Hi All, First, a confession. While Christmas shopping for the family, I played Santa to myself. Anyone else do that? I'll be moving my boat to a mooring next summer and I have been thinking about the convenience of a small generator. I looked everywhere and could not find any info on this little bugger. Anyone have any experiences with anything similar? I know it's a Chinese knock off and would rather not have a philosophical discussion regarding macro economics. My micro economical situation dictates a frugal buying strategy aboard Sea Dog. Power Pro 2000inv by Wen Power. Purchased at Pep Boys 60 lbs 52 Db @ idle 58 Db full load Idle control Auto low oil shut off 2000w surge 1800w running Clean electric output with less than 5% distortion 1.8 gal tank 8 hrs run time 50% load Once I run it I won't be able to bring it back so comments are appreciated. I've never owned a generator before. I'm thinking of a shelf/bracket on the pushpit/swimstep with a nice cover for storage and use. Any tips or warnings regarding use, grounding and fumes would be great. Thanks in advance, Tim Lake Tahoe SeaDog 1989 Hunter 30G
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Be Careful
Be careful running this thing on your boat. It is a gasoline engine and develops potentially deadly exhaust gases (CO). You need to make sure you have adequate ventilation and it is not located in a way that exhaust can flow into your cabin. I highly recommend you install a CO monitor with alarm in the cabin. The other issue is the storage of gasoline on board the boat. The generator tank must be vented and any auxiliary tank has the potential to leak so you don't want the fumes accumulating in your bilge while it is stored. I saw a boat blow up once from this and burn down to the waterline. Crew had to be rescued from the water when they dove in to escape the flames. 1800 watts is not a lot of power. If you run a microwave or a small heater you can easily draw 1500 watts. Take a look at any loading and make sure you don't over load the output. It sounds like you will be using it for charging batteries?
Be careful running this thing on your boat. It is a gasoline engine and develops potentially deadly exhaust gases (CO). You need to make sure you have adequate ventilation and it is not located in a way that exhaust can flow into your cabin. I highly recommend you install a CO monitor with alarm in the cabin. The other issue is the storage of gasoline on board the boat. The generator tank must be vented and any auxiliary tank has the potential to leak so you don't want the fumes accumulating in your bilge while it is stored. I saw a boat blow up once from this and burn down to the waterline. Crew had to be rescued from the water when they dove in to escape the flames. 1800 watts is not a lot of power. If you run a microwave or a small heater you can easily draw 1500 watts. Take a look at any loading and make sure you don't over load the output. It sounds like you will be using it for charging batteries?
nice..
i have a honda eu 2000 and i love it super quiet. but if hats what your budget will allow it will be fine. as far as grounding you dont need to fumes on the other hand be careful its just like car exhaust. enjoy
i have a honda eu 2000 and i love it super quiet. but if hats what your budget will allow it will be fine. as far as grounding you dont need to fumes on the other hand be careful its just like car exhaust. enjoy
CO2 detector ....
....is a good idea. The generator will be used for primarily charging batteries and my usage is pretty conservative. No microwave, mostly lights, music, portable DVD player. Hot water is nice and a small space heater from time to time. The stern will always be downwind from the cabin but I understand the exhaust issue.
....is a good idea. The generator will be used for primarily charging batteries and my usage is pretty conservative. No microwave, mostly lights, music, portable DVD player. Hot water is nice and a small space heater from time to time. The stern will always be downwind from the cabin but I understand the exhaust issue.
Gas storage....
I've got a six gallon tank for the dinghy. Does anyone have a slick idea to fill the tank on the generator from the dinghy tank? Some kind of siphon? This would eliminate the storage issue for the gas.
I've got a six gallon tank for the dinghy. Does anyone have a slick idea to fill the tank on the generator from the dinghy tank? Some kind of siphon? This would eliminate the storage issue for the gas.
Tim...
