Out of the box, the generator would not start. I rechecked all startup instructions but no start. I removed the side panel and manually set the carburetor choke. The unit started. I shouldn't have to do this on a brand new Westinghouse product.
There are 2 YouTube videos that explain the very problem I experienced. They are titled "Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator (Buyer Beware)", dated August 14, 2020, and "Westinghouse Gen 4500 Inverter Generator Repair", dated August 17, 2020. Westinghouse needs to watch these videos. If there are YouTube videos highlighting this issue, and I experienced it too, there must be many, many more units like it.
The videos clearly show an quality control issue. The 5 pin male electrical plug that controls the carburetor choke does not lock into the female receiver at the control unit. There is no positive locking connection made during assembly. The connection came loose. Westinghouse can do better than this, or you can concede that the others will be better.
My initial impressions and startup of this unit has left a bad taste in my mouth. But the issue is fixed (by me) and I’m willing to allow the generator time to prove itself. I am hoping for the best for my investment.
Another issue. The 4500 rated peak watts has a hard time starting my 13,500 BTU AC compressor on my RV trailer. I would think that a 4500 watt peak rating would easily start this unit. Something to work on.