Harbor Freight 800 watt generator reliability

[@edmundkonkolich8743]

Brought one of these 3 yrs. ago as a Christmas present for my wife after a 3 day Summer storm power outage, she loves it (have her on video freaking out, laughing & giddy as she opened it too). I, however, got it for $67.77 & never saw them that low again. Works great, gives spec'd power level, starts on 1st or 2nd pull, nice small size (guess you can tell I like it too). Gonna do all what was done in video during Fall maint./season prep so it stays one of my best HFT buys. Thanks.

[@wingmanalive]

I have the same generator. Mine worked well out of the box. Broke it in by running it for a hour under no load at first, then moderate load. I was happy. A month later I could not get it started to save my life. Tore apart the carb, cleaned all fuel lines, replaced the plug, ect. Nothing. Dead as a door nail. Now I have a $90 paper weight. Problem is if I take it to a small engine repair shop they'll want $75 to look at it. With cheap prices sometimes comes with a loss.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Does it have spark? You can check this by taking the spark plug out and placing the bottom on somthing metal(not the gas tank), and pulling the cord. Careful not to shock yourself...

[@philc7192]

I've had one of these 2 stroke 2 HP generators for going on 6 years. It's been a great little gem until about a year ago. I couldn't get it to start and when it did it would only run a minute and then die. So today I found your video and learned a LOT about this little gen. I just picked up an Autolite 65 plug about an hour ago and installed it. The generator started on the second pull and is running great now. I couldn't believe it. All this headache and pain over a cheap spark plug! I'm running it now with about 400 watts on it and the voltage is stable at 120 volts. I sure wish I had a O'scope to see what the sine wave looks like. I'm sure there has to be a lot of harmonic distortion on the waveform. Another great generator on the market I recently discovered is the Earthquake i800 inverter generator. It has great reviews and can be had for about $265 online delivered. It reminds me of a small Yamaha inverter generator but at a fraction of the cost. Thanks for the great video! Subbed!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thank you for your comment, and tip about the Earthquake i800! I will have to look into it! Also, if your generator doesn't work okay, you can also drain the carburator and make sure the needle and seat isn't stuck for the float. Also, you can clean out the jets! Glad it is working for you though, and thanks for watching!

[@steelcurtain656]

I love this generator. I also replaced the spark plug with an autolite 65 before I even started it the first time. Didnt use locktite on anything, Ill have to look into that. I broke it in for about 20 hours with a 400w work light. I have been using it for 3 and a half weeks now (about 5 hours a day 4 days a week), and it has not missed a beat yet. Starts easily, and powers everything I need it to. I am going to be using it for the rest of summer like this. If it lasts the entire time, I will be buying another one to put into storage for a rainy day.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for the comment!

[@dtrrtd774]

steelcurtain656 Did it last the year?

[@TheKevinChannel1]

I got the same one for camping and it does pretty good plus during warm up it does a good job of getting rid of mosquitos as well.

[@frank4184]

Great instructional video. all of the steps you covered I did when I purchase the one I have. After 30-50hr;s of use a knocking noise appears out of nowhere (sounds like a car rod knock) the pull start system sucks and is just a matter of time before the coil comes apart. HF does not sell replacement parts for this generator how ever the schematics on the instruction book are great and very detailed (if you could only buy spare parts) I now start my generator with an electric 12v impact gun. I purchased the generator for $79.99 + tax. Someone had asked if it was loud. In the beginning it is not too loud, as it gets a little older it starts to get louder... By all means do not run delicate electronics with this unit as the voltage fluctuates and could possibly damage your electronics (buy an inverter generator such as HONDA, GENERAC, HYUNDAI, HONEYWELL) etc. Remember, you get what you pay for!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for you comment about your experience with the generator! I wonder if the connecting rod is coming loose?

[@dtrrtd774]

Frank Sounds like it may be necessary to maintain a load in it so it stops the voltage to the safe range when operating low load sensitive devices. This is like those unregulated transformer wall warts that put out way over the specified output voltage when unloaded. They only output the correct voltage when loaded at the specified current. Use a multi tap power strip and keep at least a 400W load in it while in use to bring down the voltage if you have no alternative to power your more sensitive devices that may not load it enough to bring down the voltage to the correct range.

[@keithgibson568]

It's a two stroke so always have a spare spark plug handy in case the plug 'whiskers' up. In theory going to a 40-1 premix should help with the lube but the down side is that it weakens the mixture slightly and the engine will run hotter due to this, swings and roundabouts. After all you want to gently break in the engine as you have done in the video. I stuck on 50-1 for all my use. Many of years working with my own and friends & family 2 stroke motorcycles. The use of thread lock on the usual places is a good idea as these things vibrate a lot, some times even vibrating the mains plug out giving intermittent power output ! The parts that can fail other than spark plug are the capacitor & power reset button. The give away on this is either low output voltage for the capacitor failing & no power with a faulty reset. Both are easy fixes though so dont bin them when they stop outputting power.

[@docchocobo]

I've had mine now for over 2 years and it's seen regular maint and regular duty during bad weather, as well as regular use with a saws-all out in the woods. My electric chainsaw draws a little too much for it, but it's a great little gas powered extension cord :). A lot of these have a bearing in the end of them on the generator coil side that you may wish to grease with lithium. I've heard that it's a point of failure for some. All-in-all, A good little machine that does what it is MEANT to do. I like mine.

