Cold Weather Operation, Applying Electrical Loads

Generac Portable Products 5500EXL Extended Life Generator

•When engine starts, move choke lever to

“Half” choke position until the engine runs smoothly and then to “Run” position. If engine falters, move choke lever to “Half” choke position until the engine runs smoothly and then to “Run” position.

NOTE: If engine fails to start after 3 pulls, move the choke lever to “Run” position and pull starter rope again.

NOTE: If engine still fails to start after 3 pulls, check for proper oil level in crankcase. This unit is equipped with a Low Oil Shutdown System. See engine manual.

NOTE: If engine fires, but does not continue to run, move choke lever to “Full” choke position and repeat starting instructions.

Refer to the engine owner’s manual for complete starting instructions.

Applying Electrical Loads

•Let engine stabilize and warm up for about five minutes after starting.

•Plug in and turn on the desired 120 or 240 Volt AC, single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.

DO NOT OVERLOAD THE GENERATOR. Review “Don’t Overload the Generator” on page 11.

Stopping the Engine

•Disconnect all electrical loads.

•Set the idle control to “Off” position.

•Run engine at no-load for about two minutes.

•Place the the Run/Stop switch to “Stop”.

•Close the fuel shut–off valve.

Operating Automatic Idle Control

This switch is designed to greatly improve fuel economy. When this switch is turned ON, the engine will only run at its normal high engine speed when an electrical load is connected. When the electrical load is removed, the engine will run at a reduced speed. With the switch OFF, the engine will run constantly at the normal high engine speed. Always have the switch

OFF when starting and stopping the engine.

COLD WEATHER

OPERATION

Under certain weather conditions (temperatures below 40°F [4°C] and a high dew point), your generator may experience icing of the carburetor and/or the crankcase breather system. In an emergency, use the original shipping box as a temporary shelter:

•Cut off all flaps and one of the long sides of the box to expose exhaust side of unit. Cut appropriate slots to access unit’s receptacles.

•Start unit, then place box over it. Ensure a minimum of two feet clearance between open side of box and nearest object.

IMPORTANT!: Remove shelter when temperature is above 40°F [4°C].

For a more permanent shelter, build a structure that will enclose three sides and the top of the generator. Make sure entire muffler-side of generator is exposed, with two feet clearance between open side of box and nearest object. Face exposed end away from wind and elements (Figure 8).

Figure 8 — Temporary Cold Weather Shelter

Wind