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Sound Reinforcement - Forums for Live Sound Professionals - Your Displayed Name Must Be Your Real Full Name To Post In The Live Sound Forums => AC Power and Grounding => Topic started by: Steve-White on May 17, 2021, 05:21:02 PM
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Anybody have any experience with one of these?: https://www.harborfreight.com/generators-engines/generators/inverter-generators/9500-watt-super-quiet-inverter-generator-with-co-secure-57080.html
I have a Honda EB2800i: https://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/models/EB2800i
The Honda EB2800i works great for small jobs. I have a 9000W spinner and am considering changing that one out to an Inverter type that's quieter.
Seems like whenever Predator Generators come up in a discussion the comments are favorable. Anyone use any of the HF branded inverter generators?
I've owned/used Northern Tool house branded North Star 13,000W & 28,000W and Powerhorse 4000W & 9000W conventional generators with good results, but don't have any experience with the HF stuff. The NT Powerhorse 9000W is the one I'm considering replacing.
The power management on the Inverter I've used so far is great - they idle back down when load is reduced which lends itself to audio system applications if for nothing else the noise management aspects.
The HF 9500W Inverter looks to have a L14-30R on it which means it would plug right up to my stuff.
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My experience with HF generators is that they work just long enough to be out of warranty and then something goes wrong with them. Parts are pretty much non existent, and build in such a way that normal repair is nearly impossible.
Had it happen twice in a row. Will never buy another from them.
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Bennett did an interesting side-by-side (https://youtu.be/VZsyteMjOMw) recently of a ~3kW HF and a Honda, with a couple bonus clips from the 2kW and 7kW Hondas that was enlightening. I will echo Brian's comments that the HF seem to work...until they don't. And enough of those stories floated around that we went with the Honda.
In going through this exercise several years ago, we found we can easily get our hands on the 3kW Honda from numerous places locally if we need a tiny generator, but the mid-size (7kW-12kW) are not nearly as prevalent. Some back of napkin math on systems that we'd need generator power for put the 7kW as the better option in terms of size/weight/storage space, and if we're truly into a larger system we're likely into a trailer mounted gen set in the 20kW range or above.
All that said: The 7kW Honda has been absolutely rock solid, and impressive in its function and capacity. (I borrowed one to run my house a time or two during bad storms, and it did the job admirably) We bought 3rd party 4-wheel kits for them, but other than that it is simple maintenance, and it just plain works. Oh yeah - and QUIET.
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Seems like whenever Predator Generators come up in a discussion the comments are favorable. Anyone use any of the HF branded inverter generators?
I purchased a HF 2500 watt inverter generator (on a flash sale for $399.00) about 5 years ago just to see if it was worth it......as it was cheap enough.
Expecting the usual HF run-a-round I ran it - ran it - ran it until the return warranty expired....it kept working....and to this day, it actually works well.
It was the first inverter that Predator came out with thus the model is out of production it seems.
My sound use has been for spoken-word remote use but mostly used for stage lights on remote gigs. The power is fine for my QU mixers with no issues.
My only gripe is that starting it can be a process as the engine needs to be primed (open gas flow, choke off, pull cord 15 times, then choke on and pull a few times to start) as it doesn't seem to be gravity-fed like my Honda 3000's'. Once it starts it runs fine.
On one of my annual gigs (in June) the client provides a Predator 4000 (non-inverter) for stage power.
It has worked well for the past 6 years..........although I bring an analog board to that gig. I have also run analog gear on a Predator 6000-something (don't recall the exact model #) generator and it was fine for a day/evening festival.
From my limited experience (and reading reviews) with HF generators I gather that if one is going to fail it fails sooner rather than later.........
I have zero experience with the new line of Predators from HF..........but I'm happy with my Predator.
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I purchased a HF 2500 watt inverter generator (on a flash sale for $399.00) about 5 years ago just to see if it was worth it......as it was cheap enough.
