Generac Generators Opinions?
Q
generators. I don't recommend them. If you can afford a Honda or Yamaha,
you'll have a much better product.
Q
Jerry wrote:
> Any knowlegable opinions on Generac genorators please?
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http://www.powerchutes.com
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Virgil Green
limited to the version built for the Craftsman label or do you know that
they extend to the Generac labeled units as well? I don't know if the two
units are different at all, therefore I ask.
- Virgil Green
Q wrote in message <36A2AE58...@POWERCHUTES.COM>...
Jerry
Sonbeams
which is built to higher specs. then are reg. gensets.
In Christ, Naturally
mike
#######################################################
Building the Kingdom of God one pagan at a time, or maybe two pagans but not
more than three and only on Tuesdays on a partly cloudy day with only a 50%
humidity.
Michael Simpson
I have owned many. I do not recommend the low end models. They are not
designed for extended run.
I currently own a Generac MegaForce 6500. It is built like a tank.
I have used it for several extended power failures. The only problem is the
hour meter quit after two hours.
The megaforce series is expensive but is designed for contractor use. Mine
cost me $1300.
When purchasing a gas generator look for one that has a oil filter
(Pressurized) and a air filter (Dual is better)
This will prolong the life as long as you stick the maintenance shedual.
Jerry wrote in message <77u3an$f05$2...@holly.prod.itd.earthlink.net>...
NapperWm
Thing has been functioning like a champ. If you overload it the protection
circuits work great. For tool use the auto idle is a nice feature.
Bill
Dave Gingrich
> I currently own a Generac MegaForce 6500. It is built like a tank.
> I have used it for several extended power failures. The only problem is the
> hour meter quit after two hours.
My hour meter was bad also. Originally I thought I had a problem with
the 12v output, since that is what drives the hour meter, but after
finally getting through to Generac tech support (the real guys, not the
customer service reps). they admitted they have had a few bad Hobbs hour
meters, and sent me a new one and told me how to replace it.
-dg
jj
>Michael Simpson wrote:
>> I currently own a Generac MegaForce 6500. It is built like a tank.
>> I have used it for several extended power failures. The only problem is the
>> hour meter quit after two hours.
Dave Gingrich <Dave....@dcg.org> wrote:
>My hour meter was bad also. Originally I thought I had a problem with
>the 12v output, since that is what drives the hour meter, but after
>finally getting through to Generac tech support (the real guys, not the
>customer service reps). they admitted they have had a few bad Hobbs hour
>meters, and sent me a new one and told me how to replace it.
>-dg
I have a couple of questions about this unit. It sounds like the model
that Home Depot sells, here in Canada. (~ $ 1700 - seems like good value)
What is the HP of the motor on this unit ?
What is the approximate fuel consumption at full rpm, lightly loaded ?
(real world consumption - not Owners Manual, idled-down figures)
Many Thanks.
John T.
Michael Simpson
Gen is 6500watt continuos and 8125 peak
jj wrote in message <36a4dad9...@news1.perth.net>...
Dave Gingrich
>
> Engine is a 13hp OHV B&S
> Gen is 6500watt continuos and 8125 peak
The ratings are correct, however the XL series and Megaforce (aka MC
series) use a Generac Engine, not B&S. I too thought the engine looked
very much like a B&S Vanguard, but it is not. They are actually made by
Generac Corp in Waukasha Wisconsin. Apparently the Vanguard shares
somewhat of a common heritage, as in a joint development effort, but the
Generac engines are not B&S Vanguards.
-dg
Dave Gingrich
> I have a couple of questions about this unit. It sounds like the model
> that Home Depot sells, here in Canada. (~ $ 1700 - seems like good value)
> What is the HP of the motor on this unit ?
> What is the approximate fuel consumption at full rpm, lightly loaded ?
> (real world consumption - not Owners Manual, idled-down figures)
> Many Thanks.
> John T.
Regarding the MF6500:
Generac GN-360, 13 HP engine
Rated 6500 W continuous, 8125 peak
Fuel consumption lightly loaded, but at full RPM, is something more than
10 hours on 5 U.S. gallons. Manufacturer rates it 9.2 hours at half
load, which is probably accurate.
Interestingly, the one I have says it has a GN-360, 360 cc engine on the
starter cover, but the serial number plate on the crankcase identifies
it as 410 cc. They must've run out of 360 cc engines on the day they
built mine, so I could believe that the 410 might be more thirsty than
the 360, but I have no way to really tell.
