LarsonElectronics Solar Powered Generator - 12 Kilowatt Max Output - 120/240 Volts AC - Trailer Config.

Made in America Compliant The SPG12KW-120 Solar Power Generator from Larson Electronics is a towable power generation unit powered and charged by solar arrays containing 36 Kyocera high efficiency, multi-crystal photovoltaic modules. This unit offers 120- 240 VAC, 12 kilowatt max output, quiet standalone operation, and incorporates features designed to provide long life and economical operation. This 12 kilowatt solar powered generator recharges 8 Sun Xtender Batteries which power 2 Outback Power System inverters to supply 120V AC 10 amp - 50 amp, 240V AC, and 240V AC for operating tools, lighting and other electrical equipment. This unit also provides 12V DC current which it makes available via a jumper cable connection, USB connection, and a convenient cigarette lighter connection port. Max output is 12 kw with a constant output of 6.8 kw for four hours or 4.5 kw for eight hours. Compared to an everyday diesel unit, this new solar panel can save the operator thousands in just a few months. Taking into consideration that an average diesel power generator unit costs approximately 6,000 dollars a month to run and maintain; the SPG12KW-120 Solar Power Generator could pay for itself in just a few short months by removing the need for refueling. This solar power generator is designed to provide 120-240 VAC power for a wide variety of applications and is ideal for the Larson Electronics range of 110-120V lighting products. 12V DC capability allows users to connect low voltage 12 volt DC LED lighting, spotlights, and electronics as well without the need for additional hardware. Especially in situations such as entertainment events, work areas and other applications where the equipment must be placed close to the benefactors, the elimination of noise and fumes typically associated with diesel generators is a great benefit. Finally, solar power generators offer a low maintenance alternative to traditional diesel powered generators that often.

SAMPLE OF CUSTOMER REVIEW –

1) to tow behind my electric scooter. - wanted to buy this to tow behind my electric scooter. Figured I would almost never have to buy gas as long as the sun was out, but it turns out you can't drive with the panels unfolded. My loss, now they're listed on that stuff for free site. My scooter mechanic says these might have been too heavy to tow with a scooter anyway. Oh well, I'm thinking uncle Sam probably buys lots of these since they're such a good deal.

By tomg on March 3, 2015

2) Clean Ego Energy - I have this connected to harness the power of my beaming ego. It really is a pretty convenient system. Being able to afford this device has increased my ego substantially, resulting in higher yields that only further increases my self confidence.

By Thomas on December 1, 2014

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PowerPro 56101 2-Stroke Generator, 1000-watt

The PowerPro 1000 Watt generator is proof that good things do come in small packages. This two stroke generator delivers 900 watts of running and 1000 watts of starting power but weighs under 36 pounds. Small and portable, this generator is great for camping and tailgating as well as for your house's backup power. This rugged machine is both EPA and CARB compliant and is safe to use in any national park due to the spark arrestor. The power panel features an engine on/off switch, a 120V three-prong receptacle, a 12V DC receptacle, a volt meter and individual circuit reset buttons.

• Weighing less than 36 pounds, equipped with a carrying handle and stabilized with 4 rubber pads, this generator is built for portability.
• Uses oil/gas mix fuel so there's no need for oil changes; The one gallon tank can run for 5 hours at half load.
• Quiet exhaust system with spark arrestor is 60dB at 22 feet and is certified for use in any national park or forest.
• 1000-Watts starting power and 900-Watts running power.
• 1-year limited warranty; CARB and EPA compliant.

SAMPLE OF CUSTOMER REVIEW –

1) MORE FEATURES THAN ANY OF THE CHEAP BRAND 2 STROKES!!! COMPARED - My experience/observation of this generator. First I would comment that I have owned over 100 generators in the last 20 years

and have a mechanical/electronics repair background. I work generators hard!!! With that said, compared with the many CHINA MADE 2 stroke generators on the market this one has the most features I believe. It has the voltage meter and 12 volt DC output which many do not.

1. CHINA MADE and manufactured under several brand names. I Have 2 others just like this one under different brand names and at much lower prices, some at $79.00 on special sales.

