Westinghouse WGen9500DF

Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator User Manual

Model: WGen9500DF | Brand: Westinghouse

1. Introduction

The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is designed to provide reliable home backup power, offering up to 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts on gasoline, and 11,200 peak watts and 8,500 running watts on propane. This generator features a heavy-duty 457cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine, built with a durable cast iron sleeve, ensuring long-lasting performance. It is equipped with convenient features such as remote electric start, push-button electric start, and recoil start. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient setup, operation, and maintenance of your WGen9500DF generator.

2. Key Features

  • Dual Fuel Capability: Operates on both gasoline and propane (LPG) for versatile power options.
  • High Power Output: 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts (gasoline); 8500 running watts and 11200 peak watts (propane).
  • Multiple Starting Options: Remote start with included key fob, push-button electric start, and recoil start.
  • Extended Run Time: Up to 12 hours of run time on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank with a built-in fuel gauge.
  • Versatile Outlets: Includes two GFCI 120V 5-20R standard household receptacles, one Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and one RV Ready 120/240V 14-50R. All outlets feature rubber covers for enhanced safety.
  • Advanced Monitoring: VFT Data Center displays volt output, frequency, and lifetime hours for real-time information and maintenance tracking.
  • Automatic Low Oil Shutdown: Protects the engine from damage due to insufficient oil levels.
  • Portable Design: Equipped with heavy-duty never-flat wheels, a handle, and a lift bracket for easy transport.

3. Setup

3.1 Unboxing and Included Components

Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure all items listed below are present. Minimal assembly is required before first use.

What's included with the Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator

Figure 3.1: All components included with the WGen9500DF generator, including the user manual, quick start guide, oil, funnel, LPG hose, battery charger, remote start key fob, spark plug wrench, wheel kit assembly wrench, and small tool bag.

3.2 Wheel and Foot Installation

To install the wheels and support feet:

  1. Carefully tilt the generator onto its exhaust side. It is recommended to place cardboard or a soft material underneath to prevent scratching.
  2. Attach the wheels to the axle using the provided hardware and the wheel kit assembly wrench.
  3. Install the support feet to the opposite side of the generator frame.
  4. Carefully return the generator to its upright position.

3.3 Adding Engine Oil

Before starting the generator, ensure the engine oil is at the proper level. Use the provided oil and funnel.

  1. Locate the oil fill cap/dipstick.
  2. Remove the cap and, using the funnel, slowly pour the entire bottle of engine oil into the oil fill opening.
  3. Check the oil level by inserting the dipstick without screwing it in. The oil level should be at the 'Full' mark. Add more oil if necessary.
  4. Securely replace the oil fill cap/dipstick.

3.4 Connecting the Battery

The generator comes with a 12V battery for electric start. Connect it as follows:

Hands connecting the battery quick connect on the generator

Figure 3.2: Connecting the battery using the quick connect terminals.

  1. Locate the battery compartment.
  2. Connect the positive (+) red cable to the positive (+) battery terminal and the negative (-) black cable to the negative (-) battery terminal. Ensure connections are secure.
  3. The battery may require charging before first use. Use the provided battery charger to fully charge the battery.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Control Panel Overview

Labeled control panel of the Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator

Figure 4.1: Detailed view of the WGen9500DF control panel, showing fuel selector, electric start button, engine/battery shut off, main circuit breaker, battery charging port, VFT meter, various AC outlets (20A, 30A, 50A), and circuit breakers.

Familiarize yourself with the control panel components before operation. This includes the fuel selector switch, push-button electric start, engine/battery shut-off switch, main circuit breaker, battery charging port, VFT data center, and various AC outlets.

4.2 Fueling the Generator

The WGen9500DF operates on either gasoline or propane.

Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator with a propane tank and a gasoline can, illustrating dual fuel capability

Figure 4.2: The generator's dual fuel flexibility, allowing operation with both propane and gasoline.

