North Star M165923V.1 Owner's Manual

Portable, outdoor use-only, gasoline generator 10,500 watt continuous (13,000 watt surge) capacity

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Instructions for Installation/Set-up, Operation, Servicing, & Storage
Portable, Outdoor Use-Only, Gasoline Generator
10,500 Watt Continuous (13,000 Watt Surge) Capacity
Can be used to power individual appliances plugged directly into the generator's outlets, or as a back-
up connection to a building's power supply (via a professionally installed UL-approved transfer
switch).
READ and UNDERSTAND this manual completely before using the generator! Failure to properly set up,
operate, and maintain this generator could result in serious injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning,
electric shock, fire/explosion, or burns. In particular, be aware of the following hazards:
Generators give off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.
• ONLY run generator OUTDOORS and AWAY from building air intakes. NEVER run generator inside any enclosed or
semi-enclosed spaces, including homes, basements, garages, sheds, boxes, RVs, boats or pick-up truck beds. These
spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or open windows.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms inside nearby structures/buildings (battery-operated, or plug-in with battery backup).
• High voltage electricity from generator can kill. DO NOT operate in wet locations. Be sure generator is properly
grounded. Use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated grounded extension cords of proper size.
• NEVER plug the generator directly into a wall outlet. ANY connection to a building's electrical system MUST
ISOLATE THE GENERATOR FROM UTILITY POWER via a UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed
electrician. Otherwise, back feed from the generator into the power grid could kill utility workers.
• DO NOT overload generator (per rated capacity), and OPERATE ONLY in an area with adequate cooling ventilation so
engine does not overheat. Exhaust can be extremely hot. Keep muffler at least 7' from all combustible objects.
• All fuels are flammable. Never fuel a running or hot engine. Never pump fuel directly into generator at gas station – use
approved container to transfer fuel. Ensure there are no fuel leaks, and keep sources of sparks and flames away.
ALWAYS keep a fire extinguisher rated "ABC" nearby.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT GENERATOR FOR YOUR NEEDS. See the "Power load Planning & Management" section
of this manual to determine your power load requirements and then compare to the generator's rated capacity.
INSPECT COMPONENTS: Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged. See the "Unpacking
& Delivery Inspection" section for instructions on whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.
ARRANGE FOR PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION of a transfer switch if you will be connecting the generator to
your building's electrical system. See the "Installation/Initial Set-Up" section for more information about this
requirement.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders
Owner's Manual
Electric shock / Electrocution
Call NorthStar Product Support 1-800-270-0810
M165923V.1
ITEM NUMBER: 165923
SERIAL NUMBER: _____________
TM
WARNING
CO Poisoning
Fire / Explosion
STOP!

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Summary of Contents for North Star M165923V.1

  • Page 1 ARRANGE FOR PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION of a transfer switch if you will be connecting the generator to your building’s electrical system. See the “Installation/Initial Set-Up” section for more information about this requirement. Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders Call NorthStar Product Support 1-800-270-0810 M165923V.1 ITEM NUMBER: 165923 SERIAL NUMBER: _____________ WARNING CO Poisoning...
  • Page 2: Hazard Signal Word Definitions

    Hazard Signal Word Definitions...
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Hazard Signal Word Definitions ...2 About Your Generator ...4 Specifications ...6 Safety Label Locations...7 Machine Component Identification...8 Power Load Planning & Management ...10 Installation / Initial Set-Up: 1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection...12 2. Planning the Power Load...12 3. Set-up as a PORTABLE or BUILDING BACK-UP Power Source ...13 4.
  • Page 4: About Your Generator

    Thank you for purchasing your NorthStar portable generator! This engine-driven, portable generator is designed to provide up to 13,000 Watts of electrical power (10,500 watts continuous, 13,000 watts surge). It can supply power: 1. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances directly into the generator’s electrical outlets.
  • Page 5: Warranty Registration

    About Your Generator (cont’d) 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 for any modification and/or alterations of this equipment from original design and manufacture.
  • Page 6: Specifications

    Specifications – Item #165923 SPECIFICATIONS Item Number Maximum Output Continuous Output Voltage Phase Frequency Power Factor Total Harmonic Distortion Engine Engine Speed Fuel Type Fuel Capacity Oil Capacity Starting Method 120V Receptacles 120/240V Receptacles Circuit Breakers Battery (not included) Dimensions Length Width Height...
  • Page 7: Safety Label Locations

    Safety Label Locations – Item #165923V.1 • Commercial-grade electric start engine • Extend run 10 gallon fuel tank • Maintenance-free brushless alternator design • Smooth running focus mount isolation system BATTERIES: 1) contain caustic acid, 2) emit explosive gases, 3) can cause electric shock ALWAYS use eye protection.
  • Page 8: Machine Component Identification

