Harbor Freight Tools StormCat 60338 2-Cycle Gas Generator
Specifications
|
Generator | Output | 120VAC, 60Hz, Single Phase 700W Rated 900W Maximum |
| Receptacles | NEMA #5-20 (3-prong, 120VAC) | |
| Displacement | 63cc | |
| Engine Type | Horizontal Single Cylinder 2-stroke | |
| Cooling System | Forced air cooled | |
| Fuel | Type | 87+ octane stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle oil (see below) |
| Capacity | 1.1 Gallon | |
| Oil | Type | 2-cycle oil (designed specifically for mixing with gasoline) |
| Ratio | 50:1 gasoline-to-oil ratio 2.5 oz oil per gallon of gasoline | |
| Run Time @ 50% Load with full tank | 5 hr. | |
| Sound Level at # feet | 82 dB | |
| Rotation viewed from PTO (power takeoff – the output shaft) | Counterclockwise | |
| Spark Plug | Type | BONON® F5TC |
| Gap | 0.028 – 0.031 mm | |
Operating Precautions
- Do not exceed the maximum power rating of the generator. Make sure that the total electrical rating of all of the tools or appliances plugged into the generator at the same time does not exceed that of the generator. Check that the startup surge will not be beyond the limit of the Generator.
- Avoid substantially overloading which will trip the circuit breaker. Slightly overloading the generator may not trip the circuit breaker, but will lead to premature generator failure.
- Do not attempt to connect or disconnect load connections while standing in water, or on wet or soggy ground.
- Do not touch electrically energized parts of the Generator and interconnecting cables or conductors with any part of the body, or with any non-insulated conductive object.
- Connect the Generator only to a load that is compatible with the electrical characteristics and rated capacities of the Generator.
- Insulate all connections and disconnected wires.
- Guard against electric shock. Prevent body contact with grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators.
- Only use a suitable means of transport and lifting devices with sufficient weight bearing capacity when transporting the generator.
- Secure the generator on transport vehicles to prevent it from rolling, slipping, and tilting.
- Industrial applications must follow OSHA requirements.
- Do not leave the generator unattended when it is running. Turn off the generator (and remove safety keys, if available) before leaving the work area.
Service Precautions
Refueling:
- Do not smoke, or allow sparks, flames, or other sources of ignition around the equipment, especially when refuelling.
- Do not refill the fuel tank while the engine is running or hot.
- Do not fill fuel tank to the top. Leave a little room for the fuel to expand as needed. TO PREVENT FUEL LEAKAGE AND FIRE HAZARD, do not fill fuel above the bottom of fuel strainer.
- Refuel in a well-ventilated area only.
- Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting the engine. To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.
Set Up
Grounding
- The Generator must be properly grounded in accordance with all relevant electrical codes and standards before operation. Have the unit grounded by a qualified electrician if you are not qualified to do so.
- To ground the Generator, connect a #10 AWG grounding wire (not included) from the Grounding Terminal on the side of the unit to a grounding rod (not included). The grounding rod must be an earth-driven copper or brass rod (electrode) which can adequately ground the Generator.
- Refer to local regulations for ground source information.
Components and Controls
Operation
Pre-Start Checks
- Inspect engine and equipment looking for damaged, loose, and missing parts before set up and starting. If any problems are found, do not use equipment until fixed properly.
Checking and Filling Fuel
WARNING! TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM FIRE:
Fill the fuel tank 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 adding fuel. Do not smoke.
- Clean the Fuel Cap and the area around it.
- Unscrew and remove the Fuel Cap.
- Remove the Strainer and remove any dirt and debris. Then replace the Strainer.
- Note: Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10). Do not use E85 ethanol. Add fuel stabilizer to the gasoline or the Warranty is VOID.
- Note: Do not use gasoline that has been stored in a metal fuel container or a dirty fuel container. It can cause particles to enter the carburetor, affecting engine performance and/or causing damage.
- IMPORTANT: Your Warranty is VOID if the Engine’s Fuel Tank is not filled with the proper mixture (50:1) of stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle oil before each use. Before each use, check the fuel level. Do not run the Engine with an improper unleaded gasoline/2‑cycle oil mixture. Running the Engine with an improper mixture WILL permanently damage the Engine
- To obtain the proper gasoline and 2-cycle oil mixture, mix 2.5 fluid ounces of 2-cycle oil with 1 gallon of 87 octane or higher unleaded gasoline that has been treated with a fuel stabilizer additive into an approved container. Then gently agitate the container to thoroughly mix the gasoline/2-cycle oil.
