On this page is some general information about generators and some examples of various brands and models. The ones that I will be talking about here are gas powered, but there are ones that are diesel, propane and even battery powered.

A generator is used to provide a c voltage when away from a power source.  Generators will produce 110 volt a c voltage with varying wattage levels. Some will provide both 110 a c volts and 220 a c volts with some also producing 12 v dc.  The higher the wattage output the more power you will have available. ie: 20 amp, 30 amp.  This is normally expressed as watts and they will list a surge watts, which is somewhat higher than the rated wattage, but can only sustain this for a "surge" period of time.  Other items that will be listed is the "noise level" expressed in decibels ie: 71 dB.  The higher the number the louder the generator will be.  Things like, engine type, fuel, fuel capacity, # receptacles, run time, hp rating, starting type ie: manual(recoil) or electric and normally the dimensions and weight.  There may be other items listed about the safety features, etc.  Some may even have wheels to help move it around easier.

All of these things can help you decide what size, brand and rating of generator you may be interested in.  For camping purposes you will likely want one that is smaller(size - weight) and as quiet as you can get as some campgrounds frown on generators because of their noise.  Some even prohibit their use later at night times too.  All the features that I have mentioned and capacity(watts output) will determine the price of  a generator. This can be as low as $ 300-400 and up. Also, the price is going to reflect a better generator in that it produce a better regulated and controlled voltages and may be fused or circuit breakers for better protection.

Here is an example of a Coleman Proforce Portable Generator — 3750 Watts, Model# PM0103000 - listed at around $320 plus shipping.  Click the above link to goto item page.  Below is the relative information about this generator:

Ideal for tool power on the job site or home standby to keep the power going. Easy-start OHV engine. Wheel kit for easy maneuverability.

ENGINE                             OHV (Over head Valve)
HP                                      6.5 - refers to engine size
RATED WATTS                  3000
SURGE WATTS                  3750
RUN TIME                         10 HOURS AT 1/2 LOAD
RECEPTACLES                   2
NOISE LEVEL                    71 Db
FUEL TYPE                        Gasoline
FUEL CAPACITY               3 GALS.
START TYPE                      Manual - Recoil
LOW OIL SHUT DOWN     Yes
Dimensions L x W x H (in.)  -  24 x 17 x 18 1/4

ADDITIONAL  PRODUCT  SPECS :  On/Off switch - Circuit breaker protection - Cast iron sleeves - Full-perimeter steel carrier - Rugged wheels - Folding handle.

This is a 25/30 amp generator and I did not see any weight listed, but the size is not that large - only 2 feet long by ~ 1 1/2 feet wide and with wheels would move easy. 

This is a Honda MULTIQUIP 3600 Watt, 120/240V, 8 HP Honda Generator  184  lbs. - priced at $1,389.00 - Info below:

An all-around performer that delivers 120/240V output in a mid-size package. The ideal unit for supplying power to heaters, power tools and small air-compressors. The unit includes automatic idle control for fuel economy and a voltmeter among its many standard features.

* Lightweight and compact design for easy transport
* 100% copper windings for maximum conductivity
* Alternator design eliminates maintenance by removing brushes and slip rings
* Heavy-duty 1-inch (25 mm) steel pipe frame and shock mounts protect the generator
* Includes a folding lifting bale as standard equipment
* Powered by an 8-hp Honda engine with low-oil shutdown and idle control
Alternator Design Brushless - Frequency 60 hz - Voltage 120/240 V
Sound level at 30 ft 73 dBA - Fuel Tank Capacity 5 gal 19 L - Watts 3600 and 3200 - Amps at 120V 30 A 26.6 A - Amps at 240V 15 A 13.3 A
I listed this to show the price differential and likely a better generator considering the features.  But, not to say either one isn't good.  Just the Honda higher priced one has some better features and is 120/240 volt unit.

I am listing this link to Northern Tool and Power generator guide page.  If you are seriously considering a generator then PLEASE goto this page as it has information on buying, selecting the size and type of generator you need, plus a chart to calculate the wattage of items to determine how big(wattage) of a generator you need.

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Web page created by Larry Bush:  Feb. 8.2007 --- Edited:  5. 06. 2009
Serro Scotty ~ Vintage Campers ©
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