[@Pro1er]

I saw a video on KZbin where a guy would stall this generator with his electric chainsaw, but to get around that he feathered the trigger to build up the RPM and the saw would run. Actually, I found the video. Your mileage, (and AVR), may vary. watch?v=nFKyO3FDSsI

[@420Nitroman]

I just bought one of these for $99. Worked great the first time I started it. The second time the thin plastic starter mechanism shattered. I couldn't believe that part was plastic. Going to return it tomorrow. It was worth a shot.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

I am very sorry to hear about your troubles. I have used mine a few times, and so far, it is holding together. I have heard about this happening to someone else, and they use a rechargeable drill to start theirs. Of course something that doesn't work at all isn't worth 99 bucks!

[@cyjo2009]

I bought one of these end of august 2015. I was not happy having to give 10 good yanks to get it to start. When started, it ran great. I loaded it with a big Milwaukee portable band saw and it handled it good. I took it back to Harbor Freight for an even exchange due to the starting problem.The second one took 3 to 5 good cranks to start and then ran great. On the front there is a removable panel to get to the air cleaner. there are 2 half inch holes on the front for air intake. Since there is NO primer ball, I decided to spray starting fluid in the hole before starting. It now will start on 1st of 2nd pull. I am happy with it now and keep it. Very handy to have!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

thanks for the comment!

[@joshrogan9854]

I know this thread is 6 years old. But I'll reply anyway... If you remove the plastic panel and hot-glue a cool drink screw top over the choke, you'll only have to remove bottletop to prime the carby...lol

[@chornelium]

I've had one of these for 2 years now and it runs great. I can even run the HF electric chainsaw and 400/800watt HF parabolic heater off it no problem (not at the same time, obviously). I use it as a backup generator in my RV. One thing I would recommend doing is putting a few drops (1/4 of a cap full) of 2 stroke in the cylinder when you are replacing the spark plug and slowly pulling the starter cord to gently lubricate the piston in the cylinder before firing it for the first time. Otherwise, great review and nice work!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thank you very much for your comment and tip!

[@ride4kix]

This little generator saved my butt one time when the power went out for two days due to a storm . It ran my refrigerator with no problems.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for your comment, and you are of course right! The thing is, most people won't bother to spend the money on something to prepare for the future, so the idea behind this, is you can do some important, although minor things with it. Having this for 89.00 is a lot better than having nothing...

[@DonziGT230]

Thank you, and thanks for sharing about the fasteners loosening, spark plug, and the break-in; I bet very few do it. I think I have the first generation of these, about 5 or so years old. It's a bit simpler, is less covered up, but probably about the same mechanically. I had plans to use it a lot, I did a break-in, and haven't used it since. Someday I'll put it into service and I'll be checking the hardware and plug before I do.

[@Mentorcase]

Those generators were meant to run at 50Hz but they are pushed up to 60Hz by revving them faster by 20%.

[@Urugami45]

Brave man, working on a glass table like that. Thanks for the video, even years later.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

He he! I like to live dangerously! Take care! Mark

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

John, thanks for the comment! I also think this would be good for "boondocking" with my new Little Guy, SIlver shadow! Light enough to carry on the front without loading down the tung weight, and I would only have to run it for a little while to charge the battery!

[@dannytroy]

Thanks for the partial dis-assembly. I've seen these gennys reviewed, but never saw one with the covers removed. HF gets a bad rap by a lot of people, but if you know what you are buying, and buy for the intended usage, you can get great deals. Their gennys generally all get good reviews from buyers.

[@4N2IN0JA]

I also replaced the cheap spark plug boot with a NGK waterproof one that screws into the coil wire. Plus I put about 2 tablespoons on 2 stroke oil down the spark plug hole to lubricate the piston before the first start. Also putting a fuel filter on the fuel line is critical because there might be crap in the fuel tank.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

I measured a small college dorm fridge at 60 watts. I TV is usually around 300 watts. You can run a very small window ac unit on this. You can run several lights, a small fridge, and a tv on this all together. The voltage regulation isn't the best so I would run your top of the line TV on this. you can run a wood pellet stove on this. Battery chargers, sump pumps, circulation fans for gas HVAC, and gas heaters, low power microwaves.. For stuff with electric motors, double the wattage. :)

[@stevejordan7230]

You can adjust the voltage down to 110 60hz with the phillips screw to the right of the gas valve. I'd recommend NGK plug and plug connector.

[@dangunn6961]

I've had mine for 3 years and it runs great. I changed to a better spark plug and use 3 oz of oil per gallon of gas instead of 2.5 ounces.I use Lubrimatic 2 stroke oil. I used it for 6 hours once to run my refrigerator when the power was off. I does take a lot of pulls to get it started though so I will use starting fluid with top cylinder lubricant in it to see if that helps. Be careful about using starting fluid it can ruin an engine. Use sparingly.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Noriceburners, you're right about that, but what do you expect for 90.00? It wil run lights, charge batteries and stuff. I think that is all you can ask from such a cheap appliance. Thanks for your comment!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Ian, that has what I have heard about this little guy! I read a post from a business owner that has 4, and has been using them for four years. Surprising, yes! Mind boggling!

