Westinghouse WGen10500TFc Portable Generator User Manual

This manual provides essential information for the safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Westinghouse WGen10500TFc Portable Generator. Always read and understand the safety precautions before operating the equipment. For the latest user manual, visit wpowereq.com/pages/manuals.

California Proposition 65 Warning: Operating, servicing, and maintaining this equipment can expose you to chemicals, including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust and wash hands frequently when servicing. For more information, visit www.P65warnings.ca.gov.

Disclaimers: Information, illustrations, and specifications were current at the time of publishing. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment reserves the right to make design changes without notice. All rights reserved.

Product Registration: Register your product online at wpowereq.com/pages/warranty-registration or by mail to ensure trouble-free warranty coverage.

Contact Information: For questions or assistance, call 855-944-3571 or email service@wpowereq.com.

Specifications

AC Voltage: 120V/240V
Power (Running): 10500W (Gasoline), 9500W (Propane), 8500W (Natural Gas)
Power (Peak): 13500W (Gasoline), 12500W (Propane), 10000W (Natural Gas)
AC Current: 87.5/43.8A (Gasoline), 79.2/39.6A (Propane), 70.8/35.4A (Natural Gas)
DC Voltage: 5V
DC Current: 2x2.1A
Frequency: 60 Hz
Phase: Single
RPM: 3600
Power Factor: 1.0
Insulation Class: H
Maximum Ambient Temperature: 104°F (40°C)
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87-93 Octane). Do not use E15 or E85.
Fuel Capacity: 9.5 gallons (36 liters)
Oil Capacity: 1.26 quarts (1.2 liters)
Oil Type: SAE 10W-30
Spark Plug: F7TC
Spark Plug Gap: 0.03 in. (0.70 mm)
Valve Clearance (Intake): 0.0031 - 0.0047 in. (0.08 - 0.12 mm)
Valve Clearance (Exhaust): 0.0051 - 0.0067 in. (0.13 - 0.17 mm)
AC Grounding System: Bonded to frame

Operating Temperature Notice: Designed for continuous operation between 23°F (-5°C) and 104°F (40°C). Operation in extreme temperatures is possible for short periods. Bring unit within optimal range before operation if exposed during storage. Always operate outdoors in a well-ventilated area, far from doors, windows, and vents.

Altitude Effect Notice: Maximum power decreases approximately 3.5% for each 1,000 feet above sea level and 1% for each 10°F (6°C) above 60°F (16°C). Altitude kits may be required for optimal performance at higher altitudes.

Safety

Safety Definitions: DANGER (will result in death or serious injury), WARNING (could result in death or serious injury), CAUTION (could result in minor or moderate injury), NOTICE (can cause damage to equipment or property).

Safety Alert Symbol: ⚠️ - Indicates important safety information.

Safety Symbols:

• ⚠️: Safety Alert Symbol
• ?: Fire Hazard
• ⚡: Electrical Shock Hazard
• ?: Burn Hazard. Do not touch hot surfaces.
• ?: Asphyxiation Hazard
• ??: Do not operate in wet conditions
• ?: Ground. Consult an electrician.
• ? CO: Carbon Monoxide
• : Read Manufacturer's Instructions
• 5 FEET (1.5m) MINIMUM FROM OBJECTS: Maintain Safe Distance

DANGER - Carbon Monoxide (CO): Generator exhaust contains CO, an invisible, odorless, and poisonous gas. NEVER operate generators indoors, in garages, basements, crawl spaces, or any enclosed areas. Always operate outside in a well-ventilated area, directing exhaust away from occupied spaces. Install battery-powered CO detectors in living areas. If you feel dizzy, weak, or sick, move to fresh air immediately.

DANGER - Electrical Hazard: DO NOT connect to a building's electrical system unless properly installed with a transfer switch by a qualified electrician. Failure to isolate generator power can cause property damage and kill or injure utility workers.

DANGER - Electrocution Hazard: NEVER use the generator in wet or damp locations. Protect from rain, snow, water spray, or standing water.

WARNING - General Safety: Familiarize yourself with all instructions and warnings. Failure to follow instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or CO poisoning.

NOTICE - CO Detectors: Install battery-powered or plug-in CO detectors with battery backup in living areas.

Operation Location: ONLY operate outdoors, far from windows, doors, and vents. Maintain at least 5 ft. (1.5 m) clearance on all sides, including overhead. Turn off and allow to cool for 30 minutes before storage.

