Oxygenated Fuels - RIDGID RD8000 Series Operator's Manual

OPERATION
APPLICATIONS
This generator is designed to supply electrical power for
operating compatible electrical lighting, appliances, tools,
and motor loads.
BEFORE OPERATING THE UNIT
 Only use OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors,
and vents.
 NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors and
windows are open.
 Always position the generator on a flat firm surface.
CAUTION:
Attempting to start the engine before it has been
properly filled with lubricant will result in equipment
failure.
RAISING AND LOWERING THE HANDLE
See Figure 12.
 To raise the handle (for moving the generator): pull the
handle up until the handle release knob snaps into lock-
ing position and insert the handle lock pin to secure the
handle in place.
 To lower the handle (for storing or transporting the gen-
erator): remove the handle lock pin, then pull the handle
release knob out and lower the handle to the down posi-
tion.
Never use the handle to lift the generator. The handle should
only be used for moving the unit by rolling it on its wheels.
CHECKING/ADDING LUBRICANT
See Figure 13.
Engine lubricant has a major influence on engine perfor-
mance and service life. For general, all-temperature use,
SAE 10W-30 is recommended. Always use a 4-stroke motor
lubricant that meets or exceeds the requirements for API
service classification SJ.
This engine comes with a feature that will shut off the engine
when a specific oil level is not maintained. The engine will
not restart until an appropriate oil level is reached.
NOTE: Non-detergent or 2-stroke engine lubricants will
damage the engine and should not be used.
 Unscrew the oil cap/dipstick and remove.
 Wipe dipstick clean and insert in hole. Do not rethread.
 Remove dipstick again and check lubricant level. Lubri-
cant level should fall between the hatched areas on the
dipstick.
 If level is low, add engine lubricant until the fluid level rises
to the upper portion of the dipstick.
 Replace and secure the oil cap/dipstick.
CHECKING/ADDING FUEL
See Figure 14.
 Remove the fuel cap.
 Fill the fuel tank to 1 in. below the top of the fuel neck.
 Replace and secure the fuel cap.
NOTE: Always use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane
rating of 86 or higher. Never use old, stale, or contaminated
gasoline, and do not use an oil/gas mixture. Do not allow dirt
or water into the fuel tank. Do not use E85 fuel.
USING FUEL STABILIzER
Fuel gets old, oxidizes, and breaks down over time. Adding
a fuel stabilizer (not included) extends the usable life of fuel
and helps prevent deposits from forming that can clog the
fuel system. Follow fuel stabilizer manufacturer's directions
for correct ratio of stabilizer to fuel.
 Add stabilizer to fuel tank, then fill with gasoline following
previous instructions.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer and gasoline can be mixed prior
to filling the tank by using a gas can or other approved
fuel container and shaking gently to combine.
 Replace and secure the fuel tank cap.
 Start and run the engine for at least 5 minutes to allow
stabilizer to treat the entire fuel system.

OXyGENATED FUELS

DO NOT USE E85 FUEL. IT WILL VOID yOUR WAR-
RANTy.
NOTE: Fuel system damage or performance problems
resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more
than the percentages of oxygenates stated below are not
covered under warranty.
Ethanol. Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume
(commonly referred to as E10) or 15% ethanol by volume
(commonly referred to as E15) are acceptable. E85 is not.
CAUTION:
On a level surface with the engine off, check the
lubricant level before each use of the generator.
REMOVABLE CONTROL PANEL
See Figure 15.
The removable control panel can be wall-mounted and con-
nected to the generator with the 25-ft. control panel cord
(Model # RDEC25) provided with the product.
The generator can be turned on or off from the removable
control panel or using the off switch key on the unit.
NOTE: The off switch is an on/momentary off switch. You
must push the switch and hold it in until the engine has fully
stopped.
13 — English