Generac Portable Generator 04389 1 04456 1 04390 1 User Manual

®
POWER SYSTEMS, INC.  
Installation and  
Owner’s Manual  
Air-cooled, Prepackaged  
Automatic Standby Generators  
Models:  
04389-1 (6 kW NG, 7 kW LP)  
04456-1 (12 kW NG, 12 kW LP)  
04390-1 (13 kW NG, 15 kW LP)  
Not intended for use as Primary Power in place of utility or in  
!
!
life-support applications.  
DANGER  
DEADLY EXHAUST FUMES. OUTDOOR INSTALLATION ONLY!!  
 
Table of Contents  
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators  
3.2.2 “Off Position....................................14  
Introduction ........................Inside Front Cover  
Read This Manual Thoroughly ........................IFC  
Contents ..........................................................IFC  
Operation and Maintenance ............................IFC  
How to Obtain Service ....................................IFC  
Authorized Dealer Locator Number ....................IFC  
3.2.3 “Manual” Position ............................14  
3.3 Automatic Transfer Operation ....................14  
3.4 Sequence of Automatic Operation................14  
3.5 Manual Transfer Operation ........................15  
3.5.1 Transfer to Generator  
Safety Rules ........................................................2  
Power Source......................................15  
Standards Index..................................................3  
3.5.2 Transfer Back to Utility  
Power Source......................................15  
Section 1 – General Information ..................4  
1.1 Unpacking/Inspection ....................................4  
1.2 Protection Systems ........................................4  
1.3 System Set LED ............................................4  
1.4 Your Generator ..............................................5  
1.5 Specifications ................................................6  
1.5.1 Generator ..........................................6  
1.5.2 Engine ................................................6  
1.6 Fuel Requirements and Recommendations....7  
1.7 Fuel Consumption ........................................7  
1.8 Reconfiguring the Fuel System ......................7  
1.8.1 7 kW, 410cc Engine ............................7  
1.8.2 12 kW and 15 kW, 990cc Engine........7  
1.9 Location ........................................................8  
1.9.1 Generator ..........................................8  
1.9.2 Transfer Switch..................................8  
1.10 Battery Installation ........................................8  
1.11 The Battery....................................................9  
Section 2 – Post Installation Start-up  
3.6 Setting the Exercise Timer ..........................15  
3.7 Protection Systems ......................................16  
3.7.1 Low Oil Pressure Switch ..................16  
3.7.2 High Temperature Switch ................16  
3.7.3 Overcrank ........................................16  
3.7.4 Overspeed ........................................16  
Section 4 – Maintenance ..............................16  
4.1 Fuse ............................................................16  
4.2 Checking the Engine Oil Level ....................17  
4.3 Changing the Engine Oil ..............................17  
4.3.1 Engine Oil Recommendations ..........17  
4.3.2 Oil Change Procedure ......................17  
4.4 Changing the Oil Filter ................................18  
4.5 Changing the Engine Air Cleaner ................18  
4.5.1 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW  
Generators........................................18  
4.6 Spark Plug(s) ..............................................18  
4.7 Battery Maintenance....................................19  
4.8 Adjusting GH-410/GT-990 Valve Clearance ..19  
4.9 Cooling System............................................20  
4.10 Attention After Submersion ........................20  
4.11 Corrosion Protection ..................................20  
4.12 Out of Service Procedure ............................21  
4.12.1 Removal From Service......................21  
4.12.2 Return to Service..............................21  
4.13 Service Schedule ........................................22  
and Adjustments ......................10  
2.1 Before Initial Startup ..................................10  
2.2 Check Transfer Switch Operation................10  
2.3 Electrical Checks ........................................10  
2.4 Generator Tests Under Load ......................11  
2.5 Checking Automatic Operation....................11  
2.6 Adjusting the Regulator (Natural Gas Only) ..11  
2.7 Engine Governor Adjustment ......................12  
2.7.1 7 kW Units ......................................12  
2.7.2 12 kW and 15 kW Units ..................13  
2.7.3 Additional Corrosion Protection ......13  
2.8 Voltage Regulator Adjustment......................13  
Section 5 – Troubleshooting ........................23  
5.1 Troubleshooting Guide................................23  
Section 6 – Electrical Data............................24  
Section 7 – Exploded Views and  
Parts Lists....................................32  
Section 3 – Operation ....................................13  
3.1 Break-in Procedure......................................13  
3.2 Using the Auto/Off/Manual Switch ..............14  
3.2.1 Auto” Position..................................14  
Section 8 – Mounting Dimensions..............53  
Section 9 – Notes ............................................54  
Section 10 – Warranty....................................56  
®
Generac Power Systems, Inc.  