Expecting the usual HF run-a-round I ran it - ran it - ran it until the return warranty expired....it kept working....and to this day, it actually works well.
It was the first inverter that Predator came out with thus the model is out of production it seems.
My sound use has been for spoken-word remote use but mostly used for stage lights on remote gigs. The power is fine for my QU mixers with no issues.
My only gripe is that starting it can be a process as the engine needs to be primed (open gas flow, choke off, pull cord 15 times, then choke on and pull a few times to start) as it doesn't seem to be gravity-fed like my Honda 3000's'. Once it starts it runs fine.
On one of my annual gigs (in June) the client provides a Predator 4000 (non-inverter) for stage power.
It has worked well for the past 6 years..........although I bring an analog board to that gig. I have also run analog gear on a Predator 6000-something (don't recall the exact model #) generator and it was fine for a day/evening festival.
From my limited experience (and reading reviews) with HF generators I gather that if one is going to fail it fails sooner rather than later.........
I have zero experience with the new line of Predators from HF..........but I'm happy with my Predator.
15 pulls, you have to be kidding. I would have had the ether out at pull number 3. Just a squirt will do ya! Some people claim that is hard on the engine as it dries out the oil in the cylinder, I can't imagine assuming it's at a reasonable temp that it doesn't scavenge oil during the pull.
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^^^ In my generator evolution learning curve, I had two of those little 2KW suitcase type fully enclosed rigs - one from Northern Tool which was their mid-grade house brand Powerhorse, which was battery start and had an automatic choke. That one was hard to start from the getgo, so back it went and I picked up a Generac version which was manual choke and pull cord to start. Had that one about 3 months and sold it on eBay. Next was the Honda EB2800i which is an open frame model with much larger tank on top relative to engine size and capacity, and NO FUEL PUMP. That one is a keeper.
The little self-contained suitcase types have the fuel tank at one end of the generator sitting beside the engine. Engine is vertical oriented OHV type which puts the float bowl type carburetor up top. This means they require a fuel pump. Therein lies the reliability problem. If they aren't run on a pretty close schedule monthly, if you skip a month they become a real chore to start.
I started tuning a 3HP Briggs & Stratton flathead on a minibike back in the 60's when I was 11 years old. Have ran and tuned racing karts, dirt bikes, yard equipment both 4 cycle and 2 cycle. Tuned gasoline, alcohol, and nitromethane fueled engines, blown alcohol drag boat. Built engines, tuned for others.
I know how to start an engine - those things are inherently junk. Yeah yeah yeah break out the ether, run fuel stabilizer additives, etc etc etc.
I have the one open frame inverter, and 3 conventional generators - 9000W, 13000W, 28000W and run the 4 once a year when not in use and that's plenty, they fire right up. Been on that schedule for the past 7-8 years. Three of them are electric start, so keep the batteries on a float charger and store them inside the shop with fuel stabilizer in them.
The 13000W Honda V-Twin powered North Star generator has a fuel pump on it and the 28000W PowerHorse rig has a fuel pump on it - no problems with either of them on an annual run basis. It's the smaller ones that require monthly run time and that's just a painintheass I don't need.
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I appreciate all of your feedback and comments. I guess it was wishful thinking that a $1500 generator would be something worth investing in.
Nope, not going to take a chance. Over the past 8 years, since the first emergency backup generator I bought which was a Generac GP7500, I've sold 4 of them off for one reason or another. The GP7500 was emergency backup for the house, I have computers and the entertainment and audio systems all on APC 2200W & 3000W UPS's. The power from the GP7500 was dirty and UPS's went nuts. That was where I figured the small 2000W inverters for the electronics. They were sold off because of reliability and starting issues. Had a 4000W Powerhorse for a couple of years, it was barely enough to run the house in the winter and under load the UPS's would chatter, so I upgraded it to the 9000W rig when I found a scratch & dent model for a good deal.
