARB models only)
11. Muffler – Quiets the engine.
12. Fuel Cap – Remove to fill the fuel tank.
13. Recovery Hose – vapor tube between the roll-over valve and the engine.
14. Carbon Canister – California CARB models only.
15. Choke Lever – Used when starting a cold engine.
16. Air Filter – Filters into air as it is drawn into the engine.
17. Recoil Starter – Used to start the engine manually.
18. Fuel Valve – Turns fuel supply on and off.
19. Handle – Used to transport the generator.
20. Fuel Gauge – Shows fuel level in tank.
21. Roll Over Valve – Passes fuel vapors to the engine.
22. Fuel Tank – holds fuel supply.
23. Oil Drain – Drain plug for removing used oil from the crankcase.
24. Oil Fill/Dipstick – Check oil level and add oil here.
25. Battery – Provides power for the electric starter.

Operation

HOW TO USE THE GENERATOR

See the “To Start the Engine” section for how to safely start and stop the generator and how to connect and disconnect loads. If there are any problems operating the generator, please call 1-888-77LOWES.

Grounding The Generator When Used As A Portable

This generator has an equipment ground that connects the generator frame components to the ground terminals on the AC output receptacles (see NEC 250.34 (A) for explanation). This allows the generator to be used as a portable without grounding the frame of the generator as specified in NEC 250.34.

Special Requirements

There may be Federal or State Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, local codes, or ordinances that apply to the intended use of the generator.

Please consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or the local agency having jurisdiction:

• In some areas, generators are required to be registered with local utility companies.
• If the generator is used at a construction site, there may be additional regulations that must be observed.

Connecting The Generator To A Building’s Electrical System

When connecting directly to a building’s electrical system, it is recommended that a manual transfer switch be used. Connections for a portable generator to a building’s electrical system must be made by a qualified electrician and in strict compliance with all national and local electrical codes and laws.

STARTING THE GENERATOR (ELECTRIC START)

Warning! Never start or stop the engine with electrical devices plugged into the receptacles AND devices turned on.

1. To start the engine, turn the fuel valve to the ON position (Figure 3-2).
2. Move the choke lever to the START position (Figure 3-3).
3. Press and hold the off/run/start switch in the START position. The engine will crank and attempt to start. When the engine starts, release the switch to the RUN position.
4. When the engine starts, move the choke lever to the RUN position. If engine falters, move choke lever back to the START position until the engine runs smoothly and then return it to the RUN position.
5. This generator is also equipped with a manual recoil starter, which may be used if the battery is discharged.

STARTING THE GENERATOR (MANUAL/RECOIL) STARTING

1. To start the generator, put the off/run/start switch in the ON position.
2. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
3. Move the choke lever to the START position.
4. Firmly grasp the recoil handle and pull slowly until increased resistance is felt. Pull rapidly up and away to start engine.
5. When the engine starts, move the choke lever until the engine runs smoothly and then fully to the RUN position. If the engine falters, pull the choke lever back to START until the engine runs smoothly, and then return to the RUN position.

NOTE:
If engine fires, but does not continue to run, move the choke lever to “Start” and repeat starting instructions.

IMPORTANT: Do not overload the generator. Also, do not overload individual panel receptacles. These outlets are protected against overload with push-to-reset-type circuit breakers. If the amperage rating of any circuit breaker is exceeded, that breaker opens, and the electrical output to that receptacle is lost. Read “Generator Loads” carefully.

STOPPING THE GENERATOR

NOTE:
NEVER start or stop the engine with electrical devices plugged in and turned on.

1. Shut off all loads, then unplug the electrical loads from the generator’s panel receptacles or extension cord.
2. Let the engine run at no-load for several minutes to stabilize the internal temperatures of the engine and generator.
3. Move the off/run/start switch to the OFF position.
4. Close the fuel valve.

LOW OIL LEVEL SHUTDOWN SYSTEM

The engine is equipped with a low oil level sensor that shuts down the engine automatically when the oil level drops below a specified level. If the engine shuts down by itself and the fuel tank has sufficient fuel, check the engine oil level.

Maintenance

General Recommendations

The warranty of the generator does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, the operator must maintain the generator as instructed in this manual.

Some service procedures will be performed periodically to properly maintain the generator.

All service procedures in the Maintenance section of this manual should be performed at the intervals indicated. Follow the intervals in the “Service Interval Table 4-1”

Generator Cleaning

Generator cleaning consists of keeping the unit clean and dry. Operate and store the unit in a clean, dry environment where it will not be exposed to excessive dust, dirt, moisture, or any corrosive vapors. Cooling air slots in the generator must not become clogged with snow, leaves, or any other foreign material. Check the cleanliness of the generator frequently and clean it when dust, dirt, oil, moisture, or other foreign substances are visible on its exterior surface.

Caution!

Never insert any object or tool through the air cooling slots, even if the engine is not running.

Generator Cleaning

• Use a damp cloth to wipe exterior surfaces clean.
• A soft, bristle brush may be used to loosen caked-on dirt, oil, etc.
• A vacuum cleaner may be used to pick up loose dirt and debris.
• Low-pressure air (not to exceed 25 psi/1.72 bar) may be used to remove dirt. Inspect cooling air slots and openings on the generator. These openings must be kept clean and unobstructed.

NOTE:
DO NOT use a garden hose to clean the generator. Water can enter the engine fuel system and cause problems. In addition, if water enters the generator through cooling air slots, some water will be retained in the voids and crevices of the rotor and stator winding.

Service Intervals

Follow the service interval table to perform scheduled maintenance. More frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions as noted below.