1
 
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS – The manufacturer suggests that these rules for safe  
operation be copied and posted near the unit’s installation site. Safety should be stressed to  
all operators and potential operators of this equipment.  
!
!
!
!
!
!
GENERAL HAZARDS  
WARNING:  
The engine exhaust from this product  
contains chemicals known to the state  
of California to cause cancer, birth  
defects or other reproductive harm.  
• For safety reasons, Generac recommends  
that the installation, initial start-up and  
maintenance of this equipment is carried out by a  
Generac/Guardian Authorized Dealer.  
• The engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monox-  
ide, which can be DEADLY. This dangerous gas, if  
breathed in sufficient concentrations, can cause  
unconsciousness or even death. This exhaust sys-  
tem must be installed properly, in strict compli-  
ance with applicable codes and standards.  
Following installation, you must do nothing that  
might render the system unsafe or in noncompli-  
ance with such codes and standards.  
• Keep hands, feet, clothing, etc., away from drive  
belts, fans, and other moving or hot parts. Never  
remove any drive belt or fan guard while the unit is  
operating.  
• Adequate, unobstructed flow of cooling and venti-  
lating air is critical to correct generator operation.  
Do not alter the installation or permit even partial  
blockage of ventilation provisions, as this can seri-  
ously affect safe operation of the generator. The  
generator MUST be installed outdoors.  
• When working on this equipment, remain alert at  
all times. Never work on the equipment when you  
are physically or mentally fatigued.  
!
!
WARNING:  
This product contains or emits chemicals  
known to the state of California to cause  
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
Study these SAFETY RULES carefully before  
installing, operating or servicing this equipment.  
Become familiar with this Owner’s Manual and with  
the unit. The generator can operate safely, efficiently  
and reliably only if it is properly installed, operated  
and maintained. Many accidents are caused by failing  
to  
follow  
simple  
and  
fundamental  
rules  
or precautions.  
Generac cannot possibly anticipate every possible  
circumstance that might involve a hazard. The warn-  
ings in this manual, and on tags and decals  
affixed to the unit are, therefore, not all-inclusive. If  
you use a procedure, work method or operating tech-  
nique Generac does not specifically recommend, you  
must satisfy yourself that it is safe for you and others.  
You also must make sure the procedure, work  
method or operating technique that you choose does  
not render the generator unsafe.  
• Inspect the generator regularly, and contact your  
nearest Generac/Guardian Authorized Dealer for  
parts needing repair or replacement.  
• Before performing any maintenance on the genera-  
tor, disconnect its battery cables to prevent acci-  
dental start up. Disconnect the cable from the bat-  
tery post indicated by a NEGATIVE, NEG or (–)  
first. Reconnect that cable last.  
• Never use the generator or any of its parts as a  
step. Stepping on the unit can stress and break  
parts, and may result in dangerous operating con-  
ditions from leaking exhaust gases, fuel leakage,  
oil leakage, etc.  
DANGER  
Despite the safe design of this generator,  
!
operating this equipment imprudently, neglecting  
its maintenance or being careless can cause  
possible injury or death. Permit only responsible  
and capable persons to operate or maintain this  
equipment.  
Potentially lethal voltages are generated by  
these machines. Ensure all steps are taken to  
render the machine safe before attempting to  
work on the generator.  
Parts of the generator are rotating and/or hot  
during operation. Exercise care near running  
!
generators.  
