Best Generator for the Money! (Generator Buyer's Guide) Harbor Freight vs. Everyone!

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Best Generator for the Money! (Generator Buyer's Guide) Harbor Freight vs. Everyone!
Links*
DuroMax 12K Dual Fuel: bit.ly/3SAr9bu
Champion 11.5K: amzn.to/3rbwASq
Westinghouse 12.5K Dual Fuel: bit.ly/3Si5ZPv
Pulsar 12K Dual Fuel: bit.ly/3y1WNH1
HF Predator 9.5K: bit.ly/3ptMkzW
Honda 7K: imp.i284638.net/rnm2z3
DuroMax 9K Dual Fuel: bit.ly/3UMVOnK
Genmax 9K: amzn.to/3UHVy9H
AIVolt 10K: amzn.to/3rb1dHN
HF Predator 9K: bit.ly/3CfhZf6
Champion 9.3K: amzn.to/3DVIrMh
Westinghouse 9.5K: amzn.to/3LLn8yR
Westinghouse 9.5K Dual Fuel: amzn.to/3BT3xbi
HF Predator 4.3K: bit.ly/3xWUfdc
Westinghouse 3.6K Dual Fuel: amzn.to/3SzLhLv
Wen 4.7K: amzn.to/3UJs6Ab
Sportsman 4K Dual Fuel: bit.ly/3dMDRoK
Sportsman 4K: bit.ly/3fs19Rd
HF Predator 3.5K: bit.ly/3SyukAk
Wen 3.8K: amzn.to/3UJHvAw
Genmax 3.2K: amzn.to/3DXBRVq
Maxpeedingrods 3.5K: bit.ly/3SIiGDn
Sportsman 3.5K Dual Fuel: bit.ly/3dOYrEY
Champion 4.5K: bit.ly/3rf3L7W
PowerSmart 4.5K: bit.ly/3riEsS8
Maxpeedingrods 5.5K: bit.ly/3Rrv5KU
HF Predator 2K: bit.ly/3LNH04d
Wen 2K: amzn.to/3ChWR8k
Genmax 2K: amzn.to/3CdkU8i
Champion 2.5K: amzn.to/3xZLHCi
Bluetti 600W: amzn.to/3xWVetU
Bluetti 800W: amzn.to/3Cdj7Qq
EBL 1K: amzn.to/3BRVZFI
Ecoflow 882Wh: amzn.to/3rfN0cO
Ecoflow 1.2K Refurb: ebay.to/3BNFbQl
Bluetti 2K: amzn.to/3fti1XK
Bluetti Ext Batt: amzn.to/3Rj1xyS
HeatWaveVisual: bit.ly/3DyI7CU
HeatWaveVisual 10% Off: DENOFTOOLS10
Olight: bit.ly/2FTvN4u
Olight 10% Off: TDOT10
For Merch, IG, FB, TikTok, and more: linktr.ee/denoftools
Sorry, we don't talk about how we do "The Bear".
Email: DoT@red-beard.com (Business Questions Only)
Mailing Address? This part is tricky. We bounce back and forth between Montana and Las Vegas. Please contact us to make sure where we will be.
Montana: PO BOX 76, Livingston, MT 59047
Nevada: 2251 N Rampart BLVD, Suite 177, Las Vegas, NV 89128
*Just assume all links are affiliate links. They can be to Amazon, Walmart, or any of a dozen other links.
100% Transparency Guarantee. It is our pledge to be as open as possible and always let you know of any relationship we have with any seller or manufacturer. If a company has paid to sponsor a video we will tell you it's a sponsored video. If a company has provided free products for review we will tell you the product was provided for free. If a company pays for us to travel to an event we will disclose that as well. At the end of the day, we believe that we can and will always give you an honest review but we also understand that unless you have all the details there can't be real trust in our community and we always put our community first!

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26 июн 2024

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Комментарии : 613

@g.elliott4789 Год назад

I'm sticking with my Honda "waste of money". My generator is twenty five years old, hundreds of hours of backup power use. Just ran through 12 gallons of gas- 3.5 days continuous use during IAN. Oil change and ready for the next one.

@KubotaBXathome Год назад

Me too

@MJF40 Год назад

Me three

@robertstewart1262 Год назад

Me4.

@phildern6203 Год назад

Me 5. Over 5000 hrs on my EU7000is. Used commercially

@MrGhendri Год назад

Honda 2000/2200x2/3000/3200 owner here. My only complaint is the 3000 is a mouse nest magnet. “Budget” Emergency Generator wasn’t a consideration. Up to a few years ago I had a overloaded 3000gallon Koi pond running a 1hp/14amp circulator pump. The fish were huge and 10-15 years old. Never had an issue with a Honda. I’m currently in love with the 3200 for my Host Mammoth truck camper w/12k btu A/C and a BERGS system extended run tank

@danielhebenthal9003 Год назад

I have that exact Duro Max dual fuel in the beginning of the video. I love it! It can power my whole house including my music studio, everything except the house air conditioner. Remember that you have to buy a cord to connect it to the house plug if you have a panel plug in set up. I have yet to run it for more than a few minutes on gasoline. I have a 250lb propane tank. I do use it at least once a year because I live in North Florida.

@jameskennedy673 Год назад

Great information, you’ve helped a bunch of people. Your right about the noisy open frame generators, our son has a large Champion generator that he uses on construction sites, you can hear it two blocks away. Keep all the great information coming

@roussell Год назад

I have two of the Wen 3800 Watt inverter generators and for the past two years of RV and backup power use at the house; they have been absolutely perfect. I parallel them for the RV and they run everything and stay reasonably quiet doing it.

