FIRMAN P12002 Portable Gasoline Generator
Operator's Manual
Model Number: P12002
Rev Level: 00
Record product information to reference when ordering parts or obtaining warranty coverage.
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a FIRMAN generator. This manual contains essential safety information and operating instructions for your portable gasoline generator. It is designed to run on unleaded gasoline and is intended for supplying electrical power for compatible appliances, tools, and motor loads. It is not intended for unattended use or to supply power to life safety support systems. Please read and understand these instructions thoroughly before operating the generator. The manufacturer reserves the right to change specifications or documentation without prior notice.
Signal Words
Signal words are used to convey hazard information:
- DANGER: Indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
- WARNING: Indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
- CAUTION: Indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
- NOTICE: Indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related.
Safety Alert Symbol ⚠️: Indicates a potential personal injury hazard.
Operator's Manual Symbol ?: Failure to follow warnings, instructions, and the operator's manual could result in death or serious injury.
Toxic Fumes ?: Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill you in minutes. You cannot smell or see it.
Electrical Shock ⚡: Generator could cause electrical shock, resulting in death or serious injury.
Fire ?: Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable, causing burns or fire, resulting in death or serious injury. Engine exhaust could also cause fire.
Hot Surface ?: The muffler could cause burns resulting in serious injury.
California Proposition 65 Warning
WARNING! This product and the engine exhaust from this product can expose you to chemicals, including carbon monoxide (CO), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer or cause birth defects and other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Intended Use and Safety Precautions
This outdoor generator can power outdoor items using extension cords or restore home power using a transfer switch. A transfer switch, installed by a licensed electrician, allows the generator to be cord-connected directly into your home's electrical system. Install a listed transfer switch as soon as possible if this generator will be used for home backup power. Always use FIRMAN authorized parts.
System Ground: The generator frame is connected to the ground terminals on the AC output receptacles and bonded to the AC neutral wire and frame.
Compliance: Ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations. Consult a qualified electrician or local authority. This generator is not intended for construction sites as defined by NFPA 70-2020 (NEC) section 590.6.
Transfer Switch Use: Connections to your home's electrical system must use a listed transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician. The connection must isolate generator power from utility power and comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
Extension Cord Usage: Use only grounded cords marked for outdoor use, rated for your loads. The manual provides a table detailing minimum gauge requirements for extension cords based on amperage and length (up to 50 ft.).
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety:
- Operate the generator outdoors only, at least 20 ft. (6 m) from occupied spaces, with the exhaust pointed away from homes and occupied areas.
- Install battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms or plug-in alarms with battery backup inside your home. Smoke alarms cannot detect CO.
- Never run the generator inside homes, garages, basements, crawlspaces, sheds, or other partially-enclosed spaces, even with fans or open doors/windows. CO can build up quickly and linger.
- If you feel sick, dizzy, or weak, or if your home's CO alarm sounds, get to fresh air immediately and call emergency services.
For more information on carbon monoxide risks, visit www.takeyourgeneratoroutside.com.
Fire Safety: Keep the generator at least 5 ft. (1.5m) from any structure, trees, or vegetation over 12 in. (30 cm) in height. Select a dry, weather-protected outdoor site. Do not locate under decks or similar structures that confine heat and airflow.
Features and Controls
The generator features include:
- Fuel Tank: 13.3 Gallon (50 L) capacity.
- Fuel Cap
- Fuel Gauge
- Wheels: 12.0" (30.5cm) Flat Free
- Control Panel: Houses various outlets and controls.
- Engine: 760cc V-TWIN.
- Muffler & Spark Arrester
- Lifting Hook
- Handle
- Power Cord Holder & Maintenance Cover Handle
- Battery ?
- Data Decal/Serial Number
The Control Panel includes multiple receptacles:
- 120/240V, 50A (NEMA 14-50R)
- 120/240V, 30A Twist Lock (NEMA L14-30R)
- 120V, 30A Twist Lock (NEMA L5-30R)
- 120V, 20A Duplex GFCI (NEMA 5-20R)
Key controls include:
- Engine Start Switch: START (II) to crank, RUN (I) for operation.
- Choke Knob
- Fuel Valve Knob
- Economy Control Switch: Reduces fuel consumption and noise by idling the engine during periods of no electrical load.
- Data-Minder (Multi-Meter): Displays Voltage, Hertz, running hours, and low oil alarm.
- 12V DC Outlet: For charging 12V automotive batteries.
- DC Circuit Breaker
- 12V DC Battery Charger Port
- Ground Terminal
NOTICE: Total power drawn from all receptacles must not exceed the name plate rating.
GFCI Protection: The duplex receptacle is equipped with GFCI protection for safety. It should be tested monthly by pressing the TEST button.
Operation
1. Location: Always operate the generator outdoors, at least 20 ft. (6 m) from occupied spaces with exhaust pointed away. Install carbon monoxide alarms inside your home.
2. Reduce Risk of Fire: Keep the generator at least 5 ft. (1.5m) from combustible materials. Select a dry, weather-protected outdoor site.