...due to your little use of power, I feel that gererator is a lot of overkill. I would take it back, get my money back and invest it in a nice solar panel, I'm sure someone here could tell you how big. And I think you would have change left over! Just my opinion. Jack
...due to your little use of power, I feel that gererator is a lot of overkill. I would take it back, get my money back and invest it in a nice solar panel, I'm sure someone here could tell you how big. And I think you would have change left over! Just my opinion. Jack
Pep boys small engines
Just a related experience, but having purchased 2 ATV's from pep boys, both suffering from the SAME catastrophic failure, in about the same time period, and that failure being corrected for on models they now sell...they will not repair or replace the broken parts. I'd hunt down the same thing but as a HONDA
Just a related experience, but having purchased 2 ATV's from pep boys, both suffering from the SAME catastrophic failure, in about the same time period, and that failure being corrected for on models they now sell...they will not repair or replace the broken parts. I'd hunt down the same thing but as a HONDA
Service,Repair,Parts
I would spend the the extra money on the Honda 1000 or the 2000. Unless you know some place that will service it if and when you need repair, most times these knock off's just don't last trouble free. You get what you pay for. I still have a Honda 2200 generator from 1985 and can still get parts which I have not needed so far except for air cleaner. I have a Honda riding lawn mower from 1995 and trouble free except for belts and blades one tire and belt bearing and parts easy to get locally. The first Honda I had blew up when the the wife overloaded it with too many tv's and ref during a bad storm and had it replaced under warranty. Nick
I would spend the the extra money on the Honda 1000 or the 2000. Unless you know some place that will service it if and when you need repair, most times these knock off's just don't last trouble free. You get what you pay for. I still have a Honda 2200 generator from 1985 and can still get parts which I have not needed so far except for air cleaner. I have a Honda riding lawn mower from 1995 and trouble free except for belts and blades one tire and belt bearing and parts easy to get locally. The first Honda I had blew up when the the wife overloaded it with too many tv's and ref during a bad storm and had it replaced under warranty. Nick
There's nothing....
There is nothing quite as obnoxious as a boater running a small generator on the back of their boat or on the foredeck in a quiet anchorage and I include the Honda's in this statement! The proliferation of this happening has tripled in the last few years here in Maine and it's really quite disturbing. Tell the wife to leave the hair dryer at home and I'm sure you can do without the 42" wide screen for a day or two. Really what kind of power requirements do you have, on a Hunter 30, that require a generator on a lake?? Trust me 58db is a LOT of noise in a dead calm anchorage and the sound carries a LONG way..... 1) If you have battery supply issues get more batteries (cheaper than a generator) 2) If you can charge at the dock do it 3) If you need to supplement your needs a 75 watt solar panel will do a nice job Oh and the PepBoys Chinese made stuff is mostly JUNK. I bought an impact wrench that lasted all of 5 minutes and an air hose reel that lasted about two pulls in and out, as well as a small 12V air compressor that failed the first time I used it (could not even inflate the tire to 32 PSI). All of these items were bought at PepBoys and all Chinese made!! Don't mean to be a party pooper but running a generator in an anchorage is RUDE and 99% of the time un-necessary!!!!!!
There is nothing quite as obnoxious as a boater running a small generator on the back of their boat or on the foredeck in a quiet anchorage and I include the Honda's in this statement! The proliferation of this happening has tripled in the last few years here in Maine and it's really quite disturbing. Tell the wife to leave the hair dryer at home and I'm sure you can do without the 42" wide screen for a day or two. Really what kind of power requirements do you have, on a Hunter 30, that require a generator on a lake?? Trust me 58db is a LOT of noise in a dead calm anchorage and the sound carries a LONG way..... 1) If you have battery supply issues get more batteries (cheaper than a generator) 2) If you can charge at the dock do it 3) If you need to supplement your needs a 75 watt solar panel will do a nice job Oh and the PepBoys Chinese made stuff is mostly JUNK. I bought an impact wrench that lasted all of 5 minutes and an air hose reel that lasted about two pulls in and out, as well as a small 12V air compressor that failed the first time I used it (could not even inflate the tire to 32 PSI). All of these items were bought at PepBoys and all Chinese made!! Don't mean to be a party pooper but running a generator in an anchorage is RUDE and 99% of the time un-necessary!!!!!!