[@johnzurowski3192]

I watched this video and did everything you covered and my little generator works great ! Very helpful.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

John Zurowski Glad to hear it! Hopefully, it will keep running well for you! Just remember to start it up every once in a while to keep the needle valve in the float bowl on the carburetor from sticking... Thanks for your comment!

[@3beltwesty]

The Homier version I bought in 2006 puts out a sine wave as long as one does not over load it. It cost 89 bucks from the weekend circus tent show that visited after a year after Katrina. Mine has the same original spark plug. The Homier of mine is labeled 1250 watts which is BS but the manual says 800 watts steady continuous. The only issue I have had with mine is I lost the needle in the carb after a few years and could never find another. Thus I bought a new carb from Harbor Freight parts dept and the carb fit perfectly. The Harbor Freight float and needle are slightly different than the Homier thus I just placed the 9 buck HF carb on the the Homier. Shipping back in 2009 was 7 bucks thus I bought 2 carbs for 9 bucks. Here is the kicker; I searched endlessly for the original needle and never found it in a great work area; but found it when I was replacing the carb. The original lost Homier float needle had jumped into a black hole of the front panel and was stuck in a tiny hidden back panel molded area. With the found needle I now have 2 spare working carbs. The Homier here has a 12V DC output too. A test on mine trying to start my 5200, 5500 and 6000 BTUH airconditioners was marginal. It would start the 5200 BTU and 5500 units sometimes and not others. These units draw 5.5 and 6 amps when running but the surge starting is 3 to 5 times more thus the generator often fails to start them. This is with a best case 25ft 12 awg cord through a short run directly to the unit . Even when the AC unit did run and cool well when it cycled the generator often would not restart the AC again in a few minutes. The LRA (locked rotor amps) on the 5200 BTUH unit is 25 amps thus no margin. If one had to run a tiny ac unit once (if) it starts the generator was happy

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for the detailed info!

[@kali1607]

Two things I have found with these generators are:- 1. They do not like stale fuel. If you leave fuel in the tank for a few months they will refuse to start until the fuel is completely replaced with fresh petrol and 2 stroke oil. 2. If you have the oil measuring cup attached to the petrol filler cap as suggested by the manufacturer, it can stop air getting into the tank, causing a vacuum in the tank that will stop fuel flow to the carburettor within a few minutes.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for the tip!

[@johnkiljan7441]

On the other hand, after draining the bowl, I've stored fuel in the tank of mine for over two years and have still had it start on the third pull and run happily through the rest of the tank. I try to run mine once a year for at least 15 minutes even if I don't use it otherwise. My gas cap (with the measuring cup) doesn't stall it out, but the tank also leaks just a little from the cap. Perhaps that's the difference. It's always good to crack open the cap and reseal it before you start up in case there is a partial vacuum from cold or overpressure from heating -- kinda like an old Primus stove. You can often tell old fuel by the smell. It smells more like paint thinner or turpentine than gasoline. Again, kind of like an old Primus or Coleman camping stove in which the fuel can sit for years. --JK

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for the tip!

[@Flyingsqir]

I just got the newer StormCat 'red version' of the HF 63cc gennie. I added a NGK plug and the Briggs&Straton red pancake fuel filter with new clear 1/4" poly hose. I didn't use Loctite, but I'll check things for looseness going forward. I've now got 7hr, 20min at 40:1 mixture for my first gallon, with a 300w fan running. I warm up for 3min, then add the load. Manual states 25 hrs @

[@BaFunGool]

This little genset is great for working out of service truck, for operating power tools in remote locations.

[@d.haroldangel241]

I bought one of these about 9 or 10 years ago. It"s still unused. Occasionally I give it a few pull starts to keep the engine from seizing. Hoping it will work when I decide to give it fire.

[@matthewkleinmann]

I have a couple of these little guys and I use them a lot and I use them hard. They still both have the stock plugs in them, and I have never needed to begin to take either one apart. I not only use these hard electrically but I also used them hard physically. These poor things have been toted around more times than I can count over the years to run halogen light sets at night. I also have sone a lt of off grid building with these, going back and forth between powering a small compressor and a saw. IMHO if you want them to run reliably you need to do the following: 1) Always use ethanol free high test gas. Get the best stuff they have at the pumps. 2) Always use high end 2 cycle oil. I like the Stihl HP Ultra in the 2 gallon premix jugs. 3) When you are done using the generator for power, remove your loads and turn the petcock off but leave the engine running so it uses up the fuel in the carb bowl. 4) When first getting it started, get it off the choke as soon as you can. 5) Once it has started let it warm up. It should spit and sputter a bit with no load. It is designed to work, not idle. 6) If possible, apply the load slowly. If you are using a tool like a saw, give it a few seconds to spin up. I have been working like this for many years now and never changed a stock plug, never pulled the lid off, in fact never screwed with the gust of these at all. They are great little workhorses and my favorite thing about them is there is literally no maintenance,

[@burtvhulberthyhbn7583]

You know your stuff. Break in like you did at 40 to one ratio sounds very good.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Endurance, the answer is unfortuntely, just smaller things. You can of course run several lamps on this. A tv, and some lamps, maybe a lower wattage sump pump. Battery chargers, electric yard tools in an emergency, like for example a chainsaw, a mini refridgerator(like in dorm rooms), a ham radio set, a CB set, a radio to listen to the weather and news, etc. Just for reference, 1 horse power equals 746 watts. Hope this helps! Mark :)

[@bakupcpu]

You're welcome ^.^ the one I got is the ETQ 1000W 2Stroke Gas IN1000I Portable Digital Inverter Quiet Generator it was the cheapest I found on eBay and it look reasonable for the price but I'll make sure to change the spark plug and probably check for those bolt to put locktite on. Got it for running a little 15000 btu kero/diesel heater that I found and I restore it but it work on 24 volts hurray for power supply.