Then came the real deal to run the house in the summer with AC. Upgraded again to the Honda powered North Star 13000W rig, which will run the whole house and start the AC in the summer. But, it starts the AC a bit more sluggishly than I like which is hard on the compressor.
So, this year I added the 30HP 28000W rig and it starts the AC like it's still on the grid.
My thought is to unload the 9000W for a bit smaller and quieter inverter rig. Also, probably going to unload the 13000W rig.
For the ~7500W inverter it will either be another Honda or a PowerHorse as I have had a few of them and know they run good. Since it will be for the business, I'll probably just buy once, cry once and go with the Honda.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200756204_200756204
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200833082_200833082
Here's a picture of the Honda EB2800i that I have - that replaced the 2KW suitcase types.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200833072_200833072
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I appreciate all of your feedback and comments. I guess it was wishful thinking that a $1500 generator would be something worth investing in.
Nope, not going to take a chance. Over the past 8 years, since the first emergency backup generator I bought which was a Generac GP7500, I've sold 4 of them off for one reason or another. The GP7500 was emergency backup for the house, I have computers and the entertainment and audio systems all on APC 2200W & 3000W UPS's. The power from the GP7500 was dirty and UPS's went nuts. That was where I figured the small 2000W inverters for the electronics. They were sold off because of reliability and starting issues. Had a 4000W Powerhorse for a couple of years, it was barely enough to run the house in the winter and under load the UPS's would chatter, so I upgraded it to the 9000W rig when I found a scratch & dent model for a good deal.
Then came the real deal to run the house in the summer with AC. Upgraded again to the Honda powered North Star 13000W rig, which will run the whole house and start the AC in the summer. But, it starts the AC a bit more sluggishly than I like which is hard on the compressor.
So, this year I added the 30HP 28000W rig and it starts the AC like it's still on the grid.
My thought is to unload the 9000W for a bit smaller and quieter inverter rig. Also, probably going to unload the 13000W rig.
For the ~7500W inverter it will either be another Honda or a PowerHorse as I have had a few of them and know they run good. Since it will be for the business, I'll probably just buy once, cry once and go with the Honda.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200756204_200756204 (https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200756204_200756204)
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200833082_200833082 (https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200833082_200833082)
Here's a picture of the Honda EB2800i that I have - that replaced the 2KW suitcase types.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200833072_200833072 (https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200833072_200833072)
Steve ,. I was being humorous about my laziness expecting some ribbing for my liberal use of ether, in no way was I questioning your operating skill.
I am very curious about though, are you familiar with horizontally opposed aircraft engines? I have a TSIO-540 6 cylinder gas turbocharged engine in my airplane. You say you are safe starting the gas engines once a year. If I was not going to fly for over 90 days I would have the engine pickled for storage. I store it in an insulated, heated hangar.
My understanding is that the oil will run off the cylinders and cam and then moisture will collect causing corrosion. I have heard of people starting engines under these conditions and spalling the cam. Worse is some folks start their aircraft but don't fly them. My mechanic explained that you have to get the engine up to temp long enough to boil off the water so running at climb and cruise settings for an hour a month is critical to keep corrosion away.
I have used the same process with my ground based engines, when I start them I load them up and use them, anything from line trimmers, generators to my zero turn commercial mower. Do you think corrosion is not as big an issue on ground based engines or is it something I unique to the horizontally opposed design?
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I didn't take it that way at all Scott. I was foot stomping what you said. And the "I can start an engine" comment was a reflection on how difficult those little turds are to start when they sit for 60 days or more.
With regard to oil slowly moving off you are probably spot on and I may want to consider running them more often for sure. My comment on cranking 'em once a year was about them starting up - not it being safe with regard to the oiling condition you mentioned that could occur. I learned something there, thanks much. That could shorten an engine's lifespan considerably and makes total sense - for long term storage, probably want to pull spark plugs and give 'em a snort of Marvel Mystery Oil. I'll look at that or the run them more frequently option.
