Generator

[KSH]

So I've been going back and forth about buying a generator for our travel trailer. Only need to run the ac. Considering getting two honda eu2000 and connecting them together, seems like the most popular option, also looking at the honda eu3000i handy. And recently I saw generac has a 2000iq option that is just coming out, the price point is much better than the honda. Anyone have good opinions on a generator. I want something compact, lite enough for 1 person and quite. I currently borrow a honda 3000is from my cousin but at 130lbs it's a monster.

[B-O-B'03]

I bought a Champion 3100 Watt, Inverter, generator at Costco.

It is not as quiet as my friend's 3K Honda, but it is pretty quiet and it was $699, when they had it for $100 off the regular price.

I can load it into the bed of the truck, by myself and it will run the 15K BTU AC, both fridges, and the converter at the same time.

Champion 3100 (http://www.costco.com/.product.100139466.html)

-Brian

[JimDogs]

I went the 2 X 2000iEU route. That way I have the power needed to run the A/C and Microwave when needed, the simplicity of using just one for all other purposes, and the peace of mind knowing that if 1 is down for repairs/maintenance I will still have one to run the show. Another plus was the ability to load one or both onto my trailer tongue tray by myself.

To make the purchase easier on my wallet I purchased them used on CL and did the tune-up by myself. I got both of them for a total cost of $753.00 and I now have the Honda quality. I also purchased a dual line extended run fuel system off eBay that allows for up to 40 hour run-time without needing to re-fuel.

[JRTJH]

Do a forum search for "champion generator", "inverter generator" and "Costco" (smarter tools generator). There are literally hundreds of threads and just as many "opinions" on ways posters will help you "spend your money".... The amount of use, budget, noise, as well as weight, size and portability are all considerations that make for many different decisions.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Do some reading on opinions of others and you might well find things you haven't yet considered in your selection.

Good Luck

[old timer]

I find it unbelievable that you have to purchase 2 honda generators and hook them up to get enough power to run the ac. Why can't they just build one to do the job. I have been mulling over the purchase of a generator but havent found a need for it yet. Cerently don't want to carry 2 around though

[dcg9381]

You don't need 2 Hondas, but if you want small and quiet generators that you can easily carry and they only put out 2000 watts, you'll need two of them. These are ultra-quiet, sip gas, and if you need power without full AC capacity, you just need to run one.

Honda does make single unit generators that will run AC, but you're not going to easily carry them by hand. You can put wheels on them though.

It's just a mix of money, loud, and weight that you'll need to get sorted out..

[bdaniel]

I have a Honda 3000is I purchased in 2002 and it is still going strong. And it will run 10-12 hours running the AC or 24 hours in the winter to run other stuff on one tank of gas.

It is heavy but I have a cover for it and leave it in the truck all the time. If it failed today I would get another one just like it.

My cover: http://www.bobbystuff.com/RV/index.php?blog=78

Bobby

[gary31]

I have a 3000EUis and it great. I put some large wheels from ebay on it so I can roll it around and load it up into the TH. It runs all night fully loaded in the summer and like others have said it will chug along for 20+ hours in econo mode. I use both my Honda and Onan, The Onan is 4k so when max out put is required, AC and accessories I fire up the Onan, then for sleeping you cannot beat the Honda. Never hear it outside and away from TH. I considered the 2k units but did not want to be fueling all the time I like fill and forget.

[Ram189]

I have camped at Nascar races with my folks and by myself after my dad passed for over 30 years.
As I see the people I have camped with for years growing older almost all of them have downsized the trailers they use and have gone to 2 2000's. They are easier to get in and out of the truck bed as they get older.
I am still running a Honda 3000 and love it but it gets heavy at times by myself. In the next few years my son will be of the age to start helping me so it will get easier but if I was by myself I would go with 2 2000s.

Just my rambling $.02 but it is something to consider as we all move along in life.

[halfprice]

I just bought the Honda 2000. We don't dry camp very often and when we do its in Northern Ca on the coast so we don't need the a/c.

I started it for the first time for my wife, then I went out to fish. When I got back my wife had the a/c on, rare hot day up there. So the 2000 started the a/c no problem.