[@mickeybarefield7420]

Thank you for taking time to share your knowledge with us.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

You're welcome! Thank YOU for your comment!

[@m60mgman]

I watched your video and bought mine today for $89. I took it apart and tried to undo the 4 screws at the base of the carburetor but they were so tight I just left them as is, and lock tited the others. I used an Autolite 65 plug as you advised from Advance Auto for $2. 11 pulls to start the first time. It works great, 2 hours break in so far. When hot it starts in 1 pull. My air filter (little piece of foam) was much smaller and thinner than the one in your video, and loose with a poor fit so I made another one to fit and close all the gaps. Appreciate your tips!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Hope it works out for you! You can also use an NGK plug. Smart call on the air filter! Thanks for your comment!

[@m60mgman]

The first one I bought had blow by at the spark plug/head interface, dripping oil slowly, so it went back after a few hours of running. For the second one, I bought an NGK plug to use but thought I'd give the stock Xinhua plug a try. With that in, after 25 hours of break in it has run like a champ and not missed a beat. For what it is and how much it costs, I think it's a bargain.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Glad it is working for you, but sorry the first one had problems!

[@electropad]

I would also suggest putting a small hose clamp to secure where the fuel tap connects to the hose, instead of the weak spring clamp. My generator in the heat had a very small amount of fuel leaking and was visible on the rubber foot.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Jason, Thanks for letting us know! I seem to recall thinking those spring clamps weren't very good, and that I should replace them, but I was too lazy.... From your experience, it is worth the effort...

[@electropad]

The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist It was only leaking a little bit, but I go away camping with it and didn't want any small fuel leaks that could possibly start a small fire.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Jason Cattach Yeah, a fuel leak could ruin a day in a hurry...

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

57Lvnative, Thanks very much for your comment! There isn't much we can do about that, which is sad. No way I am going to have a steel pulley machined for this little cheapo! I wonder if in the cold weather, that pulley is prone to getting brittle and braking?

[@contrabasstrombone13]

Thanks for the info on the Generator. I have one coming in the mail! I am a beekeeper and had no power for my bee vacuum for one of my removals. The guy did not have a long enough power cord to reach all the way out to the hive. There were so many agree bees! My be vacuum uses 750 watts, just under 800 watts.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

I hope this works for you!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

John, I completely missed all of your comments! Sorry about that, and thank you! I am glad you found this helpful to you! Thanks for the tips on the 1500 watt generators!

[@barnzullaRedStar]

i have an all power branded generator that looks very close to that and rated the same wattage. one thing i notice was the stock plug was junk and i needed to adjust the idle a bit. i also found out that it doesnt like electric motors connected to it unless theres is another pure electric load on it. everything else is just fine. its been a good little generator. only time ive had trouble using it was when i left gas in the carb like an idoit when i stored it for a couple months. some ether and was running good again.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

thank you for your comment!

[@joefyda9105]

I have had several these generators. first to developed stress cracks in the gas tank. the last one I had needle bearings come out for the wrist pain and lodged in the Piston locking up the engine. they're not bad but don't last long.

[@FCFordLord]

I've heard a decent amount of success stories, with quite a few lasting 5+ years of constant use.

[@joefyda9105]

+FCFordLord I bought the extended warranty and replaced mine 4 Times. I used mine at night and run lights, tv and a heater. The last one lasted for a month before the needle bearings went into the piston and locked up. Three of them developed cracks under the fuel tanks. Would leak fuel all over.

[@joefyda9105]

+FCFordLord And yes I mixed 2.5 ounces of 2 cycle oil with a gallon of gas. = 50 to 1. It would run about 5 hours on a tank of fuel.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Bakupcpu, It is a decent little generator for the price, but it might be too noisy for a camp ground. Of course if you are "boon docking" it would work well. I am glad you found it informative, thanks for your comment! Mark:)

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

I am not sure, but I think the generator runs for 4 hours on a half gallon of gas. I put Sta-Bil in my gas, which is supposed to make it keep for up to 2 years.

[@KenSentMe-]

There should be fuel filter integrated with the fuel valve. If you unscrew the valve off, there comes tiny filter inside the tank.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for the tip!

[@SaGalv]

I think there is a way to adjust the governor in this generator to fine tune the voltage and frequency, but to be honest i would leave it. 130 volts wont harm anything intended for 115v, and having it set at 130 unloaded will probably help that little generator maintain 115v when it drops with load.

[@theoldwizard998]

I'm guessing the long studs that hold the carburetor and exterior trim panel can be unscrewed from the engine. They should have thread locker on that end also. Tygon fuel line will last longer and does not require the spring clamps.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks cor the info!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Hey, thanks for the reply! Your logic is impeccable! Your explanation makes perfect sense!

[@beingsneaky]

didn't read the comments, but first thing i notice was that you did not gap the new plug.