    Machine Component Identification - Item #165923V.1 Figure 1 (Ref. 1-10) Ref. Description Air Cleaner Optional Wheel Kit (#165919) Circuit Breakers 120/240V, 50A Receptacle 120/240V, 30A Locking Receptacle 120V, 30A Locking Receptacle 120V, 20A Duplex Receptacle Oil Drain Plug Vibration Isolation Mount Oil Filler Cap Figure 2 (Ref.
  • Page 9 Machine Component Identification - Item #165923V.1 REFERENCE GUIDE Reference 1 – Air Cleaner Reference 2 – Optional Wheel Kit Reference 3 – Circuit Breakers Reference 4 – 120/240V, 50A Receptacle Reference 5 – 120/240V, 30A Locking Device Receptacle Reference 6 – 120V, 30A Locking Device Receptacle Reference 7 –...
  • Page 10: Power Load Planning & Management

    Power Load Planning & Management NEVER exceed the rated wattage capacity of your generator. OVERLOADING may cause SERIOUS DAMAGE to the generator and attached electrical devices, and may result in fire. Your generator MUST BE SIZED PROPERLY to provide both the running and starting (surge) wattage of the devices you will be powering.
  • Page 11 Power Load Planning & Management (cont’d) Device 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 (a) Hard-starting motors require 3-5 times the rated running watts (b) For extremely hard to start loads such as air conditioners and air compressors, consult the equipment dealer to determine maximum wattage To calculate the running and starting wattage requirements for the devices you will be...
  • Page 12: Installation / Initial Set-Up

    Installation / Initial Set-Up There are a number of important steps required to set up your generator for initial use. These steps are: Steps for Installation / Initial Set-Up 1. Unpacking & delivery inspection. 2. Planning the power load to stay within the generator’s rated capacity.
  • Page 13: Set-Up As A Portable Or Building Back-Up Power Source

    Installation / Initial Set-Up 3. Set-up either as a BUILDING BACK-UP or PORTABLE Power Source This generator is designed to provide up to 13,000W of electrical power. It can supply electricity in two ways: 1. As a back-up, standby power source for a building. For this application, you must arrange for a licensed electrician to connect the generator to your building’s electrical system via the installation of an UL-approved transfer switch.
  • Page 14 Installation / Initial Set-Up The generator cannot power your entire home -- you must work with the installing electrician to determine which devices/appliances you wish to power during an outage. The electrician can help you determine which circuits and devices can be powered simultaneously without overloading the generator.
  • Page 15 Installation / Initial Set-Up ♦ Extension cords may be used to power devices that are located at a distance from the generator. However, use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated, grounded extension cords of the proper size. Use Table 2 below to choose an adequately sized extension cord according to the amperage of the device being used and the length of the cord.
  • Page 16: Selecting A Suitable Site

    Installation / Initial Set-Up Before using the generator, you must select a suitable OUTDOOR location for installation and operation. This location should meet all of the criteria listed below. WARNING: You must choose a suitable site for operating your generator to avoid equipment damage and/or injury and possible death from carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock, or fire.
  • Page 17 Installation / Initial Set-Up Adequate cooling The generator needs adequate, unobstructed flow of air to allow for ventilation proper cooling of engine and generator head. Heat build-up from inadequate ventilation can result in fire, posing a serious risk to nearby persons and structures. •...
  • Page 18: Grounding The Generator

    Installation / Initial Set-Up Always ensure the generator is properly grounded to prevent electrical shock. You must always ground the generator by the following method when using the generator as a portable electrical source: 1) Drive a ¾” or 1” copper pipe or rod into the ground close to the generator. The pipe/rod must penetrate moist earth –...
  • Page 19: Battery Installation

    Installation / Initial Set-Up Your generator’s engine is equipped with an electric starter which requires the installation of a 12- volt lawn tractor size battery (Group U1). See the “Specifications” section of this manual for more specific battery requirements for this generator model, such as minimum amperage or CCA rating. The battery is to be supplied by the customer and should be installed in the protective battery box located near the engine.
  • Page 20: Operation

    Once you have set up your generator for use, it is time to start your generator. The following are the procedures necessary for safe, successful operation of your generator. 1. General Safety Rules for Operation 2. Preparing for Operation 3. Starting the Engine 4.
  • Page 21 • Malfunction during operation. Immediately turn off the generator if any of the following conditions arise during operation: o Excessive change in engine speed, slow or fast o Overheating in load connecting devices o Sparking or arcs from generator o Loss of electrical output o Receptacle damage o Engine misfire o Excessive vibration...
  • Page 22 Static electricity and filling the gasoline tank: Static electricity can initiate from ungrounded gasoline tanks or containers, from flowing gasoline, and from persons carrying a static electric charge Static electricity can explosively ignite gasoline vapors that are present during the fueling process, resulting in serious burns to nearby persons.
  • Page 23: Preparing For Operation

    Position Position generator in accordance with the instructions given in generator “Installation & Initial Set-up, Step 4: Select a Suitable Site” manual. Operate outside only, on dry, level ground with adequate clearance and ventilation. WARNING: Carbon monoxide poisoning hazard Generators give off carbon monoxide exhaust, a poisonous gas that can kill.
  • Page 24 Operation (cont’d) WARNING: Gasoline fire/explosion hazard Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. Heat, sparks, and flames can ignite gasoline vapors, which can become widespread during fueling. A flash fire and/or explosion could result and cause serious injury or death. Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Carefully follow all the instructions in this section to avoid the following conditions which could result in gasoline ignition: •...
  • Page 25 • Keep nozzle in contact with portable container while filling. Manually control the flow of gasoline; do NOT use the nozzle’s lock-open device. • A portable container made of metal or conductive plastic is preferred because it dissipates charge to ground more readily. 5) Clean up gasoline spills /splashes immediately.
  • Page 26: Starting The Engine