Aircraft wise, been in the defense aircraft business for 33 years - know it well from many aspects - but power plants isn't an area I have messed with. Airworthiness is something I am familiar with though, with regard to depot repair and certification of work centers.
I keep the genny's in a climate controlled shop and will probably crank 'em up at least twice a year (or set them up for long term storage) based upon your feedback - very good information.
I have a dislike for the little baby inverters in case you hadn't noticed..... ROFL! :)
Like you, about 10 pulls on the cord and it's time to break out the ether. With the little genny's they would fire off of the ether, but not sustain running. The fuel system on them is real finicky. It says in the manual to run them monthly and I tried to extend the time with bad results. Running fuel stabilizer in everything, I don't know what could be done with one of those to reduce maintenance when not in use.
Something I've become aware of for anything added to the inventory is maintenance. I've got lots of equipment, machinery, tools to care for these days. Things I didn't consider in the past, get consideration now - like noise level. For instance in the shop air filtration system, needs ~800 CFM for good air exchange. So, I bought a 1400 CFM rig and run it on low where it's quiet. Same with large 48" fan, started with a $250 Harbor Freight class fan, yeah it moved the air but was noisy as hell. Outside at night on the patio in the summer, smoke a stogie and watch some TV, had to crank up volume to the point it took away from the setting. A $750 fan with nice curved blades solve the problem. Balanced and moves the air quietly.
Ya get what ya pay for - buy once, cry once.
Engines up to temp to boil moisture out of crankcase - yep. Learned that one with air compressors in the Quincy manual. Talked to guy at work about that and he said yes it definitely applies to your vehicles too. He lived 10 minutes from work and said he went through many mufflers on his pickup, when discussing with his mechanic was told it was moisture collecting and not heating enough to burn it off. So, when taking the short drive to work, I remote start the Jeep to warm it up, so thermostat is open and at least the top end is warmed up when I start the drive. I doubt the oil or tranny come up to full temp as it's only an 8 minute drive.
With the generators when I run them, after they warm up good they get stressed to full load or as close as I can get - with the big boy, I turn everything in the house on to load it up and some of the shop equipment.
Thanks for your comments.
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I purchased a HF 2500 watt inverter generator (on a flash sale for $399.00) about 5 years ago just to see if it was worth it......as it was cheap enough.
Expecting the usual HF run-a-round I ran it - ran it - ran it until the return warranty expired....it kept working....and to this day, it actually works well.
It was the first inverter that Predator came out with thus the model is out of production it seems.
My sound use has been for spoken-word remote use but mostly used for stage lights on remote gigs. The power is fine for my QU mixers with no issues.
My only gripe is that starting it can be a process as the engine needs to be primed (open gas flow, choke off, pull cord 15 times, then choke on and pull a few times to start) as it doesn't seem to be gravity-fed like my Honda 3000's'. Once it starts it runs fine.
On one of my annual gigs (in June) the client provides a Predator 4000 (non-inverter) for stage power.
It has worked well for the past 6 years..........although I bring an analog board to that gig. I have also run analog gear on a Predator 6000-something (don't recall the exact model #) generator and it was fine for a day/evening festival.
From my limited experience (and reading reviews) with HF generators I gather that if one is going to fail it fails sooner rather than later.........
I have zero experience with the new line of Predators from HF..........but I'm happy with my Predator.
Although my Predator seems to work I always have a back-up in my truck (doesn't everyone?).
For the majority of the remote things that I do I have two Honda eu3000is' that I set up with the appropriate parallel cables.
Each gen's 30A out connects to a side of a distro (one 30A "in" supplies two 20A circuits per side).
That give me 46 amps in total - which is all that I need for what I do.
I did consider going the Honda 6500/7000 route a few years ago but at 260 lbs. I would have a tough time getting it up the ramp plus I could limp through a gig if one of my 3000's decides to fail.
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Although my Predator seems to work I always have a back-up in my truck (doesn't everyone?).
Which begs the question-on a limited budget, would you rather have one Honda, or two Predators so you have a backup?