@MrLike2surf Год назад

How do you parallel them together?

@chrisgallagher3703 Год назад

I'm new to the channel and I love it. You really do a great job and I'm enjoying going through all you old videos right now so I can catch up. I've just came upon your channel a few days ago and I've truly learned a ton of info that I didn't know...So thanks and Keep Up The Great Work ! Your doing a great service and job for everyone !!!

@TheNorthwestTravelers Год назад

Great Video!!! So much info!! We are full time in our 5th Wheel. I use 2 Firman 3300/3000 watt generators with remote start. Have a parallel kit so I have a 50amp outlet to power the trailer. Have had this brand for 4 years. Very happy with them. Didn't see this one in your review. Probably just too many to review. Thanks for the great video.

@mercsmith Год назад

I bought a champion 2000 watt inverter 5 years ago have had zero issues. Always dependable very quiet. Will run a fridge a freezer several lights and charge phones etc all at the same time. I am extremely happy with my purchase

@52mulder 9 месяцев назад

First time with you. What I like, is that you get to the 'point'. You don't yack & yack about yourself blah & blah, and take up my time. That's important. Get to the Point! And you do that!!!! Excellent

@davehoward2791 Год назад

Love these unbiased, honest comparison videos Bear, keep cranking them out. I have a standard Generac 6850w continuous generator I bought the day after Hurricane Sally kicked Lower Alabama in the junk and it’s served me well for 2 years, but now you’ve got me eyeballing that big Predator inverter job. Thanks as always for the excellent content, shine on! 👍

@Boobtube. Год назад

unbiased? He said himself Harbor Freight gives him tools. Of course he is not going to bite off the hand that feeds him. He is bought and paid for, in no way is he unbiased.

@markk364 Год назад

nothing unbiased about this vid -- he's a marketing source.

@scottyV1000 Год назад

Very good and complete review. I have two Honda 2000i generators I bought before HF came out with theirs. If I had to do it over again now I would have bought HFs 3500 Preditor. A friend has one and they are very quiet plus the engine they use is very reliable as I have one that I bought as a replacement for a B&S rototiller engine and it always starts right up on the first pull. I’ve started playing around with Solar with HFs 100 watt panels and a LiFePO4 battery supply this year for those unexpected Winter outages when the squirrels decide to chew on the transformer wires. It will run my fish tanks and my pellet stove for the hour or two the power is out without fueling up the the Hondas.

@vivillager Год назад

To those living in California, first, my sympathies, second, if you are going to get a generator, the time is now, for the really near future In 2028, the only generators allowed to be sold will have to be the "zero-emissions" type, which, really isn't a generator, it's just a glorified power bank, like the kind you use to charge up a cell phone, just that instead of 5VDC, this will be 120VAC. From my understanding, any gas-powered generator purchased before the deadline will be grandfathered in.

@keithharrington8715 Год назад

Electrical guy here with a gentle reminder: DO NOT CNNECT YOUR GENERATOR TO YOUR HOME ELECTRICAL SYSTEM UNLESS YOUR SYSTEM IS MODIFIED AND APPROVED TO ACCEPT IT AND BE SAFE. I expect I am preaching t the choir, but safety is important to all.

@lostone260 10 месяцев назад

Just completed the break-in period and so far the unit is operating perfectly ru-vid.comUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y . I was amazed by just how quiet this little guy is. I kept having to walk down the driveway to the generator to make sure it was still running. In fact, the most annoying noise coming from the set-up is a high-pitched chirping coming from the pressure regulator on the propane line. I suppose it's possible my other propane-powered generator's pressure regulator is making the same noise, but the generator itself is so loud I've never noticed it. Build quality so far is excellent. My only nit is the service panel is a little tricky to remove. I feel like I might break off one of the plastic tabs when bending it back. I probably just need to work out the technique, so will not hold it against Champion.Next week I intend to fully load the unit to charge a large battery pack and will update this review if there's any problem (3000W continuous load vs a rated 3100W capacity while using propane). Absent any trouble there, I'm 100% pleased with this purchase.

@andrewinvests839 Месяц назад

MN vc LO l n

@nilslandis1603 Год назад

Thanks for all you do, I love your reviews and use the info to make choices! I'm a contractor your age, and recently bought the HF Hercules compound mitre saw & stand thanks to your hard work - love it. I hope you keep it up, the info is amazing

@jimdent351 Год назад

Honda and Yamaha are the best. I know someone with a hunting camp and he's tried them all. Many of the less expensive generators won't even last a full 2 weeks of running, and all have not lasted more than 3 seasons x 2 weeks running. He now uses Yamaha and has been using it for 9 years and never had a problem.

@bradfordjustice7146 4 месяца назад

i run my generators 25-30 hours a week for work. Best is champion but theyre loud. Next is Predator not that its better quality but price wise better than Honda. Im on my 4th year with My predator 3500.

@TheFrayman 3 месяца назад

The one from costco firman are the best, cuz you can run em to death for 3 years return it and get a new one. 🤣

@9ersdad Год назад

Champion has great customer service. They mailed me what I needed. I also have a champion shop about 4 miles from my house.

@paulcanon5533 Год назад

Love the HF 3500. Very quiet, powers my RV. Great quality and value.

