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Loss of life. This product is not intended to be used in a critical life support application. Failure to adhere to this warning could result in death or serious injury.
Register your Generac product at:
WWW.GENERAC.COM
1-888-GENERAC
(1-888-436-3722)
Operating, servicing and maintaining this equipment can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as necessary, service your equipment in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing your equipment. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. |
Thank you for purchasing a Generac Power Systems Inc. product. This unit has been designed to provide high-performance, efficient operation, and years of use when maintained properly.
Consult Manual. Read and understand manual completely before using product. Failure to completely understand manual and product could result in death or serious injury.
If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest Independent Authorized Service Dealer (IASD), or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-GENERAC (1888-436-3722), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns.
The owner is responsible for proper maintenance and safe use of the equipment. Before operating, servicing or storing this generator:
Save these instructions for future reference. ALWAYS supply this manual to any individual that will use this machine.
The information in this manual is accurate based on products produced at the time of publication. The manufacturer reserves the right to make technical updates, corrections, and product revisions at any time without notice.
The manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a hazard. The warnings in this manual, and on tags and decals affixed to the unit are, therefore, not all inclusive. If using a procedure, work method or operating technique that the manufacturer does not specifically recommend, verify that it is safe for others. Also make sure the procedure, work method or operating technique utilized does not render the equipment unsafe.
Throughout this publication, and on tags and decals affixed to the generator, DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and NOTE blocks are used to alert personnel to special instructions about a particular operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe them carefully. Their definitions are as follows:
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTE: Notes contain additional information important to a procedure and will be found within the regular text of this manual.
These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards that they indicate. Common sense and strict compliance with the special instructions while performing the action or service are essential to preventing accidents.
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Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is a poison you cannot see or smell. | |
![]() NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors and windows are open. | ![]() Only use OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors, and vents. |
Asphyxiation. Running engines produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. Carbon monoxide, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Asphyxiation. The exhaust system must be properly maintained. Do not alter or modify the exhaust system as to render it unsafe or make it noncompliant with local codes and/or standards. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Electrocution. Turn utility and emergency power supplies to OFF before connecting power source and load lines. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Electrocution. Water contact with a power source, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Equipment and property damage. Do not alter construction of, installation, or block ventilation for generator. Failure to do so could result in unsafe operation or damage to the generator.
Asphyxiation. Always use a battery operated carbon monoxide alarm indoors and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
Equipment and property damage. Do not operate unit on uneven surfaces, or areas of excessive moisture, dirt, dust or corrosive vapors. Doing so could result in death, serious injury, property and equipment damage.
Moving Parts. Keep clothing, hair, and appendages away from moving parts. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
Hot Surfaces. When operting machine, do not touch hot surfaces. Keep machine away from combustables during use. Hot surfaces could result in severe burns or fire.
Personal injury. Do not insert any object through the air cooling slots. Generator can start at any time and could result in death, serious injury, and unit damage.
Risk of injury. Do not operate or service this machine if not fully alert. Fatigue can impair the ability to service this equipment and could result in death or serious injury.
Injury and equipment damage. Do not use generator as a step. Doing so could result in falling, damaged parts, unsafe equipment operation, and could result in death or serious injury.
Equipment damage. Do not attempt to start or operate a unit in need of repair or scheduled maintenance. Doing so could result in serious injury, death, or equipment failure or damage.
Asphyxiation. Running engines produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. Carbon monoxide, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Asphyxiation. The exhaust system must be properly maintained. Do not alter or modify the exhaust system as to render it unsafe or make it noncompliant with local codes and/or standards. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Equipment and property damage. Do not alter construction of, installation, or block ventilation for generator. Failure to do so could result in unsafe operation or damage to the generator.
Asphyxiation. Always use a battery operated carbon monoxide alarm indoors and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
Electrocution. Contact with bare wires, terminals, and connections while generator is running will result in death or serious injury.
Electrocution. Water contact with a power source, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Electrocution. In the event of electrical accident, immediately shut power OFF. Use non-conductive first aid and get medical help. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Explosion and Fire. Fuel and vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Add fuel in a well ventilated area. Keep fire and spark away. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Explosion and Fire. Do not overfill fuel tank. Fill to 1/2 inch from top of tank to allow for fuel expansion. Overfilling may cause fuel to spill onto engine causing fire or explosion, which will result in death or serious injury.