2. Starting with the Pull start hub mechanism made of plastic...... as all cheapies are these days to include the plastic pull handle which is made of thin plastic both can break easily. (and has in certain cases). I sometimes replace the cheap cord and handle with a quality one for under $5 at local lawn mower parts departments.

3. The carb is EPA/California compliant.

4. This model is one of the quietest ones I have used of over 20 2 strokers. One can rig up extra and extended muffling if needed.

5. I always install a better quality spark plug although the cheap stock ones have worked well in most cases but not all. No valves to adjust so that is nice and saves on worry.

6. AC volt meter is quite accurate and of course not water resistant so I run a bead of silicone around the edges to protect from moisture.

CONCERNING THE COMPLEXITY AND ISSUE OF FUEL/OIL MIXTURE POSSIBILTIES (LENGTHY)

6. I have used many mix ratios, types, and brands of oil to include 30 weight oil with no problems. I prefer to mix my oil on the H E A V I E R side for best compression/lube and would rather clean a plug once in a while than run lean. If you mix in too much oil you will notice oil dripping out of the exhaust, more smoke in the exhaust, and a harder start/fowling.
The 2 stroke motor will smoke for a few moments when first stared until warmed up which is also common.

When you mix your oil into the gasoline your are lowering your GAS octane
rating(usually at least 2 points). You need the oil to provide most of the compression in a
2 stroke engine (It provides the seal around the piston rings as well as lubricates the
engine)

The viscosity rating of the oil you run will be the major a factor on the compression rating at any given time. The thicker the oil/mixture you run, the higher the compression to the maximum number that the engine is capable
of ....of course also taking into consideration the GAS octane value.
That is why you usually can find two values listed on compression for a two stroke, (high rpm and low rpm ) it
is harder to create that seal at high rpm's therefore the compression goes down accordingly.

If you run too much oil to GAS ratio then you decrease the OCTANE level so greatly that you
then limit the power making capability(potential energy in the fuel) of the
gasoline unless you increase the octane level to compensate, so there is a bit of a balance act needed there.

If you run a oil rich mix say 25:1 to 30:1 then I would run a slightly higher octane fuel. If you were running somewhere around say 35:1 to 40:1 then I would try to run 91 octane for example. It is always good practice to start
with the manuals reccomendations, but it NO gaurantee that it is going to be
the best setup for you and your application, you may have different air density, fuel quality******, oil
quality than they do in giving you those numbers. A little trial and error will
set you in the right direction.

CONSIDERATIONS

The OCTANE rating of gasoline tells you how much the fuel can be compressed before it spontaneously ignites under certain pressures ...so the compression value of the engine dictates what the MIN octane value of gas is needed to prevent PINGING caused from too low of this value.

One way to increase the horsepower of an engine of a given displacement is to increase its compression ratio. So a "high-performance engine" has a higher compression ratio because of chamber, piston, and stroke design, and requires higher-octane fuel. The advantage of a high compression ratio is that it gives your engine a higher horsepower rating for a given engine weight -- that is what makes the engine "high performance." The disadvantage is that the gasoline for your engine costs more.

The compression ratio of your engine determines the octane rating of the gas you must use in the engine. USING A HIGHER LEVEL OF OCTANE THAN WHAT YOUR ENGINE COMPRESSION RATINGS ARE... GIVES YOU NO MORE POWER! A WASTE OF MONEY AT THIS POINT!

THE DARK SIDE OF ETHANOL!

ETHANOL -blended fuels should not sit for more than about 2 months in your tank to avoid phase separation as
ethanol blended fuels contains a higher oxygen content and some 2 strokes are not able to compensate for the increase.

Adding stabilizer in all small engines not only preserves the fuel and prevents shellacking, but inhibits the deleterious effects of Ethanol and other additives. Most manufacturers of quality 2 stoke oil add stabilizer to the oil.

Phase Separation (Leaning Effect)
The situation with the greatest potential for damage is phase separation in the fuel tank of a 2-cycle engine without an oil sump. If the engine is able to start and run on the alcohol/water phase, it won't be lubricated -- almost all the added engine oil will be in the gasoline phase.

