This NorthStar generator will start and operate without having a battery connected.
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NorthStar Portable Generator with Honda GX390 Engine, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts, Electric Start, CARB Compliant

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- Honda GX390 OHV engine with electric and recoil start (Optional battery, Item# 42533, sold separately)
- High-quality 100% copper-wound head with low THD for safe use with sensitive equipment
- Idle control
- Digital CDI ignition offers excellent starting and high-power output
- Full roll cage with antirip mounts prevents damage if tipped
Prop 65 Warning: See Details
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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 10 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 with electric and recoil start (Optional battery, Item# 42533, sold separately)
- High-quality 100% copper-wound head with low THD for safe use with sensitive equipment
- Idle control
- 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
- CARB compliant
- Optional wheel kit Item# 165620 sold separately
Key Specs
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
item# | 165604 |
Brand | NorthStar |
Manufacturer's Warranty | 4 year limited warranty |
Ship Weight | 206.0 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 | Electric and Recoil |
Fuel Capacity | 6.5 Gal |
Half-Load Run Time | 10 hr |
Battery Required | Yes |
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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· 15 years ago
This generator has electric start with recoil backup. Is it possible to use this machine without having a battery?
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NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
Helpful?
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lebbiekitchers· 13 years ago
Yes, I called Northstar they told me tape off red side battery cable to prevent shorting out. I taped both battery cables just to be safe.
Helpful?
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lebbiekitchers· 14 years ago
My battery delivery was delayed because of storm. According to Northstar customer support you can operate without battery however you must tape off positive battery cable to avoid shorting out. I taped both cables just to be safe.
Helpful?
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JDM1· 15 years ago
Absolutely Yes. The recoil start is very easy to pull and my unit (right out of the box) started on the first pull. I did purchase the electric start, but I wanted to test the recoil before installing the battery. This Honda engine is fabulous. I have the 390cc unit in the 8000.
The key switch is simply turned to "ON" to operate the recoil. Once started, the generator is ready for plug-ins as the engine speed is pre-set for proper voltage.
Helpful?
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· 15 years ago
What is the voltage waveform distortion (THD)?
It is features as low THD, but I can't find a spec anywhere.
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NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
The total harmonic distortion (THD) of this NorthStar generator is less than 5% making it safe to use with sensitive electronics, like computers.
Helpful?
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lebbiekitchers· 14 years ago
My load test sheet specific to my generator states I have less than 5% THD.
Helpful?
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· 2 years ago
Which carburetor can I replace with
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert11· 2 years ago
For engine serial numbers up to 2999999 use carburetor part number 16100-ZBH-744. For engine serial numbers from 3000001 and up use carburetor part number 16100-ZBH-WA1. We no longer carry parts through Northern Tool. To order, please contact our sister company Jacks Small Engine through the link provided. https://jackssmallengines.com/
Helpful?
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· 3 years ago
How to change avr
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert7· 3 years ago
The voltage regulator is automatic. It cannot be changed.
Helpful?
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· 3 years ago
In reference to north star ex8000 generator. Is the metal tank stainless steel. If it's not stainless steel what will keep it from rusting on the inside of the tank?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
The fuel tank is not stainless steel. The gas inside the fuel tank will protect the tank from rust.
Helpful?
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· 3 years ago
is the 165604 generator a floating or bonded neutral ground.
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This is a bonded neutral generator, meaning the neutral is connected to the frame of the generator.
Helpful?
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· 3 years ago
Does the 165604 have an hour meter on it?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert29· 3 years ago
This generator does not have an hour meter included.
Helpful?
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· 5 years ago
Do these Honda® engines have CO-MINDER™ technology - CO detection systems?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert29· 5 years ago
The engine on this generator does not have the CO-Minder system.
Helpful?
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· 5 years ago
Does this machine have a inline fuel filter?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert29· 5 years ago
This generator does not have an inline fuel filter.
Helpful?
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· 5 years ago
Is the gas tank metal or plastic?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This generator is equipped with a 6.5 gallon steel fuel tank.
Helpful?
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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
5,500
6,500
6,500
6,600
5,000
5,500
5,500
Gasoline
Diesel
Gasoline
Gasoline
389 cc
435 cc
389 cc
389 cc
74.5 dB
-
67 dB
66 dB
Electric and Recoil
Electric
Recoil
Electric and Recoil
6.5 Gal
12 Gal
6.2 Gal
6.2 Gal
10 hr
-
10.4 hr
10.4 hr
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
-
No
No
lb
lb
220.0000 lb
243.0000 lb
25.75 x 21.25 x 22.25 in
33.0 x 22.5 x 25.0 in
41.9 x 27.2 x 29.2 in
41.1 x 27.8 x 30.6 in
-
120/240
120/240
120/240
-
Yanmar
Honda
Honda
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NorthStar Portable Generator with Honda GX390 Engine, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts, Electric Start, CARB Compliant
Item # 165604
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