Wen GN400i

4000-WATT
INVERTER GENERATOR
Instruction Manual
MODEL GN400i
IMPORTANT: Your new tool has been engineered and manufactured to WEN’s highest standards for dependability,
ease of operation, and operator safety. When properly cared for, this product will supply you years of rugged,
trouble-free performance. Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation, warnings, and cautions. If you use
your tool properly and for its intended purpose, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable service.
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Wen GN400i Specifications

General

Rated Wattage	3500W
Surge Wattage	4000W
Starting Watts	4000W
Running Watts	3500W
Fuel Type	Gasoline
Rated AC Voltage	120V
Engine Displacement	212cc
Engine Type	4-stroke OHV
Type	Inverter Generator
Fuel Tank Capacity	1.85 gallons
Start Type	Recoil, Electric
DC Output	12V, 8.3A
Outlets	2x 120V 20A, 1x 120V 30A, 1x 12V DC

Summary

Safety Information

Safety Introduction

Explains the importance of safety, preparation, operation, and maintenance instructions for the generator.

Safety Symbols and Definitions

Defines safety symbols like DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION to convey potential hazards.

Generator Safety Warnings

Carbon Monoxide Danger

Highlights the lethal risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from generator exhaust.

Explosion and Flammability Risk

Warns about highly flammable gasoline vapors and explosion risks from ignition sources.

Electrical System Connection Warning

Details requirements for connecting the generator to a building's wiring system via a transfer switch.

Generator Safety Warnings - Operational Guidelines

Operating Environment Safety

Guidelines for safe generator operation concerning location, ventilation, and weather conditions.

Generator Preparation Safety

Safety considerations for grounding, fuel handling, and general readiness before operation.

Generator Operation Safety

Safety precautions for using the generator, including load limits and device connections.

Generator Safety Warnings - Lifespan and Setup

Assembly and Adjustments

Know Your Generator: Control Panel

Control Panel Functions

Explains the purpose and operation of each button, switch, and port on the generator's control panel.

Generator Preparation

Adding and Checking Oil

Instructions for adding the correct type and amount of oil to the generator's engine.

Generator Preparation: Oil and Fuel

Checking Oil Level Before Start

Procedure for checking the oil level using the dipstick before each generator start.

Adding and Checking Fuel

Generator Preparation: Grounding

Adding Gasoline

Checking Gas Level

Grounding the Generator

Instructions for properly grounding the generator to prevent electrical shock.

Starting Your Generator

Before Starting the Generator

Covers pre-start checks including location, grounding, oil level, fuel level, and unplugging loads.

Starting Your Generator Procedure

Starting the Generator Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for starting the generator, including fuel valve, choke, and recoil starter operation.

Using Your Generator

Calculating Device Wattage

Using Your Generator: Features and Overloads

Connecting Electrical Devices

Handling Overloads

Using Your Generator: Power Cords

Power Cord Recommendations

Shutting Off Your Generator

Manual Shutoff Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for safely turning off the generator, including fuel valve and engine switch.

Maintenance

Recommended Maintenance Schedule

A schedule detailing maintenance tasks for the engine oil, air filter, spark plug, fuel, carburetor, and spark arrestor.

Important Maintenance Tips

Maintenance: Cleaning and Oil Change

Draining and Changing Oil

Maintenance: Carburetor and Air Filter

Draining the Carburetor

Inspecting and Cleaning the Air Filter

Maintenance: Spark Arrestor and Plug

Inspecting and Cleaning the Spark Arrestor

Spark Plug Maintenance

Maintenance: Fuel Tank Draining

Draining the Fuel Tank

Transportation and Storage

Transporting the Generator

Storing the Generator

Troubleshooting Guide

Engine Will Not Start

Lists possible causes and solutions for the generator failing to start.

No Electrical Output When Running

Addresses issues where the engine runs but no power is generated, listing causes and solutions.

Troubleshooting: Performance Issues

Generator Overload or Device Support Issues

Solutions for when the generator runs but cannot power all connected devices, including overload and short circuits.

Engine RPM Fluctuations (Hunting)

Identifies causes like fuel issues or clogged filters for fluctuating engine RPM and provides solutions.