@BMUU666 Год назад

I know these are longer form and may take more time. That being said, it is helpful to see which brands are recommended and to hear some background from the collective knowledge of your testing and the groups testing

@bunberrier Год назад

Ian just came through, no damage for us but power was out for about 36 hours. We have a Champion 3500/4000 peak, single phase. My goal is to get along minimally so the fuel doesnt run out. Running two fridges, a 5k btu window ac, lights, fans, battery chargers, and sometimes toaster oven, microwave, etc... we used about 6-8 gallons. It ran the whole time. My favorite part about this generator is you can have it run full 3600 RPM if you want, to be ready for a lot of frequently switching heavy loads like tools, or set it to idle and vary its rpm based on load, which is what we did. Most of the time the RPM was near idle or only. about 50%, saving fuel and being quiet.

@philc.9280 Год назад

My older inverter generator is now a backup as I left gas generators in lieu of LifePo4 batteries with solar panels. Now no noise, no gas and no fumes. Just a wonderful source of unlimited power as long as the sun is still around.

@back2backjack1 Год назад

Totally happy with my DuroMax dual fuel. I have only run propane, which doesn't go bad like gas. Lots easier to find propane and store it.

@misfitgarageutah Год назад

That Duro Max is a good generator just louder than hell like you said! We used that genny to weld on job sites a bunch so it definitely puts out a lot of power! The ability to run it on propane is nice. Ran out of gas one time and had a partial bottle of propane and that saved us. Biggest issue we had with it was the tires or wheels.... They are junk for how heavy the generator is. I swapped them for airless tires and it worked great after that!

@johncook2763 4 месяца назад

My Duromax came with tires that are no-air/no-flat tires. People say that they go out of round when they sit in one place for a while. I think if I put it on blocks so there’s no weight on the tires this problem will be eliminated.

@ozarkervalhalla636 Год назад

I have had 2 instances on two separate champion generators to use their customer support people. First was a faulty voltage regulator and second was no start due to worn brushes. They warranteed and immeadiately were able to diagnose and send parts to fix these generators. The gens were 3 and 4 years old with constant use. Things like pullcords and mufflers were junk but the main running gear works as advertised. To be fair they are both lower end model basic open frame gens.

@chrisg278 6 месяцев назад

Thanks for the information. Good video as usual..I just bought the westinghouse 9500 tri fuel. Found it for 1000 bucks. Ran natural gas line from the house and bricked a small shelter in the backyard for it. Hopefully it will serve me well for a few years to come.

@FDRGREG Год назад

I have a Westinghouse Wgen 9500/12500. It powers most of the whole house including AC. I turn off the dryer, range, hot water heater. Running through a 50 amp inlet into a 50amp 240 dedicated interlocked breaker. I keep 6 x 5 gallon cans of non ethanol. I exercise the gen monthly for 30 minutes. Keep the oil changed yearly. I also have a gen tent to keep it covered from bad weather when actually using it outside. Life is good!

@Jim-bx7vs 8 месяцев назад

I have a 10,000W DuroMax paid $1000 in 2019 Dual fuel running whole house on propane 30 and 40 lb tanks had a power outage 2020 power out 10hrs ran it most of the day and at night for bed only thing running was fridge and freezer power came back on 8am next day Generator ran good no problems yard completely fenced on all four sides of my property dog included ,moosberg 12ga.on duty.🤨 great channel very informative thanks for sharing.

@Liowen Год назад

We got a Predator 9k back a few years ago and it has been great. I can normally get 9-10 hours on a tank of fuel, so I just fill it up before bed and by morning it needs to be topped off again. The noise isn't as bad as the old one use to be, of course it is about 10 feet (length of the deck) from the house so it is not too bad. I also chain it to the deck post (6x6 cemented 3 feet in the ground) so I don't worry too much about it being stolen, of course it isn't out front either and being in the country helps a lot.

@rosewoodsteel6656 Год назад

I bought a Generac XP8000e a few years ago. It was purchased by someone after a big storm, but was never used, so I got a great deal on it. It is installed in my shed, properly ventilated and exhausted. For security, I have it chained to the shed floor, behind a locked door. We can't even hear it run from inside of our house.

@michaelmanahan4723 Год назад

Thanks Bear, for the research and to know what is out there to buy and the price point of them all.

@Instantpower332 Год назад

It’s great to see that your telling folks the honest truth. We have a 9500 watt screamer, runs a 440 foot well boiler and fridge. It’s modified so we don’t use it for anything else except tools. It sucks gas like it’s going out of style. But had gotten us through 8 days of No Power. ( it Sucked ) welcome to weather in New England…

@therealrobroy8576 19 дней назад

I bought a predator 3500 when the first came to the market in New Hampshire the gave me a discount and coupon and walked out for 499$ has more than 200 hours oil changed every 30 hours absolutely flawless!! Ran it for 6 days during a small hurricane ran my whole home besides 240v loads sips fuel quiet as can be! Getting the 9500 for the well pump and A/C can’t wait to review!!

@gibblespascack1418 Год назад

I have my 1998 Generac XL5500. Loved it and it has always started and taken me through every power outage. However at 24 years old, it was time for a replacement. My need was only 120 power so I purchased a Firman inverter 3382. 3600 watt with electric start. Loved it, it makes very little noise compared to the Generac xl5500, and could power everything that we need during an emergency. However, since I only need it for long power outages, I was thinking of adding the Ecoflow pro and the house automatic transfer switch, that way the house will keep going and I will not need to run the generator as much to keep 10 circuits running 24/7 during a power outage. Still on the fence so if you have experience with the Ecoflow pro power station, that would be great.

@bbkmm1 Год назад

Yes bear, these type of videos are the most helpful. I'd rather buy the best tool that fits my need/budget than getting something less desirable on sale.