Personal injury. Do not insert any object through the air cooling slots. Generator can start at any time and could result in death, serious injury, and unit damage.
Fire risk. Fuel and vapors are extremely flammable. Do not operate indoors. Doing so could result in death, serious injury, or property or equipment damage.
Explosion and fire risk. Do not smoke near unit. Keep fire and spark away. Failure to do so could result in death, serious injury, or property or equipment damage.
Explosion and Fire. Do not smoke while refueling unit. Failure to do so could result in death, serious injury, or property or equipment damage.
TABLE 1. Generator Components
1 | Low Oil Warning |
2 | Overload Warning |
3 | AC Power Light |
4 | Hour Meter |
5 | 1A/2.1A, 5 VDC USB Outlet |
6 | AC Breaker |
7 | 120V, 30A Receptacle (NEMA L5-30R) |
8 | Grounding Location |
9 | 120V, 20A Receptacle |
10 | Parallel Outlets |
11 | Engine Smart Control (ESC) |
12 | Frame |
13 | Fuel Gauge |
14 | Fuel Tank Cap |
15 | Fuel Tank |
16 | Control Panel |
17 | Off/On/Choke Switch |
18 | Recoil Starter |
19 | Inverter Module |
20 | Muffler |
21 | Oil Drain |
22 | Oil Fill |
23 | Air Cleaner |
24 | Carburetor |
25 | Spark Plug |
Consult Manual. Read and understand manual completely before using product. Failure to completely understand manual and product could result in death or serious injury.
Replacement owner's manuals are available at www.generac.com.
TABLE 2. Product Specifications
Generator Specifications | 3500iO |
Rated Power | W |
Starting Power | W |
Rated AC Voltage | 120V |
Rated AC Load at 120V | Amps** |
Rated Frequency | Hz |
Dimensions L x W x H (in/mm) | 19.2 x 16.9 x 16.4 (490 x 430 x 417) |
Weight (dry) | lb. (34 kg) |
** Operating Temperature Range: -13 deg. C (8 deg. F) to 40 Deg. C (104 Deg. F). When operated above 25 deg. C (77 deg. F) there may be a decrease in power. ** Maximum wattage and current are subject to, and limited by, such factors as fuel Btu content, ambient temperature, altitude, engine condition, etc.. Maximum power decreases about 3.5% for each 1,000 feet above sea level; and will also decrease about 1% for each 6°C (10°F) above 16°C (60°F) ambient temperature. | |
Engine Specifications | 3500iO |
Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-stroke |
Displacement | cc |
Spark Plug Part Number | 0J00620106 |
Spark Plug Type | F7TC / F7RTC / BPR6ES or equivalent |
Spark Plug Gap (in/mm) | 0.024-0.028 (0.6-0.7) |
Fuel Capacity / Type | L (2.37 U.S. gallons) / Unleaded |
Oil Type | See Add Engine Oil |
Oil Capacity | 0.6 L (0.6 qt.) |
Run Time at 50% Load | 8.0 Hours |
* Go to www.generac.com or contact an IASD for replacement parts. |
120 VAC, Duplex Receptacle
The 120 Volt outlet is overload protected by the 20 Amp push button circuit protector. See Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3. 120 VAC, Duplex Receptacle
120 VAC, 30 Amp Receptacle
Use a NEMA L5-30R plug with this receptacle. Connect a suitable 3-wire cord set to the plug and to desired load. The cord set should be rated for 125 Volts AC at 30 Amps (or greater). See Figure 2-4.
Use this receptacle to operate 120 Volt AC, 60Hz, single phase loads requiring up to 3500 watts, 30 Amps starting power and 3000 watts of continuous power at 25 Amps. The outlet is protected by a 30 Amp push-to-reset circuit breaker.
Figure 2-4. 120 VAC, 30 Amp Receptacle
NEMA L5-30R
This controls the ON/OFF functions, choke and fuel valve operation. See Figure 2-5.
The 5 VDC, 1/2.1 Amp USB outlet allows charging of compatible electronic devices.
The economy switch has 2 modes of operation:
See Figure 2-6.
The AC receptacles are protected by an AC circuit protector. If the generator is overloaded or an external short circuit occurs, the circuit protector will trip. If this occurs, disconnect all electrical loads to determine the cause of the problem before using the generator again. Reduce the load if the circuit protector is tripped.