®
2
Generac Power Systems, Inc.  
 
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators  
• Keep a fire extinguisher near the generator at all  
times. Extinguishers rated ABC” by the National  
Fire Protection Association are appropriate for use  
on the standby electric system. Keep the extin-  
guisher properly charged and be familiar with its  
use. If you have any question pertaining to fire  
extinguishers, consult your local fire department.  
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS  
• All generators covered by this manual produce  
dangerous electrical voltages and can cause fatal  
electrical shock. Utility power delivers extremely  
high and dangerous voltages to the transfer switch  
as does the standby generator when it is in opera-  
tion. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, con-  
nections, etc., while the unit is running. Ensure all  
appropriate covers, guards and barriers are in  
place before operating the generator. If you must  
work around an operating unit, stand on an insu-  
lated, dry surface to reduce shock hazard.  
EXPLOSION HAZARDS  
• Do not smoke around the generator. Wipe up any  
fuel or oil spills immediately. Ensure that no com-  
bustible materials are left in the generator com-  
partment, or on or near the generator, as FIRE or  
EXPLOSION may result. Keep the area surround-  
ing the generator clean and free from debris.  
• Gaseous fluids such as natural gas and liquid  
propane (LP) gas are extremely EXPLOSIVE.  
Install the fuel supply system according to applica-  
ble fuel-gas codes. Before placing the home stand-  
by electric system into service, fuel system lines  
must be properly purged and leak tested according  
to applicable code. After installation, you must  
inspect the fuel system periodically for leaks. No  
leakage is permitted.  
• Do not handle any kind of electrical device while  
standing in water, while barefoot, or while hands  
or feet are wet. DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL  
SHOCK MAY RESULT.  
• The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires the  
frame and external electrically conductive parts of  
the generator to be connected to an approved earth  
ground. Local electrical codes also may require  
proper grounding of the generator electrical system.  
• After installing this home standby electrical sys-  
tem, the generator may crank and start at any time  
without warning. When this occurs, load circuits  
are transferred to the STANDBY (generator) power  
source. To prevent possible injury if such a start  
and transfer occur, always set the generator’s  
Auto/Off/Manual switch to its OFF position before  
working on equipment and remove the 5A and 15A  
fuses from the generator control panel.  
STANDARDS INDEX  
In the absence of pertinent standards, codes, regula-  
tions and laws, the published information listed  
below may be used as installation guide for this  
equipment.  
• In case of accident caused by electric shock, imme-  
diately shut down the source of electrical power. If  
this is not possible, attempt to free the victim from  
the live conductor. AVOID DIRECT CONTACT WITH  
THE VICTIM. Use a nonconducting implement,  
such as a rope or board, to free the victim from the  
live conductor. If the victim is unconscious, apply  
first aid and get immediate medical help.  
• Never wear jewelry when working on this equip-  
ment. Jewelry can conduct electricity resulting in  
electric shock, or may get caught in moving com-  
ponents causing injury.  
1. NFPA No. 37, STATIONARY COMBUSTION  
ENGINES AND GAS TURBINES, available from  
the National Fire Protection Association, 470  
Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02210.  
2. NFPA No. 76A, ESSENTIAL ELECTRICAL SYS-  
TEMS FOR HEALTH CARE FACILITIES, avail-  
able same as Item 1.  
3. NFPA No. 54, NATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE,  
available same as Item 1.  
4. NFPA No. 58, AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD  
FOR STORAGE AND HANDLING OF LIQUEFIED  
PETROLEUM GAS, available same as Item 1.  
5. NFPA No. 70, NFPA HANDBOOK OF NATIONAL  
ELECTRIC CODE, available same as Item 1.  
6. Article X, NATIONAL BUILDING CODE, available  
from the American Insurance Association, 85  
John Street, New York, N.Y. 10038.  
7. AGRICULTURAL WIRING HANDBOOK, available  
from the Food and Energy Council, 909  
University Avenue, Columbia, MO 65201.  
