Generator Recommendation

[chupp21]

I have the Yamaha ef2400is. It gives a little more power than the Honda 2000 to run AC but is also heavier so it's a bit of a struggle to get in and out of the trailer. The reliability is great.

[Eagle]

Yes, the Yamaha ef2400is is quite heavy at 75 pounds whereas the Honda eu2000i is only 47 pounds.

[chupp21]

When I was looking for a generator, I borrowed a 2000 watt Honda and it could barely run the AC. I was worried it would either damage the AC or the generator which is why I went with the Yamaha. The Yamaha has no problems running the AC. However, that extra 25lb makes it difficult to lug around and my back is fine. I would recommend borrowing or renting a generator before you buy to try it out. I did see a nice Ryobi generator at the campground a while back. It was very quiet. I think they sell at Home Depot for a lot less.

[chupp21]

I just looked up the Ryobi and it's 2300 watt starting and it has Bluetooth control for $599. That should be enough to start and run an AC and it can be controlled remotely. Looks like it's 53lb and you can parallel two units for double the power. Looks pretty good.

[Eagle]

Originally Posted by chupp21

When I was looking for a generator, I borrowed a 2000 watt Honda and it could barely run the AC. I was worried it would either damage the AC or the generator which is why I went with the Yamaha. The Yamaha has no problems running the AC. However, that extra 25lb makes it difficult to lug around and my back is fine. I would recommend borrowing or renting a generator before you buy to try it out. I did see a nice Ryobi generator at the campground a while back. It was very quiet. I think they sell at Home Depot for a lot less.

You are correct that the Honda EU2000i alone & NOT paired with the companion EU2000i lacks the recommended power to run the AC.

I chose the Honda EU 2000i and companion because they were light and small so easy to move around and/or transport. And, when used not in the camper, usually only one is adequate for my needs. I also respected their reputation for quality and durability.

Selecting the pair was the most economical and logical approach for me.

[Michigantraveler]

For a lot less money you can get the Champion that Will power your AC and includes features the Honda lacks, like remote start, wheels and a handle.

Here it's compared to the Briggs & Stratton.
https://youtu.be/7LcwXcuR_kU

[LJAZ]

I've heard good things about the Champion. The only caveat is that if you need to run AC all night won't be able to. It's only got a 1.6 gallon gas tank.
If you don't need that capability, then it's a pretty good deal.

[Michigantraveler]

So to do that you would need two 2000 watt Hondas or another brand. Or a bigger generator which will still cost you big bucks.Or fit it for an auxiliary tank set up.


CHAMPION MODEL #73536i 2000W INVERTER GENERATOR 6 GAL EXTENDED RUN FUEL SYSTEM | eBay

We don't have the searing hot temperatures at night that you find in the south or parts of the West.
No generator use is allowed in Wisconsin State Parks, though they may make an exception for medical need if no electric site is available.

[twinster2]

IMHO, if you really need AC, instead of spending a grand or more on generator(s), just camp where electricity is available.

[Michigantraveler]

Originally Posted by twinster2

IMHO, if you really need AC, instead of spending a grand or more on generator(s), just camp where electricity is available.

Let's see. It's 10pm. The temp outside is still 88. But inside the tin can trailer it has cooked all day and now reads 100. Maybe it would be better to just get out the tent you bought and try to sleep outside eh? Lol!
The generator can be used for more than camping...think power outages at home. Downstate it happened frequently, up here with fewer people never. How about powering a tool or two? Hooking up a portable air compressor.
Building a cabin.

[Eagle]

Originally Posted by twinster2

IMHO, if you really need AC, instead of spending a grand or more on generator(s), just camp where electricity is available.

I have found that is not possible on several occasions as had to overnight in a walmart parking lot or ? when traveling and temps were near 100 degrees. In those instances, a campground w/hookups was not available locally. For that reason, even with reservations at a full hookup campground, I still pack my pair of Honda eu2000i's.

And, I have other uses for the gen sets beside just camping use...plus serve as backup home power during a power outage. A house gets cold damn fast when outside temps are -20 with a 40 mph wind and snow blowing. That gen set will keep the furnace going and eliminate a super expensive frozen/burst water pipes and possible flood in the house.

[twinster2]

I understand the rationale for a generator, just for me, I didn't see how the value out ways the cost. Besides having one requires it be used occasionally otherwise it will gum up. With my luck, I would put it away, forget about it, and then when I need it, I wouldn't be able to start it.

[LJAZ]

Naturally it all depends on your needs. Forest Service campgrounds around here don't have hookups and they have loops that allow generators 24/7 during the summer months. Which is why I bought mine - specifically to be able to run the AC all night and without fiddling around with extended run tanks.

When I bought mine the Honda 3000 was the only one that could do that. I was lucky enough to find a brand new one on Craigslist for $800 below what new from a store would cost.

If you only need AC for a few hours during the day you have a lot more choices. And in the last few years there's a lot more choices for reliable inverter generators like Champion. Maybe that will force Honda to lower theirs.

[Michigantraveler]

You got a real deal.
Honda EU3000iS, 2800 Running Watts/3000 Starting Watts, Gas Powered, Portable Inverter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002XC0V2..._KzqZzbYJ40EQ4

[Eagle]

For those folks who have a gasoline powered product 'gum up' from storage (lawn mower, snowblower, generator, weed eater, hedge trimmer, chain saw, leaf blower, etc.) the simple use of STA-BIL, keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months is great. https://www.goldeagle.com/brands/sta-bil Sea Foam is also a good additive.

And if the engine surges or runs erratically after storage, the use of Berryman B-12 cleans the fuel system including the carburetor without removal and rebuilding it. Simply remove the air filter, fire up the motor and spray B-12 into the air intake. It may also be added to the fuel, come in a spray can or pour can.
https://www.berrymanproducts.com/pro...ector-cleaner/

Both products are available on Amazon, big box stores like walmart and most auto supply stores like Auto Zone, etc.

[Michigantraveler]

Good recommendations Eagle. Paul generally makes sure to run the engines out of fuel before storage which also helps.

[Eagle]

Yes, running the engines dry (out of fuel) is a plus when the item will be stored and unused for an extended period of time.

[profdant139]

Instead of running them dry, I drain the carb before storage. In case you've never done it before, here is my short video on how to do it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Spn8...l=DanSchechter

[Eagle]

Easier to just unplug the wire and leave it unplugged.

Here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_P0dCg0oQY

[chupp21]

I agree with Eagle, the use of sta-bil is a must. I've had gas stored for over 3 years with sta-bil and it's still fine. I put it in the can right when I buy gas. I would still recommend using the gas within a year but it will definitely last longer.