Generators again: Honda vs Northstar vs PTO vs?

[Bill Jones]

I went through the same problem a few months ago. My tractor could easily power a PTO genset, but i hated the thought of the tractor just sitting there running when I probably didnt need 50 HP worth of electricity. I narrowed my search down to the Northstar 8000 watt unit and the Honda 6500 watt unit. By the time you got electric start and a wheel kit the generators were within a couple hundred bucks of each other at the local Northern Tool.

One day while screwing off in town I stopped by the local Honda motorcycle shop to look at new dirt bikes, and noticed quite a few generators. After talking to the owner I left with the 6500 watt Honda. The beat Northern Tools pricing by 400$. I asked him why he could sell it cheaper and he responded that he hated Northern Tool because they expected him to do warranty work on Honda equipment that they were selling.

So, if you decide on the Honda, try to find a local dealer.

 

[Ed of all trades]

I just bought a new 1300 kw pto from northern. I borrowed a 7000 kw last summer when the power was off and the float valve seat was shot from the ethanol in the gas. I don't want a motor that I need badly to sit for a long time until I need it. It is very hard to sit and look at something that is supposed to help and not be able to get parts because the place is closed for the weekend. I run my tractor more days than not so I know it is working.

 

[Mickey_Fx]

Forgot to mention in previous post, another source for a cheap price and good qlty is to check out craigslist for a Onan RV genny. Can pick up a 4kW model for maybe $300-$400. These are 1800 rpm models and will run as long as there is gas for the engine. There is also a 6000-6500kW model that can be had for maybe another $100. Down side they are getting dated and parts cost is spendy. Taken care of properly, engine should last upwards of 3k hrs.

 

[newbury]

Search is your friend.
try
"pto generator honda site:tractorbynet.com"

There are umpteen threads.

Or take the advice of the few that care to respond to a subject that's been beat to death.

I went with a CL 12KW Winco for $600 last summer. Will probably get a CL 25KW PTO for about $800 sometime. Like Ed wrote - I keep my tractors working. I know they run.

 

[duke7595]

I agree the champion appears to be a decent generator. I have a 7000 watt run and 9000 watt surge, I also converted it to run on propane as well as gas. Have had it for about 2 years and used it for a prolonged period, I'd say about 12 hours, had it running on propane because I had no gas available, another good reason for a conversion.
The champion ran everything in my house except the hot water heater and some other high energy items without any problems, this includes a large window AC unit.
P.S. The generator is wired to my breaker box professionally w/ a main safety switch to prevent back feed.

 

[ultrarunner]

Was it difficult to convert for dual fuel?

 

[Gunny]

Was it difficult to convert for dual fuel?

It's not hard to do at all. I went with a bolt on conversion kit, took about 30 minutes with refreshment breaks and no rush. They also see a snorkel kit that is a bit less work to hook up

Now, I think it's about $150-$200 per kit, I got mine a few years ago for a tad less than $100

 

[newbury]

Is this old enough to be called a zombie thread?
I was slightly surprised at post #15 after my post #14 in January 2013.

 

[buickanddeere]

The way to go is a small portable gasser and a large Pto driven. The small unit for over night off peak loads of just lights , well pump,sump pump and the microwave .

 

[duke7595]

The kit can be found on Ebay. They have them on sale now and again, I bought Mine for $69.99, REGULAR PRICE IS $128.00