-=dwh=- wrote:
professor95 wrote:
shum02 wrote:
Canadian Tire also carries Champion gensets, though not the 2000W inverter yet ;)
I "think" Canadian Tire is the only outlet for the Champion badged 1000 watt inverter.. This is really a Kipor 1000 with a Champion name.
There is another re-branded CPE generator. It is one of these things.
Which would seem to indicate that not all Champion generators are actually made in "Champion's Factory in China"...
No, neither are all of the components for Champion's products, like winches and the non-engine parts of log splitters and pressure washers.
Champion does build the engines for the above in their factory. The two generators mentioned are the
only models currently re-badged and not built in their own factory.
Sometimes a big vendor like CT wants something different with a Champion name. Unless the sales volume is really extensive, it is not cost effective to do the R&D and machining set-up to produce the product. It will take several years to recoup the cost of needed machinery and development time on the 2,000i.
Champion is constantly improving their products - often without the customer even knowing it has happened. Other big Chinese small engine producers do not seem to be doing this. CPE is still the only one with a 30 amp TT outlet on their 3,000 watt synchronous generators. Their GX200 style engines have redesigned rocker arms (forged), oil level sensors less prone to stick, and crank seals with double lips. I have been told that these changes have cut warranty returns and repairs and helped the customer.
IMHO, you can expect running improvements to the 2000i as time goes on.
I have no idea what the "real" price of the 2000i will be when the dust settles. My knee-jerk is that right now it is priced low to get it into supplier's stores and customer hands. I bet the price goes up at least $100-$150 within a year and the $499 will be a thing of the past. Again, just my guess knowing what I do about the market, supply and demand. :h
