Difference in honda generators Big store vs small dealer?

Now you've gone and done it! We had AT LEAST 2 more pages of arguments left in us, and you've spoiled the fun!

Honda guy here...

All current Honda EU2000i models are made at the Honda plant in Thailand.

There is no "big box" model, nor are there any "special" models only sold by certain dealers or retailers. All authorized dealers, including Home Depot, all get the exact same models. Further, you can expect warranty service from any Honda dealer, no matter if you bought it there or not. Caveat: Many dealer service shops will give priority service to customers who did buy from them, but are not allowed to deny warranty service to those who did not.

As of May 1,2016, there are a few different types of 2kw Honda inverter-type generator models sold in the USA:

EU2000i: The standard model, with a 20A duplex outlet, 12V DC vehicle battery charging output, parallel connection ready

EU2000i Camo: Identical to the standard model, but with camo-printed outer cases (and higher price!)

EU2000i Companion: This is the "add-on" model to connect with a standard or Camo EU2000i and create a 4,000 watt system; it has a large, 30A receptacle, and single 20A receptacle. Parallel ready, just add a set of cables and power from both units is routed through the single 30A receptacle. Add an adapter to allow connection of a standard RV cable. The Companion does NOT have DC output, and cost a bit more than a standard model.

EB2000i: The industrial/rental/construction version; it has a duplex GFCI receptacle, no DC output, no parallel. It exists only to meet OSHA rules for portable generators used on jobsites. Unlike all other Honda 2kw inverter generators, the EB2000i is neutral bonded to frame.

All USA-spec Honda 2kw inverter generators have a 36-month warranty.

FYI, Canada-market models are similar, but do not have parallel connections, due to CSA regulations.

More details available at gen.honda.com or drop me a PM.

This is a reply from Honda in June, 2015 that I found it on another forum.

There is credible evidence that some Honda motors are made in China! Not all, but some. This would validate the price difference. Big box stores have special deals because of this??

path1 wrote:
Pricing out Honda 2000's. Overall big box store $200 less than Honda dealer. Any reason? Honda's part numbers from their on line site has 3 different part numbers for their 2000I.

EU2000iT1A1, EU2000I1A1, EU2000IKN, EU2000IKC

Is there any difference from one or the other?

The only differences I know (US) are the colors & companion options.

Last time I really dug into it the safety folk in Canada would not allow generators sold up there to have the banana-jacks or circuit to support hooking the generators together, and they had different part numbers.

Honda does not allow on-line dealers to advertise below list price.
That doesn't mean there aren't deals out there
Mayberry
Alamia

Both typically offer prices well below list and ship for free.

Thank internet for options.
Years ago I needed big chain saw and was shopping around for Stihl.
Local dealers would be happy to special order one for me for $1500 and 2 weeks later they would start it on pick up date.
I order one via internet and it come from Canada for $800 delivered with extra ripping chain.
Then when I was buying my Honda EU3000, that was too heavy for affordable shipping and bought it from local small engine shop.
That turned out OK as generator come with defective inverter, what was pretty hard to troubleshoot as it worked under small and mid loads.
The small shop had resistor bank and was able to test it on the spot.
I think big warehouse would keep me waiting and who knows how troubleshooting behind closed door would proceed.

Try here.

Northern Tool

Personally I like to keep my money in my pocket!!

I bought my pair from electric generator depot with the parallel kit 3 extension cords and 2 covers for the cost of just the generators. All came in a kit with free shipping and NO TAX!!

Like I said, I like keeping my money

Chris

Big Katuna wrote:
I do not believe that there are different versions of Honda generators for different retailers.

Agree.

One thing I have noticed is some dealers offer free set up. Which is basically a quart of Honda oil. But they will have it running for you when you pick it up. Honda does not ship oil with their generators. Plus I like to keep my money local. Your call.