Compared to a conventional gasoline, oxygenated gasoline results in a leaner air-fuel mixture. This causes some engines to run rough. Also, engines may run hotter on lean mixtures, which, in the extreme, can result in engine damage. If the engine in your equipment is running rough and it has an adjustable carburetor, check that the adjustment is proper for the fuel you are using.

To minimize the chance of phase separation, keep water out of your equipment's fuel system and practice good fuel management. You can eliminate the possibility of water pickup when your equipment is not in use if you keep the fuel tank full and close the tank vent just enough to allow for expansion.

Gasoline oxygenated with ALCOHOL, readily takes up water when it is present. The water may be condensed out of humid air or be a contaminant in the fuel system. Dissolved water will not interfere with engine operation. But if enough water is present, gasoline oxygenated with alcohol will separate into two liquid phases: a top phase which is almost all gasoline (and oil, in the case of 2-cycle fuel) and a bottom phase of water and alcohol. (Phase separation is not a problem with gasoline oxygenated with MTBE.) Phase separation may make the engine difficult or impossible to start. To solve the problem, replace the separated mixture with fresh gasoline.

Some manufacturers of 2 stroke engines --Arctco, Bombardier, Outboard Marine, and Polaris--indicate that certain of their engines may require larger carburetor jets to compensate for the leaning effect of oxygenated gasoline. . Problem is the highest octanes are achieved by MOTOR octane additives, which will just gum up the pistons in a 2 cycle engine. Base stock is generally the same. The MID-GRADE gas has the detergent additives needed to clean your motor and sufficient octane for MOST motors.

Deterioration During Storage...............BIG PROBLEM!!!!

If a gasoline is of poor quality or if the storage conditions are adverse, gasoline can oxidize and form gums over the period of several months. I always drain my carb bowl when not using the/A generator like this ESPECIALLY considering fuel can leak out of the carb if the float valve becomes gummed up or faulty (WHICH IS QUITE COMMON) and possibly result in a fire.

. These changes in gumming can increase engine deposits and plugging. There are reasons to suspect that oxygenated gasoline may form gums more readily than conventional gasoline, but actual evidence is limited. A safeguard recommended by some manufacturers is the use of name-brand gasoline from companies recognized for the quality of their products. Another safeguard is good fuel management.

Practice Good Fuel Management
Match your purchases to your consumption.
Don't buy more than you'll use in one to two months.
Store gasoline in a tightly-closed container in a cool, dry place and add stabilizer.

ON THE SUBJECT OF RUNNING ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND VOLTAGE REGULATION.

There is a adjustment screw located directly above the pull start handle (adjustment screw located behind a round cutout area of the gas tank metal) area to adjust voltage/frequency speed of the generator. This screw adjustment simply adds more or less tension on the speed regulator control arm. The motor RPM when not under load will fluctuate which is common. One can experiment with the motor speed regulator which is spring loaded by changing where the end of the spring is connected to the control arm. Their are 6 holes along the arm that the spring can be adjusted/connected to for speed regulation issues if one likes to experiment.

Some generators (more expensive ones) are equipped with a AVR circuit/component (AUTOMATIC VOLTAGE REGULATION) that can regulate the voltage output of the generator to help control over/under voltage spikes, THIS generator is not one of them.

I FABRICATE A LIMITER STOP ( prevents throttle arm from moving all the way forward ) ON THE CARB THROTTLE LEVER SO THAT THE ENGINE CANNOT ***O V E R REV**** IN ORDER TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILTY OF A SUDDEN high INCREASE (SPIKE) IN ENGINE RPM THAT WOULD RESULT IN A DANGEROUSLY HI VOLTAGE SUPPLY TO ANYTHING CONNECTED TO THE GENRATOR.

I always use a external voltage/frequency/watt meter (sold at many stores or on line) to monitor output when running electronics off of this generator. I have powered my 50 inch big screen, sat receiver, or computer/23 inch monitor, DSL modem, cordless phone, a 60 watt lamp and a few chargers all at the same time for 18 hours straight on this particular generator. ( refueled on the fly) I sometimes use a APC to protect from brownout situations (LOW VOLTAGE OCCURANCES) which can be caused by engine RPM drop for any reason .