@cujoedaman Год назад

Ha! My dad bought a Pulsar brand push mower. We needed something small and cheap to use in our newly dug ditches that are much deeper. I think we got it from Menard's for like $100 as a floor model. It always starts on the first pull, I abuse it a bit, I even installed larger rear wheels on it to make it easier to push around. Probably wouldn't use it as a "daily driver", but for the occasional bush whacker, it works fine :D

@Mrandazzo4 Год назад

Great video, I have the Wen 3800 and it is awesome. I like it slightly better than the predator 3500. It runs myRV and 1 time, my house!

@asl3651 Год назад

great video. I has been wanting to get me a power generator, but was hesitate due all of the brands, options, and confusing marketing. Your video really clears up lot of confussions. Thank you.

@tuberstitious 4 месяца назад

I already bought 3 "WORKZONE" 2000w gens (looks zactly like the Pulsar) from ALDI at a screaming deal...figuring I could parallel 2 and have a spare. They have been great but still a bit lite for my 91 Conquest in these TX summers, so after your previous generator video I went looking for one you recommended in the 4000 to 4500 watt range but found a Pulsar 4000 W dual fuel generator at a screaming deal and snapped it up. 400 more RW than the Parallel 2K Watt gens makes a difference and I can have electricity at home and camp without having to lug them around. They all seem very good. If only I could triple or quadruple parallel them... huh 😊... and afford all that gas, oil, and spark plugs

@donaldsmith3048 Год назад

Thanks for the information! I think what most people don't look at on the power units is the total watt hours. Yes it will run my things. But it will Not run them for days after a hurricane! I have a open frame 5550 that has been used for many storms. Yes it makes a lot of noise! But I can run 2 refrigerators, a freezer, window A/C, TV, and much more for days! Florida has a You Loot We Shoot! Yes people know I have it. But they should know that they can't just take it. And that you Loot. We shoot has been on the news after this last storm!

@wiredperformance6130 Год назад

I appreciate these in depth comparisons to see what’s available and how they compare to each other! Nicely done!

@MoeLarrycurly1 Год назад

well for years I had an old Black & Decker it was getting hard to start in the winter time cuz sometimes the power goes out in the winter. LOL just couldn't pull start it fast enough so I got a champion my wife bought a reconditioned one that is propane and gasoline considering gas goes bad or can go bad I've never used the gas part but I've always used the propane part the only problem in the winter there's not enough surface area sometimes for it to keep running surface area in the tank so it'd be nice to have one of those heaters for the propane tank. but I just switch out the tanks. we've had no problems with ours and I'm very happy with it..

@EricArrow Год назад

As far as DuroMax...they use to be called PowerMax. I own a PowerMax 4400 watt generator that I have had since 2007. This generator has been used for power at the race track and run consistently for HOURS with no issues. I've had great luck with mine.

@gben2457 Год назад

I have an old Powermate with a Tecumseh motor. Loud, but reliable. I recently bought a Generac 3200i for a backup. Quiet and clean, I'm ready.

@ShaneCarson Год назад

We have a Generac GP 6500. I think it’s around 8125 Starting watts and 6500 running watts. This is our first genny and we’ve had it since the summer of 2021. We have it plugged in thru a receptacle and interlock switch on our breaker box. It’s LOUD as all get out but it powers (almost) everything in our house without having to use any extension cords. This is a great video and I learned a lot from watching it. Thanks to your info I’m thinking about getting two of those 3-4k watt inverter gennys and running parallel if need be. It would be so much more convenient and easier to store.

@dac7046 8 месяцев назад

Given that most generators will sit unused for long periods but when you need them you really need them I think a video on best generator storage practices would be valuable. My short list: - only use ethanol-free fuel in general but especially for storage (yes, I know it’s hard to get in some States). Ethanol attract moisture and it phase separates pretty readily. - use a proven engine rust inhibitor in the oil. I like CamGuard (either the aviation or automotive version) though I think there are others. It’s expensive but worth it. - don’t even think about running it for a few minutes every so often! Better to not run it at all. - Do run it periodically but for like 30-45 minutes well above idle. You want it thoroughly hot so after shutdown the latent heat will evaporate the water created by running it in the first place. - change the oil more frequently than you probably are because one function of oil is to absorb moisture. - depending on your situation make use of desiccant to protect electronics and engine from moisture or at least store where ambient temperature doesn’t drop below dew point though probably tough to do in some parts of the country.

@SurferJoe46 7 месяцев назад

a. To keep condensate from collecting in the fuel and ruining the carb - keep the fuel tank full to the top! b. Using fuel stabilizer is not as good of an idea as you might think. It forms a single molecule-thick paraffin wax film on the surface to keep the oxygen out of the fuel, but that film breaks and will not reform once you jostle the generator or fuel can! c. For electric-start models, keep the battery fully charged because a low charged battery will freeze and swell up, ruining it. d. My generator gets to below Zero temperatures, and that's OK if you don't make it work too hard until it gets up to normal operating temperatures.