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Which begs the question-on a limited budget, would you rather have one Honda, or two Predators so you have a backup?
That's exactly what I'm pondering right now, with the Honda's. Two smaller that will run in tandem, or one larger rig? Then do I keep the conventional 9000W for a spare/backup or unload it?
One thing I see, of doing it over I would have picked up one of the 3000W rigs that run in tandem -vs- the single EB2800i - however, the cost is basically double.
One Honda or two Predators? That's an interesting question. While I have experience with the Powerhorse house brand from Northern Tool, I don't know about the Predators, which is why I started the thread. The Powerhorse generators run clone engines, but they start easy and run well. If there's any noticeable differences with the Honda's - I have 3 Honda engines in various equipment - it's the noise and clatter from the 420cc Powerhorse clone -vs- the Honda GX390 in one of the pressure washers.
That's why I'm looking at another inverter generator - they are quieter and for smaller setups noise is more of a factor.
I've walked around the 9000W Powerhorse generator with an Extech DB meter and on the engine side facing the blower housing there's more engine clatter noise from it. The inverters with side covers that are essentially fully enclosed are quieter.
Lots to think about. Connectivity at the jobsite of a single larger generator with a L14-30 is simplified -vs- synching two smaller rigs.
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That's exactly what I'm pondering right now, with the Honda's. Two smaller that will run in tandem, or one larger rig? Then do I keep the conventional 9000W for a spare/backup or unload it?
One thing I see, of doing it over I would have picked up one of the 3000W rigs that run in tandem -vs- the single EB2800i - however, the cost is basically double.
One Honda or two Predators? That's an interesting question. While I have experience with the Powerhorse house brand from Northern Tool, I don't know about the Predators, which is why I started the thread. The Powerhorse generators run clone engines, but they start easy and run well. If there's any noticeable differences with the Honda's - I have 3 Honda engines in various equipment - it's the noise and clatter from the 420cc Powerhorse clone -vs- the Honda GX390 in one of the pressure washers.
That's why I'm looking at another inverter generator - they are quieter and for smaller setups noise is more of a factor.
I've walked around the 9000W Powerhorse generator with an Extech DB meter and on the engine side facing the blower housing there's more engine clatter noise from it. The inverters with side covers that are essentially fully enclosed are quieter.
Lots to think about. Connectivity at the jobsite of a single larger generator with a L14-30 is simplified -vs- synching two smaller rigs.
It is so cheap and I get extra warranty on my Citibank card, at that price I am going to take a shot because that is perfect size for my house.
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It is so cheap and I get extra warranty on my Citibank card, at that price I am going to take a shot because that is perfect size for my house.
The Predator? Yeah, you can buy three Predators or one Honda.
Tell ya one thing, looking at the Honda and the Powerhorse, there are only slight differences externally - very slight - they cloned the Honda very well - frame is identical. Side panels and such - leaves me wondering about the internals.
Not bashing Honda by any means, I have 3 of their engines on different pieces of equipment and they run well. But, their prices are up in the stratosphere. Honda engineering did it's job, so did their marketing department.
Do let us know how that thing runs Scott. The blue Northern Tool Powerhorse engines run great. Two generators with them and a pressure washer with a 414cc in it and they start easy, run smooth, good throttle response, decent fuel economy comparable to Honda.
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The Predator? Yeah, you can buy three Predators or one Honda.
Tell ya one thing, looking at the Honda and the Powerhorse, there are only slight differences externally - very slight - they cloned the Honda very well - frame is identical. Side panels and such - leaves me wondering about the internals.
Not bashing Honda by any means, I have 3 of their engines on different pieces of equipment and they run well. But, their prices are up in the stratosphere. Honda engineering did it's job, so did their marketing department.
Do let us know how that thing runs Scott. The blue Northern Tool Powerhorse engines run great. Two generators with them and a pressure washer with a 414cc in it and they start easy, run smooth, good throttle response, decent fuel economy comparable to Honda.
