[BARC-List] inexpensive AC generator for emergency use?

[Richard Amirault]

FYI, in case anyone thinks they may want to purchase one...

I already have a really nice, small, quiet Honda generator that I can use 
for emergency use (has run Field Day for two years now) but I couldn't 
resist this when I saw it in Costco. It appears that they may be "getting 
rid" of them. A few weeks ago the price was $199 with a $30 instant 
rebate.... now it's just $169  I've researched on-line and I think they were 
maybe $250 or so in the past.

What do you get for $170?   An "enclosed" generator (in green plastic) with 
a large carrying handle on top.  There are two wheels at one end, and an 
extending handle (think carry-on luggage) at the other (the handle end has 
two rubber feet for when you are not moving it around)  Rated output of 1200 
watts (peak output 1850 watts). Net weight of about 62 lbs dry. Manufactured 
in China. Distributed in the USA by Alton Industries. Control panel has a 
single AC outlet (not dual) and a single DC outlet. A DC charging cable is 
included. Fuel tank is 1.3 gallons .. BUT .. they have non-consistent 
instructions about the fuel to use. One place says use mid or high octane .. 
another place says use 90 or above. In either case I gather you are not 
supposed to use "regular".

While the rated output is 1200 watts, the manual says that during the "break 
in" period (25 hrs) you should not load the generator more than 75% of rated 
capacity (700 watts)  The "break in" period is 25 hrs .. but it also says 
you should change the oil after the first 8 hours.

You get a manual for the generator, and a manual for the gasoline motor 
(79cc) as well. Some maintenance (cleaning the air filter for one) requires 
you to remove the green plastic cover (haven't done it, but does not seem 
all that hard) There are ports in the plastic to change the oil and 
sparkplug. The port to operate the choke does not seem to optimal. You have 
to stick your finger *way* to the left to reach the lever when it is in full 
off position. It is just a bit hard.

The box says "Super Quiet" ... it's nowhere near as quiet as my Honda .. 
but, I suppose it's not all that bad. There seems to be some sound deadening 
/ insulation inside the green plastic shell .. but the exhaust is the 
loudest part.

All in all it's not perfect, but for $170 I think it's worth it. You do need 
to be a Costco member to purchase one.

Richard Amirault
N1JDU
http://bostonfandom.org