    After you have completed the pre-start checklist procedures, you are ready to start the engine. To start the engine: 1) Disconnect all loads to the generator. 2) Turn the gasoline line valve to the ON position. 3) For cold engine, move choke lever to full choke position. To restart a warm engine, move choke lever to half choke or to RUN position.
  • Page 27: Checking Generator Output

    Although the speed of the engine was carefully adjusted at the factory so that the generator produces the proper voltage and frequency, output voltage should be checked periodically to ensure the generator is working properly before connecting loads to the generator. WARNING: The generator must be run at the correct speed in order to produce the proper electrical voltage and frequency.
  • Page 28: Connecting Loads

    You will want to be careful when connecting loads so as not to overload the generator, especially if you are powering devices with motors that require a higher starting power load. Instructions are provided below for connecting loads when you are using the generator: o As a portable power source o Connected to a building as a back-up power source WARNING:...
  • Page 29: Storage & Exercise

    When you are finished using the generator, you must: o Disconnect all loads o Shut off fuel supply o Store the generator properly o Plan on exercising the engine regularly unless the generator is prepared for long-term storage. Detailed instructions are provided below. Disconnect loads &...
  • Page 30 Prepare engine for If you will not be able to exercise the generator regularly, you must long term storage if prepare the engine for long term storage to prevent gum deposits from needed forming and causing malfunction of the engine. Prepare engine for long term storage by: o Removing all gasoline from the tank and carburetor o Adding fuel stabilizer to the gasoline (following manufacturer’s...
  • Page 31: Maintenance & Repair

    Inspect and maintain your generator as specified below in order to keep it in safe and optimal working order. Follow all safety rules and recommended maintenance steps. ALWAYS shut off the engine, disconnect the spark plug(s) and discharge the capacitor before cleaning, adjusting, or servicing the generator.
  • Page 32 Maintenance & Repair (cont’d) Check GFCI Once a month, test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to (if equipped) protect against electrical shock due to failure of the GFCI. (Only for those models equipped with GFCI – See the “Specifications” section.) To test the GFCI: 1.
  • Page 33: Troubleshooting

    Problem Possible Causes Engine will not start. a) Low oil level. b) Fouled spark plug. c) Out of fuel. d) Stop switch in OFF position. e) Battery has lost its charge. Voltage too low. a) Engine speed too slow. b) Generator is overloaded. Circuit breaker trips.
  • Page 34: Summary Of Important Safety Information For Operation

    Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation This section provides a summary of the various safety procedures and measures that have been presented throughout the manual. Keep this summary handy and refer to it to refresh your memory about how to safely use your generator. Carefully read and make sure you understand the following safety information before using the generator.
  • Page 35 Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation (cont’d) Installation / Initial Set-up Safety • Dry, level surface. Situate generator on a dry, firm, level surface. Ensure generator sits level and will not slide or shift during operation. Block wheels if applicable. •...
  • Page 36 Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation (cont’d) Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. Use extreme care when handling: • Fuel outdoors. Fill fuel tank outdoors – never indoors. Gasoline vapors can ignite if they collect inside an enclosure.
  • Page 37 Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation (cont’d) • Electric shock accident. If an electric shock accident occurs, immediately 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 victim.
  • Page 38: Generator Exploded View

    Generator Exploded View Rev- V.1...
  • Page 39 Generator Exploded View Rev- V.1 Diag # Part # Description 777149 Fuel Cap, With Gauge 32839 Battery Cable, Positive 777834 Fuel Clamp, 1/4” 30754 Leather Washer, 1/4” 777352 Battery Box 779399 Decal 38189 Cradle Weldment 31001 Nameplate 31007 Spark Arrester 32840 Engine, 20 HP Honda 778553...
  • Page 40: Wiring Diagram

    Wiring Diagram Rev – V.1...
  • Page 41 Wiring Diagram Rev – V.1 Diag # Part # Description 31223 Circuit Breaker, 50A 31005 Circuit Breaker, 30A 30643 Thermal Circuit Breaker, 20A 306434 Thermal Circuit Breaker, 30A 306426 5-20R Receptacle 32328 Control Panel Graphics 306423 L5-30R Receptacle 306422 L14-30R Receptacle 31953 14-50R Receptacle 305558...
  • Page 42: Generator Head Exploded View

    Generator Head Exploded View Rev- V.1 Ref # Part # 30991 30994 31013 30995 307489 305605 31014 31018 31015 307484 306403 306416 30997 31065 30999 30992 307479 307481 9910303129 39256 31017 31011 307478 31022 Description Drive End Bracket Protection Screen Phillips Screw Grommet Terminal Box Cover...

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165923

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