BlackMax
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Re: 3000W Chinese Gensets Info.
Final note on my Costco Nikota generator. I used the plug adaptor that I mentioned on an earlier post and took the genset and a propane bottle down to the fifth wheel. Fired it up and plugged it into the Alpenlite. The Surge Guard unit did its usual taste testing of the current that it's plugged into and after a few minutes allowed flow, just as it would for proper current 50 amp service. The appliances and air conditioning (15,000 btu Duotherm) ran fine. Sound level barely discernable inside the rig and no grunts or complaining during start ups. Shut it off and let it cool dawn and threw it back into the truck for the ride home where it'll be used for back up too. Thanks for all the input, would not have done this if I hadn't had the input.388Views0likes0CommentsRe: 3000W Chinese Gensets Info.
Well I finished the conversion from gasoline to propane only. I spoke to Todd at Hendrix and after discussing what would be right in a durable set-up for operating the generator off of propane tanks exclusively, the price tag neared $300. Steep, but I wanted bullet-proof and complete. Sending him the carburetor for conversion (high quality work with set screw plugs and no silicone) I got the carb and kit back at my door by week's end. I don't mind fabricating a bit but I wasn't interested in getting creative with high pressure propane. Also wanted to be able to sleep at night if I actually used the unit unattended. I believe the finished product to be just what I wanted; solid, durable and safe. This kit has a positive shut-off/filter before the regulator. The conversion took no additional parts other than a plate I made. The mounting of the kit took a bit of creativity but not challenging. While it didn't fire up on the first try due to my ignorance of how the unit actually fuels itself, on a Saturday, Todd answered my call, and walked me through getting it started. It was easy with his help. I'm very pleased with the outcome.466Views0likes0CommentsRe: 3000W Chinese Gensets Info.
I’ve sent my carburetor off to Hendrix for conversion to propane only. They prefer to do the carb mods themselves and send the carb and kit back. I hesitated regarding the conversion when I considered $300 for the generator and $200 for the conversion, but went ahead considering the cheap overall cost for what I was getting in terms of an emergency power source, RV usage and a safer, single, fuel. Meanwhile, I’m going to remove the tank and fit some type of cover/storage bin in its place. I’ll let you know how it turns out.422Views0likes0CommentsRe: 3000W Chinese Gensets Info.
Re: New Costco Nikota I took the end cap off the generator (the duplex outlet and twist lock are actually mounted in the cover with a 120-off-220 switch) and discovered the duplex outlets to be bridged (tabs intact). I crafted an adapter from both plugs to the 4-prong 50 amp plug that I needed, coupling the common leads (white) and bridging the hots (black) at the 50 amp receptacle. I used 2 heavy cords and believe using both outlets, in addition to their being bridged, will manage the current flow through the duplex outlet. The outlet is a heavy duty, polarized, UL approved outlet, but I'll likely need to create a retainer for the plugs as vibrating loose may be a problem. I don't have a way to convey to you the diagram on the genset head, but from the looks of the innards, the coil's outputs are similar to what I've seen here and independently protected by breakers. Until I can compare the diagram to others as to wiring for maximum output, I'll try it out as to handling my a/c unit's drain. It did operate a 2000 watt heater through the outlet I made, whereas the heater's breaker would shut off due to voltage drop when plugged into only one outlet. As an aside, I noticed the noise commented on here regarding how well the engine is muffled, but the starter recoil area rattles away. As easy as these things start, I wonder if it would be worthwhile to remove the recoil unit cover, assure there was enough fan and put an old fashioned rope pull cup on the crank. Do you think that would be worth a try?280Views0likes0CommentsRe: 3000W Chinese Gensets Info.
RE: Nokita 4 prong adapter Thanks for your input Kenny. I'll attempt to get a copy of the diagram to you. I am also looking to convert to propane, likely propane only. I'm thinking of making the gasoline tank area into a storage bin and noise shroud of sorts. Dad's an EE, coming down to visit this weekend. We might come up with something ourselves. I'll keep you informed.351Views0likes0CommentsRe: 3000W Chinese Gensets Info.
I'd like to install a 4 prong 50 amp socket on the new Costco Nikota (3.5KW Generator 06044) that would eliminate all the adapters and dog bones. I know better than to assume I know what I'm doing, so if someone knowledgeable acquires one of these newer Costco versions of the Nokita, could you share your thoughts. Currently the trailer uses only one leg of the 50 amp plug, and I don't have plans to add the ac that requires that circuit. I do anticipate adding a box of some sort to accommodate the socket, but do not wish to degrade my ability to refit to duplex sockets for home emergency use. Also, permanent modifications may preclude me from returning the unit to Costco should it fail. With these units that's a real plus. Any input appreciated. Thanks in advance.324Views0likes0Comments
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