This NorthStar generator is equipped with an automatic voltage regulator (AVR). If properly maintained and running at full RPM, the generator will automatically maintain safe voltage and cycle (hertz) ranges. This creates a total harmonic distortion (THD) less than 5% making it safe for use with sensitive equipment.
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NorthStar Portable Generator with Honda GX390 Engine, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts, CARB Compliant

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- Honda GX390 OHV engine
- High-quality 100% copper-wound head with low THD for safe use with sensitive equipment
- Digital CDI ignition offers excellent starting and high-power output
- Full roll cage with antirip mounts prevents damage if tipped
- Solid base prevents grass, dirt and dust from getting into the engine and alternator
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Product Summary
What's Included
- (1) Portable generator
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Ultimate Protection, Ultimate Performance
Keeping America Powered for Over 20 Years
Pros and homeowners who want the best trust NorthStar generators' proven history of providing utility-grade electricity for reliable backup power, job sites, home projects, recreation and more. For over 20 years, NorthStar has set the portable power standard by engineering, assembling and rigorously testing all generator models at our state-of-the-art facility in Faribault, MN. Only premium quality components are used and each generator is backed by an industry-leading warranty. Trust NorthStar for dependable power in every situation, performance you can count on in emergencies and on the job.
Trusted in Emergencies
Powered by Honda Reliability
This NorthStar generator uses a top-of-the-line, commercial-grade Honda engine. This amazingly reliable, smooth-running engine provides everything you need on the job or in emergencies — easy-start convenience, improved power, greater fuel efficiency, longer run times and quieter operation.
Backed by Honda Durability
With an outstanding 3-year limited warranty, the Honda GX engine adds even more value to your NorthStar generator. You get smooth, robust performance plus years of worry-free dependability.
Clean Power Keeps Electronics and Appliances Safe
Today's appliances and electronics need clean power to run effectively. Clean power is smooth, steady power with low harmonic distortion. With less than 5% harmonic distortion at full load — the same as electricity from the utility company — this NorthStar generator provides reliable performance whenever you need it. Other brands advertise no load distortion levels yet actually have distortion levels as high as 20-30% at full load. Be sure to compare distortion levels at full load rating.
Engineered To Perform
Copper Heads Are Worth their Weight in Gold
Generator heads are often overlooked when it comes to choosing a generator. But their importance is key. NorthStar generators use oversized generator heads with 100% copper windings to provide the ultimate reliability and performance. Unlike other brands that use aluminum heads, we use copper-wound heads to allow your generator to run at full load continuously for weeks, if necessary, without the risk of overheating.
Less Vibration Means Less Wear, Longer Life
Excessive vibration is enemy number one to generators, causing premature wear and failure of generator components. Our advanced V-mount vibration isolation system helps create a solid foundation to extend generator life, adding optimum flexibility and support. Captive vibration isolation mounts protect the generator when being transported and an optimized vibration control system provides smoother operation and less metal fatigue.
More Outlets Handle More Jobs
When you're facing a power outage or a demanding project, it's good to have options and this NorthStar generator gives you plenty. A full bank of up to 11 outlets allow you to power more tools, appliances and essentials than other brands. Plus, a built-in volt meter provides feedback at a glance.
Fully Equipped
High Performance, Low Maintenance
This NorthStar generator is designed with all the extra features you need to keep power going in tough times. An extended run fuel tank reduces refilling and power interruptions. Variable Timing Digital CDI ignition offers excellent starting and high-power output. Tubular full steel roll cage construction with anti-rip V-mounts provide rock-solid protection. Locking plug outlets allow for easy connection to a transfer switch to get power up and running in minutes. You can also add a wheel kit for maximum portability.
Built To Last
Engineered to Last Up to 8 Times Longer
When it comes to quality, we're in a class of our own. NorthStar generators are designed and manufactured to last up to eight times longer than other brands.
Over 1000 Hours of Testing
Nobody tests generators more than we do. NorthStar engineers test each generator design to the point of failure to make sure your generator won't fail you. Thousands of hours of rigorous real-world testing situations in our Faribault, MN testing facility ensure optimum performance and maximum life. A test report is included with every generator to verify it is as good as the one we tested.
The NorthStar Advantage
Industry-Leading Warranty
NorthStar generators are built to last. For your extra peace of mind, we stand behind our product with an industry-leading 4-year consumer, 2-year commercial and 3 year Honda GX Engine limited warranty.
Guaranteed Satisfaction
Shop in complete confidence, knowing Northern Tool + Equipment protects your investment and is ready to provide you with the assistance and helpful resources you need.
Superior Service and Support
Should you ever need service or support, help is a phone call or e-mail away. NorthStar's field-trained technical staff is ready to help. For convenience, our professional in-store service department performs all repairs on site. Replacement parts are stocked at our Northern Tool + Equipment warehouse and ready to ship the same day your order is received.