[@BlakeBiellier]

I don't like to bash videos so please don't think I am putting anyone down.... I just noticed a few things that I would not personally do... I would never put loctite on anything that goes into the head or intake of a motor. This is is because you risk twisting the head of the bolt off if you ever have to replace the carb. An easy-out will never get a broken bolt with loctite out. I would also recommend putting anti-seize on the the threads of the spark plug. It is almost guaranteed to get stuck in the block without it. It would be beneficial to put some dielectric grease on the outside conductor of the spark plug (that means the part that is on the outside of the motor). This will prevent moisture from being able to enter the spark plug cap. Moisture + Carbon based metals + Electricity = Corrosion. The last thing is that you should always check the gap on the sparkplug with a gap tool. An improper gap could cause the motor to detonate fuel inefficiently or detonate too much of the fuel. If too little of the fuel is detonated it can cause the motor to build up with carbon and seize the piston. If too much of the fuel is detonated it can potentially overheat. Some fuel is intended to be unburnt to help with the lubrication process. Thank you for posting the video! I am only trying to put what I would do... Everyone sees things from different perspectives. Keep Life Amazing everyone!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

thank you for your comment! intelligent critique is appreciated!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for the comment! I did check out your channel, and you have som interesting stuff up! I will have to spend a lot more time checking it out. Thanks for watching, and again commenting!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

KG4zyz, Yes, it might. I put non permanent strength on it, so that if I ever have to take it apart again, I can. If you want to take the reed box off, make sure the engine is completely cool because aluminum swells more than steel when it gets hot, and you could strip out the threads. For 89 dollars, I just wanted it to be more reliable. I found this tips from a business that has used these gens for four years, with lots of hours, so it wasn't a problem for them.. Thanks for the comment!

[@weathermannax416]

Sta-Bil's performance 360 is what I use now. Don't use the red Sta-Bil as that does not work with 10% ethanol mixed gasoline that some stations sell.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for the tip!

[@tonyz2897]

You're welcome! luckily if it does happen, HF sells aluminum brazing rods with a low enough melting point to be used with mapp gas. The repair is easy unless it's one of the threaded tabs on the engine side. Then the rotor and stator need to come out to avoid heat damage. Maybe I just got bad castings but I'll be using a short 1/4" drive ratchet for anything threaded into aluminum on this thing from now on.

[@chris1422]

i have over 300 hrs on mine. still hums along. i did have to adjust the voltage output as it was too low...95 volts.theres a screw to bring that up to 115-120v.picked up a non running 2nd one today at yard sale for $10. all it needed was a spark plug!

[@MoesKeckeEcke]

You can use the pull starter from a Chinese pocket bike, sold on eBay. And if you are poor like me just use a rope to "sling start" it. With no cover it gets cooling issues which I haven't solved yet. Maybe bump start with a cordless drill?

[@tonyz2897]

If you go through checking for loose fasteners, be careful with the long bolts that hold the stator assembly and rear cover in place. They won't seem much past finger tight when the tabs they go through break off of the casting.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Hey Donzigt230, Thanks for the comment! I do disagree with you on one point. Since it is a two stroke(without oil in the crankcase), I personally wouldn't be in a habit of letting it run out of fuel to shut it off. That being said, I am aware that people can let these run under normal circumstances until they run out of fuel, but I wouldn't tempt fate, and risk them locking up because the cylinder walls have no oil on them.

[@DWinnie67]

as long as fuel is entering engine,oil is also entering the engine,so no problem.

[@WORRO]

Nice video and demo on this generator. You put out some good videos, glad I found your channel bro!

[@bakupcpu]

Very nice demo Thanks I'm thinking of buying a little guy like that one since I only need about 300 watts max of power for camping :)

[@Tristan102100]

we got a chineese(we thought it was a snap-on at the time,but not under clser inspection( pressure washer, and the first thing i was gonna do is remove the spark plug to re-gap it but it was in there so tight(yes i was turning left) i broke the rubber engine mounts before the spark plug came loose. so we returned it for the very last one in stock anywhere in the country,and we decided we would be better off leaving that spark plug alone. it runs fine,but i am wondering why it was discontinued...

[@w8fg]

Good video, you sparked my interest to watch for the next sale, i have noted others like northern tool show a genset appears identical to this but with a 12v battery charging port? They are so similar i wonder if its possible to tap off this set some place to gain access to 12v charge ability?

[@condimentking14]

This video is very helpful I am as well a small engene guru and had aquired a similar version of another company who is making the same but with a surge of 1000 and norm 800 mine was given to me by a customer who ran plain gas no oil in it we know what happened there so I sold them another and referbished this one its a nice generator especially if its free although granted I had to hone the cylinder but almost free

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Steven, thanks for the comment!

[@dozdeshabb]

I live in central Florida. I have been through so many storms , hurricanes . I am using a 12KW Genco tri fuel and plenty of propane on hand .You buy a generator to make life easy when you need it. When all powers are out I have my A/C on and hot shower always ready and a hot dinner. spend your money wisely my friends.

[@specialks1953]

STA-BIL® fuel stabilizer in any small engine fuel system is the way to go. It improves the running of the engine and it improves the life of the carburetor. I WILL NOT put fuel without Sta-Bil in it again. I have used it for about 18 years now, because it has proven it's worth to me. - - - - I am not affiliated with the product except as a buyer and user.