Another note
I know you asked us not to knock on the fact that it's chinese and cheap, but another warning - i'm not sure what exactly you want to power off of this, but the chances of it producing clean power that won't harm electronics is quite low. hair dryers, fans, maybe older CRT's, it won't hurt, but complicated lithium battery charges (cellphones, laptops) as well as any other 'delicate' electronics won't be very happy with "dirty" power.
I know you asked us not to knock on the fact that it's chinese and cheap, but another warning - i'm not sure what exactly you want to power off of this, but the chances of it producing clean power that won't harm electronics is quite low. hair dryers, fans, maybe older CRT's, it won't hurt, but complicated lithium battery charges (cellphones, laptops) as well as any other 'delicate' electronics won't be very happy with "dirty" power.
Agree with you, Tim
For an occasional use generator why buy an expensive unit when another one will do. About two years ago I purchased a two-stroke 1200watt from Walmart for $130. Only used it on the boat twice. (the guys are right about the noise) But it is a back up when the lights go out at home and it is easy to carry on and off. And the best is I don’t have a lot of money tied up in something I don’t use. I start it about every month and it works fine. I do have a microwave on the boat and am using an inverter to power it. Just run the engine when the microwave or coffee maker are on, this system works well. And the generator sits in the garage.
For an occasional use generator why buy an expensive unit when another one will do. About two years ago I purchased a two-stroke 1200watt from Walmart for $130. Only used it on the boat twice. (the guys are right about the noise) But it is a back up when the lights go out at home and it is easy to carry on and off. And the best is I don’t have a lot of money tied up in something I don’t use. I start it about every month and it works fine. I do have a microwave on the boat and am using an inverter to power it. Just run the engine when the microwave or coffee maker are on, this system works well. And the generator sits in the garage.
Honda vs. Chinese knock-offs
Tim Check the reviews of some of the RV web sites - the consensus seesm to be to stay away from the cheap Chinese knock-offs. Lots of people wrote reviews about both service problems and durability of these knock-offs. I went through the same thought process as you and based on the above referenced reviews, decided to spend the extra money on the Honda. Making noise at an anchorage does bother folks but I've found the Honda to be almost indiscernable and certainly quieter than the engine which isn't a good idea for other reasons. Solar or a wind generator can't compare in terms of power output and ability to quickly recharge.
Tim Check the reviews of some of the RV web sites - the consensus seesm to be to stay away from the cheap Chinese knock-offs. Lots of people wrote reviews about both service problems and durability of these knock-offs. I went through the same thought process as you and based on the above referenced reviews, decided to spend the extra money on the Honda. Making noise at an anchorage does bother folks but I've found the Honda to be almost indiscernable and certainly quieter than the engine which isn't a good idea for other reasons. Solar or a wind generator can't compare in terms of power output and ability to quickly recharge.
reread Maine Sail
I definitely agree with Maine Sail!! I keep my 30' Seidelmann on a mooring and I have never had the need for a generator. When the grandchildren come onboard and sleep on the boat, I power their portable DVD with a 12V powerpack that doubles as a backup in the event my batteries ever need a jump. There was a guy last year in the mooring field that used a generator. He drove us all crazy with the noise, think about why we enjoy sailing -- no noise -- same thing about being on a mooring -- no noise. Happy hoidays!
I definitely agree with Maine Sail!! I keep my 30' Seidelmann on a mooring and I have never had the need for a generator. When the grandchildren come onboard and sleep on the boat, I power their portable DVD with a 12V powerpack that doubles as a backup in the event my batteries ever need a jump. There was a guy last year in the mooring field that used a generator. He drove us all crazy with the noise, think about why we enjoy sailing -- no noise -- same thing about being on a mooring -- no noise. Happy hoidays!