3. Starting the Generator on Gasoline:
- Before starting, check for loose parts and ensure spark plugs, muffler, fuel cap, and air cleaner are in place.
- Move the generator outdoors to a safe operating location at least 20 ft. from occupied spaces.
- Disconnect all electrical loads. Never start or stop with devices plugged in.
- Turn the fuel valve to the "ON" position.
- Flip the engine switch to the "RUN" position.
- Flip the ECO switch to the "OFF" position.
- Move the choke knob to the "START" position (if the engine is cold).
- Flip the engine switch to START (II) for a few seconds, then release.
- As the engine starts and warms up, slowly move the choke knob to the RUN position.
- Allow the generator to run at no load for a few minutes to stabilize before connecting electrical devices.
4. Connecting Electrical Loads:
- Ensure the circuit breaker on the control panel is ON.
- Start the generator with no electrical load attached.
- Allow the engine to stabilize.
- Plug in and turn on the first item, preferably the one with the largest load.
- Allow the engine to stabilize between connecting each item.
Surge Protection: To protect sensitive electronic equipment from voltage fluctuations, use a plug-in surge suppressor.
CO Alert™ Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown System: The generator will automatically shut down if harmful levels of CO accumulate or if the CO Alert system has a fault. The indicator light will blink after shutdown. CO Alert does not replace home CO alarms.
- Red Light: Indicates CO accumulation. Move generator outdoors, ventilate premises.
- Yellow Light: Indicates CO Alert fault. Contact service dealer.
Economy Control Switch: Use to minimize fuel consumption and noise by idling the engine when no load is applied. Turn OFF for high load or appliances requiring more than 180V to start.
5. Stopping the Generator:
- Turn off and remove all electrical loads.
- Let the generator run at no-load for one minute to stabilize internal temperatures.
- Flip the engine switch to the "OFF" position.
- Turn the fuel valve to the "OFF" position.
Maintenance - Storage
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity. Follow the schedule below:
ITEM | NOTES | Daily(Before operation) | Initial | Every 25 hours | Every 50 hours | Every 100 hours (or annual) | Every 250 hours |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Spark Plugs | Check condition. Adjust gap and clean. Replace if necessary. | ✔️ | |||||
Engine Oil | Check oil level. Replace. | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | |||
Oil Filter | Replace. | ✔️ | ✔️ | ||||
Air Filter | Clean, replace if necessary. | ✔️ | |||||
Fuel | Clean fuel tank strainer. Replace if necessary. | ✔️ | |||||
Fuel Filter | Replace. | ✔️ | |||||
Fuel Line | Check fuel hose for cracks or other damage. Replace if necessary. | ✔️ | |||||
Exhaust System | Check for leakage. Retighten or replace gasket if necessary. Check spark arrester screen. Clean/Replace if necessary. | ✔️ | ✔️ | ||||
Engine | Check adjust valve clearance. Clean combustion chamber. | ✔️ | |||||
Fittings/ Fasteners | Check. Replace if necessary. | ✔️ |
General Recommendations:
- Warranty does not cover items subjected to abuse or negligence. Maintain as instructed.
- Service and adjustments should be made at least once each season.
- Clean or replace spark plugs and air filter annually for peak performance.
Engine Maintenance:
- When Transporting: Transport with an empty fuel tank or fuel valve OFF. Do not tip to spill fuel.
- Before Service: Remove and ground spark plug wires to prevent accidental starting.
- Change Engine Oil and Oil Filter: Every 100 hours (25 hours for new engines). Change more frequently in dirty/dusty/hot conditions.
- Air Filter Maintenance: Wash foam element with detergent and water, squeeze dry. Saturate with clean engine oil, squeeze out excess. Reinstall.
- Spark Plug Maintenance: Inspect for damage, clean with wire brush, replace if damaged. Adjust electrode gap to 0.028"-0.031" (0.7-0.8 mm).
- Valve Clearance: Intake/Exhaust: 0.004 – 0.006 in. (0.10 – 0.15 mm).
- Muffler and Spark Arrester: Inspect for damage. Clean carbon deposits from spark arrester screen. Replace if damaged. Ensure spark arrester is functional for use in areas with flammable vegetation.
Generator Maintenance: Run generator 30 minutes monthly. Keep clean and dry. Avoid dust, dirt, moisture, corrosive vapors. Inspect for oil/fuel before each use. Clean debris.
Battery Replacement & Charging: Follow instructions for battery replacement. The generator has an automatic charging circuit. Use a trickle charger if the generator is used infrequently. Use a standard automotive charger if the battery cannot start the engine.
Long Term Storage: To prevent fuel system gumming, treat fuel with stabilizer. If storing with fuel, run engine 5-10 minutes to circulate treated fuel. Alternatively, drain fuel by running the engine until it stops from lack of fuel. Change oil. Pour ~1 tsp engine oil into spark plug holes, jog engine to distribute, then reinstall plugs. Store in a clean, dry place away from ignition sources.