8. ASAE EP-3634, INSTALLATION AND MAINTE-  
NANCE OF FARM STANDBY ELECTRICAL SYS-  
TEMS, available from the American Society of  
Agricultural Engineers, 2950 Niles Road, St.  
Joseph, MI 49085.  
FIRE HAZARDS  
For fire safety, the generator must be installed and  
maintained properly. Installation always must  
comply with applicable codes, standards, laws and  
regulations. Adhere strictly to local, state and  
national electrical and building codes. Comply  
with regulations the Occupational Safety and  
Health Administration (OSHA) has established.  
Also, ensure that the generator is installed in  
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions  
and recommendations. Following proper installa-  
tion, do nothing that might alter a safe installation  
and render the unit in noncompliance with the  
aforementioned codes, standards, laws and regu-  
lations.  
9. NFPA No. 30, FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE  
LIQUIDS CODE, available same as Item 1.  
®
Generac Power Systems, Inc.  
3
 
Section 1 — General Information  
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators  
1.2 PROTECTION SYSTEMS  
DANGER  
Unlike an automobile engine, the generator may have to  
run for long periods of time with no operator present to  
monitor engine conditions. For that reason, the engine is  
equipped with the following systems that protect it  
against potentially damaging conditions:  
Only qualified electricians or contractors should  
attempt such installations, which must comply strictly  
with applicable codes, standards and regulations.  
1.1 UNPACKING/INSPECTION  
After unpacking, carefully inspect the contents  
for damage.  
1. Low Oil Pressure Sensor  
2. High Temperature Sensor  
There are LED readouts on the control panel to noti-  
fy you that one of these faults has occurred. There is  
also a “System Set” LED that is lit when all of the con-  
ditions describe in Section 1.3 are true.  
3. Overcrank  
4. Overspeed  
• This standby generator set has been factory sup-  
plied with a weather protective enclosure that is  
intended for outdoor installation only.  
• This standby generator set is packaged with an  
automatic transfer switch with built in load center.  
The combination transfer switch and load center is  
pre-wired with a 2 foot and 30 foot conduit. Circuit  
breakers for emergency circuit connections are  
included.  
• This UL listed, 2-pole switch is rated at 100 AC  
amperes at 250 volts maximum. This transfer  
switch is for indoor use only.  
1.3 SYSTEM SET LED  
The “System Set” LED is lit when all of the following  
conditions are true:  
1. The Auto/Off/Manual switch is set to the AUTO  
position.  
2. The utility voltage being supplied to the unit is  
being sensed by the PCB. If the utility sense volt-  
age is not connected to the unit or if it is below  
168 volts AC, then the system set light will flash  
rapidly. This indicates that if the Auto/Off/Manual  
switch is placed in the Auto position , the genera-  
tor will start.  
If this generator is used to power electrical load  
circuits normally powered by a utility power  
source, you are required by code to install a trans-  
fer switch. The transfer switch must effectively iso-  
late the electrical system from the utility distribu-  
tion system when the generator is operating (NEC  
700, 701 & 702). Failure to isolate an electrical sys-  
tem by such means will result in damage to the  
generator and also may result in injury or death to  
utility power workers due to backfeed of electrical  
energy.  
3. The “Not In Auto” dip switch is set to the OFF  
position on the control board.  
4. No alarms are present, for example, low oil pres-  
sure, high temperature, etc.  
If any loss or damage is noted at time of delivery, have  
the person(s) making the delivery note all damage on  
the freight bill or affix his or her signature under the  
consignor's memo of loss or damage.  
If you note loss or damage after delivery, separate the  
damaged materials and contact the carrier for claim  
procedures.  
“Concealed damage” is understood to mean damage  
to the contents of a package that is not in evidence at  
the time of delivery, but is discovered later.  
®
4
Generac Power Systems, Inc.  