Features + Benefits

- Honda GX390 OHV engine
- High-quality 100% copper-wound head with low THD for safe use with sensitive equipment
- Digital CDI ignition offers excellent starting and high-power output
- Full roll cage with antirip mounts prevents damage if tipped
- Solid base prevents grass, dirt and dust from getting into the engine and alternator
- V-mount vibration isolation system extends generator life
- Includes voltmeter
- CARB compliant
- Optional wheel kit, Item# 165620, adds convenient portability
Key Specs
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
item# | 165603 |
Brand | NorthStar |
Manufacturer's Warranty | 4 year limited warranty |
Ship Weight | 200.0 LB |
Surge Watts | 8,000 |
Rated Watts | 6,600 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Engine Displacement | 389 cc |
Noise Level | 74.5 dB |
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
Start Type | Recoil |
Fuel Capacity | 6.5 Gal |
Half-Load Run Time | 10 hr |
Battery Required | No |
Battery Included | No |
Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
CARB Compliant | Yes |
Product Weight | lb |
Dimensions L x W x H (in.) | 25.75 x 21.25 x 22.25 in |
Reviews
Questions & Answers
Questions
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· 14 years ago
Does this generator come with auto voltage regulation. The THD is very good but does the voltage remain stable during load surges.
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NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
Helpful?
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NorthStarExperts· 9 years ago
If properly maintained and running at full RPM, the NorthStar 8000 will automatically maintain safe voltage and cycle (hertz) ranges, creating low total harmonic distortion and making it safe for use with sensitive equipment.
Helpful?
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· 14 years ago
can these generator handle running a refridgerator?
or can you recommend one that can handle major appliances during power outages?
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NorthStarExperts· 9 years ago
This NorthStar Generator can operate a standard household refrigerator. A standard refrigerator requires approximately 700 running watts and 2200 surge watts at start up.
Helpful?
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Spencer007· 13 years ago
Mine had no problem running my refridgerator and a bunch of other things all at once. The owners manual, which you can download from the listing for this on NorthernTool.com has load estimation guidelines to help you with this if you aren't sure about how to plan your loading. Its very straightforward and gives you estimates for various things if you don't know what a given appliance will draw. With what I am running on it at my house I am on average at most times running at half load, which is what you should shoot for.
Helpful?
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· 14 years ago
Does this generator produce what I've heard called "clean" electricity so it could operate furnuces with electical boards and computers?
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NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This NorthStar generator has a total harmonic distortion (THD) of 5% or less, making it safe to use with computers and other sensitive electronics.
Helpful?
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lrrp101et· 14 years ago
I have used it with all electronics in my home with
no adverse affects, but have no O-scope to do
a professional test.Helpful?
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· 15 years ago
Does this generator have hour meter?
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NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This NorthStar generator is not equipped with an hour meter. Item 160595 is a compatible option we offer to be added.
Helpful?
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DC2007· 14 years ago
no
Helpful?
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· 15 years ago
does this unit have idle down feature ?
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NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This NorthStar generator is not equipped with the idle control feature. Item 165604 is a NorthStar generator of the same size and it is equipped with idle control.
Helpful?
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4Rider· 14 years ago
This unit (Item# 165603) does not have engine idle feature. The step up unit (Item# 165604) however does have idle feature.
Helpful?
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· 3 years ago
Does this unit have a environment temperature limit?? Example: 110 degree weather summer time, can the unit handle summer heat?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert29· 3 years ago
Ambient temperature should not exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Helpful?
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· 3 years ago
how to flash the field magnets
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert29· 3 years ago
This generator has an automatic Voltage regulator and does not require flashing.
Helpful?
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· 5 years ago
Does this generator have a 30 amp receptacle?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This generator has 120/240 Volt, 30 Amp locking receptacle (NEMA L14-30R) and a 120 Volt, 30 Amp locking receptacle (NEMA L5-30R).
Helpful?
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· 5 years ago
I Have set my northstar to 60 cycles but i get 150 volts at the 120 socket. Can i adjust the voltage down w/o slow down the engine which would reduce the cycles?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert11· 5 years ago
The voltage should be within 120 volt +/- 10% at the 120 volt receptacles and 240 volt +/- 10% at the 240 volt receptacles. The generator should only be adjusted by a factory authorized personnel. Do not attempt to adjust the engine speed yourself.
Helpful?
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· 5 years ago
what else is needed to hook this up to the house when the power goes off?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
A UL-approved transfer switch must be installed by a licensed electrician. A 30-Amp power inlet box and a generator cord will be needed to connect the generator to the transfer switch. Please see the switch kit item 62096 for these items.
Helpful?
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Accessories We Recommend
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Warranty
Manufacturer's Warranty
4 year limited warranty
Extend Your Warranty Coverage with a Northern Protection Plan (NPP)
Repair Plan — 1 Year
A Northern Protection Plan is available after adding the product to your shopping cart.
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Specifications
8,000
6,500
5,000
13,000
6,600
5,500
4,500
10,500
Gasoline
Gasoline
Gasoline
Dual Fuel - Natural Gas and Propane
389 cc
389 cc
389 cc
500 cc
74.5 dB
67 dB
66 dB
74 dB
Recoil
Recoil
Electric
Electric
6.5 Gal
6.2 Gal
6.2 Gal
8.3 Gal
10 hr
10.4 hr
11.2 hr
8.5 hr
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
lb
220.0000 lb
232.0000 lb
245 lbs.
25.75 x 21.25 x 22.25 in
41.9 x 27.2 x 29.2 in
41.1 x 27.8 x 30.5 in
-
-
120/240
120/240
120/240
-
Honda
Honda
DuroMax
-
-
-
50
-
-
-
7
-
-
-
(4) 120v 20a, (1) 120v 30a Twist-lock, (1) 120/240v 50a and (1) 120/240v 30a Twist-lock
-
-
-
9,975
-
-
-
12,350
-
-
-
20







