Generator Recommendations

[JakesterUK]

I've been using a Honda EX350 for a number of years and although a little low on power it's been a great bit of kit.

I now need to replace and wanted to ask for recommendations, it will only be used 8-9 times a year whilst at race meets to power the fridge, awning lights and portable tv in the caravan.

I don't want to spend a fortune and have thus far narrowed sown to two options:

A Clarke G720 (2 stroke 720w genny roughly 100quid)

A Clarke G1200 (4s stroke 1100w genny roughly 190quid)

Has anyone got either of these, or have any better suggestions.

Thanks

[R TOY]

My Honda ex650, takes a few pulls to start but runs ok.
Would avoid the 2stroke, cheap and nasty so i was told,
I ended up with a 2kw Honda as i needed more power than the 650, quality kit but not cheap.

[BFG TERRANO]

You get what you pay for unfortunately. Clarke, wolf etc are cheap for a reason.

Avoid the 2 strokes like anything. They stink, oil up and eventually become a pig to start.
I'd advise a honda EU20i, whilst expensive they are quiet reliable and have sine wave invertors giving smooth stable power.
I have a kawasaki GA 1400. This would suit you but good luck finding one.

[Lunablack]

I have the Honda EU20i..... And I have to say its bloody brilliant.... Got it from Costco last year and took out their American Express offer of interest free for 6 months.... So although expensive.... I paid over the term and didn't miss it...

As for the genny, can't fault it.... Starts easily, even after a few months, is very quiet, and sips fuel...I've just given it its first oil change, and even that's a piece of cake...

Last time I used it was for Brands BSB a few weeks back, it ran the fridge, TV and battery charger, for about 9 hours, and still didn't use a tank of petrol...

[crankedup]

We purchased the 'cheaper' option generator, it was a complete PIA. Rejected it and were refunded, spent the extra cash on a Honda. That was eight years back and it still offers good reliable service. Add to that it has a used item value as well, so its a no brainer really.

[Lunablack]

crankedup said:

. Rejected it and were refunded, spent the extra cash on a Honda. That was eight years back and it still offers good reliable service. Add to that it has a used item value as well, so its a no brainer really.

You're dead right about the used item value...... When I was looking for mine, SH ones on eBay came in a few categories...

New.... But more expensive than other Internet sources
Really good nick...... But only £150-£200 less than a new one
Building site specials.. Covered in paint, plaster and dried concrete.. A about half price... But probably knackard..

The new one from Costco came with a 5 year warranty.... So like you say, a no brainer..

[condor]

I was looking to get a generator for the occasional camping trip and checked on the Honda EU20i that was recommended on here. At £1200 I think it's too expensive for the few short times I might want to use it. Even with the idea it could be used as a back-up to a power cut.
On the other hand, if it's very cheap to run... could one use it as a cheaper source of electricity than a normal day time mains supplier?

[R TOY]

Not that cheap , if the geni churned out 2kwh and used a gallon of petrol at £6 in say 8 hrs that would be 75p/hr or 37.5 p/ kwh. Unlikely to pay half that on a domestic supply ,

[smifffymoto]

Honda,SIP or SDMO are all very good.

[Kenty]

Hyundai 2000 or 3000 are pretty spectacular bit of kit