Another tidbit... Generac is really two different companies:
Generac Portable Products, LLC in Jefferson WI, manufactures the
alternators and assembles the portable units. They buy their engines
from Generac Corporation in Waukesha WI, Generac Corp (Waukesha) makes
Engines and the line of stationary gen sets such as the Generac II as
well as their their big iron.
I got a service manual from Jefferson for my portable, but I had to call
"the other company" to get a service manual on the engine. FWIW
Michael Simpson
the B&S.
Dave Gingrich wrote in message <36A54487...@dcg.org>...
Michael Simpson
problems. What is the hour life of this engine under 3/4 load?
Dave Gingrich wrote in message <36A5486C...@dcg.org>...
Dave Gingrich
>
> Sorry bout that you are correct. Is the Generac engine better or worse than
> the B&S.
Well... That calls for an opinion on the part of the witness, but I
personally would give the edge to the Generac. I think that all of the
OHV engines (Honda, B&S Vanguard, Generac) are fine products, but as
near as I can tell only Generac provides for an oil filter on their
small single cylinder engines. I consider that to be a good thing. You
don't see that on the others until you get into the twins. BTW, the
filter is a standard automotive type, available at Wal-Mart for $2.50.
It actually turned out to be the same filter as my Toyota.
As far as predicted life is concerned, I don't think I've seen
manufacturer predictions, but with proper maintenance, I would expect a
couple thousand hours anyway.
-dg
Rick Solinsky
generators ) are not good generators to hook up to an inverter. Something
about wild waveforms. So, if you are going to use an inverter, you may want
to check with the manufacturer of the inverter.
I remember someone telling me about this fact a few months ago.
Rick
Dave Gingrich wrote in message <36A5C2CD...@dcg.org>...
Mike Downs
the engine, it does appear to be the Vanguard. The muffler has the B&S logo
stamped on it as well as the pull rope handle. In the parts book, they have
a Generac number and a manufacturer number for parts. Is this an incestuous
Vanguard?
Mike Downs
mdo...@soonernet.com
William P.N. Smith
>filter is a standard automotive type, available at Wal-Mart for $2.50.
How would you cross-reference the filter on a B&S Vanguard to a
readily available filter from an auto parts store? All I've got is a
B&S part number (491056) and no information on what would be the
important characteristics to look for. I can't imagine that if it
fits it's "just as good", but I could be wrong...
William Smith wp...@compusmiths.com N1...@amsat.org
ComputerSmiths Consulting, Inc. www.compusmiths.com
Michael Simpson
circles trying to get this resolved.
Dave Gingrich wrote in message <36A480B6...@dcg.org>...
>Michael Simpson wrote:
>
>> I currently own a Generac MegaForce 6500. It is built like a tank.
>> I have used it for several extended power failures. The only problem is
the
>> hour meter quit after two hours.
>
Scott Bright
will match the thread size etc. Once you've got your new filter # from
the one you just bought, you can use Walmarts cross reference book to
purchase theirs (in the event that WM doesn't sell the same brand
name). One thing to note b4 removing the filter from your genny is how
much clearance there is between the end of the filter and the frame /
floor etc. You may be able to get a longer filter wich allows for
slower, more thorough filtering, a little more oil AND more cooling of
the oil.
br1ght
BTW there isn't much difference inside any oil filter... Some have a
bypass valve to let oil through in the event the filter material
becomes pluged (as a rule small engine filters ie. B&S-Honda etc.
don't).
--
All comments made are protected by copyright laws
Dave Gingrich wrote in message <36A5C2CD...@dcg.org>...
>Michael Simpson wrote:
>>
>> Sorry bout that you are correct. Is the Generac engine better or
worse than
>> the B&S.
>
>Well... That calls for an opinion on the part of the witness, but I
>personally would give the edge to the Generac. I think that all of
the
>OHV engines (Honda, B&S Vanguard, Generac) are fine products, but as
>near as I can tell only Generac provides for an oil filter on their
>small single cylinder engines. I consider that to be a good thing.
You
>don't see that on the others until you get into the twins. BTW, the
>filter is a standard automotive type, available at Wal-Mart for
$2.50.
alys...@my-dejanews.com
cross over filters for the 4000XL were Penzoil PZ 239 and or Fram PH 4967.