Here's my question?? While this hurt my a/c by starting it with the 2000? Yes it started but will the low watts or voltage hurt the a/c motor?


Sorry to high jack this thread but I thought the info might help the OP with a decision.

Jerry

[JRTJH]

I just bought the Honda 2000. We don't dry camp very often and when we do its in Northern Ca on the coast so we don't need the a/c.

I started it for the first time for my wife, then I went out to fish. When I got back my wife had the a/c on, rare hot day up there. So the 2000 started the a/c no problem.

Here's my question?? While this hurt my a/c by starting it with the 2000? Yes it started but will the low watts or voltage hurt the a/c motor?


Sorry to high jack this thread but I thought the info might help the OP with a decision.

Jerry

Jerry,

Sometimes it will run, sometimes it won't. There are several threads discussing the potential damage to the generator and air conditioner. Here are a few to get you started:

http://www.keystonerv.org/forums/showthread.php?t=3655&highlight=winding
http://www.keystonerv.org/forums/showthread.php?t=16891&highlight=winding
http://www.keystonerv.org/forums/showthread.php?t=6851&highlight=winding

[halfprice]

Thanks John,
That helped a lot. No a/c for now on.

Jerry

[SteveC7010]

Yamaha's 2400 is an interesting unit. 2400 watts which should be enough to safely start up an A/C and 75#. 53-60 dba which is pretty close to the Honda eu2000i. Price tag to match, however. MSRP is $1,400.

[gearhead]

I'm using a Champion 4000/3500 for the RV. I first thought I would just bite the bullet and spend $2000+ for the 2 Honda 2000's. I can't get the Champion in and out of my truck bed. That limits where I have to park and use a generator. Many times all I need is a small gen to recharge the batteries. I've been around many brands while camping at NASCAR races. The 2 small 2000 watt gens work best. I haven't heard anything as quiet as a Honda. Ryobi is close, as is Yamaha. Ryobi gets mixed reviews, Yamaha is as expensive as Honda.
If I were buying tomorrow I would be looking real close at Smarter Tools. Has a Yamaha engine. Available at Home Depot. Also extended warranty available from HD beyond the MFG 3 yr. warranty.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Smarter-Tools-AP-2000iQ-1600-2000-Watt-Gasoline-Powered-Parallel-Capable-Portable-Inverter-Generator-with-Yamaha-Engine-ST-AP2000iQ/205627293
Get an extended run kit that is nothing more than a marine gas tank.

[sjturbo]

As much as I love our EU3000 that has started first time every time for the last 10 + years, If I had to do it over again I would get a pair of 2000's because of the weight and size issue. Honda builds a quality generator! I believe if you look into it the pair of 2000's you have a peak of 4000 watts and a continuous of 3200 watts. That is more than the EU3000! They also have a model that has a 30amp receptacle available.

[Desert185]

I'm using a Champion 4000/3500 for the RV. I first thought I would just bite the bullet and spend $2000+ for the 2 Honda 2000's. I can't get the Champion in and out of my truck bed. That limits where I have to park and use a generator. Many times all I need is a small gen to recharge the batteries. I've been around many brands while camping at NASCAR races. The 2 small 2000 watt gens work best. I haven't heard anything as quiet as a Honda. Ryobi is close, as is Yamaha. Ryobi gets mixed reviews, Yamaha is as expensive as Honda.
If I were buying tomorrow I would be looking real close at Smarter Tools. Has a Yamaha engine. Available at Home Depot. Also extended warranty available from HD beyond the MFG 3 yr. warranty.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Smarter-Tools-AP-2000iQ-1600-2000-Watt-Gasoline-Powered-Parallel-Capable-Portable-Inverter-Generator-with-Yamaha-Engine-ST-AP2000iQ/205627293
Get an extended run kit that is nothing more than a marine gas tank.

We have two Smarter Tools 2000IQ's with Yamaha engines. We only run two when AC is needed, which is rare for us. Running just one compared to a 4K-3.5K gen yields less noise and less fuel flow. Hernias also aren't an issue.

Costco has them occasionally for ~$599 each. What a deal.

