Older Generators to look out for

[KE7JFF]

While I like modern generators like the Honda EU2000 and what not, I like a good bargin on some older used generators. Been looking on craigslist and found some interesting fixer uppers that might be easy fixes.

I found this guy: http://portland.craigslist.org/clk/tls/5406274413.html which is a Coleman Powermate MAXA 4000; doing research, its a Tecumseh gas engine as I understand and puts out 5000W. It does need some repair as it apparently stops running.

Also, I found this interesting puppy: http://portland.craigslist.org/clc/tld/5389651413.html; its probably not 28V, but the standard 24V NATO votlage.

Thoughts? Suggestions? Ideas?

 

[KE7JFF]

Also just found this: http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/tls/5404538603.html I might just grab it.

 

[AaronK]

I have a Coleman 5000w and except for being loud, it's a great generator. I got it for free because it apparently used oil but I've run it for 8 hours at a time without the low oil switch tripping.

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[Haf-E]

Also, I found this interesting puppy: http://portland.craigslist.org/clc/tld/5389651413.html its probably not 28V, but the standard 24V NATO votlage.

I fixed the link on this one - there was an extra semicolon in it. The 28 vdc output is intended for a 24 vdc battery system and "24 volt" loads - its would be the same as calling a car "14 volts" since that is the typical voltage while the engine is running.

Curious what motor is on the DC generator and if parts would be available... or perhaps swap it to a different motor?

EDIT > Just looked at it again - only 500 watts... not worth the weight / size unless you are stationary - even then I bet its a lot of noise for hardly any charging... about 20 amps at 28vdc.

 

[M35A2]

I would probably grab anything Onan and 1800 rpm (four pole generator).

 

[M35A2]

I fixed the link on this one - there was an extra semicolon in it. The 28 vdc output is intended for a 24 vdc battery system and "24 volt" loads - its would be the same as calling a car "14 volts" since that is the typical voltage while the engine is running.

Curious what motor is on the DC generator and if parts would be available... or perhaps swap it to a different motor?

EDIT > Just looked at it again - only 500 watts... not worth the weight / size unless you are stationary - even then I bet its a lot of noise for hardly any charging... about 20 amps at 28vdc.

If the generator end is still good that is not a bad unit. You could probably install a modern solid-state voltage regulator to get 'er down to 14 volts.

A tiny genset like that is small, light and will save your cookies if all your vehicle batteries go flat 'in spite of' one's normal cautionary actions.

I have one that's even smaller - 300 watts - it will power a drop light and recharge a standard 12 volt vehicle battery.

 

[KE7JFF]

Well, I bought the little Powermate PM500. It starts up and just needs some TLC for the 110 to work


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[comptiger5000]

I would probably grab anything Onan and 1800 rpm (four pole generator).

Agreed. The old Onan units aren't exactly light-weight, but for building into a larger vehicle or mounting to a trailer, they're a good pick due to durability (and they're dirt simple to work on if you break it). The 1800 rpm ones aren't too hard to quiet down, especially not the water cooled ones (could get a marine unit and replace the heat exchanger with a radiator + fan).

 

[KE7JFF]

Agreed. The old Onan units aren't exactly light-weight, but for building into a larger vehicle or mounting to a trailer, they're a good pick due to durability (and they're dirt simple to work on if you break it). The 1800 rpm ones aren't too hard to quiet down, especially not the water cooled ones (could get a marine unit and replace the heat exchanger with a radiator + fan).

Yeah, I know a few people with the older Onan units and they love them. Only issue is that I guess some parts can be hard to get locally.

I did ran across this unit: http://portland.craigslist.org/yam/hvo/5410070962.html

 

[comptiger5000]

Parts can definitely be a challenge for them, so it's sometimes worth keeping a couple of spares on hand. But they're pretty damn reliable units as long as basic maintenance is kept up with and the points, etc. are kept adjusted. Heck, the 6.5kw Onan MCCK in my parents boat is pushing 1100 hours (1986 build, but mostly a 1940s flathead design, heck, it doesn't even have an oil filter!) and the only failure I can remember it having was an external coolant drip from one of the head gaskets (easy fix). Other than that, it's needing nothing but maintenance and adjustments.