Generator
I work for a company who sells the Honda Generators and I can tell you that if you have a problem with the generator, you better make sure that you have a place that will take it and repair it if needed. We service what we sell and have many happy customers because of that. Honda generators are great and they are quiet.
I work for a company who sells the Honda Generators and I can tell you that if you have a problem with the generator, you better make sure that you have a place that will take it and repair it if needed. We service what we sell and have many happy customers because of that. Honda generators are great and they are quiet.
to each his own
Those people who poo poo generators are probably the same people who did not like roller furling or do not feel the need for Air Conditioning. My experience here in SW Florida is the boaters who are using the small Honda generators are not bothering anyone and 52 db is not loud to me even on board. I have a Honda 2000 and use it when I need a charge or if at anchor want to turn on the AC. Never had a copmplaint. Live and let live.
Those people who poo poo generators are probably the same people who did not like roller furling or do not feel the need for Air Conditioning. My experience here in SW Florida is the boaters who are using the small Honda generators are not bothering anyone and 52 db is not loud to me even on board. I have a Honda 2000 and use it when I need a charge or if at anchor want to turn on the AC. Never had a copmplaint. Live and let live.
Chinese quality
Chinese junk? I have a Chinese Kipor 2kw generator. Looks identical to a Honda and is reputed to be from the same factory. Excellent quality, reliable and very quiet. I use it within my business for PA systems hire as well as on the boat and caravan. Clean enough power too, as no interference with the sound equipment. I think for PC use I would buy the slightly more expensive yellow-cased product which is designed for that application and sensitive electronics equipment. I wouldn't be so naive as to compare a Chinese generator with completely differently priced Chinese products from completely different Chinese factories in completely different areas of China for completely different markets 8
Sometimes I feel those with that sort or mentality should really know better. Through joint ventures, adopted quality systems and a general improvement in manufacturing processes, China produces some of the finest products you can buy.
Chinese junk? I have a Chinese Kipor 2kw generator. Looks identical to a Honda and is reputed to be from the same factory. Excellent quality, reliable and very quiet. I use it within my business for PA systems hire as well as on the boat and caravan. Clean enough power too, as no interference with the sound equipment. I think for PC use I would buy the slightly more expensive yellow-cased product which is designed for that application and sensitive electronics equipment. I wouldn't be so naive as to compare a Chinese generator with completely differently priced Chinese products from completely different Chinese factories in completely different areas of China for completely different markets 8
Sometimes I feel those with that sort or mentality should really know better. Through joint ventures, adopted quality systems and a general improvement in manufacturing processes, China produces some of the finest products you can buy.
Solar panels are a lot cheaper than $399
http://www.21st-century-goods.com/page/21st/PROD/BATTSAVSE6 Of course, if you use marine grade wire from WM w/shrink connectors that about doubles the price. They make a rail mount for this panel that works great on our boat. Waaay quieter than a generator.
http://www.21st-century-goods.com/page/21st/PROD/BATTSAVSE6 Of course, if you use marine grade wire from WM w/shrink connectors that about doubles the price. They make a rail mount for this panel that works great on our boat. Waaay quieter than a generator.
solar panel charging question
A 6 W panel producing 400 ma would take approximately forever to recharge my 450 amp bank once half depleted. Not to go too far off target with this question - is thare anything larger than a few 75 W panels that would be practical for a boat which could supply at least 100 amps in a reasonable period?
A 6 W panel producing 400 ma would take approximately forever to recharge my 450 amp bank once half depleted. Not to go too far off target with this question - is thare anything larger than a few 75 W panels that would be practical for a boat which could supply at least 100 amps in a reasonable period?
Don...