NOTE: Continuous tripping of the circuit protector may cause damage to generator or equipment.
Push the button of the protector to reset the circuit protector.
TABLE 3. Accessories
Item | Qty. |
Main Unit | 1 |
Owner's Manual | 1 |
Engine Oil | 1 |
Oil Funnel | 1 |
Tool Kit | 1 |
Service Warranty | 1 |
Emissions Warranty | 1 |
Engine damage. Verify proper type and quantity of engine oil prior to starting engine. Failure to do so could result in engine damage.
NOTE: The generator is shipped without oil in the engine. Add oil slowly and verify oil level often during filling process to ensure overfilling does not occur.
NOTE: Use petroleum based oil (supplied) for engine break-in before using synthetic oil.
Explosion and Fire. Fuel and vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Add fuel in a well ventilated area. Keep fire and spark away. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Explosion and Fire. Do not overfill fuel tank. Fill to 1/2 inch from top of tank to allow for fuel expansion. Overfilling may cause fuel to spill onto engine causing fire or explosion, which will result in death or serious injury.
Fuel requirements are as follows:
Explosion and Fire. Verify fuel cap vent is set to ON for operation, and OFF for transportation and storage. Failure to do so could result in poor unit performance, death, or serious injury.
NOTE: Allow spilled fuel to evaporate before starting unit.
IMPORTANT NOTE: It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in fuel system parts such as the carburetor, fuel hose or tank during storage. Alcoholblended fuels (called gasohol, ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture, which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. See the Storage section. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank as permanent damage may occur.
Call Generac Customer Service at 1-888GENERAC (1-888-436-3722) with questions or concerns about equipment operation and maintenance.
Asphyxiation. Running engines produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. Carbon monoxide, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Asphyxiation. The exhaust system must be properly maintained. Do not alter or modify the exhaust system as to render it unsafe or make it noncompliant with local codes and/or standards. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury
Risk of fire. Do not use generator without spark arrestor installed. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
Asphyxiation. Always use a battery operated carbon monoxide alarm indoors and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
Risk of Fire. Hot surfaces could ignite combustibles, resulting in fire. Fire could result in death or serious injury.
Hot Surfaces. When operating machine, do not touch hot surfaces. Keep machine away from combustibles during use. Hot surfaces could result in severe burns or fire.
Equipment and property damage. Disconnect electrical loads prior to starting or stopping unit. Failure to do so could result in equipment and property damage.
The generator is equipped with an equipment ground connecting the generator frame and the ground terminals on the AC output receptacles (see NEC 250.34 (A). This allows the generator to be used as a portable without grounding the frame of the generator as specified in NEC 250.34. See Figure 3-1.
The generator (stator winding) is isolated from the frame and from the AC receptacle ground pin. Electrical devices that require a grounded receptacle pin connection will not function if the receptacle ground pin is not functional.
Overloading a generator can result in damage to the generator and connected electrical devices. Observe the following to prevent overload:
Wattage Reference Guide is provided to assist in determining how many items the generator can operate at one time.
NOTE: All figures are approximate. See data label on appliance for wattage requirements.