The Powerhorse is your convention 28kva correct? I have a Honda inverter, it's one of the older ones that is blue and grey. It runs great. That is the production companies though, if this runs well at the house I might try it on a few gigs with a backup.
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The Powerhorse is your convention 27kva correct? I have a Honda inverter, it's one of the older ones that is blue and grey. It runs great. That is the production companies though, if this runs well at the house I might try it on a few gigs with a backup.
I misrepresented it as 28K - it's 27K.
Yes, the 27KW is a Powerhorse and it's a beast. Nice machine. Glad I had it during the winter during the ice clusterphuk - I ran on generator for 3 days - which prompted me to finish up the 14 gallon Fuel Caddy.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200756275_200756275
That's a nice machine for the money - it's 30HP, almost 1000cc and rumbles. But, not that much louder than the 13000W rig. Frame and all is solid, no excessive vibration. LCD readout is real cool - starts right up and rips. Pressurized oil system with filter, I believe it's fuel injected. It handles my 2000' house real well - complete house & AC, shop AC, any equipment I want to run, lathe, mill, air compressors, welder, etc.
Wired to the whole house electrical system - instead of limited circuits - so it's just like being on the grid, all the lights work, security cameras, yard lights, etc.
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I misrepresented it as 28K - it's 27K.
Yes, the 27KW is a Powerhorse and it's a beast. Nice machine. Glad I had it during the winter during the ice clusterphuk - I ran on generator for 3 days - which prompted me to finish up the 14 gallon Fuel Caddy.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200756275_200756275 (https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200756275_200756275)
That's a nice machine for the money - it's 30HP, almost 1000cc and rumbles. But, not that much louder than the 13000W rig. Frame and all is solid, no excessive vibration. LCD readout is real cool - starts right up and rips. Pressurized oil system with filter, I believe it's fuel injected. It handles my 2000' house real well - complete house & AC, shop AC, any equipment I want to run, lathe, mill, air compressors, welder, etc.
Wired to the whole house electrical system - instead of limited circuits - so it's just like being on the grid, all the lights work, security cameras, yard lights, etc.
That is a nice unit. Just checked out the site. The price is not as bad as I thought it would be. Now you have my gears turning and it's bed time. Oh well...thanks Steve
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"Gears turning at bed time"? You are most welcome sir., always glad to help a brother out Yeah the price is pretty good and it's a decent rig. This type of gear fully qualifies as both GAS & TAS - Gear or Tool Acquisition Syndrome compatible.
One of the factors I looked at when selecting that model was the overall weight - it's a big boy - they had a floor model at a nearby Northern Tool store.
Do you think it's excessive that one would take his German Shepherd to the tool store shopping since he was a puppy and the staff all knew him - so when we walked in they automatically picked up a bag of beef jerky and hid it down random aisle's among the merchandise for him to search and locate, then consume?
Casey was really good at it.
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"Gears turning at bed time? You are most welcome sir., always glad to help a brother out Yeah the price is pretty good and it's a decent rig. This type of gear fully qualifies as both GAS & TAS - Gear or Tool Acquisition Syndrome compatible.
One of the factors I looked at when selecting that model was the overall weight - it's a big boy - they had a floor model at a nearby Northern Tool store.
Do you think it's excessive that one would take his German Shepherd to the tool store shopping since he was a puppy and the staff all knew him - so when we walked in they automatically picked up a bag of beef jerky and hid it down random aisle's among the merchandise for him to search and locate, then consume?
Casey was really good at it.
Were they treating Casey, or was that marketing in action, since getting you to walk down every aisle is a good way to drum up more sales?
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Do you think it's excessive that one would take his German Shepherd to the tool store shopping since he was a puppy and the staff all knew him - so when we walked in they automatically picked up a bag of beef jerky and hid it down random aisle's among the merchandise for him to search and locate, then consume?
Casey was really good at it.
German Shepherd puppies are good for the soul. We're on our second.