Troubleshooting
Refer to the table below for common issues and solutions:
Problem | Cause | Correction |
---|---|---|
Engine is running, but no AC output is available. | 1. Circuit breaker is open. 2. Fault in generator. 3. Poor connection or defective cord set. 4. Connected device is bad. | 1. Reset circuit breaker. 2. Contact authorized service facility. 3. Check and repair. 4. Connect another device. |
Engine runs good at no-load but "bogs down" when loads are connected. | 1. Short circuit in a connected load. 2. Engine speed is too slow. 3. Shorted generator circuit. 4. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. | 1. Disconnect shorted load. 2. Contact authorized service facility. 3. Contact authorized service facility. 4. Clean or replace fuel filter. |
Engine will not start; starts and runs rough or shuts down when running. | 1. Fuel switch set to OFF. 2. Indicator light OFF or flashing red. 3. Low oil level. 4. Dirty air cleaner. 5. Out of gasoline. 6. Stale gasoline. 7. Spark plug wires not connected. 8. Bad spark plugs. 9. Water in gasoline. 10. Flooded. 11. Excessively rich fuel mixture. 12. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. 13. Starting battery insufficient charge. 14. Out of battery power. | 1. Set fuel switch to "ON". 2. Ensure indicator light is solid red. 3. Fill crankcase or level generator. 4. Clean or replace air cleaner. 5. Fill fuel tank. 6. Drain and refill with fresh gasoline. 7. Connect wires to spark plugs. 8. Replace spark plugs. 9. Drain and refill with fresh gasoline. 10. Wait 5 minutes and re-crank. 11. Contact authorized service facility. 12. Clean or replace fuel filter. 13. Check battery charge. 14. Start engine to charge or replace battery. |
Engine lacks power. | 1. Load is too high. 2. Dirty air filter. 3. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. 4. Clogged spark arrester. | 1. Don't overload. 2. Replace air filter. 3. Clean or replace fuel filter. 4. Clean or replace spark arrester. |
Engine "hunts"or falters. | 1. Carburetor running too rich or too lean. 2. Clogged or dirty fuel filter. | 1. Contact authorized service facility. 2. Clean or replace fuel filter. |
Engine shuts down when running. | 1. Out of gasoline. 2. Dirty air cleaner. 3. Low oil level. | 1. Fill fuel tank. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner. 3. Fill crankcase or level generator. |
For other issues, contact an authorized dealer or FIRMAN customer service.
Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
---|---|
Model | P12002 |
Starting Watts | 15000 |
Running Watts* | 12000 |
Rated AC Voltage | 120/240V |
Rated Frequency | 60Hz |
Phase | Single |
Voltage Regulator | AVR |
Power Factor | 1 |
Alternator Type | Brushed |
Engine | FIRMAN |
Engine Type | V-twin, 4-Stroke OHV Air Cooled |
Displacement | 760cc |
Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
Ignition System | Breakless Ignition Type, Flywheel Magneto |
Starting System | Electric Start |
Fuel | Unleaded Automotive Gasoline |
Capacity Fuel Tank | 13.3 U.S. Gallons (50L) |
Oil Capacity | 50.7 oz (1.5 L) |
Carburetor Type | Float |
Air Cleaner | Polyurethane Type |
P.T.O. Shaft Rotation | Counter Clockwise (Facing P.T.O.) |
Oil Type | See "Add Engine Oil" Section |
AC Grounding System | Neutral Bonded To Frame |
*Generator certified in accordance with CSA standard C22.2No. 100-14, and complies with PGMA standard ANSI/PGMA G300-2018.
Parts Diagrams and Lists
The manual includes detailed parts diagrams and lists for the P12002 Portable Generator and the FIRMAN 760cc Engine. These sections provide exploded views of the generator and engine assemblies, along with comprehensive lists of all components, their part numbers, and quantities. A wiring diagram is also provided, illustrating the electrical connections and components of the generator system.
Service - Warranty
For service information or to order replacement parts, contact the FIRMAN Product Service Department at 1-844-347-6261 or visit www.firmanpowerequipment.com.
How to Order Replacement Parts: Provide Model No., Rev. Level, Serial No., part number(s), and a description of the trouble.
FIRMAN Three (3) Year Limited Warranty:
- Qualifications: Register your product online or via warranty card within 10 days of purchase.
- Repair/Replacement Warranty: Covers mechanical and electrical components for one (1) year (parts and labor) and three (3) years (parts and technical support) for residential use. Commercial/industrial use has shorter warranty periods. Transportation charges are the purchaser's responsibility.
- Do Not Return to Place of Purchase: Contact FIRMAN Service Center for troubleshooting and authorized repairs.
- Warranty Exclusions: Normal wear, misuse, neglect, accident, abuse, exceeding limits, modification, improper installation, cosmetic defects, wear items, non-original parts, and use for prime power are excluded.
- Limits of Implied Warranty: FIRMAN disclaims liability for loss of time, use, freight, or incidental/consequential claims.
Emissions Control System Warranty: Covers specific emissions-related parts for two years. Owner is responsible for required maintenance. FIRMAN may deny coverage for abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance.
Contact Information:
Firman Power Equipment Inc.
Attn: Customer Service
8644 W. Ludlow Dr.
Peoria, AZ 85381
www.firmanpowerequipment.com
We are FIRMAN POWER - And we are here for you.