Fuel Safety (Gasoline): Gasoline is highly flammable. Handle with care. Do not store near heat sources or ignition sources. Store in approved containers in well-ventilated areas. Do not smoke while handling fuel. Turn off unit and allow to cool for 5 minutes before refueling. Do not overfill the tank; fill only to the maximum fill ring. Wipe up spills immediately.

Fuel Safety (LPG/Propane): LPG/Propane is highly flammable and explosive. Use approved cylinders with an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD) valve. Keep tanks vertical, away from heat sources. Check for leaks with soapy water; do not use open flames. Heavier than air, can settle in low places.

Fuel Safety (Natural Gas): Natural gas is highly explosive and flammable. Ensure supply lines and hoses are properly installed and leak-free. Keep hoses away from hot surfaces. Turn off gas supply when not in use.

Leak Testing: Use a soapy water solution (20/80 mild soap/water) to check for leaks at connections. Bubbles indicate a leak. Contact customer service if leaks are found.

CO Sensor: The CO Sensor automatically shuts down the engine if unsafe levels of CO are detected. A RED indicator light flashes upon shutoff due to CO. A YELLOW light indicates a system fault. The CO Sensor does not replace home CO alarms. If the generator shuts off with a flashing RED light, leave the area immediately and seek fresh air. Call emergency services if experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning.

Safety Labels: Various labels on the generator provide critical safety information, including CO warnings, operating instructions, and component identification.

Electrical

Generator Capacity: Do not overload the generator. Exceeding wattage/amperage capacity can damage the generator and connected devices. Calculate total running (continuous) watts and peak (starting) watts for all devices.

Managing Generator Power: To extend service life, add loads sequentially. Start the generator with no loads, then connect and start the largest device first, allowing output to stabilize before adding the next.

Extension Cords: Use grounded 3-prong or double-insulated cords. Ensure cords are in good condition and properly sized for the load to prevent overheating and voltage drop. Never use worn or damaged cords. Operating generators with extension cords running indoors increases the risk of CO poisoning.

Receptacles:

• Two 120V AC, 20A GFCI Receptacles
• One 120/240V AC, 50A Receptacle
• One 120/240V AC, 30A Receptacle (L14-30R)

Circuit Breakers: 20A and 30A breakers protect individual circuits. A main circuit breaker protects the total output. If a breaker trips, turn off connected devices, remove them, and reset the breaker.

USB Ports: Two 5V/2.1A USB ports for charging compatible devices.

Components

Key Components (Refer to Figures 6 & 7):

• A - Fuel Cap: Seals the fuel tank.
• B - Fuel Gauge: Indicates approximate fuel level.
• C - Battery: Powers electric start.
• D - Muffler/Spark Arrestor: Reduces engine noise and contains sparks.
• E - Carbon Canister: For emissions control.
• F - Carburetor/Choke: Mixes fuel and air; choke controls cold starts.
• G - Handle: For maneuvering the generator.
• H - Control Panel: Houses receptacles, breakers, and indicators.
• I - Recoil Handle: For manual engine starting.
• J - Air Filter Cover: Protects the air filter.
• K - Wheel: For portability.
• L - Natural Gas/Propane Inlet: Connection point for fuel hoses.
• M - Foot: Provides stability.
• N - Natural Gas Hose: Connects to natural gas supply.
• O - Key Fob: For remote start functionality.
• P - Charger: For maintaining battery charge.
• Q - LPG/Propane Hose: Connects to propane cylinder.
• Fuel Selector Switch: Selects fuel source (Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas).
• Engine Start/Stop Button: Starts or stops the engine.
• Battery Indicator: Shows battery charge status.
• Battery Switch: Enables/disables electric start.
• Circuit Breakers (20A, 30A): Protect circuits from overload.
• Data Center: Displays voltage, frequency, hours, and maintenance reminders.
• Ground Terminals: For external grounding.
• Main Circuit Breaker: Protects total output.
• CO Sensor Indicator Lights: Indicate CO levels or system faults.

Assembly

WARNING: Requires assembly. Ensure all parts are present and correctly installed before operation. Use assistance when lifting due to weight.

Included Items: Generator, Wheels, Axles, Washers, Hitch Pins, Bolts, Feet, Key Fob, Charger, Propane Gas Hose, Natural Gas Hose, Engine Oil (SAE 10W 30), Funnel, Spark Plug Socket Wrench, Quick Start Guide, User Manual.

Installing the Feet: Align feet with frame crossbar, insert bolts, and tighten securely.

Installing the Wheels: Insert axles through wheels and frame, secure with hitch pins.

Connecting the Battery: Connect the pre-installed quick-connect battery cable to the battery terminals.