To add a oil filter to the 4000XL you must order the kit from the company.
I ordered a kit in early Sept and am still waiting. Good luck in finding
your filter. alyssa
In article <36a6fde1...@news.supernews.com>,
wp...@compusmiths.com (William P.N. Smith) wrote:
> Dave Gingrich <Dave....@dcg.org> wrote:
> >filter is a standard automotive type, available at Wal-Mart for $2.50.
>
> How would you cross-reference the filter on a B&S Vanguard to a
> readily available filter from an auto parts store? All I've got is a
> B&S part number (491056) and no information on what would be the
> important characteristics to look for. I can't imagine that if it
> fits it's "just as good", but I could be wrong...
>
> William Smith wp...@compusmiths.com N1...@amsat.org
> ComputerSmiths Consulting, Inc. www.compusmiths.com
>
-----------== Posted via Deja News, The Discussion Network ==----------
http://www.dejanews.com/ Search, Read, Discuss, or Start Your Own
Dave Gingrich
>
> How would you cross-reference the filter on a B&S Vanguard to a
> readily available filter from an auto parts store? All I've got is a
> B&S part number (491056) and no information on what would be the
> important characteristics to look for. I can't imagine that if it
> fits it's "just as good", but I could be wrong...
I picked up the phone and called the engine manufacturer (Generac in my
case) and they read me a list of half dozen equivalent filters,
including Fram, Purolator, all the standard store brands.
-dg
Dave Gingrich
>
> What number did you use to contact the real generac people? I am going in
> circles trying to get this resolved.
The 800 numbers to customer service didn't work so I paid for the call
and dialed their main number which is on the warranty card,
920-674-3750. Tell the operator you need technical services and not a
customer service rep. I eventually got to a tech rep that was
exceptionally helpful.
-dg
Michael Simpson
I live in a rural area and the grid power will very that much 102v to 138v.
I recently ran my generac for 9 hours to power my house during a outage. I
have 7 computers on a network and had no problems.
Bill Maghan
Don't worry about it, alyssa! Computers can run on absolute trash. Let
the frequency and voltage vary, even a lot, the computer does not get hurt.
What can hurt a computer is surge. For example, suppose you have a
generator that can run your computer and one welder at the same time. Shut
down the computer before the welding starts.
Bill Maghan
alys...@my-dejanews.com
frequency variation. We need to run our computers off the genny so we tried
it out for a few hr's. We ran the power through cheapo uninterupted power
supply but I'm still worried about blowing up our computers. Call me paranoid
but has any body had experence with this situation?
In article <784t87$scj$0...@208.25.54.68>,
"Rick Solinsky" <ri...@audioonhold.com> wrote:
> I've heard that generac generators (or any other inexpensive contractor type
> generators ) are not good generators to hook up to an inverter. Something
> about wild waveforms. So, if you are going to use an inverter, you may want
> to check with the manufacturer of the inverter.
>
> I remember someone telling me about this fact a few months ago.
>
> Rick
> Dave Gingrich wrote in message <36A5C2CD...@dcg.org>...
> >Michael Simpson wrote:
> >>
> >> Sorry bout that you are correct. Is the Generac engine better or worse
> than
> >> the B&S.
> >
> >Well... That calls for an opinion on the part of the witness, but I
> >personally would give the edge to the Generac. I think that all of the
> >OHV engines (Honda, B&S Vanguard, Generac) are fine products, but as
> >near as I can tell only Generac provides for an oil filter on their
> >small single cylinder engines. I consider that to be a good thing. You
> >don't see that on the others until you get into the twins. BTW, the
> >filter is a standard automotive type, available at Wal-Mart for $2.50.
> >It actually turned out to be the same filter as my Toyota.
> >
> >As far as predicted life is concerned, I don't think I've seen
> >manufacturer predictions, but with proper maintenance, I would expect a
> >couple thousand hours anyway.
> >
> >-dg
>
>
-----------== Posted via Deja News, The Discussion Network ==----------
David DuPre'
I have the 10000EXL also, mine is a Briggs Vanguard, the Generac book
says it is a 19 horse,
but I haven't seen anything from Briggs about a 19horse engine.
I bought the service manual for my engine from a local Briggs service center
for
about $20. It is the Repair Manual for VANGUARD V-Twin Overhead Valve
engines. It details all the parts and service work that needs to be done
periodically.
