Champion vs Honda/Yamaha

[FCStreamer]

I'm looking to buy a new generator.

I already own an old Honda EU2000 from my boating days. It's about 14 years old. However, it won't run my AC.

My plan is to permanently store it in the bed of my soon to be new Tundra TV.

The 4000-8000 watt generators are too tall to store in the bed and use a cover. So I'm stuck with the 3000-3500 models. Should run one of my ACs fine.

I've read the Honda vs. Yamaha threads. I'm leaning towards a Yanaha 3000SEIB.

However, the Champion inverters caught my eye. They claim to be as quiet, and less than half the price.

What's the catch?

[DanB]

Lower quality. No dealer network for repairs or parts.

Be very careful how noise tests are conducted for comparison purposes.

[n2916s]

Why not buy another EU2000 and run them in parallel to power the AC?

[FCStreamer]

Originally Posted by n2916s

Why not buy another EU2000 and run them in parallel to power the AC?

Mines pretty old and I don't think it will last much longer. Besides I prefer a single engine. Weight and cost are not the issue for me. I was just curious about Champions and whether anyone here got one and can comment.

[FCStreamer]

Originally Posted by DanB

Lower quality. No dealer network for repairs or parts.

Be very careful how noise tests are conducted for comparison purposes.

Good point.

[Naper]

Our 2500 Yamaha is excellent, runs our 15,000 AC with no problems

[FCStreamer]

Originally Posted by Naper

Our 2500 Yamaha is excellent, runs our 15,000 AC with no problems

Really? That's good to know. I'm looking at the 3000SEIB because it looks low enough to fit inside the bed of a pickup, has remote start, and I'm sure it can handle my 15K BTU AC. How long have you had yours?

[Vantair]

We've been struggling with the same options. Wanted best of class smaller gen (and quiet) but 2000s H and Y not enough oomph to fire It up and run without stressing max abilities. So the Yamy 2400ish (1800 run) was in site. 1350.00 ish. Which also fit under truck lid.

After final review and db comparisons (@19" tall fitting under truck tonneau) due to positive reviews and local return option, bit the bullet and ordered the Costco Champion 2800 run / 3100 peak inverter with duel fuel Propane and/or gas /electric start. 999.00 *tax delivered.

Must say, pleasantly surprised. Very high quality build, feel, pleasant low db sounding while running. In Eco mode, starts our 11000 bTU 12.6 amp draw Dometic air cond unit on high without a flinch also started and ran the microwave at same time.

Propane is slightly less power but lower db and fumes.

Would like to hear it next to the H and Y 3000watt units to compare but so far, quite pleased overall.

[ROBERTSUNRUS]

Hi, this is where my Yamaha 2400 runs while in the bed of my truck. This one single, light, generator runs my Air Conditioner.

[Naper]

Originally Posted by FCStreamer

Really? That's good to know. I'm looking at the 3000SEIB because it looks low enough to fit inside the bed of a pickup, has remote start, and I'm sure it can handle my 15K BTU AC. How long have you had yours?

Had it for 4 years. It has been used a lot, camping and around the house. I also looked at the Honda 3000 but went with the Yamaha because its lighter and easier to handle. Easy to start even the wife can do it. Its a small thing but the Yamaha has a fuel shut off (Honda may have it by now) To avoid any carb problems I shut off the gas and let it run out.

[FCStreamer]

Originally Posted by ROBERTSUNRUS

Hi, this is where my Yamaha 2400 runs while in the bed of my truck. This one single, light, generator runs my Air Conditioner.

Thanks for the pic! That exactly the setup I'm shooting for. The Tundra has a slightly deeper bed (22.1") and the 3000ISEB is 21.9" tall, so on paper in seems to work.

[FCStreamer]

Originally Posted by Naper

Had it for 4 years. It has been used a lot, camping and around the house. I also looked at the Honda 3000 but went with the Yamaha because its lighter and easier to handle. Easy to start even the wife can do it. Its a small thing but the Yamaha has a fuel shut off (Honda may have it by now) To avoid any carb problems I shut off the gas and let it run out.

That's a great point about the fuel shut off. That's been my bane with my EU2000. I dont empty it of gas before storage and it's all gummed up a few months later. I recently downloaded an app on my iPhone called "Pure Gas" which shows me all the ethanol free gas stations in my area. There are quite a few. So my generator and golf cart will be getting the ethanol free gas from now on.

[Airtandem]

can someone add the Ryobi 2200 into the mix? How does it compare?
mike

[55AS]

I am struggling with the same decision right now.
Only need 2000 watts since my split system "inverter" A/C requires less than 10 amps with no start up surge.
Honda with LP conversion would be my first choice but I am on a budget so may have to settle for gas powered knock off brand.
WEN, Champion, Ryobi, Westinghouse and Powerhorse all seem like viable alternatives and most get very good reviews. Would love to see a purely objective side by side comparison.
Anyone have real world data??

[FCStreamer]

I've seen reviews that put them on comparable footing. My concern would be when and if I need the unit serviced, who will do it? If you are handy repairing generators or have a trusted small engine mechanic, then consider the off brands. But sine I have neither, it looks like one of the big boys for me.

[Boxite]

Originally Posted by DanB

Lower quality. No dealer network for repairs or parts.

Be very careful how noise tests are conducted for comparison purposes.

Absolutely not correct. They have excellent service and support. (I own two of their generators and they've been very dependable, and all inquiries have been timely and knowledgeably answered. Check out their website. They also have good points as to why to consider them over the H/Y generators. They have U.S. headquarters and support.)
http://www.championpowerequipment.co...ts/generators/

You want a dual fuel , electric-start unit to run on gas OR propane and will power your RV? (and they've got lots of other gens if this one isn't your cup-o-tea)
http://www.championpowerequipment.co...ter-generator/

[55AS]

Originally Posted by Boxite

You want a dual fuel , electric-start unit to run on gas OR propane and will power your RV? (and they've got lots of other gens if this one isn't your cup-o-tea)
http://www.championpowerequipment.co...ter-generator/

It would be perfect for me.

[DanB]

Originally Posted by Boxite

Absolutely not correct. They have excellent service and support. (I own two of their generators and they've been very dependable, and all inquiries have been timely and knowledgeably answered. Check out their website. They also have good points as to why to consider them over the H/Y generators. They have U.S. headquarters and support.)
http://www.championpowerequipment.co...ts/generators/

You want a dual fuel , electric-start unit to run on gas OR propane and will power your RV? (and they've got lots of other gens if this one isn't your cup-o-tea)
http://www.championpowerequipment.co...ter-generator/

If I need the carb cleaned out or am not sure if the invertor board is fried, where to I take the unit too? Does a trained "champion" shop exist with driving distance?

What if I break the off switch and need a replacement? Where do I go get it?

[KJRitchie]

This guy likes his 2000w Champions. 5 year review.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC6A1SMldcc

[Countryboy59]

Briggs and Stratton 3000 inverter was $1299, is very quiet (no measurements yet). Same size Honda with wheels was $1000 more. Used mine a couple times, not bad.