- If needed, fill the Fuel Tank to about 1 inch under the fill neck of the Fuel Tank with the pre‑mixed stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline/2-cycle oil mixture.
- Then replace the Fuel Cap.
- Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting engine. To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.
Starting the Engine
Before Starting the Engine
- a. Inspect the generator and engine.
- b. Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator.
- c. Fill the engine with the proper amount and type of stabilizer, treated unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle oil mixture.
Manual Start
- Open the Fuel Valve.
- To start a cold engine, move the Choke to the START position. To restart a warm engine, leave the Choke in the RUN position.
- Turn the Engine Switch on.
- Grip the Starter Handle of the Engine loosely and pull it slowly several times to allow the gasoline to flow into the Engine’s carburetor. Then pull the Starter Handle gently until resistance is felt. Allow Cable to retract fully and then pull it quickly. Repeat until the engine starts.
Note: Do not let the Starter Handle snap back against the engine. Hold it as it recoils so it doesn’t hit the engine.
Break-in Period:
- a. Breaking-in the engine will help to ensure proper equipment and engine operation.
- b. The break‑in period will last about 25 hours of use. DO NOT exceed 75% of the Generator’s rated capacity during this period.
- Change the engine fuel/oil mixture after this period.
Under normal operating conditions, subsequent maintenance follows the schedule explained in the Maintenance section.
Connecting Loads to the Generator
Load And Circuit Breaker:
- The total combined load through the outlet on the Generator must not exceed the rated maximum power of the unit.
- Reduce the load if the AC Circuit Breaker turns off. Once the load is reduced, press the Circuit Breaker Button to reset the Generator and continue operation.
Calculate Power Draw:
Power draw can be calculated by multiplying volts and amps. The resulting number is wattage.
- Never exceed the rated maximum wattage for the Generator or any outlet amperage rating.
- Refer to appliance/tool owner’s manuals to determine the wattage of electrical load devices.
- Long power cords and extension cords draw additional power. Keep cord length at a minimum
Stopping the Engine
- To stop the engine in an emergency, turn the Engine Switch off.
- Under normal conditions, use the following procedure:
- a. Remove all electrical load devices from the Generator.
- b. Turn the Engine Switch off.
- c. Close the Fuel Valve.
Maintenance
Cleaning, Maintenance, and Lubrication Schedule
| procedure | Before each use | Monthly or every 20 hr. of use | every 3 mo. or 50 hr. of use | every 6 mo. or 100 hr. of use | yearly or every 300 hr. of use | every 2 years |
| Brush off outside of engine | ||||||
| Check engine fuel/oil mixture level | ||||||
| Check air cleaner | ||||||
| Check sediment cup | ||||||
| Change engine oil | ||||||
| Clean air filter | * | |||||
| Check and clean spark plug | ||||||
| 1. Check/adjust idle speed 2. Check/adjust valve clearance 3. Clean fuel tank, strainer and carburetor 4. Clean carbon build-up from combustion chamber | ** | ** | ||||
| Replace fuel line if necessary | ** |
Checking and Filling Fuel
WARNING! TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM FIRE:
Fill the fuel tank 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 adding fuel. Do not smoke.
- Clean the Fuel Cap and the area around it.
- Unscrew and remove the Fuel Cap
- Remove the Strainer and remove any dirt and debris. Then replace the Strainer.
- Note: Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10). Do not use E85 ethanol. Add fuel stabilizer to the gasoline or the Warranty is VOID
- IMPORTANT: Your Warranty is VOID if the Engine’s Fuel Tank is not filled with the proper mixture (50:1) of stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle oil before each use. Before each use, check the fuel level. Do not run the Engine with an improper unleaded gasoline/2‑cycle oil mixture. Running the Engine with an improper mixture WILL permanently damage the Engine.
- To obtain the proper gasoline and 2-cycle oil mixture, mix 2.5 fluid ounces of 2-cycle oil with 1 gallon of 87 octane or higher unleaded gasoline that has been treated with a fuel stabilizer additive into an approved container. Then gently agitate the container to thoroughly mix the gasoline/2-cycle oil.
- If needed, fill the Fuel Tank to about 1 inch under the fill neck of the Fuel Tank with the pre‑mixed stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline/2-cycle oil mixture.
- Then replace the Fuel Cap.
- Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting engine. To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.
