Just beware about storing a gasoline generator in a locker or below deck. Gasoline fumes are heavier than air and, just like propane gas, can flow into low areas and pool into an explosive mix. Usually the caps in the fuel tank are vented to allow fuel flow but a safety cap that has a lever to close the vent when the unit is not in use is much safer as it reduces the escape of fumes. Even though Honda does not endorse the use of their generators for marine use there is a large history of use with satisfactory results and safety record. We have been using generators for a long time and at one point packed a Honda 3000 but it proved to be too heavy and bulky and did not stand to weather as the 2000. My take on the discount generators is that they lack in quality both in design and materials and this translates to a shorter useful life with less performance. Add to this an unproven safety track record in marine use and all of a sudden I'm glad I spent $1,000 on the little Honda 5 years ago. I have seen generators falling short of their advertised power output and understand that a generator is just as good as a smooth running and reliable engine. Another consideration might be the type of items that you intend to run; some generators are good for running lights and some electric tools but would not be recommended to operate electronics. I do admit that that with the limited power of the Honda we have to schedule the simultaneous use of appliances but it allows us to use any appliance aboard our boat, microwave oven, battery charger, Air conditioner (12.5K BTU), heater and all battery dependent appliance like refrigerator, lights and fans. We can run A/C and watch TV and run lights and the refrigerator and when we are done we'll reacharge the batteries. The offer of 4K watts even if the generator could produce them would do nothing for me, I rather value performance and reliability. You asked for opinions and comments and here they are.