[trueweb]

I like the two generator route. I just picked up two Smarter Tools AP2000iQ generators. They have Yamaha engines, so they are at least half good. I've run them a few times with no problems. They start easy and were easy to set up.

Here is why I like two:
1) If one fails you can still do most everything except start the A/C; charge batteries, coffee maker, TV, microwave, etc.
2) Loading and unloading two 50lb generators is easier than one 140lb generator and can be done be one person.
3) Two 2kw generators ends up being 3kw continuous, which is actually more capable than the 140lb relatives as well.

I hope that helps.

[Festus2]

I like the two generator route. I just picked up two Smarter Tools AP2000iQ generators. They have Yamaha engines, so they are at least half good. I've run them a few times with no problems. They start easy and were easy to set up.

Here is why I like two:
1) If one fails you can still do most everything except start the A/C; charge batteries, coffee maker, TV, microwave, etc.

I hope that helps.

trueweb -
Is there some reason why a single generator cannot be used to charge batteries or run the TV? I understand about the A/C and micro but a TV and to charge the batteries a 2000W generator of any brand should be able to do these two chores without a problem.

[hankaye]

Howdy All;

One of my neighbors has one of these;
http://www.harborfreight.com/automotive-motorcycle/truck-cranes/12-ton-capacity-pickup-truck-crane-60732-9889.html
bolted into the bed of his truck. Has had his for several years, uses it
to lift just about everything he doesn't feel like putting his back out with.
He has a plate of steel cut and drilled for under the bed.
Hard to go wrong for a C-note.

hankaye

[KSH]

I was thinking of something like that.It's a great idea. I have a ram truck with the ram box option so I don't have that indentation.

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[trueweb]

trueweb -
Is there some reason why a single generator cannot be used to charge batteries or run the TV? I understand about the A/C and micro but a TV and to charge the batteries a 2000W generator of any brand should be able to do these two chores without a problem.

Hey Festus, you are correct, one will run everything fine. The advantage of two is that you can run the AC with two, which you would need one larger unit to do. In the case you had a generator failure of some sort it's unlikely that both will be affected at the same time.

My point is simply that with two, if one goes down, you can still use the other to run all the basic necessities even if you can't fire up the AC unit. If you only have one larger unit to run your entire rig including AC should it go down it's game over.

[Desert185]

With just one of my 2000's running, I need to put the refer on gas when making coffee with the Keurig. When coffee is made, back to Auto on the fridge. A small issue, but worth it.

Having two 2000's works well for us.

[Blrmaker]

I road race motorcycles and do several trackdays a year at various tracks around the country. I use a set of Chicken Hawk 1500W tire warmers between sessions and use my Honda 2000 for operating them. Best investment that I have made. I can string 25 feet of cord and run it all day without annoying my neighbors nor my pit crew.

That said I think you need to consider the area's where you will be using the generator. There is nothing worse than being 10ft from a guy in the pits with a cheap or cheesy genartor drowning out your conversation, rattling your brain, or just down right irritatingly loud. :banghead: If you are going to be in an area while using said generator with no neighbors, no big deal though.

Just my 2 cents.

[hankaye]

Blrmaker, Howdy;

I road race motorcycles and do several trackdays a year at various tracks around the country. I use a set of Chicken Hawk 1500W tire warmers between sessions and use my Honda 2000 for operating them. Best investment that I have made. I can string 25 feet of cord and run it all day without annoying my neighbors nor my pit crew.

That said I think you need to consider the area's where you will be using the generator. There is nothing worse than being 10ft from a guy in the pits with a cheap or cheesy genartor drowning out your conversation, rattling your brain, or just down right irritatingly loud. :banghead: If you are going to be in an area while using said generator with no neighbors, no big deal though.

Just my 2 cents.


I think that the competitors with the extra loud generators are trying to
gain a psychological edge ...

hankaye

[larry337]

Started off with a Honda 2000. Bought a like new used Yamaha 2000 for $500. Tried them both for a while and settled on the Yamaha because of the fuel cutoff switch and fuel gauge. Other then that their performance was nearly identical. Sold the Honda and bought a second Yamaha. 4 years now and very happy.

