The Official unofficial CPE 2000i Generator Thread

[pritch272]

8/1/2010 edit: Thread renamed at the suggestion of the Professor.
Renamed from: Champion Inverter and Remote Gens Promo on CPE's web site)

3/22/2011 edit: Thread renamed ...
Renamed from: Official CPE 2000 Watt Inverter Generator Thread

3/23/2011 edit: Thread renamed at the suggestion of the Professor.
Renamed from: (Un)Official CPE 2000 Watt Inverter Generator Thread

Inverter Available August 2010



Remote Available July 2010

[msmd1]

Can you send it to me, snarfattack? I keep getting an error.

[snarfattack]

I just downloaded the manual fine.

I have a question about the generator the manual is not clear on. This gen is supposed to have auto-power, but the manual says to unplug all loads before starting... Looks like you can't start up via remote with loads connected, but you can shut down with loads connected. So what's the use of the remote, other than to shut down?

[professor95]

Tony F. wrote:


SNIP.....

Anyway, sorry for stirring up the pot. It was not intentional, and I'll try to be more careful going forward.

Tony

Tony, Welcome to the Forum. You did not stir up the pot -- only one person questioned your post. Truthfully, I have no idea why since it is all covered in many postings back on the 3,000 Watt Chinese Generator Forum which I have been hosting for over five years.

Glad you are here and please do not let the poster who questioned your intent keep you from being a part of our group.

[msmd1]

Can anyone get the operator's manual on costco.com website to download? I would really like to read it and it locks up every time for me at a few KB of 1.19MB. Thanks.

[Old___Slow]

Tony F. wrote:

Old & Slow wrote:

Tony F. wrote:
Hey guys,

I'm new to this forum, and new to searching for a generator. Until recently I had set my mind on twin 2kw Hondas, but the $$ was just too hard to part with. I saw the ad in the latest Costco coupon book a few days ago and was intrigued by the remote start 3kw Champion, so I started doing some research.

What I learned was very surprising to me. First, this is not a "Chinese" product in the strictest sense. This is an America owned company, with American engineering and support. The products are made in their own factory in China. This differs from typical Chinese products that are made by Chinese owned companies, or by American companies who contract with a Chinese factory to build their products.

Champion has full control of every step. The fact that they are using Chinese labor is a non issue.

Regarding Champion's track record, they've been making products for about 7 years now and - here's the interesting part - have NEVER had a recall. Never. That is a significant statement when you consider the fast pace new products are being introduced. Honda and Yamaha cannot make that same claim.

Finally, I own 4 Toyota vehicles. From 1997 to 2007, and like them all. However, my next vehicle will likely be a Hyundai. Why? Because they now have the fewer failures per thousand than any other brand in the world. In other words, they have surpassed Toyota and Honda for quality in one of the most indicative quality measurements there are. As a very loyal and long term Toyota customer, I am willing to look beyond my prejudices in order to find the best products for the money. The same goes for my generator purchase. Although I have little generator experience, I have been doing a lot of reading and talking to fellow campers. There are thousands of well informed people out there saying the same great things about Champion. I hope I've drawn a clear parallel there.

I'm not trying to bag on anyone or any product, but I think it would behoove anyone interested in an inverter generator to give this new product a good look.

Besides, the stacking, and the semi-integrated parallel kit is way cool.

Tony

Tony,

Something is way strange here. This is your first post. You say, recently you did some research. Concerning Champion. I'm pretty good about clicking around. I find 'NO PUBLIC', or for that matter, private, information to support the claims of your search. If you could leave us a link to all this info' concerning Champion (CPE) that would be appreciated. This is vary important. Please respond.

Floyd

Wow, I didn't realize I would stir up such... I can't think of the words. I don't want to say paranoia. Maybe distrust. I totally understand it though.

First, let me just say: No, I don't work for Champion, or anybody affiliated with them. No, I don't get anything from anyone for my post. Finally, yes, it is all true.

