WEN 56551 5500 Watt - Manual (Page 21)

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Step 1- Check the Oil
Oil consumption is normal during generator usage. The generator is equipped with a low-oil
shutoff to protect it from damage. The oil level in the engine should be checked before each use to
ensure that the engine crankcase contains sufficient lubricant.
To check or add oil, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the generator is on a level surface. Clean around oil fill.
2. Remove the oil filler/dipstick cap and check oil level.
3. If oil level is below the second thread from the lip of the oil fill opening, slowly add oil
until the engine crankcase is filled.
4. Reinstall and tighten oil filler cap before starting the engine. .
Step 2 – Check the Gas Level
Before starting the generator, check to see that there is sufficient gasoline in the fuel tank. The fuel
gauge on top of the generator will indicate the fuel level in the tank. Add gasoline if necessary but
leave sufficient room in tank for expansion.
WARNING:
This generator may emit highly
flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can
cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A nearby
open flame can lead to explosion even if not directly in contact with fuel.
• Do not operate near open flame.
• Do not smoke near generator.
• Always operate on a firm, level surface.
• Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for at least 2
minutes before removing fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
• Do not overfill fuel tank. Gasoline may expand during operation. Do not fill to the
top of the tank. Allow for expansion.
• Always check for spilled fuel before operating. Clean up any spilled fuel before
starting.
• Empty fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator.
• Before transporting, turn fuel valve to off and disconnect spark plug wire.
IMPORTANT:
• Use only UNLEADED gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
• Do not use old gas.
• Never use an oil/gasoline mixture.
• Avoid letting dirt or water into the fuel tank.
Step 3- Ground the Generator
WARNING:
Failure to properly ground the generator can result in
electrocution.
Ground the generator by tightening the grounding nut on the front control panel against a
grounding wire. (Figure 11) A generally acceptable grounding wire is a No. 12 AWG (American