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[Desert185]

Started off with a Honda 2000. Bought a like new used Yamaha 2000 for $500. Tried them both for a while and settled on the Yamaha because of the fuel cutoff switch and fuel gauge. Other then that their performance was nearly identical. Sold the Honda and bought a second Yamaha. 4 years now and very happy.

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FWIW, the Smarter Tools 2000 with Yamaha engine has the same with the addition of a USB port. Heck of a deal.

[notanlines]

Honda is $999 w/56 dB and Smarter Tools Yamaha is $599 and 51 dB . I don't see how one could go wrong with the Smarter Tools from Costco. With tax one would be saving about $900.

[Desert185]

Honda is $999 w/56 dB and Smarter Tools Yamaha is $599 and 51 dB . I don't see how one could go wrong with the Smarter Tools from Costco. With tax one would be saving about $900.

^^^concur^^^ :thumbsup:

[michael_h]

keep in mind, Honda has the largest CC engine in the 2000 watt class

[JRTJH]

keep in mind, Honda has the largest CC engine in the 2000 watt class

Says the man driving an EcoBoost rather than a V-8..... :cool:

I couldn't resist :p

[kguess]

I went with the two Honda's, haven't actually used them camping but had them with us on our trip to Maine ( from Mississippi ) . Worked great running everything before we hit the road!

[esmoglo]

I also bought the Champion 3100 Watt, Inverter, generator form Overstock for $719 shipped. I have had two of the 2000W Champion Inverter’s and they work great no issues. Hope this one works just as good.

[KSH]

I just ordered the champion 3100 from Costco. 799$ I like the Costco no questions asked warranty

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[mfifield01]

Similar response. Delete.

[mfifield01]

I also bought the Champion 3100 Watt, Inverter, generator form Overstock for $719 shipped. I have had two of the 2000W Champion Inverter’s and they work great no issues. Hope this one works just as good.
What difference did you notice between the 2 - 2000W and 3100w? I have a single Champion 2000w and have been thinking about getting a second.

[esmoglo]

2000W can't run the AC unless you stack two of them

[mfifield01]

2000W can't run the AC unless you stack two of them What was the noise like with 2 of them vs. 1 - 3100w? Any power differences? I plan on having 2 (or getting a 3100w).

[esmoglo]

In economy mode not bad at all but I never used them with the RV I mainly used them for hobby charging. Two of the 2000’s for the RV are just too much they are large and heavy. One 3100W is the ticket it also has a 30A plug in for the RV and at $719 with a 2 year warranty from Champion you can’t go wrong. Honda 3000 at $2K plus is perhaps better? I can go thru 3 champions for the price of one Honda. Reviews on the Champion have been really good it’s not a poor quality unit and well worth a look at.

[JRTJH]

For anyone considering a Champion generator, Tractor Supply has a 10% off sale on all outdoor power equipment from now through Sunday, October 18th. It is an "online sale only" and the discount is taken during checkout. They also offer "free shipping" to the closest retail store, which may save even more.

Depending on local pricing, this may offer a savings for you.

Happy shopping!!! LOL

[KSH]

I ordered the champion from Costco $800 showed up in 2 days. Oiled, slowly pulled the starter to get oil an fuel moving and it started on the third slow, and I mean slow pull. Didn't intend to start it, but I guess it was ready. Ran it side by side with a Honda 3000is and they are really close in sound. The Honda is slightly quieter on eco mode, but not $1300 worth quieter. I just ran it for 10 minutes and then just shut off the fuel. I'll break it in later, but so far I'm impressed. If it runs my trailer ac, it's a keeper.

[B-O-B'03]

I ordered the champion from Costco $800 showed up in 2 days. Oiled, slowly pulled the starter to get oil an fuel moving and it started on the third slow, and I mean slow pull. Didn't intend to start it, but I guess it was ready. Ran it side by side with a Honda 3000is and they are really close in sound. The Honda is slightly quieter on eco mode, but not $1300 worth quieter. I just ran it for 10 minutes and then just shut off the fuel. I'll break it in later, but so far I'm impressed. If it runs my trailer ac, it's a keeper.

Nice choice.

I am really happy with mine and I bought this hour meter (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A43PKOE?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s01) for it, to keep track of when I need to do maintenance.