If you go to Champion's home page and scan to the bottom, you can read a statement that covers most of what I said. Regarding the recalls (or lack of) I found that in an article online, and simply called the company to find out. None of it is hard to learn, and if you call or email the company directly, you can verify everything I stated. You might not trust the source, but since they only verified what I learned already, I do. Same goes for recalls on other brands. The info is out there.

I said I was new to this forum, and new to searching for a generator, but I did not say I was new to research. It's what I do, and I'm good at it.

I'm not trying to sell anyone the Champion product, but rather suggest to anyone interested in their latest products that they are worth investigating. Most people (myself included) tend to get comfortable with our notions, and sometimes find it hard to accept changes in reality. That was the point I was making about Toyota Vs. Hyundai. And that is why I am willing to look past the Honda and Yamaha generators to something that just might displace them as the generator of choice. Maybe not, but I'm not willing to simply ignore the Champion because it isn't a Honda or Yamaha.

Anyway, sorry for stirring up the pot. It was not intentional, and I'll try to be more careful going forward.

Tony

Glad to hear from you Tony,

Several statements in your first post raised a Red Flag. So, I went on a hunt (research). Most all American Companies, on their websites have a link to 'about us' or 'get to know us'. All a person can find about CPE is the info' and the CS page. I find no reference to belonging to the US Chamber of Commerce or any of the other Trade Associations you look for when dealing with a Company. One other point. I believe A Chinese grope or Company may own a US Company but not the other way around. Something else, I find Champion (CPE) only handles " Chinese Import Products " if I am correct?

At the moment, Champion products, imho they are really value priced. But according to reports on several threads, this will not last long. And how long will we see the Champion (CPE) products in todays business enviroment??. Selling cheap may not lead to longevity.

I do hope, we will soon see the New Champion 2000w Inverter and it proves out to be a real value and dependability as compared to the two older famous brands.

As for the Champion C46540 I have owned for three years, it's been a winner except for being a little loud, plus 70dbA with a full load. It is back to stock after removing the LPG retro, except, for the added Electric Start. I wait the Remote Control kit.

Floyd


Tony FYI, There is no listing in Santa Fe Springs, CA with the BBB, No knowledge period, also not listed in the quite up-todate 'WikiPedia'.

[pritch272]

Tony,

FWIW, I found your initial post informational, and think you did a good job in conveying the results of your research. I, (for one), did not think to question your information, and based upon previous posts concerning CPE, what you reported made sense to me. Anyhow, thanks for your information and welcome to the forum.

[Tony_F_]

Old & Slow wrote:

Tony F. wrote:
Hey guys,

I'm new to this forum, and new to searching for a generator. Until recently I had set my mind on twin 2kw Hondas, but the $$ was just too hard to part with. I saw the ad in the latest Costco coupon book a few days ago and was intrigued by the remote start 3kw Champion, so I started doing some research.

What I learned was very surprising to me. First, this is not a "Chinese" product in the strictest sense. This is an America owned company, with American engineering and support. The products are made in their own factory in China. This differs from typical Chinese products that are made by Chinese owned companies, or by American companies who contract with a Chinese factory to build their products.

Champion has full control of every step. The fact that they are using Chinese labor is a non issue.

Regarding Champion's track record, they've been making products for about 7 years now and - here's the interesting part - have NEVER had a recall. Never. That is a significant statement when you consider the fast pace new products are being introduced. Honda and Yamaha cannot make that same claim.

Finally, I own 4 Toyota vehicles. From 1997 to 2007, and like them all. However, my next vehicle will likely be a Hyundai. Why? Because they now have the fewer failures per thousand than any other brand in the world. In other words, they have surpassed Toyota and Honda for quality in one of the most indicative quality measurements there are. As a very loyal and long term Toyota customer, I am willing to look beyond my prejudices in order to find the best products for the money. The same goes for my generator purchase. Although I have little generator experience, I have been doing a lot of reading and talking to fellow campers. There are thousands of well informed people out there saying the same great things about Champion. I hope I've drawn a clear parallel there.

I'm not trying to bag on anyone or any product, but I think it would behoove anyone interested in an inverter generator to give this new product a good look.

Besides, the stacking, and the semi-integrated parallel kit is way cool.