@andrewdonohue1853 6 месяцев назад

@@SurferJoe46 the problem with filling the tank full is if it spoils now you just wasted quite a bit of fuel. i think im going to try to keep changing the gas out periodically.... like every few months, drain it out use it in the car.... and put fresh in the tank. start and run the generator for awhile

@AJ-jy6lb 5 месяцев назад

You have ALL good points, and should be followed for storage, but you left out the biggest one (in my humble opinion),... Use propane. A lot less hassle. No need for fuel stabilizers, no spillage, no nasty smell, doesn't age, less buildup of nasties in the engine, easier storage, etc. A bypass oil filter system that filters down to 2 microns is worth it as well. The bypass will filter just some of the oil (less than 10%), through the 2 micron filter, and then you don't have to change the oil as often. You can see BLACK oil turn almost new again through a 2 micron bypass, in just a few hours run time. Well worth the price and installation. Oil is numero uno when it comes to engine life. I use a "special cocktail" of a full synthetic with just one additive in everything i own with an engine, and the smog checks always get better with each passing year. No joke. Castrol full synthetic with a 4 to 1 mix of Duralube (5 quart oil pan, 4 quarts Castrol full synthetic oil and 1 quart Duralube, which i mix in a 2 gallon can to use in everything i own). That mix works miracles on engines. I swear it restores engines to better condition.

@clsammo Год назад

I have 2 Champion generators, a 9500 and a 3500, both are dual fuel. Can't recommend these highly enough! I take care of them but also run them hard. Both are over 5 years old. They still start easily and run great. Reliability is critical for me and these both measure up. I just wanted to throw this out there for anyone shopping

@clsammo Год назад

@@sheepdog3828 Good question, but I can't give an answer as I have never needed to have service done on them. I've ordered some parts off their website and used their help chat when I converted my larger one to a floating ground. If it's a warranty question you'd need to check their website or call customer service. For out-of-warranty service I would think any small-engine repair shop could help you out.

@athanasiospipinou9086 10 месяцев назад

Great show! You got me looking at Harbor Freight before I made any decisions. Thank you!

@DWinnie67 4 месяца назад

better stick with honda

@kevkev5935 Год назад

I'm in Texas and after the deep freeze and week without power in 2021 I picked up a Duromax XP12000HX. Dual fuel with electric start. I wired up a back feed breaker and interlock to supply whole house power. We have two AC units a (5 ton and 3.5 ton) for each of the floors in our house. I honestly was going to be happy if only the 3.5 ton unit would run. It did no problem. For grins I thought I'd try the 5 ton. The generator was able to fire that one up as well. What really surprised me is that actually both units were able to run simultaneously on generator power so to say I was surprised was an understatement. Obviously in a SHTF situation I wouldn't be running both units, but I have been very happy with Duromax. To your point though, the thing is loud So I've been looking at either building a generator shed or pricing out a zombie box.

@jamessmith2668 Год назад

This helps a lot thank you I'm still thinking on which way to go on portable generators shine on

@beaugibson2951 Год назад

I have a 6500 watt(6000 running) open frame and a 4500 watt(3750 running) inverter generator, my advice is go with an inverter style. Remember the bigger a generator is the more gas, heavier, and louder it is. Remote start is amazing when its cold outside. 10 gauge extension cords are your friend.

@GG-sj2wg Год назад

Been running my Predator everyday for 2 years while I build my off grid home. Change the oil weekly and most generators give you their monies worth.

@PrecisionClays Год назад

Upgraded to my Predator 9500 last year from an open frame generator. Got it delivered for $1999. It kept everything on after we lost power this week after Ian. Ran my 4 ton AC with no problems. My UPSs for computers and TVs never beeped once, unlike the old open frame generator. Even ran an extension cord to my neighbor so they could keep their fridge running. I wish they had a switch to bond/unbond neutral to frame ground depending on use. I added one to my generator.

@sticktron2857 Год назад

Do you have the predator open frame 9500 and you ran a 4 ton AC do you have a soft start on your unit

@PrecisionClays Год назад

@@sticktron2857 I switched from a smaller open frame to the Predator 9500. Yes, I have a soft start (surestart) on my 4 ton AC.

@tomschmidt381 Год назад

We have the HF Predator 8750/7000 I bought in 2016. Agree with you about price increases, ours only cost $500 at a Black Friday sale. The good news is buying the backup generator has kept massive power outages at bay and other then testing every quarter or so have not actually needed to use it. We are in a pretty rural area so generator noise and theft is not (hopefully) a problem. Something folks need to keep in mind using propane if you are in a cold area need a pretty big propane tank to keep it from freezing and to maintain decent gas flow.

@johnhufnagel Год назад

around the same time frame I put in a half dozen of those HF 7000/8750 units for customers. They're still working to this day without issue. I trust them so much it's what I put in for mom.

@adventurehawksancientharmony Год назад

Bought the 8750 today for $1400. Ouch!

@tomschmidt381 Год назад

@@adventurehawksancientharmony I assume that is the new inverter generator. They have pros and cons compared to traditional generators and tend to be much more expensive.

@Mike-01234 Год назад

@@tomschmidt381 More electronics to blow out biggest thing I see with Chinese power converters they use cheap electrolytic capacitors. Eventually they budge the tops and short out. When that happens integrated circuits, and power transistors overheat and blow out also. I would trust a Honda that uses quality parts, but anything else unless it cost less than $600 not worth the risk on $3000 generator.

@johncook2763 4 месяца назад

@@adventurehawksancientharmony I bought the DuroMax 13,000 EH Dual Fuel from Amazon on Black Friday / Cyber Monday sale for $950. When the 12,000 sold out at $900 they reduced the price of the 13,000 to $950. So if you ever need a replacement, that might be an option to remember.

@fredc3543 Год назад

Predator 3500 here. No problems. Works as expected.