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15 pulls, you have to be kidding. I would have had the ether out at pull number 3. Just a squirt will do ya! Some people claim that is hard on the engine as it dries out the oil in the cylinder, I can't imagine assuming it's at a reasonable temp that it doesn't scavenge oil during the pull.
I've got a conventional Generac 6500 with a 10 horse Briggs. Pull-starting that thing makes Crossfit look like a hard day at the Golden Corral. I find that if I drop the carburetor bowl and get gas all over my hands, then put it all back together it starts somewhat easier.
Someday, I'd love to get a Honda genny. This Generac is pretty much only used for power outages to keep the fridge and freezers cold and run the water pump. Occasionally for power tool use. I wouldn't even consider using it for computers and audio equipment. My fridge is *just* old enough that it isn't run by microprocessors.
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Were they treating Casey, or was that marketing in action, since getting you to walk down every aisle is a good way to drum up more sales?
A little of both! Casey was a real charmer though, so I weaponized it. Pictured below at a nearby cigar lounge.
The back story of the picture: Lady in pic came in with boyfriend that was sitting to her left in the other stuffed chair. I walked in with Casey and headed to the bar in the back and one of the other customers pulled a couple of hot dogs out of the crock pot on the bar, cooled them down and gave 'em to Casey. Then, I let somebody hold his leash and went into walk in humidor and picked out a cigar. Went in and sat on the couch adjacent to the lady in the chair. Casey was sitting in front of her and I, me holding his leash.
He had one thing and one thing only on his mind - more hot dogs. She was sitting in the chair drinking a long neck beer and petting Casey. He tried an around the left move around her chair to get more hot dogs and ran out of leash. A minute or so later he went around the right with the same results, so he u turned and came back and sat in front of us. Then, she finished up her beer and went to the back to get a refill. Casey saw the opportunity with the chair empty and climbed in for an up the middle move to the hot dogs. He got all the way to his front legs going over the back and once again ran out of leash. Frustrated, he then thought WTF, this seat is nice, I'll just lay down here. About then, the lady returned with her fresh beer and just sat down with him.
Notice the picture, Casey was aloof but safe around people - he tolerated them, but is paying absolutely no attention to her. She had not idea what was really going on with him, he was just a nice big Teddy Bear dog to pet and dote over.
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German Shepherd puppies are good for the soul. We're on our second.
Yes - Casey was #7, which is a reflection of my age. Wolfe was #1 in 1969. I've had such wonderful German Shepherd Dogs over my lifetime, that to give something back I got involved in a little dog rescue work a little over 20 years ago and keep a couple of pound rescue or strays in the pack now.
Casey set the bar pretty high and he and I were pretty close, the lord called him home in 2017 and I've been pondering a puppy for about 2 years now. It'll happen soon, meanwhile I have a couple of dogs.
Casey was a sweetheart of a dog and friend to all - except intruders when dad was away - he was fearsome and I mean lethal.
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I've got a conventional Generac 6500 with a 10 horse Briggs. Pull-starting that thing makes Crossfit look like a hard day at the Golden Corral. I find that if I drop the carburetor bowl and get gas all over my hands, then put it all back together it starts somewhat easier.
Someday, I'd love to get a Honda genny. This Generac is pretty much only used for power outages to keep the fridge and freezers cold and run the water pump. Occasionally for power tool use. I wouldn't even consider using it for computers and audio equipment. My fridge is *just* old enough that it isn't run by microprocessors.
Yes, I think the gas on the hands helps with the applied force on the starting pull handle, thus increasing scavenging on the engine which help facilitate the startup procedure.
Yeah, not bashing as the GP7500 I had was under $1000, but it caused the APC UPS's on electronics to go berserk - I had to shut them down when on backup. Part of it was 7500W is barely enough to run the house the way I set it up with a whole house backfeed. It would however run the refrigerator just fine which was the most important.
I bought it after a 3 day electricity outage back around 2012 that caused refrigerator to be completely emptied - that sux.