Engine Maintenance

Danger! When working on the generator, always disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and keep wire away from spark plug.

Oil Level Check

See the “Before Starting the Generator” section for information on adding and checking the oil level. The oil level should be checked before each use, or at least every eight hours of operation. Keep the oil level maintained. See Figure 4-1 for the dipstick and oil fill location.

Oil Change

Change the oil after the first 30 hours and every 100 hours thereafter. If running this unit under dirty or dusty conditions, or in extremely hot weather, change the oil more often.

Use the following instructions to change the oil after the engine cools down:

1. Clean the area around the oil drain plug. See Figure 4-1.
2. Remove the oil drain plug from the engine and the oil fill plug to drain oil completely into a suitable container.
3. When oil has completely drained, install the oil drain plug and tighten securely.
4. Fill the engine with recommended oil. (See “Before Starting the Generator” for oil recommendations.)
5. Fill to the upper level on the dipstick. See Figure 4-2.
6. Dispose of used oil at a proper collection center.

Spark Plug Replacement

Use a Champion N9YC spark plug or equivalent. Replace the plug every 200 hours.

1. Stop the engine and shut off the fuel valve. Allow the engine to cool.
2. Remove the spark plug boot from the plug and clean that area of the cylinder head. The spark plug is located on the side of the generator shown in Figure 4-3.
3. Use a 13/16 in. (21mm) spark plug tool to remove the spark plug.
4. Set the new spark plug’s gap to 0.028-0.031 in. (0.70-0.80 mm). See Figure 4-4.
5. Install the correctly gapped spark plug into the cylinder head and torque to 18-21.6 ft./lbs./24.4-29.3 Nm.
6. Reconnect the spark plug wire.

Air Filter Service

The engine will not run properly and may be damaged if a dirty air filter is used. Clean the air filter every 50 hours or annually (Figure 4-5). Clean or replace more often if operating under dusty conditions.

1. Remove air filter cover retaining screw and cover.
2. Wash in soapy water. Squeeze filter dry with a clean cloth (DO NOT TWIST).
3. Clean the air filter cover before reinstalling it.
4. Tighten air filter cover screw securely.

NOTE: To order a new air filter, please call 1-888-77LOWES.

Spark Arrestor Service (California CARB models only)

If the engine exhaust muffler has a spark arrestor screen (Figure 4-6). Inspect and clean the screen at least annually. If the unit is used regularly, inspect and clean it more often.

Clean and inspect the spark arrestor when the engine is at ambient temperature as follows:

1. Remove the spark arrestor screen from the muffler by loosening the clamp and removing the screw.
2. Inspect the screen and replace if torn, perforated, or otherwise damaged. DO NOT USE a defective screen. Ifthe  screen is not damaged, clean it with commercial solvent.
3. Replace the spark arrestor and secure with the clamp and screw.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Guide

The engine is running, but no AC output is available.

CAUSE:

• A circuit breaker is open.
• Poor connection or defective cord set.
• The connected device is bad.
• Fault in the generator.
• 120V GFCI tripped (no light).

CORRECTION:

• Reset the circuit breaker.
• Check and repair.
• Connect another device that is in good condition.
• Contact the Authorized Service Facility.
• Reset 120V GFCI push button (light is on).

The engine runs well, but bogs down when loads are connected.

CAUSE:

1. Short circuit in a connected load.
2. The generator is overloaded.
3. The engine speed is too slow.
4. Shorted generator circuit.

CORRECTION:

1. Disconnect the shorted electrical load.
2. See “Don’t Overload the Generator”.
3. Contact the Authorized Service Facility.
4. Contact Authorized Service Facility

The engine will not start, or starts and runs rough.

CAUSE:

1. Fuel Shut-off is OFF.
2. Dirty air filter.
3. Dirty fuel filter.
4. Out of fuel.
5. The spark plug wire is not connected to the spark plug.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Water in fuel.
8. Low oil level.
9. Excessive rich fuel mixture.
10. Intake valve stuck open or closed.
11. The engine has lost compression.

CORRECTION:

1. Turn Fuel Shut-off ON.
2. Clean or replace the air filter.
3. Replace the fuel filter.
4. Fill the fuel tank.
5. Connect a wire to the spark plug.
6. Replace the spark plug.
7. Drain the fuel tank and replace it with fresh fuel.
8. Fill the crankcase to the proper level.
9. Contact the Authorized Service Facility.
10. Contact the Authorized Service Facility.
11. Contact the Authorized Service Facility.

The engine shuts down during operation.

CAUSE:

1. Out of fuel.
2. Low oil level.
3. Dirty fuel filter.
4. Fault in the engine.

CORRECTION:

1. Fill the fuel tank.
2. Fill the crankcase to the proper level.
3. Change the fuel filter.
4. Contact the Authorized Service Facility.

The engine lacks power.

CAUSE:

1. The load is too high.
2. Dirty air filter.
3. Dirty fuel filter.
4. The engine needs to be serviced.

CORRECTION:

1. Reduce load (see “Don’t Overload the Generator”).
2. Clean or replace the air filter.
3. Replace the fuel filter.
4. Contact the Authorized Service Facility.

The engine “hunts” or falters.

CAUSE:

1. The carburetor is running too rich or too lean.
2. Dirty fuel filter.
3. Governor out of adjustment?

CORRECTION:

1. Contact the Authorized Service Facility.
2. Replace the fuel filter.
3. Contact the authorized dealer facility.

Replacement Service Parts

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Generac XT8000E Series Portable Generator- FAQs