Powerful NorthStar Generator packs 5500 surge watts and 4000 continuous watts! Reliable, single-phase, 100% copper-wound, brushless generator head for years of long lasting power. Cast iron sleeve. Easy access control and outlet panel. Control panel has "push to reset" circuit breakers. U.S.A.
Rock solid performance when needed!,
January 23, 2008
By wallywestlakefrom Southwest Louisiana
"I bought one in Ft. Worth and brought it home to southwest Louisiana after Hurricane Rita, where I used it as my only source of electricity for the following nine days. It was in use 24 hours a day until our normal power source was restored. I work in a power plant and was gone for 12 hour shifts. When I would return from work, I simply shut down the generator, added fuel, then re-started with one pull on the rope. I could run my travel trailer with central air conditioning for well over 12 hours on one tankful of gasoline, so that every time I returned from work, I could count on an air conditioned place to sleep. In south Louisiana heat and humidity, you just can't do without that.
I agree with a previous reviewer about the tires staying flat. It wouldn't hurt for the generator to be smaller, also, and these are the only reasons my rating is not five stars. This thing was not quite a lifesaver, but definitely a "quality of life"-saver for me when I really needed it.
The cost is a little higher than some in this size range, but that is because you are buying a Honda engine. They cost more, but are worth it due to the dependability and quietness they provide. I highly recommend this generator."
What is your level of technical expertise?:
Home Handyman
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Overall Rating:
2
/ 5
BIG generator,
May 2, 2007
By ratio411from Pensacola, FL
"The only reason I would not recommend this generator to another professional is the extreme bulk of the product. Compared to other generators, this one is excessively large. The frame is big and heavy, but the engine and generator take up much less space. The extra bulk of the oversize frame takes away from important 'real estate' in our company trucks. I can look at the generator and see how the frame could be 6" shorter in every direction.
That said, functionally these things are great. They haven't given a single hiccup of problem in 3 years of HARD service in our fleet. All of our small engines are Honda, with very good reason.
If you are a homeowner and need a low cost and reliable generator, go NorthStar. If you are a pro working from a truck with limited space, get something with a smaller frame.
DO NOT GET THE WHEEL KIT! The handles don't fold, adding to the space problem, and the tires are always flat. Also, the tires are held on with a round keeper, rather than a cotter pin like most, so the tires are very hard to change.
Suggestion for NorthStar: Add an idle control to lower RPMs under free load... would save a little fuel."
What is your level of technical expertise?:
Professional
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
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