Long-Term Storage
When the equipment is to remain idle for longer than 20 days, prepare the Engine for storage as follows:
- CLEANING:
Wait for the Engine to cool, then clean the Engine with a dry cloth. NOTICE: Do not clean using water. The water will gradually enter the Engine and cause rust damage. Apply a thin coat of rust preventive oil to all metal parts. - FUEL:
To protect the fuel tank during storage, fill the tank with the proper mixture (50:1) of stabilizer treated unleaded gasoline and 2-cycle oil. Refer to Checking and Filling Fuel on page 11.
Troubleshooting
| problem | possible Causes | probable Solutions | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Engine will not start | FUEL RELATED: 1. No fuel in tank or fuel valve closed.
2. Choke not in START position, cold engine. 3. Gasoline with more than 10% ethanol used. (E15, E20, E85, etc.)
4. Low quality or deteriorated, old gasoline/ oil mixture.
5. Carburetor not primed. 6. Dirty fuel passageways.
7. Carburetor needle stuck. Fuel can be smelled in the air. 8. Too much fuel in chamber. This can be caused by the carburetor needle sticking.
9. Clogged Fuel Filter. | FUEL RELATED: 1. Fill fuel tank with 87+ octane stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline/ oil mixture and open fuel valve. 2. Move Choke to START position. 3. Clean out ethanol rich gasoline from fuel system. Replace components damaged by ethanol. Use fresh 87+ octane stabilizer- treated unleaded gasoline/oil mixture only. Do not use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol (e15, e20, e85, etc.). 4. Use fresh 87+ octane stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline/oil mixture. Do not use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol (e15, e20, e85, etc.). 5. Pull on Starter Handle to prime. 6. Clean out passageways using fuel additive. Heavy deposits may require further cleaning. 7. Gently tap side of carburetor float chamber with screwdriver handle. 8. Turn Choke to RUN position. Remove spark plug and pull the start handle several times to air out the chamber. Reinstall spark plug and set Choke to START position. 9. Replace Fuel Filter. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| IGNITION (SPARK) RELATED: 1. Spark plug cap not connected securely. 2. Spark plug electrode wet or dirty. 3. Incorrect spark plug gap. 4. Spark plug cap broken. 5. Incorrect spark timing or faulty ignition system. | IGNITION (SPARK) RELATED: 1. Connect spark plug cap properly. 2. Clean spark plug. 3. Correct spark plug gap. 4. Replace spark plug cap. 5. Have qualified technician diagnose/ repair ignition system. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| COMPRESSION RELATED: 1. Cylinder not lubricated. Problem after long storage periods.
2. Loose or broken spark plug. (Hissing noise will occur when trying to start.)
3. Loose cylinder head or damaged head gasket. (Hissing noise will occur when trying to start.) 4. Engine valves or tappets mis-adjusted or stuck. | COMPRESSION RELATED: 1. Pour tablespoon of oil into spark plug hole. Crank engine a few times and try to start again. 2. Tighten spark plug. If that does not work, replace spark plug. If problem persists, may have head gasket problem, see #3. 3. Tighten head. If that does not remedy problem, replace head gasket. 4. Have qualified technician adjust/ repair valves and tappets
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Harbor Freight Tools StormCat 60338 2-Cycle Gas Generator-FAQs
How do I start the StormCat 60338 generator?
Fill the fuel tank with the correct gasoline-oil mixture, set the choke lever to “CHOKE”, and pull the recoil starter until the engine starts. Once running, gradually move the choke to “RUN.”
What fuel does the StormCat generator use?
It requires a 50:1 gasoline-to-oil mixture. Use high-quality, unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle engine oil for optimal performance.
How much power does the StormCat 60338 generator produce?
It delivers 900 running watts and up to 1,000 peak watts, making it suitable for small appliances, tools, and camping equipment.
How long can the generator run on a full tank?
With a full 1.1-gallon tank, it can run for approximately 5 hours at 50% load.
How do I maintain the generator?
Regular maintenance includes checking the spark plug, cleaning the air filter, and using fresh fuel. Also, drain old fuel if the generator will be stored for a long time.
Can I use the StormCat generator indoors?
No. This generator produces carbon monoxide, which is deadly in enclosed spaces. Always use it outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
Why won’t my generator start?
Check if there’s fuel in the tank, the spark plug is clean, and the choke is set correctly. If it still won’t start, inspect the fuel mixture and ensure no clogs in the carburetor.
Can I power sensitive electronics with this generator?
The StormCat 60338 produces non-inverter power, which may not be safe for delicate electronics like laptops or TVs without a voltage regulator or surge protector.