Raising/Lowering the Handle: Lift the handle to the raised position for rolling. Be cautious of pinch points between the handle and frame.

Overview: This generator provides power for household appliances, tools, camping, and more. NOTICE: Generator is shipped without oil. Add oil before starting to prevent serious engine damage.

Operation

DANGER - CO Hazard: Operate ONLY outdoors in well-ventilated areas, far from openings. Never operate indoors or in enclosed spaces.

WARNING - Modifications: Do not alter or modify the product. Use only recommended accessories.

NOTICE - Grounding: Consult an electrician for grounding requirements based on local codes.

WARNING - Skin Contact: Avoid skin contact with oil or gasoline. Wear protective clothing and wash exposed skin.

NOTICE - Pre-Use Check: Inspect for loose bolts, fluid leaks, and wear. Ensure wheels and feet are properly installed.

Generator Location: Place in a well-ventilated area, away from vents and intakes. Consider wind direction. Never use in wet conditions. Operate on a solid, level surface. Maintain 5 ft. (1.5 m) clearance from combustible material.

Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal ordinances for generator use.

Adding Oil/Checking Oil Level:

• NOTICE: Generator is shipped without oil. Add recommended SAE 10W-30 oil before starting.
• Check oil level before each use or every 8 hours.
• Clean around the oil dipstick, remove, clean, re-seat, and check level. Add oil if low.
• Use the funnel to add oil if filling initially. Do not overfill.

Gasoline Requirements: Use clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline (87-93 Octane). Do not use E15 or E85. Up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) is acceptable. Do not use gas-oil mix.

Fuel Stabilizer: Recommended for storage to prevent fuel system issues. Follow manufacturer's instructions.

Adding Gasoline:

• Turn off engine, allow to cool for 5 minutes.
• Fuel in a well-ventilated area, outdoors.
• Clean around fuel cap, remove slowly.
• Add fuel, do not overfill (stop at red maximum fill ring).
• Install fuel cap securely. Clean up spills.
• Move 30 ft. away before restarting.

LP Gas Cylinder Requirements: Use DOT or CSA certified cylinders with an OPD valve. Ensure periodic certification. Cylinders must be purged of air and moisture.

Connecting LP Gas Cylinder:

• Turn off engine, allow to cool.
• Place cylinder near generator, away from exhaust.
• Ensure cylinder valve is off. Connect hose nipple to valve.
• Thread hose to valve by hand. Do not cross-thread.
• Connect hose to generator's quick-connect collar.
• Perform leak test with soapy water.

Connecting Generator to Natural Gas:

• Turn off engine, allow to cool.
• Ensure gas is off at supply line.
• Straighten natural gas hose.
• Thread hose to supply line by hand.
• Connect hose to generator's quick-connect collar.
• Perform leak test with soapy water.

Selecting the Fuel Source:

• Turn off engine before switching fuel sources if not already connected.
• Rotate the Fuel Selector Switch to GASOLINE, PROPANE, or NATURAL GAS.
• Ensure the selected fuel source is open and other sources are closed. Switching from gasoline to another fuel while running may cause rough running temporarily.

High Altitude Operation: Engine power decreases with altitude. Adjustments may be needed for operation above 5,000 ft. (1524 m). Do not operate below 2,000 ft. (762 m) with a high altitude kit installed.

Data Center: Displays Voltage, Frequency (Hz), Lifetime Hours, and Run Time/Maintenance reminders. Use the Mode button to cycle displays. Maintenance codes (P25, P50, P100) indicate service needs.

Pairing the Key Fob: Bring fob near generator. Ensure battery is connected and fuel selector is OFF. Turn battery switch ON. Press and hold Start/Stop button for 10 seconds until LED flashes green. Press and hold start button on fob. Solid green LED indicates successful pairing. Turn battery switch OFF after pairing.

Break-In Period: Do not exceed 50% of rated running watts for the first five hours. Use supplied oil. Vary load occasionally.

Before Starting: Verify safe location, level surface, correct oil/fuel levels, and all loads disconnected.

Starting the Generator:

• Manual Start (Recoil): Select fuel source, ensure fuel is flowing. Push battery switch ON. Move choke to ON/cold start. Pull recoil handle slowly until resistance, then pull rapidly. Move choke to OFF/warm start after engine runs.
• Remote Start (Key Fob): Press and hold start button on fob for two seconds.
• Electric Start (Button): Push and hold engine START/STOP button for two seconds.
• Adding Loads: After starting and output stabilizes, connect devices one by one, largest first, allowing stabilization.