[@bb4jdmlude]

I love buying brand new items then taking them apart to fix factory problems

[@scdevon]

+bb4jdmlude For a $100 unit, it's worth it to go over these and do a "Final Chinese Quality Control" on them. They are great units for that price and some of us don't mind tinkering with stuff. You can always pay 8X more for a unit that doesn't require a good "going over" if you want.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

+scdevon agreed, thanks for your comment!

[@keeptheunout7430]

Could you run a power conditioner in between the generator and final output to clean up the wave form? Will it work with the desired effect..with say a furman or similar? Looking into ways of making this more versatile. Thank you.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

i have an apc power conditioner that i bought to use but i dont have a oscope at home to give you a definitive answer so i will say, yes you can do this, but i am not sure what the sinewave will look like... thanks.ks for your question!

[@FerralVideo]

I just grabbed one of these on coupon. Two pulls stone cold brand new. They now sell them under the "TailGator" brand name in a green fuel tank trim, with a slightly higher build quality. They still have the absolute crap "Torch" Chinese-made spark plugs, but mine roared right to life with one in it no problem. Think I'll do your break-in method on it.

[@FerralVideo]

Inverter gens are good. I can't speak for HF's Predator model, as I have a Hyundai 2000. The extra price of the inverter will get you a cleaner output, a quieter machine, and better fuel economy vs a traditional direct-drive generator. However, some models can stall if slapped with a near-limit load from idle while in Economy mode, and they may have long-term reliability concerns due to increased complexity, added points of failure, and reliance on computer controls. My best recommendation is to watch as many reviews here on KZbin as you can before buying.

[@FerralVideo]

These aren't your grandpa's fuel cap. Those fuel caps look loose, but because of EPA evaporative emissions regulations, they HAVE to seal against the gas tank. This has the side benefit of protecting the tank from spills. I was able to carry my little one of these in the back of my car with absolutely no problem, other than a slight odor of gasoline in the car. I can't guarantee it'll stay sealed if the generator falls over, but it's pretty incidental spill resistant. You can probably get a better gas cap that seals better if you really wanted to. Inverter sets usually have gas caps more reminiscent of cars, at least my Hyundai does...

[@FerralVideo]

Huh. I just grabbed mine and it didn't spill until I had it nearly tipped over to its side. I've never spilled it by carrying or jostling it around while upright. Then again my fuel tank isn't 100% full (you're not supposed to fill them ALL the way). Maybe that one had a defective fuel cap?

[@gmw1964z]

would be nice to know the proper torque for these

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Perhaps becuase a two stroke generally puts out more power per size? Lightness?

[@orange12v]

you didn't gap the plug & you didn't oil it's air filter

[@semco72057]

The Harbor Freight people claim that they test their equipment before placing them for sale and surprised they didn't catch that problem. I have two larger generators which was never used and one will be taken to the shop and the last one I tried to start after taking out of the box. The manual don't tell me much about starting it and it was made in China also. The pull cord hung when I first tried to start it so I took it to the shop for repair, but the people there didn't tell me if they started the generator after correcting that cord problem. I was wondering if the fuel lever is suppose to be down for fuel to flow into the carb or should it be turned to the side?

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Down is usually the on position. I also highly doubt they test these

[@CWB-RF]

Dude thanks for the info. Always check spark plug gap before installing though...

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Warren, yeah that makes sense, thanks for your comment!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

88s, I would be interested to see how you do this, and how it works out! I would recommend the muffler not be too restrictive, as this is a two stroke, and the reed valves won't work properly with too much back pressure, as you may or may not know. The back pressure will prevent the reeds from opening up and letting the engine draw in air and fuel, so it will both run poorly and hot. Interesting project. There are lots of people on youtube that build generator boxes out of foam with success!

[@DWinnie67]

just remove the screen thats clamped to the muffler,and it will run just fine

[@TrashPanda5150]

Great vid, thank you! I noticed a comment about replacing the muffler. Do you know anything about doing that? Like a replacement for it?

[@johnabalos1455]

Just a warning, when you buy one of these HF generators you have to find Its sweet spot for starting!! To start mine I open the fuel cock, let.fuel run down to carb for 5 to 7 mins, then pull starter rope very slowly 3 times to suck fuel in combustion chamber, then pull starter rope normally, it will start on 2nd pull.I have learned that you cannot man handle the pull rope starter it is the weakest part of the unit so be careful not to abuse it.Sometimes you have to pull the plug an clean it, an Sometimes you have to make yourself walk away a few minutes out of frustration. I am 66years old with arthritis in both arms, an i cannot pull on a rope starter indefinitely, but I know the sweet spot of my little generator, good fuel,good spark, an just remember it’s a 2stroke , it can be temperamental don’t lose your enthusiasm it will eventually start.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

You're welcome! Thanks for the comment!

[@raule.riverafeliciano9742]

I recently purchased a model just like that one, but it reads 1,200w on the sticker. What is the recommended voltage (using the voltmeter on the machine) so that this generator runs effectively? Right now I have it close to the middle of the voltmeter (140v or so).

[@robby844]

Green loctite is a bearing retainer... You want to stay with blue or purple on aluminum ALWAYS.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

thanks!

[@Deucealive75]

+The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist yeah. I have the green loctite (680) and only use it on nuts and bolts that I never intend to remove again. That stuff is like super glue but doesn't dry as fast. Use the blue loctite 242.