One can hook up both the 12 volt output from the generator and run a battery charger from the 120 AC volt supply to recharge a 12 battery while running off of a invertor (changes 12 volts DC to 120 volts AC ) if concerned about voltage and brownout situations.

First of all let me say that I have NEVER in the past 20 years ( keeping fingers crossed ) had a electronic device fail because of voltage fluctuation between 110 and 128 volts and a fluctuation of frequency (60HZ standard) between 57HZ and 63HZ as these small 2 strokers often present. The main issue here I believe is when a generator runs out of gas or has a failure that results in a OVER REV or brownout situation (drop of voltage below tolerable levels) . Most sensitive electronic devices have built in regulation or switching power supplies for protection. This generators ability to hold within these tolerances are expectable as long as the load capacity is not exceeded and proper fuel/oil mixtures are maintained. Running INVERTORS can be tricky as some are more sensitive than others and will cycle which can cause load issues/rpm issues with this generator.

These are brush-less type generators which require no brush maintenance or issues associated (arcing static) with brush generators.

One must understand the startup amperage draw and running amperage/wattage of ANY device that is to be powered by this generator..********
This generator has handled a continuous 850 watt load for me for many hours depending on the devices it was running. Devices like compressors, heaters, tools, etc. that go on and off intermittently can have a MAJOR effect on what the generator (any generator) can handle under various circumstances. In some cases I have ran higher loads off of this generator for short times especially tools and lights.

The DC 12* volt output is unregulated off of a simple bridge rectifier at around 9 amps and when used for charging batteries this means that it will KEEP CHARGING as long as the battery is connected (no automatic charge shutdown upon full charged battery). The un-loaded Dc voltage at the DC output socket is 19-22 volts at a engine RPM that results in a output of 120 volts/60HZ AC. Lower RPM lowers the voltage/amperage/wattage of the DC and AC output. I have noticed that the 12 volt BREAKER will trip when charging a battery that is highly discharged or in need of a deeper charge. To solve this issue
one just needs to plug a 120volt AC charger in and bypass this problem.

I have ran this generator on many occasions for 8-10 hours a day straight for 2 weeks with no problems. I have put over 300 hours on one of these generators and still going strong. I always recommend checking bearing grease if possible especially with considering these CHINA MADE units offer less than top quality bearings.

When running in really hot temps it is best to keep the generator shaded with plenty of air space to prevent overheating of plastic parts. The on/off switch soft plastic cover can become stiff in cold climates and make it difficult to turn the switch on and off. I also cover my breakers and receptacles to prevent moisture/corrosion damage also. I also add a little oil to my foam carb filter to enhance the air intake filtering in dusty/dirty air environments.

I prefer to take the plastic cover off of the voltage meter and color in a area on the face of the meter between 110 and 125 on the volt scale for easier quick reference to the operation voltage as my eyes are not what they use to be.

