Powertrain Generator

[PhotoMan]

My local Ace Hardware has a Powertrain PTG4500 XCS 4500 Watt 120/240/12V generator on sale at $579, and here in Florida there is a 12-day no-sales-tax program for hurricane protection/preparation items. That's a $40 saving, and if the equipment is worthy of consideration I would like to buy one. Googling didn't provide any info of value on it. Any opinions from this worthy group will be appreciated!
Joe Arnold

 

[m Ransley]

There is alot to consider and for you to learn about generators. Is the unit regulated voltage or will it swing 30v, possibly ruining things with computer chips. Type and quality of motor and noise level are important. For the price Generac EXL models at HD are good but noisy. They have pressure oiled motors with oil filter and go 2-3000 hrs, electric start and regulated power. But it depends on what you need to power. for lights and no TV or computer anything works. For sensitive electronics you need regulated power. Check out Generac and Honda online, Honda are 4x the cost but some can last 10000hrs vs a 500$ unit that will likely last only 250-350 hrs. Many cheap units have crappy lawnmower engines and are not made for extensive run time