[@robby844]

Deucealive75 680 is not meant for bolts... It's meant for taking up gaps and bonding bearings and races to the mating surfaces. I have never had 680 bond nuts and bolts together. It usually stays sticky and wet and the nuts come right off. I always use the Permanent strength stuff on anything that doesn't screw into aluminum.

[@robby844]

+gunthreadadapters.com uh... not according to the bottle I have at home. mine just says "bearing retaining compound".

[@robby844]

+gunthreadadapters.com keep telling yourself that. we are talking about what it says on the package. not what you want it to say.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Mebe2k, Maybe you could take a video of you tearing the generator head apart so we could all see what is inside?

[@jizzythefroggy1108]

at what point did you check the gap on the new spark plug before installing??

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

88s, your welcome on the tips, and this guy is pretty loud. It isn't that loud if it is running outside of your house, and you are in doors with the windows shut, but I wouldn't want to use it in a camp ground. Believe it or not, it seems more quiet than my Champion 4000 watt generator, but I do not have a good sound meter to comfirm. Mark :)

[@DonziGT230]

A good way to shut it off after you're done using it is to turn the fuel valve off and let it run out instead of just turning the run switch off. This burns off most of the gas in the carburetor reducing clogging during storage. If the carburetor drain screw is accessible then fully draining it would be good. If it's being stored a long time drain the gas tank or at the very least put fuel stabilizer in it. These tanks are open vented so draining it would be best.

[@muddysledge]

Great video, thanks. Just got one of these lil' gens and will do what you've shown here.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

glad you liked it!

[@kg4zyz]

Will the locktite cause issue when removing the carb. for maintenance

[@KC6CNN]

I have an expensive Honda 3000 that I converted to propane for home and emergency use. I have one of these Harbor Freight generators with the two year warranty to take on the beach fishing and on the boat. It will run a heater and a light in winter at a hunting camp. It's good if you have nothing else, but be careful about running sensitive expensive equipment on this lil gen.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Thanks for your comment! I appreciate the info!

[@solarsynapse]

I am guessing that is not a true alternator. Is the generator inside DC that goes through an inverter? If so, what voltage is the DC? I am looking for a 12VDC 15A generator and was wondering if I could connect directly off of the DC side.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

HOw many watts is the SKill saw? It should have a label somewhere with how much current it uses, or power. For example, if it says 120 volts, 5amps, it is 120 x 5, which is 600 watts., which is a little over 3/4 of a horsepower. Usually with electric motors, you double the wattage to get the starting watts needed. With your saw, the blade is kind of light, so it may work. if your saw is half a horsepower, this will probably be okay.

[@MrLeovaras75]

Thanks for all the good info. But, since I'm not an electrician, and you seem to know you're stuff, here's my question: how many appliances are you able to power up with this generator, roughly?

[@X6800]

Mine recently started leaking what appears to be oil from the muffler box. Should I be worried? This started up during the last few hours of the break in period. I thought maybe it was paint that was burning off since it had been running for so long.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

No need to worry x6800. These are two stroke engines, so the oil you see is unburnt oil from the oil/gas mixture. It may mean you need to change your spark plug again, but there is no oil in the crankcase to blow by the piston rings, and leak out the muffler, so again, no worries! Hope this helps! Mark

[@X6800]

The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist Thanks!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

x6800, You're very welcome! Thanks for trusting me enough to ask the question!

[@adamb7744]

Great vid mate, was wondering, do you know how to set the mixture on the carby? I have accidentally lost my settings after i removed the needle when cleaning out the carby. Im talking about the screw on top near the throttle control. how many turns out would you recommend?

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Adam Burchell thank you for your question, but i am afraid i cant help. it has been quite a while since i had my hands o one of these... i would back it out until the exhaust gets rich ., turn it in a half turn and start there, good luck!

[@adamb7744]

The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist cheers. I was trying to do that. I cant tell any difference when I dial it back is the problem.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Adam Burchell i understand. i think the only real risk you have is running it too lean ,so it gets hot. otherwise you just risk a fouled plug. maybe you can tell by using a temp prob and measuring the heat of the head, or maybe even the muffler?

[@SovereignKnight74]

Cool little generator. I like it!

[@JulienDeon]

The voltage output of the genny is far too unstable for critical equipment, 112-120 is nominal 125 max 110 min, if you want to use on sensitive equipment do put some form of regulation to protect the gear, but for lighting or standard power tools it might be a good little piece of kit

[@Owiko7]

well, that is what an inverter generator is for.

[@JulienDeon]

right but this is not an inverter generator..as i said this would be fine for lighting or general tool use

[@thatilluminati_3421]

Thats like judging a chainsaw by a dovetail saw: two completely different tools designed for different jobs.

[@batvette]

I have not observed voltage fluctuations and do not think that is the main issue affecting its output. It is probably an irregular waveform, not sine wave, and/or spikes in the output. Mine stays at a steady 117v, yet my vector 25a smart charger runs a lot warmer than on wall power, fluctuates its output (greatly reduced after a few min with the battery not charged fully)and randomly shuts off/resets. The recoil unit broke the 5th time I used it. This may have some use for some people. I regret my purchase, should have spent the money on crack and a hooker. Well maybe in the 80s that would have worked. Inflation and old age, sigh..