  • Gasoline: Fill the fuel tank with fresh, unleaded gasoline. Do not overfill. Always use a fuel stabilizer if storing gasoline for extended periods.
  • Propane (LPG): Connect the provided LPG hose to a standard propane tank and to the generator's propane inlet. Ensure all connections are tight.

Select your desired fuel type using the fuel selector switch on the control panel.

4.3 Starting the Generator

Ensure the generator is on a level surface and away from any combustible materials. Do not operate indoors.

Person using a remote key fob to start the Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator

Figure 4.3: Remote start functionality for convenient operation.

  1. Prepare for Start: Ensure the engine/battery shut-off switch is in the 'ON' position. Turn the fuel selector to the desired fuel type (Gasoline or Propane).
  2. Electric Start (Push-Button): Press and hold the 'START/STOP' button on the control panel until the engine starts.
  3. Remote Start: Press and hold the 'START' button on the included key fob until the engine starts.
  4. Recoil Start: If electric start is not available, pull the recoil starter handle firmly and steadily until the engine starts.

4.4 Connecting Appliances

Once the generator is running, you can connect your electrical loads. Ensure the total wattage of connected devices does not exceed the generator's running wattage.

Close-up of a hand plugging into the 50 Amp outlet on the Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator

Figure 4.4: The 50 Amp outlet, ideal for manual transfer switch connections.

  • Plug your appliances or extension cords into the appropriate outlets on the control panel.
  • For high-power appliances or home backup, utilize the Transfer Switch Ready L14-30R or RV Ready 14-50R outlets.
  • Always use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords.

4.5 Stopping the Generator

To shut down the generator:

  1. Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator.
  2. Press and hold the 'START/STOP' button on the control panel or the 'STOP' button on the remote key fob until the engine shuts off.
  3. Turn the engine/battery shut-off switch to the 'OFF' position.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of your generator. Refer to the VFT Data Center for lifetime hours to track maintenance intervals.

5.1 Engine Oil

  • Check oil level before each use.
  • Change oil after the first 20 hours of operation, then every 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first.
  • The automatic low oil shutdown feature will protect the engine if oil levels become critically low.

5.2 Air Filter

  • Inspect the air filter every 50 hours or every 3 months.
  • Clean or replace if dirty.

5.3 Spark Plug

  • Inspect the spark plug every 100 hours or every 6 months.
  • Clean or replace if necessary. Use the provided spark plug wrench.

5.4 Fuel System

  • If storing the generator for more than 30 days, drain the gasoline from the fuel tank and carburetor, or use a fuel stabilizer.
  • Propane does not require special storage considerations within the generator.

6. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your generator.

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Engine will not startNo fuel (gasoline or propane)
Engine/Battery switch OFF
Low oil level
Spark plug issue
Battery discharged
Add fuel and select correct fuel type
Turn switch to ON
Add oil to proper level
Inspect/clean/replace spark plug
Charge battery
No power outputCircuit breaker tripped
Overload
Generator not running at proper RPM
Reset circuit breaker
Reduce connected load
Check fuel and engine for proper operation
Engine runs roughStale fuel
Dirty air filter
Spark plug issue
Drain old fuel and add fresh fuel
Clean/replace air filter
Inspect/clean/replace spark plug

7. Specifications

AttributeValue
Model NameWGen9500DF
Running Watts (Gasoline)9500 Watts
Peak Watts (Gasoline)12500 Watts
Running Watts (Propane)8500 Watts
Peak Watts (Propane)11200 Watts
Engine Displacement457 Cubic Centimeters
Fuel Tank Volume6.6 Gallons
Run Time (Gasoline)Up to 12 hours
Voltage120 Volts / 240 Volts
Frequency60 Hz
Item Weight210 Pounds
Product Dimensions (L x W x H)27.2" x 26.1" x 26.5"
Total Power Outlets6

8. Warranty and Support

The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Portable Generator is backed by a 3-Year Limited Warranty, covering service, labor, and parts. Additionally, Westinghouse provides Lifetime Technical Support through its nationwide customer service network. For warranty claims or technical assistance, please contact Westinghouse customer support.