By Amazon Customer on February 23, 2014

2) It put a smile on my face... - I sold my little red major brand name 4 stroke generator to pocket some cash and buy this one as a back up generator. I inspected it and all seemed well as far as nuts tightened and the like. The very first time I started it, it started on about the 10th pull, and after that usually starts on the 2nd or 3rd pull. Not bad. It idles a little rough compared to the 4 stroke, but that's about normal for a 2 stroke. But when a load is put on it, it runs smooth - and sounds like my old 2 stroke outboard cruising across the lake, and this made me smile with my purchase. Also, the sound level is about the same as my old "quiet" 4 stroke generator.
What I like about this being a 2 stroke engine is that I never have to adjust valves like a 4 stroke. On my old little red 4 stroke generator, you had to practically disassemble the entire engine casing to get at the valves and the entire valve adjustment job took a couple hours - this is just impractical. Also, the DC charging cables are included free, whereas with the 4 stroke you have to pay extra for them. And I'll never have to lift the unit up and turn it on it's side to do an oil change like the 4 stroke - no oil changes ever.
The main thing to keep in mind when considering purchasing this unit is how much it will power. It will power continuously 900 watts or less. It will power 900 to 1000 watts for a short time, maybe 15 minutes before the breaker will trip, and you have to let it cool and reset it. So if you size it right, there is no problem.
And one other thing: it says to use a 32:1 oil to gas mix. This is old school when 2 strokes ran off 30 weight motor oil, and for the reviews of people who have trouble starting it, perhaps you're using too much oil like 32:1. Instead, I chose Amsoil synthetic Saber Professional 100:1 mix and it runs great - and by doing this it's now covered by the Amsoil warranty so I'm not worried about not following the owner's manual recommendations. I run all my 2 stroke engines on 100:1 Amsoil and have never had a problem with lubrication.
The owners manual also says that a TCW 2 stroke oil may be used. TCW stands for 2 cycle water cooled. Obviously this is an air cooled engine which runs at a hotter temperature than a water cooled engine like an outboard motor, so if you use a TCW oil, sure, it will run, but it will start and run better with less carbon build up in the exhaust with a 2 stroke oil designed for air cooled engines such as Amsoil Saber which meets JASO FC or JASO FD, ISO-L-EGD or API TC.
I also found out that the AC output on this unit is fine for tools, lights, and such, but the voltage fluctuates too much for sensitive electronics, so it would not function with my Outback inverter to charge the batteries in my offgrid solar system. So I plan to keep this for tools but get another 2 stroke generator with an inverter for the solar system.

By Charlie A on October 9, 2013

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Westinghouse WH7500E Portable Generator, 7500 Running Watts/9000 Starting Watts

Model WH7500E includes the Westinghouse, 420 cc, OHV engine with electric start that has been designed for power, durability and quiet operation; it comes with an oversized muffler and catalyst. All Westinghouse generators come with EZ start, color-coded starting controls and access to a friendly and knowledgeable customer service group that can be reached at 1-855-WH-HELP-1 (944-3571). This model can be assembled very quickly and is easy to operate with a simplified power control center and is backed by an industry leading 3-year limited warranty. Other items included are never-flat tires, high-leverage handles, tool kit, one liter bottle of oil and a funnel to get you started right out of the box. Shop Amazon - Enjoy 20% Off Select Lutron Products during the Tools & Home Improvement Spring Event

• Portable gas-powered generator with 4-stroke, 420cc overhead valve engine; electric and manual start.
• 7,500 running watts and 9,000 starting watts.
• Quiet operation via Pulse-Flo muffler; simplified control center; LCD hour meter.
• Full enclosure protects electrical connections from debris and weather; four 120-volt and one 120/240-volt twist outlets.
• Non-CARB Compliant/Not For Sale In California.

SAMPLE OF CUSTOMER REVIEW –

1) Westinghouse generator - Received it 12/26/12, assembled wheels & lift bars, added oil to engine and connected negative battery terminal. Turned off the main breaker on the generator, added gas and hit the electric start and she fired right off. Let it run for about 5 minutes, shut engine down and plugged it into the exterior 30amp box. Re-started the generator, turned off the house main breaker, moved the interlock over, turned on the generator breaker in the main box and then the main breaker on the generator. Turned on the individual breakers in the main panel one by one and the whole house was up and running! Lights, TV, heat, computer/laser printer, 2 refrigerator/freezers even turned on my 220V 15amp compressor in the garage, ran everything with out a hiccup.

Things I like:

1. Longer run time than most; 12 hours on a 6.6 gallon tank (at 50% load)
2. 3 year warranty.
3. Hour meter to monitor run time and oil changes.
4. Engine is designed to run on up to 10% ethanol gas!!!
5. Low oil auto shut off.
6. Electrical overload protection.

It seems well built and has a very large muffler which makes it much quieter then most generators its size. When the next power outage occurs I will run it for 20 hours, drain the oil and replace it with 0/40 Amsoil small engine 4 Stroke synthetic oil. Hopefully I will receive many years of service from this generator.

I also purchased the Sunforce 50013 1-Watt Motorcycle and Powersports Solar Battery Charger to maintain the battery's charge when not in use. Works great, see my review.