Tony

Tony,

Something is way strange here. This is your first post. You say, recently you did some research. Concerning Champion. I'm pretty good about clicking around. I find 'NO PUBLIC', or for that matter, private, information to support the claims of your search. If you could leave us a link to all this info' concerning Champion (CPE) that would be appreciated. This is vary important. Please respond.

Floyd

Wow, I didn't realize I would stir up such... I can't think of the words. I don't want to say paranoia. Maybe distrust. I totally understand it though.

First, let me just say: No, I don't work for Champion, or anybody affiliated with them. No, I don't get anything from anyone for my post. Finally, yes, it is all true.

If you go to Champion's home page and scan to the bottom, you can read a statement that covers most of what I said. Regarding the recalls (or lack of) I found that in an article online, and simply called the company to find out. None of it is hard to learn, and if you call or email the company directly, you can verify everything I stated. You might not trust the source, but since they only verified what I learned already, I do. Same goes for recalls on other brands. The info is out there.

I said I was new to this forum, and new to searching for a generator, but I did not say I was new to research. It's what I do, and I'm good at it.

I'm not trying to sell anyone the Champion product, but rather suggest to anyone interested in their latest products that they are worth investigating. Most people (myself included) tend to get comfortable with our notions, and sometimes find it hard to accept changes in reality. That was the point I was making about Toyota Vs. Hyundai. And that is why I am willing to look past the Honda and Yamaha generators to something that just might displace them as the generator of choice. Maybe not, but I'm not willing to simply ignore the Champion because it isn't a Honda or Yamaha.

Anyway, sorry for stirring up the pot. It was not intentional, and I'll try to be more careful going forward.

Tony

[professor95]

W8NONU wrote:

Are you sure they didn't send you a beta model to test? Sounds like they did.:B Are you sure they didn't hire you on as a research fellow?

Nope. I personally insist on not "owing" any vendor anything - period. What I have with the Champion label I paid for.

[Old___Slow]

Tony F. wrote:
Hey guys,

I'm new to this forum, and new to searching for a generator. Until recently I had set my mind on twin 2kw Hondas, but the $$ was just too hard to part with. I saw the ad in the latest Costco coupon book a few days ago and was intrigued by the remote start 3kw Champion, so I started doing some research.

What I learned was very surprising to me. First, this is not a "Chinese" product in the strictest sense. This is an America owned company, with American engineering and support. The products are made in their own factory in China. This differs from typical Chinese products that are made by Chinese owned companies, or by American companies who contract with a Chinese factory to build their products.

Champion has full control of every step. The fact that they are using Chinese labor is a non issue.

Regarding Champion's track record, they've been making products for about 7 years now and - here's the interesting part - have NEVER had a recall. Never. That is a significant statement when you consider the fast pace new products are being introduced. Honda and Yamaha cannot make that same claim.

Finally, I own 4 Toyota vehicles. From 1997 to 2007, and like them all. However, my next vehicle will likely be a Hyundai. Why? Because they now have the fewer failures per thousand than any other brand in the world. In other words, they have surpassed Toyota and Honda for quality in one of the most indicative quality measurements there are. As a very loyal and long term Toyota customer, I am willing to look beyond my prejudices in order to find the best products for the money. The same goes for my generator purchase. Although I have little generator experience, I have been doing a lot of reading and talking to fellow campers. There are thousands of well informed people out there saying the same great things about Champion. I hope I've drawn a clear parallel there.

I'm not trying to bag on anyone or any product, but I think it would behoove anyone interested in an inverter generator to give this new product a good look.

Besides, the stacking, and the semi-integrated parallel kit is way cool.

Tony

Tony,

Something is way strange here. This is your first post. You say, recently you did some research. Concerning Champion. I'm pretty good about clicking around. I find 'NO PUBLIC', or for that matter, private, information to support the claims of your search. If you could leave us a link to all this info' concerning Champion (CPE) that would be appreciated. This is vary important. Please respond.

Floyd

[Old___Slow]

professor95 wrote:

Old & Slow wrote:
Tony F,

Will you please tell us where you abtained the detailed information of this possible op-ad???? Any proof of each statement? Will you please give us more info' on the new Champion Inverter and what is your source.

