3000W Chinese Gensets Info.

pafcu wrote:
As I previously posted,I am in the market for a new genny for my 5'er. I would like to make an informed decision when I do purchase. I have read a lot of positive comments on the Champion RV ready generator's features, but have been unable to secure any data on its long term reliability. What material is the engine block of the Champion made of? Does it have a cast iron cylinder sleeve?

Virtually all GX type Chonda engines are machined from a cast aluminum block made by one of two major Chinese foundries. I do not know of any manufacturers that insert a cast iron sleeve as part of the maching process (but it is possible).

The rough castings are sold to engine manufacturers who have varied methods of machining. Some use high tolerance CNC equipment to assure precise clearances and trueness. Others are alleged to use manual machining methods or older less precise CNC equipment. (Please note the word "alleged").

As anyone who has ever rebuilt an engine will tell you, all of the above are critical to longevity and even the best parts will quickly fail if items like ring gap, bore size, piston clearance, bearing clearance, etc. are not right on the mark.

Champion Power Equipment and several other major Chinese brands apparently adhere to these machining standards. There is absolutely no reason to believe that engines from these manufacturers will not last as long, or longer than their Honda look-alike's.

Champion has told me on at least two occasions that they do not claim to make a Honda clone. (Again, note the word "claim".) Champion has told me that they have actually identified problems inherent to the original Honda GX-200 valve train and have developed a modified design that has improved reliability in that area.

This forum is getting on in age. It has in fact become an extension of "Myth Busters" since we have indeed proven that our major brand preferences are not "Chinese junk that will fly apart in 50 hours or less". I do not recall any reports of engines from the major manufacturers throwing connecting rods or just plain old long wearing out.

If you are concerned about long term usage, go with a manufacturer that has a proven track record and well established parts/service network. The "Whiperwill" brand sold by the guy at a flea market for $199.99 may look like a Champ or other know brand, but I can promise you it is not built by them. I can also promise you when you need parts or support, he will be no where to be found.

Keep your oil changes regular. Change the air filter as recommended. Don't overload or over rev the engine and it should last for many, many years.