Craftsman 580.328300 Owner's Manual page 8

HOW TO USE YOUR GENERATOR
If you have any problems operating your generator,
please call the generator helpline at 1-800-222-3136.
Grounding The Generator
The National Electrical Code requires that the
frame and external electrically conductive parts of
this generator be properly connected to an
approved earth ground. Local electrical codes may
also require proper grounding of the unit. For that
purpose, a grounding lug is provided on the base of
the cradle.
Grounding Lug
Generally, connecting a No. 12 AWG (American Wire
Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding lug and
to an earth-driven copper or brass grounding rod
(electrode) provides adequate protection against
electrical shock. However, local codes may vary
widely. Consult with a local electrician for
grounding requirements in your area.
Proper grounding of generator will help prevent
electrical shock in the event of a ground fault
condition in the generator or in connected electrical
devices. Proper grounding also helps dissipate static
electricity, which often builds up in ungrounded
devices.
Connecting Electrical Loads
• Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes
after starting.
• Plug in and turn on the desired 120 Volt or
240 Volt, single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.
• Do Not connect 240 Volt loads to 120 Volt
receptacles.
• Do Not connect 3-phase loads to the generator.
• Do Not connect 50 Hz loads to the generator.
• Add up the rated watts (or amps) of all loads to be
connected at one time. This total should not be
greater than (a) the rated wattage/amperage
capacity of the generator or (b) circuit breaker
rating of the receptacle supplying the power. See
"Don't Overload the Generator" on page 12.
TO START THE ENGINE
WARNING!
Never start or stop engine with
electrical devices plugged into the panel
receptacles and turned on. You could damage
both the generator and the electrical devices.
• Unplug all electrical loads from generator
receptacles before starting the engine.
• Make sure the unit is in a level position.
• Open the fuel shut–off valve.
• Pull the choke knob to close. If the engine is warm,
or the ambient temperature is high, pull the choke
knob half–way, or keep it fully open.
DANGER!
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an colorless and odorless gas which
causes unconsciousness and death. Never run
engine indoors or in poorly ventilated areas.
DANGER
! Burn hazard. Temperature of
muffler and nearby areas may exceed 150°F
(65°C). Do Not touch these areas on the
generator.
• Turn the key switch to the "Start" position.
IMPORTANT: Do Not operate the electric starter
continuously for more than 5 seconds, even if the
engine does not start. Extended cranking can damage
the starter motor.
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