-Brian

[KSH]

Silly question, can I use the same oil the truck uses for the generator, Pennzoil platinum euro L full synthetic 5w 30? I have some extra from the dealer. I also have some Mobil 1 synthetic 5w 30

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[B-O-B'03]

Silly question, can I use the same oil the truck uses for the generator, Pennzoil platinum euro L full synthetic 5w 30? I have some extra from the dealer. I also have some Mobil 1 synthetic 5w 30


My Owners manual says a full synthetic 5w-30 is good for -20 to + 120 degree ambient operating temp.

You should be good to go.

I would run the first 5 hours with the supplied oil, for the break-in period and then change to synthetic after that.

-Brian

[KSH]

Running it now for the break in.

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[bdaniel]

Silly question, can I use the same oil the truck uses for the generator, Pennzoil platinum euro L full synthetic 5w 30? I have some extra from the dealer. I also have some Mobil 1 synthetic 5w 30

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A quart of oil is cheap. I always use 30 weight in my Honda EU3000is and I have over 1000 hours on it and I change it every 50 hours.

Bobby

[gearhead]

Silly question, can I use the same oil the truck uses for the generator, Pennzoil platinum euro L full synthetic 5w 30? I have some extra from the dealer. I also have some Mobil 1 synthetic 5w 30

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The Pennzoil synthetic is good stuff. Any named synthetic is good for small engines that have a tendency to shear the viscosity improvers in conventional oils. I run SHELL synthetic Rotella in my diesel truck and all small engines. But I'm trying to help all I can to keep my pension check coming.
Dive off into this forum. There is a section for small engines & lawn mowers.
http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php

[KSH]

Is there a proper way to plug into the generator, there is always a spark/arc when I plug in. The generator manual says don't start it with anything connected, but I have to imagine people with remote start have their equipment connected. Or should I have the breakers off in the trailer, plug into the generator and then turn on the breakers?

[esmoglo]

Champion 3100 generator came in a few days ago added oil & fuel, first pull it started right up and ran it for 10 min with no load. Today I took the generator with me to the RV storage lot powered up the 15BTU AC and it worked flawlessly, ran all the lights in the coach no issues (have LED’s inside) with a 2 year warranty and only $719 you can't go wrong.

[KSH]

Where did you get it for 719?

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[esmoglo]

Overstock it was $799 found an online coupon code (took some time) but I found one took off $80 paid $719 with free shipping and no tax. I call that winner winner chicken dinner..LOL

[KSH]

Nice

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[B-O-B'03]

Is there a proper way to plug into the generator, there is always a spark/arc when I plug in. The generator manual says don't start it with anything connected, but I have to imagine people with remote start have their equipment connected. Or should I have the breakers off in the trailer, plug into the generator and then turn on the breakers?

I turn the main breaker off, start the generator, plug the camper in and then turn the breaker on.

I always turn the main breaker off, before plugging in or unplugging... shore power or generator.

-Brian

[jje1960]

I turn the main breaker off, start the generator, plug the camper in and then turn the breaker on.

I always turn the main breaker off, before plugging in or unplugging... shore power or generator.

-Brian
Actually never thought of this... Simple and a very good idea. When we use our remote start, will start doing this. Thanks.

[HANGAR]

My single Honda 2000eu will initially start and run my 15K a/c unit. But once the compressor cycles off and tries to restart, it seems there is not enough power to get it back up and going again. You hear the generator jogging, but there's not enough muscle to restart the compressor on the a/c. It's interesting why it will initially start up and run, but it always fails when the compressor cycles off and tries to restart.

[KSH]

I read something about in rush current being the issue.

[JRTJH]

My single Honda 2000eu will initially start and run my 15K a/c unit. But once the compressor cycles off and tries to restart, it seems there is not enough power to get it back up and going again. You hear the generator jogging, but there's not enough muscle to restart the compressor on the a/c. It's interesting why it will initially start up and run, but it always fails when the compressor cycles off and tries to restart.