 
Section 1 — General Information  
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators  
1.4 YOUR GENERATOR  
Figure 1.1 – 7 kW, Single Cylinder GH-410 Engine  
Control Panel  
Data Decal  
Exhaust  
Enclosure  
Air Filter  
Fuel Regulator  
Battery Compartment  
Oil Filter  
Figure 1.2 – 12 kW and 15 kW, V-twin GT-990 Engine  
Data  
Decal  
Control  
Panel  
Oil Dipstick  
Air Filter  
Exhaust  
Enclosure  
Fuel Regulator  
Battery Compartment  
Oil Filter  
®
Generac Power Systems, Inc.  
5
 
Section 1 — General Information  
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators  
1.5 SPECIFICATIONS  
1.5.1 GENERATOR  
Model 04389-1  
6,000 NG/7,000 LP  
120/240  
Model 04456-1  
12,000 NG/12,000 LP 13,000 NG/15,000 LP†  
Model 04390-1  
Rated Max. Continuous Power Capacity (Watts*)  
Rated Voltage  
120/240  
120/240  
Rated Max. Continuous Load Current (Amps)  
120 Volts**  
50.0 NG/58.3 LP  
100.0 NG/100.0 LP  
108.3 NG/125.0 LP  
240 Volts  
25.0 NG/29.2 LP  
50.0 NG/50.0 LP  
54.2 NG/62.5 LP  
Main Line Circuit Breaker  
Phase  
Number of Rotor Poles  
Rated AC Frequency  
Power Factor  
30 Amp  
50 Amp  
60 Amp/70 Amp†  
1
2
1
2
1
2
60 Hz  
1
60 Hz  
1
60 Hz  
1
Recommended Air Filter  
Battery Requirement  
Generac Part # C8127 Generac Part # C8127 Generac Part # C8127  
Group 26/26R  
12 Volts and  
Group 26/26R  
12 Volts and  
Group 26/26R  
12 Volts and  
350 Cold-cranking  
Amperes Minimum  
550 Cold-cranking  
Amperes Minimum  
550 Cold-cranking  
Amperes Minimum  
Weight  
452 Pounds  
68 db (A)  
470 Pounds  
70.5db (A)  
-20°F (-28.8°C) to 104°F (40°C)  
487 Pounds  
71.5 db (A)  
Output Sound Level @ 23 ft (7m) at full load  
Normal Operating Range  
* Maximum wattage and current are subject to and limited by such factors as fuel Btu content, ambient temperature, altitude, engine power and condition, etc. Maximum power  
decreases about 3.5 percent for each 1,000 feet above sea level; and also will decrease about 1 percent for each 6° C (10° F) above 16° C (60° F) ambient temperature.  
** Load current values shown for 120 volts are maximum TOTAL values for two separate circuits. The maximum current in each circuit must not exceed the value stated for 240 volts.  
† 15,000 watt with upgrade kit 04578-0. Kit includes power harnesses and 70 amp 2-pole circuit breaker.  
1.5.2 ENGINE  
Model 04389-1  
GH-410  
Model 04456-1  
GT-990  
Model 04390-1  
GT-990  
Type of Engine  
Number of Cylinders  
Rated Horsepower  
Displacement  
1
2
2
14.5 @ 3,600 rpm  
410cc  
26 @ 3,600 rpm  
992cc  
30 @ 3,600 rpm  
992cc  
Cylinder Block  
Aluminum w/Cast  
Iron Sleeve  
Aluminum w/Cast  
Iron Sleeve  
Aluminum w/Cast  
Iron Sleeve  
Valve Arrangement  
Ignition System  
Recommended Spark Plug  
Spark Plug Gap  
Compression Ratio  
Starter  
Overhead Valves  
Solid-state w/Magneto  
RC12YC  
0.76 mm (0.030 inch)  
8.6:1  
Overhead Valves  
Solid-state w/Magneto  
RC12YC  
0.76 mm (0.020 inch)  
9.5:1  
Overhead Valves  
Solid-state w/Magneto  
RC12YC  
0.76 mm (0.020 inch)  
9.5:1  
12 Vdc  
12 Vdc  
12Vdc  
Oil Capacity Including Filter  
Recommended Oil Filter  
Recommended Air Filter  
Operating RPM  
Approx. 1.5 Qts  
Approx. 1.7 Qts  
Approx. 1.7 Qts  
Generac Part # 70185 Generac Part # 70185 Generac Part # 70185  
Generac Part # 0C8127 Generac Part # 0C8127 Generac Part # 0C8127  
3,600  
3,600  
3,600  
®
6
Generac Power Systems, Inc.  