Stopping the Generator:

• Remove all loads.
• Allow generator to run at no load for a few minutes.
• Press and hold the START/STOP button or fob stop button for one second.
• Turn battery switch OFF.
• Turn fuel selector switch to FUEL OFF.
• Stop fuel flow at the source (valve, cylinder).
• Disconnect fuel hoses.

Circuit Breakers: Reset tripped breakers after turning off and removing the load.

Transporting: Turn off, cool for 30 minutes. Use frame to lift. Keep unit level to minimize fuel leakage; drain fuel if possible. Do not up-end or place on side.

Maintenance

WARNING: Disconnect spark plug boot before maintenance. Allow hot components to cool. Avoid skin contact with oil/gasoline.

Cleaning the Generator: Use a soft brush and damp cloth. Use low-pressure air (max 25 psi) for vents. Never use a garden hose or gasoline as a cleaning agent.

Cleaning/Replacing the Air Filter:

• Remove cover, then the air filter.
• Wash filter in warm soapy water, squeeze gently, rinse, and dry thoroughly.
• Dip in clean engine oil, squeeze out excess.
• Reinstall filter and cover.

Changing the Engine Oil:

• Warm engine oil drains best.
• Place pan under drain bolt, remove bolt, drain oil.
• Replace drain bolt. Refill with recommended oil.
• Clean/replace oil filter if necessary.

Cleaning/Replacing the Spark Plug:

• Remove spark plug boot. Clean area around plug.
• Remove spark plug with socket wrench.
• Inspect plug; replace if worn or damaged.
• Check and adjust gap (0.024 - 0.032 in. / 0.60 - 0.80 mm).
• Install plug finger tight, then tighten with wrench. Reinstall boot.

Cleaning the Spark Arrestor: Remove bracket, screen, and spark arrestor. Clean screen and arrestor with a wire brush. Reinstall.

Draining Fuel Tank and Carburetor Float Bowl: For storage longer than 30 days, drain the float bowl. For storage longer than six months, drain the tank and float bowl. Run engine until it stops after closing fuel valve to dry carburetor.

Replacing the Fuel Valve: Turn off engine, drain fuel. Remove old valve, install new one, reconnect fuel line.

Checking/Adjusting Valve Clearance: Engine must be cold. Remove rocker arm cover. Rotate engine to Top Dead Center (TDC) on compression stroke. Measure clearance with feeler gauge and adjust rocker arm pivot as needed. Specified clearances: Intake 0.0031-0.0047 in. (0.08-0.12 mm), Exhaust 0.0051-0.0067 in. (0.13-0.17 mm).

Battery Maintenance: Battery is shipped charged. Use the trickle charger to maintain charge. Plug charger into port and wall outlet. Red light = charging, Green light = charged.

Battery Replacement: Remove wheel, battery plate, and bolts. Disconnect negative cable, then positive cable. Connect new battery positive cable, then negative cable. Reinstall battery plate and wheel.

Storage: Turn off, cool for 30 minutes. Keep upright. Drain fuel and float bowl for longer storage. Use fuel stabilizer. Distribute oil in cylinder by turning engine manually after draining fuel and removing spark plug.

Maintenance Schedule: Follow hourly or calendar intervals for checks and replacements (oil, air filter, spark plug, spark arrestor, valve clearance, fuel filter).

Troubleshooting

Problem: Engine starts, then shuts down.
Possible Cause: Low fuel, low oil level, dirty air filter, contaminated fuel, defective low oil switch, CO sensor activated.
Correction: Add fuel, check/add oil, clean air filter, drain/refill fuel, contact service for sensor issues.

Problem: Engine lacks power.
Possible Cause: Restricted air filter, incorrect choke position, fuel system/ignition malfunction, valves stuck.
Correction: Clean air filter, adjust choke, contact service for internal issues.

Problem: Engine will not start.
Possible Cause: Low fuel, stale fuel, dirty air filter, low oil, flooded engine, faulty spark plug, fuel selector OFF, CO sensor removed/modified.
Correction: Add fuel, use fresh fuel, clean filter, check oil, dry plug, gap/replace plug, set fuel selector, return CO sensor to original configuration.

Problem: Engine runs rough or bogs when load applied.
Possible Cause: Dirty air filter, generator overloaded, faulty power tool, fuel system/ignition malfunction, valves stuck.
Correction: Clean air filter, reduce load, check tools, contact service for internal issues.

Problem: No power at AC receptacles.
Possible Cause: AC circuit breakers tripped, faulty power tool, faulty generator.
Correction: Reset breakers, check tools, contact service for generator fault.