@stevewalter415 Год назад

Another great video, thanks! I have the Predator open frame 9,000/7,250. At 3:15 AM today someone took out a roadside pole and 250 homes lost power. Woke up at 4:00 to no power and 44 degrees. Was on generator for 4 hours. It won’t carry my heat pump but what a godsend for emergencies. Fireplace insert for heat as needed. I’d love to have the quiet inverter but couldn’t talk myself into the $ at the time. Shine on!

@paulcarlson8361 Год назад

Same here brother. Will run my home minus my 220 stuff.

@rbstorms Год назад

Love the new "bear" animation. So lifelike! LOL Great info, but I'd point out that while 30A Travel Trailer is actually 30 amps @110, the "50A RV" is actually two 50 amp circuits from both legs of your standard 110 breaker panel. You could actually wire it up for 220 volts, but you don't typically see that in the vast majority of 5th wheels. To supply the full capacity for a "50A RV", you'll need 12,000 watts. That said, if I power up every electrical device in our rig, including both ACs, microwave, toaster oven, fridge, tv, lights, everything but the hair dryer... I'm only using about 8200 watts. If you use a bit of manual power management, you could keep that way under 5000. Ue some aggressive power misering, and you could keep it under 3500. And now there are plug-in, whole-house soft-starters for RVs. You could run both ACs on a 3500 watt generator with one of these units and have power left over for a lot of other devices. That Bluetti AC200MAX looks really cool! LiFePO for the win, for sure.

@TacticalMainframe Год назад

Yes we do enjoy these type of comparisons

@frankenstudio22 Год назад

A ton of good information! Thank you Bear!

@anthonygagliano2159 Год назад

I had the duromax 4000, got it on a midnight ebay deal...$200!!! (10 years ago)...... lost it in the divorce..... just bought the Firman Tri-fuel 9k...... another ebay special...manufacturer refurbished, with a 2 year warranty....Think it was $550, delivered. so far so good

@jongonegone1262 Год назад

i have a WEN, but i also have a ecoflow that sets the table, shovels driveway, takes out garbage, its a wonderful box !!!!

@amirmirshamsi8181 Год назад

Ecoflow Delta Pro is at top of my list. Came in handy after IAN

@Idahoprepper71 Год назад

I have a Honda eu2000i, Honda eb6500 and a Honda eu7000is. My 2000 has over 7000 hours and still running. I ran my es6500 for 29 days straight, during a winter storm only stopping once a week to change oil. I had a eu6500 with over 10000 hours before selling it and upgrading to the eu7000is fuel injection model with Bluetooth. I would never buy anything but a Honda! Never a single issue on any of them.

@artsisland1683 Год назад

Agreed!

@rosswitte Год назад

From personal experience, the Champion, Westinghouse, and Pulsar are all excellent. Many brands appear to be coming out of the same factories with different colors and labels on them.

@Dive-Bar-Casanova Год назад

Same factory that makes the Hondas.

@greghavens7679 Год назад

We have the Duromax XP13000EH generator. It is a dual fuel but we have only run it on gas. We have had it over a year and used it three times. No issues, works great. It is loud. I attached a motorcycle muffler on it... still loud. There is a company that makes conversion kits so you can hook it up to the gas line in your home. There are two different standards for the natural gas kits. Make sure you check which you need. We have no experience with it. Just wanted to mention it. In regards to computer gear. The sine wave issue you mentioned, can be mitigated by the use of an uninterruptible power supply with a battery back up. Which you should be using on your computer gear anyway. Get a name brand and get one that is much bigger than you actually need.

@johncook2763 4 месяца назад

I have Duromax XP13000EH generator also. Still in break-in period, but I think I’ll be happy with it. There’s a video on RU-vid by Duromax showing how to hook up tri-fuel generator to utility connections. Says to run air conditioner one needs to install a “soft start kit” to the outside air unit (which reduces start-up amps the compressor requires). I also saw a user video in which the owner hooked a Duromax Dual Fuel generator to natural gas using the existing propane connection and regulator (without need of modifying the generator frame).

@steveurbach3093 Год назад

There are major system parts to Generators. The Alternator, the Control (AC and Speed) and the Engine. I have a Honda and my Predator Alternator use the same Brushes on the slip rings, because the Alternator is the same brand (applies to many others). What seems to vary is the AVR module and the main control panel. That leaves the Motor-fuel as the diff between models.

@1D10CRACY Год назад

Personally I prefer the old school 4 pole generators. The older RV generators were 4 poles, only ran at 1800 RPMs, were super quiet and would last a lifetime.

@sprint48219 Год назад

I love the 1800 RPM generators unfortunately they can’t get them to meet EPA and carb without being super expensive anymore that’s why the journey into 3600 RPM 2 pole generators that can be made very cheaply the inverter generators are the way everything is going now and they’re pretty good I have had one with 3800 hours before a failure I have a couple 10,000 W 1800 RPM generators here that used to have a single cylinder diesel on them but it’s impossible to find a small diesel any more (thank you EPA) Just my two cents worth!

@cujoedaman Год назад

We bought an '85 Winnebago from a family friend that has the original generator on it. Never got used when they had it because of an issue with the fuel lines. Dad wants to get a regular generator for the RV and I'm thinking of dropping it out and making it a house generator, at least for the fridge and freezer and maybe some lights so we can see.

@1D10CRACY Год назад

@@cujoedaman The Winnebago's had mostly Kohler or Onan generators, pretty much the best money could buy at the time. Quiet and Reliable. The issue is nobody knows how to troubleshoot them and are not willing to learn, so when they stop working they rip them out and put a cheap screamer in the generator hole or try to jam an inverter generator into the same spot and they don't breath and overheat. If your Dad is silly enough to downgrade to a standard generator, go for it, it would work well for a home generator.