The proof is in the pudding, Floyd. CPE has been an extremely successful company that operates as described. There is nothing in Tony's statement that is questionable.

As for the 2,000 watt digital unit yet to be released, it is not a relabeled product from another company. It is a new product engineered by CPE. As it turned out in last months beta testing there were some issues that needed correcting before releasing it for public sale. When the digital does make it to the shelves it will be one of the most extensively tested products from CPE to appear. I was told about it three years ago when the first prototype was under development, but sworn to absolutely secrecy on the development (I kept my promise).

This is what the original prototype looked like back in 2007 when testing began. As you can see by the newly released photos, it has come a long way.

Great,

Just thought if more engineering was necessary, they could include the ES/RC and beat out those other colors. You know Prof' how I love 'Yellow and Black'
As for the above post, can't some of us folks be just a little jealous? We da human race.

[W8NONU]

professor95 wrote:
As it turned out in last months beta testing there were some issues that needed correcting before releasing it for public sale. When the digital does make it to the shelves it will be one of the most extensively tested products from CPE to appear. I was told about it three years ago when the first prototype was under development, but sworn to absolutely secrecy on the development (I kept my promise).

This is what the original prototype looked like back in 2007 when testing began. As you can see by the newly released photos, it has come a long way.

Are you sure they didn't send you a beta model to test? Sounds like they did.:B Are you sure they didn't hire you on as a research fellow?

professor95 wrote:
I ordered mine last night. I really don't need it, but I have waited so long for this unit I simply have to have one to play with. The remote is reported to be awesome with a 300 foot plus range.

Me, too. 3-4 weeks is too long.

[Old___Slow]

Well, after three years of good service and adding Professor's retro for the use of LPG, PLUS adding Electric Start, I must say, I too would like to order the new C46538. I have wanted the wireless Remote Control from the begining. Guess I'll have to wait for the Remote Control Kit, mentioned somewhere, that would be offered by a new outlet?? With the new sound lowing Supergen/Gentent. Wouldn't need to lift the tent to start her up and create a light show??. I can just see me showing off to all my camping neighbors. Look here folks, my newest boy toy. But I guess DW would like to blow dry her hair, after a day at the beach and boy toy would pass the test of "another toy"??

[professor95]

Old & Slow wrote:
Tony F,

Will you please tell us where you abtained the detailed information of this possible op-ad???? Any proof of each statement? Will you please give us more info' on the new Champion Inverter and what is your source.

The proof is in the pudding, Floyd. CPE has been an extremely successful company that operates as described. There is nothing in Tony's statement that is questionable.

As for the 2,000 watt digital unit yet to be released, it is not a relabeled product from another company. It is a new product engineered by CPE. As it turned out in last months beta testing there were some issues that needed correcting before releasing it for public sale. When the digital does make it to the shelves it will be one of the most extensively tested products from CPE to appear. I was told about it three years ago when the first prototype was under development, but sworn to absolutely secrecy on the development (I kept my promise).

This is what the original prototype looked like back in 2007 when testing began. As you can see by the newly released photos, it has come a long way.

[professor95]

I received this e-mail from my friend at CPE this morning. Pretty much says that if you want one of these models, don't wait around. (This is NOT the digital.)

I do not believe this is a gimmick, so expect the price and shipping to change soon.

First day of orders are unbelievable. This is a one shot opportunity for buyers at this price. All future units will not be co-opted by Champion.
The $100 coupon is being absorbed by Champion and also we are
participating in freight as well. Being sold at a loss for market
introduction is what I have been told. Expect less than 3000 pcs. at
this price. This is a buyers opportunity!

I understand that non-Costco members can order and pay a $19 surcharge.

I ordered mine last night. I really don't need it, but I have waited so long for this unit I simply have to have one to play with. The remote is reported to be awesome with a 300 foot plus range.

[Old___Slow]

Tony F,

Will you please tell us where you abtained the detailed information of this possible op-ad???? Any proof of each statement? Will you please give us more info' on the new Champion Inverter and what is your source.