By Joe F. on January 2, 2013

2) This is the one you want !!! - After over a year of research and nit-picking over all the important stuff: run time, clean continuous voltage delivery, wattage, ruggedness, and manufacture support, Westinghouse always made it onto the short list. The WH7500E meets all of these requirements in spades. And although my first understanding was that it was made in the USA, which it is not, it is supported by a very robust and helpful service team with centers located across the country. Not a single regret.

UPDATE: And having spent the time running the engine through an adequate break-in period (about 15 hours), luckily just prior to a series of heavy wet snow storms in MA which pulled down trees and power lines, i was simply giddy with excitement when we lost utility power and it was time to fire up the generator and see how well it worked. i was able to provide power to two refrigerators, the furnace, TV, DVD player, lights in the kitchen, bathroom living room and each bedroom, microwave and it never surpassed 50% load. this thing is awesome.

2-year UPDATE: Here we are almost two years since owning my WH7500E and I am still extremely pleased. I've been dedicated to running it for 20-30 minutes every 3 months and siphoning out any gas older than 9 months and only using gas treated with Stab-L whether it's summer or winter; i simply use the siphoned gas for my lawn tractor or car. The engine still runs smooth and I've also conducted a handful of test runs to ensure the generator is still performing as expected. Never any issues, i am very confident heading into this coming winter -- i'm almost looking forward to a power outage or two. And to answer someone's comment about if i had considered the Generac GP7500E -- yes, I had but I have a few neighbors and friends who own Generacs (various models) and they all report developing leaky fuel tanks which was basically enough for me to stop researching them any further. I might also add that I recommended my father purchase a Westinghouse WH7500E himself. He has owned his for just over one year and has had the same good experience with his generator as i have had with mine.

By Bateau Jouet on December 13, 2012



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DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 7.0 HP OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start

Safeguard your family as well as provide portable power for work and play with the DuroMax XP4400E gas-powered generator, which features a 7.0-horsepower air-cooled OHV engine that cranks out 3,500 constant running watts of power . It includes both a standard recoil start as well as an easy electric start.

This rugged workhorse is ideal for the jobsite where powering saws, drills, and other equipment is critical, but you can also depend on it for emergencies at home--insuring your essential appliances are running smoothly, reliably, and without interruption. It's EPA approved with a rating of 69 dBA for quiet operation thanks to its super-quiet muffler, and it's also safe to use in U.S. National Parks thanks to the super quiet exhaust with spark arrestor.

Note for California residents: This model is not CARB-compliant. Units sold to California must be CARB-compliant.

The XP4400E includes two 120-volt, 20-amp standard household outlets to supply power to all of your appliances as well as a powerful 120/240-volt, 30-amp twist lock outlet for high-powered tools. A 12-volt DC output with leads functions as a charger for batteries and other rechargeable devices. Overloads are never a problem with its dual 15-amp circuit breaker. A volt meter allows you to monitor your generator's output range at all times, and the battery charge indicator light lets you know when the generator's starter battery is charging.

The exclusive DuroMax RV Switch (voltage selector) allows you to get maximum power from each of the 120-volt receptacles as well as choose between operating the generator at both 120 and 240 volts simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.

With the electric start, it's as simple to get this generator going as turning on your car. And if the battery isn't fully charged, you can use the single-pull recoil cord to start the generator.

The XP4400E features a heavy duty steel frame roll cage with four-point fully isolated motor mounts for smooth and quiet operation. This generator is also easily portable thanks to the wheel kit with large, all-terrain knobby tires that will never deflate and a flip-up, stow-away handle. You'll get up to 8 hours of run time (at 50 percent) from a 4-gallon tank of fuel. Other features include an advanced automatic voltage regulator (AVR) system and a low oil protection system which automatically shuts the generator off to protect it from any damage should it run out of oil. It's backed by a one-year limited warranty. Shop Amazon.com - Over 50% Off Kwikset Locks and Door Hardware

• 4400 Watt Surge/3500 Watt Continuous.
• 4 Gallon Gas Tank/8 Hour Run Time.
• Electric Key Start/Includes Battery.
• EPA Approved.
• Automatic Low Oil Shut Off.