Initially, when you first start the air conditioner, there is very little "head pressure" in the compressor. The "start capacitor" can easily get the system started. Once the air conditioner runs and cycles off, the compressor "head pressure" is significantly higher than the "first start" and the generator isn't capable of "restarting the system". The increased amperage to "get it going" against the increased compressor head pressure just isn't there.

As an aside, consider the load you're putting on your generator by even attempting to run that much load. In the Honda manual, they strongly suggest limiting loads over 1600 watts to less than 20 minutes. The problem is excessive heat in the generator windings. That heat will cause the insulation on the windings to break down faster than normal and will reduce the life of your generator. I'd urge you not to run that kind of load, even if the generator is "doing it the first time, but not afterward".

[esmoglo]

Just wanted to update Costco has the Champion 3100W Generator back on sale $100 off price is now $699 shipped! Got the Costco member booklet for this month and I saw it in there.

I have been running the generator with my 15BTU AC system running all the lights and TV with no issues runs great. Now if I want to run the microwave I turn off the AC, I run the fridge on propane as a standard while running on the generator.

[KSH]

Saw that a few days ago also, going to call them to get my$100 since I ordered a few weeks ago. The unit runs great.

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[notanlines]

Hangar, if you go to most any search engine the results will be that a continuous 3000 watts is required to support a 15k air conditioner. Remember what Grandma said back in the day: "Never send a boy to mill...."

[Voyager]

I just bought two Champion 2000's from Canadian Tire $599 each and the parallel kit from Amazon $59. Very impressed with the generators both started on second pull, low noise and really like the way the parallel kit fits between the stacked units, tried my 13500 air and worked like a charm. Probably will only use one most of the time but nice to have the ability to use two. Used a friends Honda 3000 last summer, worked well but way to heavy for me to handle.

[HANGAR]

JRTJH, Thanks for the explanation, that makes sense. I'm an electrical guy, not an HVAC guy. FYI: I only tried this once just as a test, I was very surprised it would even initially run the unit. NOTANLINES, I agree, you really need two 2K gens or one 3K. I've got the big Onan on the trailer that will run both at the same time if really needed. I usually run the Onan at home while packing and unpacking since I haven't had the time to run a 240V 50A circuit from the house yet...but it's on the to-do list!

[tommy_z]

Just wanted to update Costco has the Champion 3100W Generator back on sale $100 off price is now $699 shipped! Got the Costco member booklet for this month and I saw it in there.

The website says there is a $100 manufacturer’s discount valid 10/29/15 through 11/29/15. Anybody know if this is exclusive to Costco? Can't find a rebate form or anything.

[KSH]

For the same price why would you buy it from anyone else? Stops working in 5 years, take it back.

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[HammerToe]

Just thought I’d ‘add’ (re – Problems RESTARTING the AC with a genny):
A popular MOD that many do is REPLACE the OEM thermostat with ‘something more accurate’/digital that ‘maintains a more consistent temp’.
There can be a downside to this on the AC side – it can cause the AC to CYCLE MORE FREQUENTLY – less delay between ‘ons’ which can result in less time to ‘bleed’ the pressure off.
There ARE ‘delay circuits’ out there (search for them) that will allow one to ‘dial in’ a delay of a few/several minutes MINIMUM to allow/help enable problematic gens to restart RV AC units.

[esmoglo]

FYI Overstock has 12% off today got the email that would be a much better deal than Costco because they charge tax and Overstock doesn't.

[KSH]

I might still over pay a bit for the Costco piece of mind.

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[JRTJH]

Maybe I'm missing something here.... COSTCO is selling the Champion 3100 watt generator for $699. Overstock.com is selling it for 12% off the retail price of $969 which is (according to their website) $849...
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Champion-Power-Equipment-75531i-3100-watt-Portable-Gas-Inverter-Generator/7999013/product.html?searchidx=1

Seems to me it's not even a competitive price. Even if overstock.com is offering an additional 12% (which they aren't), that would still make the price $747.

Looks to me like COSTCO is still a much better value even before you consider the refund/replacement options that overstock.com doesn't have.

