Generators

[kpagel]

Well, I'm taking my little detailing side business to the next level... I'm going mobile full time. I'm almost done building my trailer and I have most of everything I already need (pressure washer, tank, chemicals, supplies, pumps, etc). One of the last things I need is a generator.

How much power do I need? I'll be powering the typical items, rotary, PC, pump, pressure washer, vacuum, etc. What are some good brands to look at? I'm a big fan of buying the best I can get right away, rather than wasting time and money buying junk now and replacing it in 6 months.

Thanks for any help.

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Generators

Honda.

If we're real lucky, maybe, just maybe Joe will chime in with some advice.

[gbackus]

Re: Generators

I believe Joe has two Honda 3500's, and one Honda 5000 watt generator. When we did the busses, I think we used the 3500, so that should be more than enough power.

[Superior Shine]

Re: Generators

I have 2-3500 watt machines and 1-6500 watt machine.

All are Hondas and I bought them used one way or another.

The 3500 runs my vacuum and a large hot water extrator at the same time with no problem.

One of my 3500 gens is over 12 years and I DOG it. I have had to do about $500 worth of repair/maintenance on it to date.

[kpagel]

Re: Generators

Thanks for the replies, I pretty much figured Honda would be the way to go.

One more question... is anything by Honda OK do they sell cheaper consumer models and more expensive "professional" models?

Thanks again!

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Generators

Thanks Joe for helping out one of our members.

[Tim Lingor]

Re: Generators

Thanks for the replies, I pretty much figured Honda would be the way to go.

One more question... is anything by Honda OK do they sell cheaper consumer models and more expensive "professional" models?

Thanks again!

Hey

Honda sells all kinds of models from regular generators (as in noisy) or the higher end models that are extremely quiet but expensive.

I would strongly encourage you to buy the Hondas. For a while there, many people were off buying what they "thought" was a Honda clone (Kipor). In reality, they are very different machines. I have talked with many that have had the Kipor's fail and wished they had bought the Honda from the very beginning.

Tim

[KTruck]

Re: Generators

Hi:

Thanks for the replies, I pretty much figured Honda would be the way to go.

One more question... is anything by Honda OK do they sell cheaper consumer models and more expensive "professional" models?

Thanks again!

Do a Google search for the Honda Power Tools web site.

I always look at the manufactures web site when looking to purchase a tool.

You will be able to see all models and get accurate specs. etc.

Looking at the manufacture's site in the past has really helped me.

Regards,

KTruck

[kpagel]

Re: Generators

Hi:



Do a Google search for the Honda Power Tools web site.

I always look at the manufactures web site when looking to purchase a tool.

You will be able to see all models and get accurate specs. etc.

Looking at the manufacture's site in the past has really helped me.

Regards,

KTruck

Thanks for the reply. I guess my question was poorly worded. I know there are all sorts of different models, but what I meant to ask was are the cheaper models junk with a Honda name, or are they still quality units, just not quite pro-grade? Not necessarily the kind of info you find on the manufactuer's website.

[Tim Lingor]

Re: Generators

Hey,

Even Honda's cheaper models work really well, but they are quite a bit noiser than the higher end models. For example, the Honda EU3000i is an awesome generator and is soooooo quiet...but you have to pay a lot to get it. So, if you want power and do not mind the noise then the cheaper Honda models will work well. Just IMHO.

One thing to keep in mind, how much power do you need? If you are like Joe and need a lot of power for his equipment, then the ones he uses may be best for you as well.

Tim

[kpagel]

Re: Generators

Thanks for the help Tim, and thanks for posting the info about that model (Honda eu3000i). I found one on Craiglist at a good price and might pick it up if its not sold yet.

[Detaillab]

Re: Generators

We have a champion 3500w that works just fine for PC, and Vaccume. I found it at a pawn shop and it is wonderful. It is really quiet, and i never have problems. The only thing we have done to it was change the spark pulg. I have seen similar models at auto parts stores for a reasonable price. I personally think $300.00 will get you a decent machine. (especially if you go used).

[RZ Autodetailing]

Re: Generators

I have a Troybuilt with a briggs and stratton motor. I bought it at lowes for around $400. Its a 3550 watt and has 5 outlets one being a 220.It always starts on the first pull and has been really dependable. It has alot more power than i need but it comes in handy when the power goes out and iam the only one in my neighborhood with lights , tv and my refrig on.Its really not that loud and has been worth every dollar that i payed for it.

[Jeff Burrows]

Re: Generators

Well From personel experience I would ONLY use honda as every one has mentioned. The Honda EU3000is is the best there is, electric start, 48 DB when idling and a max of 58 Dbs when running all the way. It runs my extractor, VAC, and Air compressors nicely and quietly. What that means to me and my customers is a very economical and effient generator. A normal conversation is 60 dbs so I can talk to my clients without having to keep turning the generator on/off. The only set back is that it is about $1600-1800 but even then if you are serious about the business it is well worth in the long run. I wouldnt skip out. If you need more power check out ther newest EU6500is this thing will run a space shuttle as well as 240 Volt if needed and is still under 60 dbs. But that will cost an arm and a leg. I think anyone can get by w/ 3000 watts or less if you run your stuff simotaneously.

Jeff Burrows

[kpagel]

Re: Generators

Jeff, thanks for your input. I actually wound up buying an EU3000is. It is absolutely amazing. I love how quiet it is and powers everything I need it to. I saw the eu6500is and watched it run and it seemed like an awesome machine, but it was way more power than I would need.

I had a custom tool box built for my generator so it sits on the tongue of the trailer, and its pretty awesome. I'm still in the building phase of my trailer, but I will have the trailer hard wired with extension cords on the interior of the trailer so I can have everything plugged in all the time and it sames floor and interior space in the trailer. I'm attatching a couple photos in case you're interested. I'm hoping to have the trailer done or close to done by the end of the weekend and I'll post a build thread then.