gunterm wrote:
professor95 wrote:
The red case version has no circuit breaker (13.2 amps on yellow case).
Red version uses an extra winding on the stator for the 12 VDC output (yellow does not, but may have the winding). DC on red models does not go through the control module. AC from the alternator is rectified to DC with an external diode. Voltage regulation and available amperage of 12 VDC on the red model is probably not very useful.
Other than the above, both the red case and yellow case are mechanically identical inside. Same 80cc engine, alternator and control module (software for the module may be different).
Canada required the circuit breaker on the yellow case version which was first introduced there. IMHO, the CB was unnecessary since there was an electronic overload disconnect in the control module - just that CSA required the redundancy.
USA version certified by our EPA simply carried the CB forward even though it was not required in USA.
Silver case version was a "special" build for Northern Tool under the Category 5 designation. Category 5 is a CPE brand name. It was identical to the red model except for the case color.
I am under the impression that the red case is no longer being produced. Those still out there are NOS models.
The yellow case with silver corners is the color for the 2012 CPE model of the 2000i. IMHO, there is nothing inside the red case or silver case that make them worth seeking out over the yellow.
Now, all that said, the major changes in all of the CPE2000i models since the first one was introduced has been in the software used in the control module. Software changes included longer overload delay time, code to eliminate "the burp" and code to bring the engine speed up more smoothly when a load is applied and the econ switch is on.
A couple of days ago I wrote that SuperGen Products would reprogram existing 2000i control modules for $20 plus shipping. I received an e-mail from SuperGen Products today with new information. I am providing a copy of the email below:
SuperGen wrote:
Hello Randy,
Super Gen Products in Newark, NY location will offer a Free upgrade of the computer module if the owner sends it to us with return postage included inside the packaging. If anyone has questions, have them call me at 1-8GENERATOR phone no. (843) 637-2867.
Send to Super Gen Products
Attn. Free Program
1173 E. Union St.
Newark, New York 14513
We will turn it around by the next business day.
This was not a sales advertisement. Nothing is being sold. Free sounds like a good deal for reprogramming the Control Module's PLC to current software standards. With this offer, any generation or color of CPE2000i can be made to perform like the latest models. It is a 5 to 10 minute easy job to remove the control module. You need a 13mm, 10mm and 7mm socket and a #2 Phillips screwdriver.
NOTE: This is not (currently) an offer from CPE in California. It is a SuperGen Products only offer.
I assume they are still doing this, and how do you get to the module?
A conversation, that I had with them about 3 or 4 months ago they are still doing it.