[esmoglo]

Maybe I'm missing something here.... COSTCO is selling the Champion 3100 watt generator for $699. Overstock.com is selling it for 12% off the retail price of $969 which is (according to their website) $849...
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Champion-Power-Equipment-75531i-3100-watt-Portable-Gas-Inverter-Generator/7999013/product.html?searchidx=1

Seems to me it's not even a competitive price. Even if overstock.com is offering an additional 12% (which they aren't), that would still make the price $747.

Looks to me like COSTCO is still a much better value even before you consider the refund/replacement options that overstock.com doesn't have.

Guess overstock upped the price it was $799 now I see its listed at $849...rats wonder why?

[JRTJH]

Guess overstock upped the price it was $799 now I see its listed at $849...rats wonder why?

Could it be "typical advertising" ??? Retail price "normally" is $799, increase the price to $969 and sell it for 12% off, give the "impression of a "good deal" while the actual price increased by $50... There's lots of those kinds of "good buys" floating around.

Between the "new lower cost" for 12 ounces of cereal (old size was 16 ounces) or the Lipton 48 bag box of tea that says "value pack" and sells for $1.50 more than two 24 bag boxes, unless the consumer "pays attention" to what the "actual price" is, one can spend significantly more on the "cheaper item"....

Buyer beware !!!

[nellie1289]

Ok going to add some different perspective here to the debate.

First, I have been thinking about a "large generator" for my house backup for a while, so when I got the new rv I decided to pull the trigger and I got a Yamaha EF4500ise for $2600 at my local rv show through the dealer I bought my trailer from. A great deal overall. I will say this is overkill for most, and it is heavy to load and unload(190lbs), but on wheels, has remote start, and will power the whole trailer at once ac/ micro/ etc all at the same time. I have a generator switchover at my house now too, and can literally power my whole house at the same time, fridges, TV's lights, you name it (minus AC and my dryer) the whole 3000 sq ft house works at once! Including the tas furnace and fan! So comforting and nice disaster preparedness. It is super quiet, runs forever (>15 hours on 3 gallons) and is Yamaha, need I say more.

For "lighter" trips In the rv I have a Generac ix2000 also from Costco. It runs great, powers the lighter uses in the RV, is compact and portable. I got it for $449 at Costco when they had a rebate. It is great for other uses too, we lost power and I "rented" it to my neighbor for $50 after he saw my lights on. The 50$ was paid in fine whiskey I will point out. LOL. THis is low cost option for you cheaper budget minded users. You have Costco assurance on backing the product too.

I will say our tailgaiting group also has the Honda eu2000. That unit is literally bulletproof and super ultra quiet. it runs for >6 hours on < 1 gallon powering our tailgate setup. running two in parallel is a great solution for most as previously mentioned here.

Generac also has a great new iq2000 that will be able to run in parallel for 1/2 the price of two Honda's. MIght be something to look into. I am sure Costco will have them soon.

The smartertools 2000 watt generator is also a good option. I have seen a lot of positive reviews and heard them in person, quiet and reliable and has a Yamaha engine. They sold that one at Costco too and still its sold online. enough said, if Costco sells it then it must be good.

I have heard all the above generators run at full load, they are all very quiet. That is important for rv'ers don't get some loud construction generator! All of the above also put off clean power which is very important for your sensitive electronics.

I haven't personally seen or heard it yet, but that Costco Champion 3100 watt generator is a STEAL at that price and can power ac units and looks lighter than most the bigger generators. Plus a 30 amp plug? The reviews above look promising!

Good luck to all on your power needs.

[Desert185]

My Smarter Tools 2000's have Yamaha engines. Did you see them with Hondas?

[nellie1289]

Typo. I fixed it. I meant to say Yamaha

[JRTJH]

For those who are still looking for Yamaha generators (and don't want to compromise) rather than Smarter Tools or Champion generators, PPL, a RV dealer/parts service, has the current model Yamaha 2000 generator on sale for $879 with free shipping. They list their "normal price" at $1347.98. Normally the generator can be found on the internet for $950-1100. While I can't "endorse" PPL or their pricing, I will say that I've bought merchandise from them in the past and was satisfied with their business practices.

Here's the link: http://www.pplmotorhomes.com/parts/onan-generators/2000w-yamaha-portable-generator.htm?utm_source=email&utm_medium=parts&utm_campaign=yamaha-generators2-11-15-15