@steveurbach3093 Год назад

Threw a 1 Cylindrical 2 pole on a O-scope years ago, not only did the cycle sag (less voltage)on the off-fire rotation, but there was a lot of hash on the approach and depart of the pole on all cylces

@cujoedaman Год назад

@@1D10CRACY Nah, we'll have one of the quiet Predator's mounted out back, no need to drop it into the existing hold for the old generator. We'll turn that into storage for something else (or extra batteries). The reason we're not using the original generator is there's trouble with the fuel delivery system, since it runs off the main gas tank. Thing is, in order to work on it, you have to drop the whole thing anyway, so might as well replace it with something more modern. Dad also wants to set it up to be used as a house generator too for power outages. We only use it a couple times a year anyway, so not like it's a big deal :D

@bradmaas6875 Год назад

Love the list, dual fuel and 220V

@Faithisfuture 3 месяца назад

Thank you very helpful Looking for first generator

@cattledogjasper1731 Год назад

Thanks for the video Jeff and shine on!

@ReedBurch Год назад

This is the information I have been looking for.

@luckyedwards4870 Год назад

Once again the info is just great, but gall darn I can't believe u skipped right past the 5500/6500 W, predator generator that I just bought at harbor freight, (display model) for a shocking low $349. 00. It just figures. Lol Good job, and definitely a helpful thumbs up.

@iggy151 Год назад

You'll find that a lot of the 2nd tier like Champion or Westinghouse and 3rd tier like Duromax or Powerhouse are all using variants of the same engines and generator assemblies dressed up a bit differently. Most of them are Honda clone engines(nicknamed Chondas).They're so close that genuine Honda parts like carbs, ignition coils etc will bolt right up and work. A lot of the electrical and electronic components, while different in design/appearance/schematic, often share the same DNA because they come from the same superfactories in China. The real difference I've noticed is the build quality of the frames and other materials. Overall you're getting roughly the same thing across the board. The different features are what really set them apart.

@jaywronker7636 Год назад

I've had a small champion I've used since the 90's and the only issue I had was cleaning out the carb a couple years ago. There's a repairman who talks about getting parts and the champions parts are easily obtainable for a fair price. Also, he's never had to make a repair on one other than the same cleaning the carb. Which can happen on any small engine.

@J.Feliciano-FOREVER-JAM-N Год назад

That was really helpful, thanks for doing the research.

@LName100 Год назад

I just got the predator 9000 today for $600 because the air filter cover was dented in shipping. Beat it back into shape with a hammer and it works just fine!

@texasarchitect Год назад

Perfect timing. Thanks Bear!

@WASTED__POTENTIAL Год назад

The WEN 3500w (4kw max) open frame inverter is a fantastic bargain at about $360 with rebate at Menards. I was looking at that one, and was going to buy it until I stumbled across a refurbished Predator 4550 open frame inverter for only a few bucks more. I went with the Predator because it has a much bigger fuel tank, but would recommend the Wen.

@jamesnewman5695 Год назад

I've used a couple Duromax generators and they're really good and reliable

@RichardVissers Год назад

Same here. While it says Dual Fuel I've run them on Gas, Propane and Natural Gas. I kind of did the roll your own whole house generator by putting it into a ventilated suncast enclosure, and it works like a champ.

@bayouslots3143 Год назад

Thanks Tool Bear, I been looking at generators for the past 2 weeks. Don't forget about the "THD" total harmonic distortion of the generator. You would like to keep it

@rand8355 9 месяцев назад

and..... how do you determine THD? lol

@bayouslots3143 9 месяцев назад

Most of the time if the generator has low THD they will post it under the specifications. If not you will have to call the company and ask for the THD rating. I just went with a Champion 100520

@michaelmiller1109 Год назад

Thank you again for the great content!

@davidwalle5025 Год назад

Northern tool is a good source for off brand parts and service. Good review. Shine on

@skywatcher7272 6 месяцев назад

Mine works just fine. Don't use it often but starts right up when I do. I have a small camper and a 1500 watt heater. Predator 3500 is what I have I've had it 1. 1/2 years

@davef.2811 Год назад

I've had good reliability/serviceability with Champion generators for almost 20 yrs, now. A few years back, they had an issue with leaking fuel tank shut-off valves, I called and they sent me 3 updated valves free of charge which were easily installed to maintain serviceability.

@davef.2811 Год назад

Great video. Another thought, if your generator has no wheels, such as my old Coleman camping unit, you can get a Harbor Freight wooden, carpet-padded furniture dolly very cheaply, zip-tie the generator to it, and attach a length of lightweight chain (I use a 6' chain dog leash on mine) to schlepp it around on concrete, or the asphalt driveway. It will slowly roll on close-cut grass, or some well-compacted ground, also, given the small-sized caster wheels.

@yo.aj6391 Год назад

Perfect! Info I was looking for

@matbasterson520 5 месяцев назад

I just bought the Duromax XP5500HX dual fuel with inverter for $749.00, it also comes with the wheel kit. I was looking at the Predator, but the equivalent model was $1100 without the wheel kit. Liked and subbed!

@scotttalkowski691 Год назад

I purchased the Predator 9500 with a 3 year warranty for the same base price using a 20% coupon, so that worked out fine for me.