Wattage Reference Guide
Device | Running Watts |
*Air Conditioner (12,000 Btu) | 1700 |
*Air Conditioner (24,000 Btu) | 3800 |
*Air Conditioner (40,000 Btu) | 6000 |
Battery Charger (20 Amp) | 500 |
Belt Sander (3") | 1000 |
Chain Saw | 1200 |
Circular Saw (6-1/2") | 800 to 1000 |
*Clothes Dryer (Electric) | 5750 |
*Clothes Dryer (Gas) | 700 |
*Clothes Washer | 1150 |
Coffee Maker | 1750 |
*Compressor (1 HP) | 2000 |
*Compressor (3/4 HP) | 1800 |
*Compressor (1/2 HP) | 1400 |
Curling Iron | 700 |
*Dehumidifier | 650 |
Disc Sander (9") | 1200 |
Edge Trimmer | 500 |
Electric Blanket | 400 |
Electric Nail Gun | 1200 |
Electric Range (per element) | 1500 |
Electric Skillet | 1250 |
*Freezer | 700 |
*Furnace Fan (3/5 HP) | 875 |
*Garage Door Opener | 500 to 750 |
Hair Dryer | 1200 |
Hand Drill | 250 to 1100 |
Hedge Trimmer | 450 |
Impact Wrench | 500 |
Iron | 1200 |
*Jet Pump | 800 |
Lawn Mower | 1200 |
Light Bulb | 100 |
Microwave Oven | 700 to 1000 |
*Milk Cooler | 1100 |
Oil Burner on Furnace | 300 |
Oil Fired Space Heater (140,000 Btu) | 400 |
Oil Fired Space Heater (85,000 Btu) | 225 |
Oil Fired Space Heater (30,000 Btu) | 150 |
*Paint Sprayer, Airless (1/3 HP) | 600 |
Paint Sprayer, Airless (hand-held) | 150 |
Radio | 50 to 200 |
*Refrigerator | 700 |
Slow Cooker | 200 |
*Submersible Pump (1-1/2 HP) | 2800 |
*Submersible Pump (1 HP) | 2000 |
*Submersible Pump (1/2 HP) | 1500 |
*Sump Pump | 800 to 1050 |
*Table Saw (10") | 1750 to 2000 |
Television | 200 to 500 |
Toaster | 1000 to 1650 |
Weed Trimmer | 500 |
* Allow 3 times the listed watts for starting these devices. |
Do not store or transport the unit at an angle greater than 15 degrees.
Recoil Hazard. Recoil could retract unexpectedly. Kickback could result in death or serious injury.
Equipment and property damage. Disconnect electrical loads prior to starting or stopping unit. Failure to do so could result in equipment and property damage.
NOTE: If engine fires, but does not continue to run, rotate the Off/On/Choke dial to OFF and repeat starting instructions.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not overload generator or individual panel receptacles. See Figure 3-3. If an overload occurs, the overload LED (A) will illuminate and AC output ceases. To correct, see Generator Status Lights. Read Know Generator Limits carefully.
Equipment and property damage. Disconnect electrical loads prior to starting or stopping unit. Failure to do so could result in equipment and property damage.
Equipment and property damage. Disconnect electrical loads prior to starting or stopping unit. Failure to do so could result in equipment and property damage.
The engine is equipped with a low oil level sensor that shuts down the engine automatically when the oil level drops below a specified level to prevent engine damage. See Figure 3-3 (B). The engine will not run until the oil has been filled to the proper level.
If the engine shuts down and there is sufficient fuel, check engine oil level.
See the Parallel Kit Operator's Manual or contact an IASD.
NOTE: All connections to the parallel kit should be made while both inverters are turned off and all loads disconnected.
NOTE: Do not disconnect any parallel kit connections once the units are running.
NOTE: Only use Generac approved parallel kit.
Regular maintenance will improve performance and extend engine/equipment life. Generac Power Systems, Inc. recommends that all maintenance work be performed by an Independent Authorized Service Dealer (IASD). Regular maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emissions control devices and systems may be performed by any repair shop or person of the owner's choosing. To obtain emissions control warranty service free of charge, the work must be performed by an IASD. See the emissions warranty.
NOTE: Call 1-888-GENERAC (1-888-4363722) with questions about component replacement.
Follow maintenance schedule intervals, whichever occurs first according to use.
NOTE: Adverse conditions will require more frequent service.
NOTE: All required service and adjustments should be each season as detailed in the following chart.
At Each Use |
Check engine oil level |
Every 100 Hours or Every 6 Months |
Clean/Replace Air Filter** |
Change oil ǂ |
Muffler Screen |
Clean/Replace Spark Arrestor |
Every 300 Hours or Every Season* |
Replace Spark Plug |
Clean Spark Arrestor |
Replace Fuel Filter + |
Valve Clearance Adjustment |
Check/Replace Crankcase Breather Hose |
Check Cylinder Head + |
Check Fittings/Fasteners + |
ǂ Change oil after first month or 20 hours of operation. + To be performed by IASD. * Change oil every month when operating under heavy load or in high temperatures. ** Clean more often under dirty or dusty operating conditions. Replace air filter parts if they cannot be adequately cleaned. *** Check valve clearance and adjust if necessary after first 50 hours of operation and every 300 hours thereafter. |
Dirt or debris can cause improper operation and equipment damage. Clean generator daily or before each use. Keep area around and behind muffler free from combustible debris. Inspect all cooling air openings on generator.