I am told that Dihatsu makes all the Briggs engines. I would like to get
confirmation from
someone else about this because I wonder if this is true then... can I buy a
Dihatsu car mufler and attach
it to my Vanguard engine and make it run quiter?
In the Repair book it doesn't tell me anything about different filters, I
did buy a few
real Briggs filters. I am going to take the spare and look for the
equivalent at an auto
parts place now. $2.50 is much better than $9.00.
Also planning to invest in some Tuf-Oil additive, recommended by the JUICE
Page.
If you haven't seen it check it out. Lots of good generator information:
http://agitator.dynip.com/agitator/juice_page.htm
Did you know at 500 hours you are supposed to Clean Combustion chamber
deposits (Section 6)?
Section 6 describes removing the heads and brushing out the dirt...
Lets see, do I want to do that in the middle of an extended outage?
- - Too bad I didn't buy a diesel or a Honda.
On the other hand...It was less than 1/2 the cost of a diesel or a honda.
Has anyone else used Tuf-Oil in a car or Generator?
David
Mike Downs wrote in message ...
Jim Rusling
>What number did you use to contact the real generac people? I am going in
>circles trying to get this resolved.
>
Try 1-877-544--0982.
--
Jim Rusling
Mustang Information Services
Mustang, OK
http://jrusling.home.mindspring.com
Mike Downs
e-mail always returns
undeliverable. mdo...@soonernet.com
David DuPre' wrote in message ...
Bob
securely. I found that sometimes when they cut the threads on the filter,
the die they use is a little large, and the filter wobbles a bit.
Scott Bright wrote:
> Go to a knowledgable auto parts store with old filter in hand. They
> will match the thread size etc. Once you've got your new filter # from
> the one you just bought, you can use Walmarts cross reference book to
> purchase theirs (in the event that WM doesn't sell the same brand
> name). One thing to note b4 removing the filter from your genny is how
> much clearance there is between the end of the filter and the frame /
> floor etc. You may be able to get a longer filter wich allows for
> slower, more thorough filtering, a little more oil AND more cooling of
> the oil.
>
> br1ght
>
> BTW there isn't much difference inside any oil filter... Some have a
> bypass valve to let oil through in the event the filter material
> becomes pluged (as a rule small engine filters ie. B&S-Honda etc.
> don't).
> --
> All comments made are protected by copyright laws
>
br1ght
Not saying this is the case, but the metric imperial (English) thread problem
continues to cause problems. I believe it is 14 mm and 9/16" that are really
close but not on the button... the metric will 'fit' the imperial but, not
vise versa. There are a couple other near misses. Perhaps the auto parts
supplier didn't check the thread size and just eyeballed it. If you have a
farm supply store with both parts and plumbing supply, find the thread size by
using different size nipples and then get the matching filter from the parts
counter.
br1ght
PS It is not enough to use a caliper to do this... the size may be so close
that it isn't noticeable... it is the thread that is different.
br1ght
If a threaded nipple won't fit the filter, it IS metric...
br1ght
Ben Willams
Bob wrote in message <36ABDB18...@cornell.edu>...
>When you put the replacement filter on, make sure that it fits the threads
>securely. I found that sometimes when they cut the threads on the filter,
>the die they use is a little large, and the filter wobbles a bit.
>
>Scott Bright wrote:
>
american counterparts. worked ok, but not good enough for him, so he had a
short nipple made up at the pipe shop 14mm-9/16" and replaced the original
insert.
since then i have been very lucky using the cross reference at the back of
filter catalogues, to get a cheaper/larger-volume type filter. be sure to
match the thread, gasket, bypass valve when matching.
ben
br1ght
I didn't post the following... No hard feelings :-) BTW can someone turn FWIW
into English for me?
br1ght
Ben Willams wrote:Snip>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Phil Barnett
>BTW can someone turn FWIW into English for me?
For What It's Worth
--
Phil Barnett mailto:phi...@iag.net <-- Remove the first .
Oasis WWW http://www.iag.net/~philb/
FTP Site ftp://ftp.iag.net/pub/clipper
Clipper FAQ http://www.iag.net/~philb/clipper.html
Your willpower is the steering wheel and
accelerator of what happens next in your life.
PaulMmn
>BTW can someone turn FWIW into English for me?
At risk of joining a long list of respondents, FWIW = For What It's
Worth.
--Paul E Musselman
Pau...@ix.netcom.nospam.com