SAMPLE OF CUSTOMER REVIEW –

1) Good performance, excellent value - We live in Southern Louisiana, smack-dab in the middle of hurricane alley, and decided to purchase a backup generator to deal with power outages in the event of an emergency. I wanted sufficient power capacity to run our refrigerator, a small portable AC, a few lights, a small TV, charge our cell-phones, and occasionally charge laptop batteries. We figured that around 3000 continuous watts and 4000 surge watts would be sufficient for our needs.

There are several generators sold by the hardware chains (Lowe's, Home Depot) that fit this description, but they're priced around $600 - $700. After some research on the internet, we decided that the PowerMax XP4400 would match our needs, and suit our budget. Just before purchasing it, on an impulse I decided to get the model with the battery powered electric starter, instead of the one that has a rip-cord. Our purchase price (on eBay - from MaxTool - the same company selling them on Amazon) was $469.99, including a cover for the generator, and shipping.

The generator was shipped Fedex Ground and took about a week to arrive. The external cardboard box showed signs of rough handling during transportation, but the generator was well packed in foam, and not damaged during shipping. The whole box weighs about 130 lbs, and it helped me considerably that the Fedex driver wheeled it right into our garage. Unpacking took about 20 minutes. There are a couple of shipping braces that support the engine during shipment that take a little while to remove.

The first thing I did was to flip the generator upside-down on a mat to install the wheel-kit. There are tools provided with the generator to get the wheels and handles on. As shipped, the tires were sufficiently inflated to bear the weight of the generator.

After flipping the generator right way up again, I filled it with SAE30 oil. We live in a relatively warm climate, so I chose 10W30. If you use generator oil, make sure you chose oil made for a four-stroke engine. The oil-fill tube is awkwardly placed - I have a funnel with a tube at the end out it, and found that I had to use it to avoid spilling oil. It takes about 20 oz of oil. To condition the engine, I would suggest changing the oil after 6 hours of run-time, then twice after 8 hours, and every 20 - 30 hours beyond that.

After filling it with gas (there is a mesh fuel-filter underneath the gas cap, I turned the fuel valve on, and started the generator. The engine turned right away, but wouldn't start. This turned out to be an error on my part - it dark, and what I thought was the fully-off position for the choke was instead the fully-on position. After moving the choke to the correct position(fully-off), the engine started up. It is pretty smoky and sputters until the choke is opened. After that it runs very smoothly,with no visible smoke in the exhaust. I don't know what the noise level is, but it is sufficiently low that it doesn't bother me when the generator is running outside the house, and I am on the inside.

The control panel has two 120V outlets (20 Amp), and one 30 Amp outlet that is switchable between 120V and 240V. There is also a 12V outlet to charge a car battery. There is a circuit breaker and a voltmeter. During my initial tests, between 60 watts and 2400 watts of load the voltage stayed at 115 volts, and didn't drop. I haven't tested higher loads yet.

So far, we are quite satisfied. The PowerMax XP4400E is built well, works well, and is less polluting that more expensive Honda, Subaru, and Yamaha powered units sold at the hardware chains.

And a little tip - for any small engine that is run infrequently. Make sure you mix the fuel with some anti-oxidant such as Stabil before putting it in the tank. Gas mixed with anti-oxidant should last for about one year.

Six month update (August 2009) - the generator still works like a champ. Some of the bolts worked themselves loose through the vibrations, so I've tightened them. No other major problems.

Eighteen month update (September 2010) - no problems yet. But I finally got around to installing a transfer switch to connect the generator to the main breaker panel in our house. I recommend this highly - it is far better than running cords all over the place, or back-feeding the main panel, which is illegal and very dangerous for linesman working on the utility company's lines. Reliance Controls makes a pre-wired six-circuit transfer switch (31406/30406) that is perfect for this generator and is available from Amazon. Took me about 3 hours to install, 2 of which were spent flush-mounting it in the drywall.

Thirty month update (August 2011) - no major problems. I hadn't run the generator for a long time, but with hurricane season here, it was time to change the oil, fill it with gas, and make sure it still worked. The oil looked clean, but had only been used about 8 hours since the last change (a year ago). The electric start wouldn't work (battery was run down), and I flooded the engine. The rip-cord start worked on the second or third pull. I ran the generator for an hour, and will test whether that was sufficient to charge the battery within a week or two. It would have been wiser to unhook the battery while the unit was in extended storage.