Personal injury. Do not insert any object through the air cooling slots. Generator can start at any time and could result in death, serious injury, and unit damage.
NOTE: DO NOT use a garden hose to clean generator. Water can enter engine fuel system and cause problems. If water enters generator through cooling air slots, some water will be retained in voids and crevices of rotor and stator winding insulation. Water and dirt buildup on generator internal windings will decrease insulation resistance of windings.
Accidental start-up. Disconnect spark plug wires when working on unit. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
To maintain the product warranty, the engine oil should be serviced in accordance with the recommendations of this manual. For your convenience, maintenance kits designed and intended for use on this product are available from the manufacturer that include engine oil, oil filter, air filter, spark plug(s), a shop towel and funnel. These kits can be obtained from an Independent Authorized Service Dealer (IASD).
Risk of burns. Allow engine to cool before draining oil or coolant. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
Inspect engine oil level prior to each use, or every 8 hours of operation.
NOTE: Verify oil level often during filling process to ensure overfilling does not occur.
NOTE: Some units have more than one oil fill location. It is only necessary to use one oil fill point.
Accidental start-up. Disconnect spark plug wires when working on unit. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.
When using generator under extreme, dirty, dusty conditions, or in extremely hot weather, change oil more frequently.
NOTE: Don't pollute. Conserve resources. Return used oil to collection centers.
Change oil while engine is still warm from running, as follows:
Engine will not run properly and may be damaged if run with a dirty air filter. Service air filter more frequently in dirty or dusty conditions. To service air filter:
NOTE: To order a new air filter, contact the nearest authorized service center at 1-888436-3722.
To service spark plug:
NOTE: Replace spark plug if electrodes are pitted, burned or porcelain is cracked. Use ONLY recommended replacement plug. See Product Specifications.
NOTE: It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section 4442, to use or operate the engine on any forest-covered, brushcovered, or grass-covered land unless the exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrestor, as defined in Section 4442, maintained in effective working order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may have similar laws.
Contact original equipment manufacturer, retailer, or dealer to obtain a spark arrestor designed for exhaust system installed on this engine.
NOTE: Use ONLY original equipment replacement parts.
Inspect muffler for cracks, corrosion, or other damage. Remove spark arrestor, if equipped, inspect for damage or carbon blockage. Replace parts as required.
Hot Surfaces. When operating machine, do not touch hot surfaces. Keep machine away from combustibles during use. Hot surfaces could result in severe burns or fire.
The engine exhaust muffler has a spark arrestor screen. Inspect and clean the screen every 50 hours of operation or every season, whichever comes first.
To service spark arrestor:
Important: Please contact an Independent Authorized Service Dealer for service assistance. Proper valve clearance is essential for prolonging the life of the engine.
Check valve clearance after the first fifty-hours of operation. Adjust as necessary.
Explosion and Fire. Fuel and vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Store fuel in a well ventilated area. Keep fire and spark away. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury.
Risk of Fire. Verify machine has properly cooled before installing cover and storing machine. Hot surfaces could result in fire.
It is recommended to start and run the generator for 30 minutes, every 30 days. If this is not possible, refer to the following list to prepare unit for storage.
Fuel stored over 30 days can go bad and damage fuel system components. Keep fuel fresh, use fuel stabilizer.
If fuel stabilizer is added to fuel system, prepare and run engine for long term storage. Run engine for 10-15 minutes to circulate stabilizer throughout fuel system. Adequately prepared fuel can be stored up to 24 months.
NOTE: If fuel has not been treated with fuel stabilizer, it must be drained into an approved container. Run engine until it stops from lack of fuel. Use of fuel stabilizer in fuel storage container is recommended to keep fuel fresh.
Vision Loss. Eye protection is required to avoid spray from spark plug hole when cranking engine.
Failure to do so could result in vision loss. (000181)
Change engine oil before storage. See, Change Engine Oil.
PROBLEM | CAUSE | CORRECTION |
Engine won't start. |
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Engine starts, then shuts down. |
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Engine will not start; or starts and runs rough.* |
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No AC output. |
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Fuel leaks from drain hoses. |
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* Engine speed increases and decreases — This is normal as generator starts up and loads vary. |
Generac Power Systems, Inc.
S45 W29290 Hwy. 59
Waukesha, WI 53189
1-888-GENERAC (1-888-436-3722)
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
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