How often do you burn 100 amps? Even a 75 amp alternator would take a few hours of engine run time to replenish 100 amps. My 75 watt panel puts out about 3.7 to 4.2 amps which is enough to keep up with my AP, Wind/Depth/Speed and GPS. Are you at a dock or mooring? What are you running that burns up 100amps? My engine only ever gets my batteries back to about 90% of charge, the last 10% takes forever, so my solar panel gets them back to 100% when I'm not there. Perhaps your electrical demands are high. Are you running engine driven refrigeration such as a SeaFrost with cold plate or a 12v refrigeration system? If you're running a 12v system keep I suggest keeping it on 100% of the time while plugged in at the dock. Keep and couple of half gallon milk jugs filled with water, which will freeze, in the white freezer portion as well. Doing this will reduce your energy consumption dramatically. The frozen milk jugs will act like a cold plate reducing cycling. Keeping the ice box cold, while at the dock and plugged in, reduces the amount of energy required to "chill" the fiberglass, foam insulation and shelving while your on battery power. Also when you show up for a weekend on the boat buy only pre-chilled items, like your beer, if it's going to go in the ice box. The energy required, on a 12v system, to chill a warm case of beer is immense. It takes a very long time and many amp hours to cool down the ice box. Remember your not jsut cooling the air but the entire ice box! Start a warm 12v powered ice box, which draws 4.5 amps per hour, and then load it with warm food and over 24 hours you'll be close to 80 ah in draw. Now leave it on with two half gallon milk jugs in the ice box and load it with pre-chilled food and your 12v draw over 24 hours will be closer to 45 or 50 because you'll have less cycling and energy consumption to get everything cooled down... I've spent a lot of time watching my battery monitor and experimenting with the above "tips" to know these few suggestions can save your 12v refrigeration system 20-30 amp hours over a 24 hour period. It works well over a weekend but beyond that it's all the same. Opening from the top, if you have that option, vs. the side door also reduces energy consumption as the cold air falls out of the ice box when a side door is opened vs. a top door..
How often do you burn 100 amps? Even a 75 amp alternator would take a few hours of engine run time to replenish 100 amps. My 75 watt panel puts out about 3.7 to 4.2 amps which is enough to keep up with my AP, Wind/Depth/Speed and GPS. Are you at a dock or mooring? What are you running that burns up 100amps? My engine only ever gets my batteries back to about 90% of charge, the last 10% takes forever, so my solar panel gets them back to 100% when I'm not there. Perhaps your electrical demands are high. Are you running engine driven refrigeration such as a SeaFrost with cold plate or a 12v refrigeration system? If you're running a 12v system keep I suggest keeping it on 100% of the time while plugged in at the dock. Keep and couple of half gallon milk jugs filled with water, which will freeze, in the white freezer portion as well. Doing this will reduce your energy consumption dramatically. The frozen milk jugs will act like a cold plate reducing cycling. Keeping the ice box cold, while at the dock and plugged in, reduces the amount of energy required to "chill" the fiberglass, foam insulation and shelving while your on battery power. Also when you show up for a weekend on the boat buy only pre-chilled items, like your beer, if it's going to go in the ice box. The energy required, on a 12v system, to chill a warm case of beer is immense. It takes a very long time and many amp hours to cool down the ice box. Remember your not jsut cooling the air but the entire ice box! Start a warm 12v powered ice box, which draws 4.5 amps per hour, and then load it with warm food and over 24 hours you'll be close to 80 ah in draw. Now leave it on with two half gallon milk jugs in the ice box and load it with pre-chilled food and your 12v draw over 24 hours will be closer to 45 or 50 because you'll have less cycling and energy consumption to get everything cooled down... I've spent a lot of time watching my battery monitor and experimenting with the above "tips" to know these few suggestions can save your 12v refrigeration system 20-30 amp hours over a 24 hour period. It works well over a weekend but beyond that it's all the same. Opening from the top, if you have that option, vs. the side door also reduces energy consumption as the cold air falls out of the ice box when a side door is opened vs. a top door..
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