 
Section 1 — General Information  
Guardian Air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW Generators  
3. Disconnect wire #0 and wire #14 from the gas  
1.6 FUEL REQUIREMENTS  
solenoid located on the top of the demand regu-  
lator.  
AND RECOMMENDATIONS  
With LP gas, use only the vapor withdrawal  
system. This type of system uses the vapors formed  
above the liquid fuel in the storage tank.  
4. Remove the demand regulator by rotating coun-  
terclockwise.  
5. Remove the brass hose fitting from the outlet port  
of the demand regulator.  
The engine has been fitted with a fuel carburetion  
system that meets the specifications of the 1997  
California Air Resources Board for tamper-proof dual  
fuel systems. The unit will run on natural gas or LP  
gas, but it has been factory set to run on natural gas.  
Should the primary fuel need to be changed to LP  
gas, the fuel system needs to be reconfigured. See  
Section 1.8 for instructions on reconfiguration of the  
fuel system.  
Recommended fuels should have a Btu content of at  
least 1,000 Btus per cubic foot for natural gas; or at  
least 2,520 Btus per cubic foot for LP gas. Ask your  
fuel supplier for the Btu content of your fuel.  
6. Remove the brass metering jet (loosen counter-  
clockwise) from the housing port of the demand  
regulator located on the side of the regulator.  
7. Install new LP metering jet (tighten clockwise) in  
the outlet port of the demand regulator.  
8. Refit the brass hose fittings to the outlet port of  
the demand regulator.  
9. Reverse procedure steps 1-4 to reinstall demand  
regulator.  
10. Reverse the procedure to convert back to natural  
gas.  
Figure 1.3 – Demand Regulator  
Fuel pressure for both natural gas and liquid  
propane set ups should be 11 inches to 14 inches  
of water column (0.6 psi) at all load ranges.  
FUEL HOSE  
FUEL HOSE  
BRASS HOSE  
FITTING  
BRASS HOSE  
FITTING  
NOTE:  
FUEL JET  
HOUSING  
PORTS  
HOUSING  
PORTS  
A seperate gas line and regulator may be needed  
to assure proper gas pressure (11-14”) to the gen-  
erator. Low gas pressure can cause hard starting  
and could affect engine durability.  
1.7 FUEL CONSUMPTION  
Model #  
Nat. Gas (*)  
LP Vapor (**)  
1/2 Load Full Load 1/2 Load  
Full Load  
1.21/44.1  
2.17/79.0  
2.80/102.3  
04389  
04456  
04390  
74  
105  
185  
240  
0.91/33  
1.34/48.9  
1.73/63.2  
NG FUEL SYSTEM  
LP FUEL SYSTEM  
114  
NOTE:  
148.5  
*Natural gas is in cubic feet per hour.  
**LP is in gallons per hour/cubic feet per hour.  
The natural gas adjustment screw is preset during  
installation and should not need any further  
adjustment.  
DANGER  
Gaseous fuels such as natural gas and liquid  
propane (LP) gas are highly explosive. Even the  
slightest spark can ignite such fuels and cause  
an explosion. No leakage of fuel is permitted.  
Natural gas, which is lighter than air, tends to  
collect in high areas. LP gas is heavier than air  
and tends to settle in low areas.  
1.8.2 12 KW AND 15 KW, 990CC ENGINES  
To reconfigure the fuel system from NG to LP,  
follow these steps:  
NOTE:  
The primary regulator for the propane supply is  
NOT INCLUDED with the generator. You must sup-  
ply a fuel pressure of 11 to 14 inches of water col-  
umn (0.6 psi) to the fuel inlet of the generator.