[@pornthiphamuangkhot4139]

Hello Upper Canada media May I join with you? I have a (SDG) sourcing diesel generator can generate clean electricity at about 6 MW to 180 MW per unit (estimate), 25 to 100 horsepower engine size. The part of technology innovation to connect with the Sourcing diesel generator, it does not depend on any fuel, no ocean power, no wind power, no sunshine, no water power, and no heat power, and no battery, and not magnetic, no wood chip, and no rice husk. This engine can put it on big boat and big house boat, you and it can send the electricity via the power line to the land. We wish to join with you. Are you interested? I would like to participate with you, and share the mutual benefit. I can send my engineer to meet you : Thank you.

[@RoboTekno]

6:30 Did you mean to say blue thread locker?

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

I think i did mean blue loctite.. Thank you

[@RoboTekno]

The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist Haha, Just wondering. I was thinking to myself, "I've heard of blue and red, but not green Loctite. Where can I buy green Loctite from?" :-P

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

It has been a while, but I had put a note in the beginning of the video that I should have used green. I think I came to that conclusion at the time because of the heat of the engine. www.loctiteproducts.com/tds/T_LKR_GREEN_tds.pdf Thanks again! As I said, it has been a while, and out of site is out of mind for me... I don't think you can go wrong with either really...

[@RoboTekno]

The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist Gotcha thanks :-) , I'll have to check out Green. The amount of glue/epoxy formulations we have these days seems almost infinite; just too many to choose from or remember.

[@EnduranceT]

Hey Mark, what would you typically use this generator for? I've thought about picking one up myself but since its only an 800watt gen, I can't think of what I'd even use it for!

[@joesphx19]

I think I'll pass on anything that has an engine from HF but this was a nicely done video and you have a really interesting channel. I will check out your others. Thanks

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

Joesphx19, thanks for the kind words! It is probably a good idea to pass on most Harbor Freight items...

[@joesphx19]

LOL, yes from experience but their ads keep drawing me in like some kind of mind control!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

joesphx19 After all, how you could pass up a 30 dollar sawzall?

[@joesphx19]

The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist I'll be looking at it this weekend, need some new tarps anyway!

[@arockpcb1347]

the oil in the gas is to cool the motor? wow, I hear a new one everyday

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

+Arock PCB I am really not sure what, or who you are talking to. The oil is there to lubricate the cylinder walls. If it leans out, friction builds up. If friction builds up, heat builds up. If heat builds up, the mixture further leans out, more friction, more heat. Eventually, the engine ceases up. Is this also something you learned today?

[@nlo114]

+The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist - To avoid further embarrassment about lack of knowledge of the two-stroke engine, read a book about them. I won't insult you; your heart is in the right place, but your knowledge isn't.

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

+nlo114 well, i'll tell you what. i may have forgotten a few things over the years, but i used to do a lot of work on two strokes like my snow mobile engines, my yz motorcycles, my ktm mx 500, my blaster etc. thanks for not jumping on me. i appreciate it! idis this vidwo a long time ago, got a comment out of the blue and answered it on my smart phone while sitting on the toilet. furthermore i said in the video that i was following someone elses procedure and even though i had done a lot of work in the past, i never prezented myself as an expert. however, i really don't care to delve into it anymore. now i do more electronics and coding. perhaps you could just share one of your helpful videos. feel free to paste yours here! thanks! i. an also guarantee that if i did want to build or rebuild a two stroke it would run the first time around and run well. thanks again for not jumping on me

[@nlo114]

+The Suburban Hippie Experimentalist - No problems mate. I'll let you into a little secret I learned from racing 2-strokes. Putting too much oil into the mix actually makes the engine run hotter, believe it or not. Here's why: The carburettor is set to provide a metered weight of fuel per weight of air, in order to give most efficient combustion of the fuel. Too much fuel = rich = cooler combustion; too little fuel = lean = hotter combustion. Every drop of oil over the correct amount in the mix doesn't help the engine one bit; it means less fuel per metered volume, so the engine runs weaker and hotter, which is more likely to break the oil down and increase friction, making more heat. Too little oil means poor lubrication, cylinder-wall wash-down, friction and heat. From this you will see that friction doesn't make the engine run leaner, but making the mixture leaner, generates friction which makes the engine run hotter, with the attendant damage.Worth remembering!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

+nlo114 hmm interesting. i have never had a problem with too much oul making a 2 stroke run hot. in fact a not of 2 strokes had oil injectors and as they ran out of fuel they would add more oil to the mix. the result was only a fouled plug. on the other hand, if rhe mix was too lean, i would see them get really hot and either blow the piston or seize.

[@yanzi77]

thanks for the tutorials, i have one of this that is sitting in my garage here in the philippines, just wondering if this needs an oil change or not?? 40T oil for the machine

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

No oil change for this particular machine, as it is two cycle(No oil in the crankcase). Just burn the gas+oil mix through it occasionally and you should be fine. I think I am running mine at 40:1 40 parts gas to 1 part oil.

[@yanzi77]

thank you very very much! this info is very helpful.....thank you for lending your time much appreciated :)

[@AFewMinutesWithjman]

Thanks for the review, hope this works out for you. I may have missed it but I did not know you were moving to the Philippines. Hope all is well. jman