@percyfaith11 Год назад

Depends on the use. If you have a food truck for example that needs a gen for 8 hours a day, every day, you'd better get a Honda. If you only use the gen for emergency back up a few hours per year then the Predator would probably be ok. Keeping it Dutch has on his YT channel, a video about running through 2 new Predator 9500s that he used constantly while living in an a camper off the grid. He got less than a combined 3000 hours between the 2 of them until they wore out or broke down. The first one was withing the 90 day HF warranty period. HF did give him 2 new gens under warranty but the hassle of carting 2 heavy gens back and forth to a HF store was considerable.

@TheBirdandEagle Год назад

Great informative video. Thank you.

@mtiger5 Год назад

I’ve went through “3” 3500 predators for my rv in less than a year. I finally bought what I should’ve in the first place a Honda and it’s given me zero issues now going on 18 months. You get what you pay for

@TechViewOpinions Год назад

Like the buyer guides!

@mafiapuppet5759 Год назад

I've lived off grid for years now I am off grid right now in the path of a hurricane Champion is by far the best generator for the money

@m3rdpwr Год назад

When my neighbor's tree fell on my home and truck ripping the wires clear out of the house, I ran out to get a generator so I wouldn't be without powers for 3 days again. I bought a return from Lowe's, a Briggs & Stratton brand for maybe $400 6250 watt I think, at the time which was good because nobody had them. They had maybe four of them, I took the one that looked the newest with the fewest hours and even after the discounted price, I was still able to get another 5% off from my Lowe's credit card. It had very few hours on it and it was brought back because of a dirty carburetor. If I was to do it all over again, I would make sure at a minimum that I got a dual or a tri fuel generator.

@1stMrSoundguy Год назад

helpful info thinking about a predator gen soon in vegas

@klxboy9994 Год назад

I am a big Sportsman generator fan boy. I bought their open frame 2000, then their 1000 inverter then their 4000 open frame and chainsaw. I have not been disappointed by them whatsoever and absolutely satisfied.

@larryl4216 Год назад

Sportsman fan here also.

@robertbagnall4868 Год назад

Sportsman has fantastic customer service

@scrapperstacker8629 Год назад

Great video I love getting the info.

@christophersustayta5974 11 месяцев назад

I also have an old 2400 watt power mate a friend of mine gave me it was not in running condition I have it repaired for about $100.00 it also works great.

@ViciousXUSMC Год назад

I got the GenMax after lots of research. So the closest is the Predator. $2400 and the GenMax $2400 equal price. However for a long time the Genmax was (and still is) $200 of so only $2200. Comparing the two directly. The Genmax has an oil filter to help keep stuff out of the motor, it is rated to run quieter, it has a dedicated 50A outlet making it great to use for home backup, if you ever wanted more power, just need some cables to parallel two of them together, this is a 3 wire connection including neutral so parallel is 240V capable, the Predator you have to buy an external kit, and it can only do 120v in parallel as it has no neutral connection. Genmax has rear exhaust instead of side and maintenance is a bit easier on the Genmax. Genmax has an entire readout display for wattage, voltage, and runtime making it easy to monitor your usage, and know when to do your maintenance. Last thing to mention off the top of my head the Genmax for $2400 is dual fuel. The gas only is $2200 or $2000 with the $200 off discount. I also know the Genmax has direct airflow for cooling forced by a fan, not sure about the Predator. So price and performance they are identical pretty much, but the Genmax seems to offer more, and depending on your needs some of those things are really important. I put a 50A inlet on the main panel, and was able to plug the Genmax right in and was ready to rock, and it was so quiet my neighbors were like, thats a generator?? With the $200 savings I was able to get a no questions asked extended warranty from Amazon, just incase something happens its shipped and fixed for free for 3-4 years, and if it cant be fixed, you get a full refund of the purchase price.

@andersonsprairieviewfarm2552 Месяц назад

It's been over 10 years ago a friend of mine bought a 6500 from harbor freight as a emergency replacement for his construction company planning to replace it by the end of the summer, the electric starter quit but it pull starts easily, that temporary generator is still going strong, the majority of his work there is no power on site yet, so it's absolutely needed almost evey day, it's truck mounted and exposed to the elements 24/7, I find that to be very impressive.

@dbishop083 Год назад

I am completely green when it comes to generators. I'm starting a small mobile car detailing business. I only need to power a 1700 psi electric power washer, Dry/Wet shop vac, and electric blower initially. How much power would I possibly need to get the job down. Budget friendly would be great starting out. Great video and I learned alot. Thanks!!!

@johncole1725 Год назад

As a rule of thumb propane fuel doesn't burn as hot as gasoline so you need to reduce your output wattage rating about 20% less than running on gasoline. Altitude has a BIG effect on power output as well, because you lose about 3% of your sea level power for every 1,000 feet of elevation. (8,000 feet drops power output almost 25%).

@franklandgraff1190 Год назад

I love these type videos! I wish you would given the tri-fuel generators a mention!

@everss02 Год назад

I have that Duramax, got on amazon(5% prime card cash back) , $940 to my door with tax! :) april 14th 2022. 50 amp outlet, so great for whole house. Invertor isn't worth the money for something you maybe run once a year. At racetracks, everyone has a predator invertor basically. I also have a smaller sportsman(2000 starting watts), basically ran it 8 hours a day at racetrack for tire warmers all year to the point were the oil ran dry, add oil still runs like a top today, insane lol

@TexasScout Год назад

I’ve had a 4500 watt sportsman for quite a few years, I rarely have used it. However we did get a chance to use it during The ice storms a few years back. I loaned it to somebody as our power never went out. They ran it for quite a few days until the muffler vibrated clean off of the head, broke right at the head joint.I ordered a new muffler from Champion took me about 15 minutes to replace it.