Before checking the generator, shut off connected devices and remove any load from the outlets. If the generator has been running, allow it to cool before touching the engine, muffler, spark plug area, or propane connections.

• Place the generator on a flat, firm surface.
• Check that the propane cylinder is upright, secured, and not empty.
• Check the engine lubricant level before each use.
• Do not operate the generator in rain, snow, wet weather, or with wet hands.
• Do not use open flame to check for propane leaks.

Follow these checks in order.

1. Check oil/lubricant level. Remove the oil cap/dipstick, wipe it clean, re-seat it without threading, then remove it again. The level should be between the L and H marks. Add 4-stroke motor oil if needed.     
2. Check propane supply. Confirm the propane cylinder is not empty and is securely mounted in the cylinder bracket. 
      
3. Check the propane connection. Make sure the propane hose is connected to the generator inlet and the cylinder valve connection is centered and hand-tightened. Do not use tools on the cylinder coupler.
       
4. Open the propane cylinder valve completely. Open the valve slowly to avoid regulator noise or flow issues.
         
5. Set the choke to START. Move the choke lever all the way LEFT to the START position before starting a cold engine.
    
6. Make sure nothing is plugged in. Start the generator with no electrical load connected.
       
7. Start the generator. For electric start, insert the battery, press the engine switch to ON, then press START. For recoil start, pull the recoil grip until the engine runs  
8. Move the choke to RUN. After the engine runs for 15–30 seconds, move the choke lever all the way RIGHT to the RUN position.
      

The generator can be started with the included 24V iON+ lithium-ion battery or by recoil start.

1. Confirm the engine switch is in the ON position.
2. Check the battery charge indicator.
3. Charge the battery if needed. A full charge may take up to 5 hours. 
       
4. If the battery is not charged, use recoil start.
   

If the engine runs but does not provide enough power, check the load and maintenance items.

1. Reduce the load. The generator provides 3300 running watts and 4100 starting watts. Do not exceed the generator’s wattage capacity.
2. Add loads one at a time. Start the generator with nothing plugged in, let it warm up for 2–3 minutes, then connect the largest load first. Allow the generator output to stabilize before adding the next load.
3. Clean the air filter. Remove the air filter cover and clean the filter element with warm, soapy water if dirty. Rinse and let it dry completely before reinstalling.
4. Clean the spark arrestor. Inspect the spark arrestor screen and remove carbon deposits with a brush as needed.

If a connected device does not power on:

1. Unplug the device.
2. Reset the AC circuit breaker by pressing the AC circuit breaker button.
3. Try a different device to confirm whether the issue is the generator outlet or the item being used.
4. Do not continue use if cords, plugs, or receptacles show damage.

How to perform a leak test

1. Mix 1 part liquid dish soap with 3 parts water.
2. With the cylinder connected, brush or spoon the solution onto the hose, regulator, cylinder valve, and connection points.
   
3. Open the cylinder valve and look for bubbles.
4. If no bubbles appear, the connection is safe.
5. If bubbles appear, close the cylinder valve, loosen and re-tighten the connection, then test again.
6. If bubbles continue, stop using the generator and contact customer support or a qualified propane service provider.

Contact Shop Joe customer support if the issue continues after completing the steps above, if you find damaged parts, if you detect a leak that does not stop after re-tightening, or if the generator requires service.