Update (November 2011) - first problem with generator. One of the tires was flat when I pulled it out today to power the leaf vac for the backyard. I hoped it was just a question of the air leaking out, but the dang thing wouldn't retain air when I filled it. For now, I've sealed the leak with a few squirts of tire sealer/inflator, but I don't know if it will hold. A new tire is anywhere from $20-30, and replacement tube is about $10. The generator engine/windings themselves work fine.

42 month update (August 2012) - getting ready for Hurricane Issac. Generator fired up and ran under load perfectly. I hadn't run the generator since November of last year, so I had to pull-start it and was charged within an hour. However, the green slime no longer works to fix the flats in the tires, so I had to get two new tires. Harbor Freight has some inexpensive ($7.99/ea, item 47638, 8" non-marring rubbing tire) inflatable tires that are the same spec as the tires this generator came with (270 lbs maximum weight load at 30 psi), expect they're a relatively bright pink-red. So far - after almost 4 years, my maintenance costs have been limited to generator oil and two tires. That's not bad for a generator in this price range.

By Ashok Aiyar on February 7, 2009

2) Power Max XP4400E and XP4400 Generator - By Ernie, Retired Journeyman Lineman. The XP4400E is well worth the extra cost over the XP4400, as starter rope must be pulled out at an angle.
This is an excellent generator for the money. The voltage regulation is excellent. Amazing output for it's size along with being very quite for the output that it has. The discription Amazon has for it is great, so many items are not discribed well enough. There is a couple points I want to share with present owners and would be owners.
(1) The voltage selector switch not only changes the voltage monitor 120 to 240 but it's main function is tap changing, this being the reason it must not be switched unless breaker is off (open) or generator shut down. It parallels the two power windings when set for 120 to the 120 sockets and the 120-240 socket. You can draw full capacity fron the 120 sockets or at the 120-240 socket from terminals Bu & R, the W terminal has no voltage so 240 is not available now. (Refer to owners manual wiring diagram page 23 or 24)
Set for 240 the switch series the two power windings and now the 120 sockets have only one power winding applied and so half capacity is available here, 1750 watts from either one but only 875 watts each if both are used. The 120-240 socket now has both windings in series and now has 240 from terminal W to Terminal R and will have two 120 circuits, one from terminal W to terminal Bu and the other 120 circuit from Bu to R. Full capacity is available with the 240 voltage and half capacity from each of the 120 circuits. (Bu is the common terminal to both sockets)
(2)It isn't specified the engine has a steel cyinder sleeve and I don't think it does as I run it for 6 hrs. and changed oil and the oil in the drain pan was pretty well loaded with aluminum and silicon swirling around. I will change again after 12-14 hrs. and then every 20 then on. A filter would have been a boon for engine life, but be diligent and change oil often and it will run a long time.
I think some have gotten generators and done them in early because they didn't change oil in time. Very, Very important because the cyinder is aluminum and no oil filter. More power to all, Ernie Wireman

By Ernie Wireman on September 28, 2008

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Performance Evaluation of Pumps and Compressors

A comprehensive guide to performance evaluation of pumps and compressors. Includes many solved examples and exercises to clarify concepts. Demonstrates the application of this technique to benchmark the asset performance, troubleshoot problems, size and select new equipment, conduct performance tests and re-rate equipment. Good learning and reference guide for engineers and professionals involved in operation, maintenance, failure analysis, specification and procurement of pumps and compressors. Engineering students will find this book bridging the theory to practical applications. Shop Amazon - Up to 50% Off Home Improvement Value Store

SAMPLE OF CUSTOMER REVIEW –

1) the lucid first-principles based calculations and the simple explanations make this book an excellent reference for practicing  - Though not in the league of the books on similar title by Ronald Lapina, the lucid first-principles based calculations and the simple explanations make this book an excellent reference for practicing engineers. The explanations on calculating gas mixture compressibility 'Z' is wonderful.

Kudos to Paresh Girdhar & Lulu.com.

By agb on August 30, 2014

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