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"Gears turning at bed time"? You are most welcome sir., always glad to help a brother out Yeah the price is pretty good and it's a decent rig. This type of gear fully qualifies as both GAS & TAS - Gear or Tool Acquisition Syndrome compatible.
One of the factors I looked at when selecting that model was the overall weight - it's a big boy - they had a floor model at a nearby Northern Tool store.
Do you think it's excessive that one would take his German Shepherd to the tool store shopping since he was a puppy and the staff all knew him - so when we walked in they automatically picked up a bag of beef jerky and hid it down random aisle's among the merchandise for him to search and locate, then consume?
Casey was really good at it.
Gears turning at bedtime means I was engaged in deep thought on this when I should be winding down.
Casey is your Sheppards name? Nice looking dog, looks like he is good with new people!
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Gears turning at bedtime means I was engaged in deep thought on this when I should be winding down.
Casey is your Sheppards name? Nice looking dog, looks like he is good with new people!
Yes I know, the OCD GAS/TAS genes were raging. Just thought I'd chide you a little in fun! :)
Yes Casey was his name - had him home a week, brought him home at 10 wks of age - he was a little monster. I named him after the Steven Seagal movie character Casey Ryback - Navy Seal, one man army, killing machine - he lived up to his name. But, yeah for a home defense personal protection dog it's crucial they be very sound mentally and also be very well socialized so as not to be a menace or threat to the innocent, especially children.
One afternoon when he was about 6 months year old, he stayed outside while I was at work - I got home and the back yard looked like the road north from Basra, Kuwait at the end of Desert Storm. Had a chain link fence across the back of my yard and my neighbor Roy was out in his back yard also surveying the carnage - Nandina's ripped out and chewed up, box of foam 2'x4' insulation chewed up, head pad ripped from mechanics creeper.
I said to him "Roy you know most people would come home and see the mess and be unhappy, I would have been 20 years ago", to which he replied "Yeah they would". "But not me, I don't care, in fact I expect it" "You know why?", Roy said "No, why?" to which I replied "He'll outgrow this, and when he does, if some stupid SOB comes over that back fence while I'm at work, this is what their ass is going to look like" - to which Roy said "I believe you're right".
I was right. :)
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These days the "in kids" have California condors wrecking the patio and back yard.
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Going to post this to share knowledge and experience.
The Predator 9500 Inverter Generator I have doesn't perform up to specification. In continuous rated output power, it says 7600W, it will actually carry a ~6600W load before the "Overload" light comes on and ~20 seconds later it shuts the inverter off.
I'll give you guys my thoughts which are simply that - my thoughts. I dual-purpose use portable generators, as backup power for my house and outdoor events when needed.
Started with generators as house backup power a little over 10 years ago. First generator was a Generac GP7500W. A starting point, poor power quality and neither APC UPS would operate on it due to poor power quality.
After several other generators of various sizes I have settled on the 18KW rated 27KW peak Powerhorse that's pictured somewhere above. At the other end of the spectrum is a Honda EB2800I Inverter generator. The middle rig is what this thread is about and is now going to get replaced.
Back to the Predator 9500 Inverter Generator. In summer months the 18KW Powerhorse handles the whole house to include air conditioning for house and shop as well as shop equipment. In the winter months without a need for AC, I prefer to use a smaller generator in the case of electricity blackout as the smaller rigs are quieter, especially the inverters.
Power went out 3 weeks ago, hooked up the Predator 9500 and all was well. Then, started looking at loads -vs- rated capacity and wanted to ensure it would handle the electric heater in the shop as well as lights. Switched the 240V heater to the lowest 3KW setting and the 9500 ran it and the house right up until I turned on the shop lights. 900W of florescent overhead lights. The 9500 went into overload and tripped offline.
Needs to be shut down to reset, there is no "Reset" button on the Predator 9500. This got me wondering if it was a load imbalance in the house on one leg. So, today I got out the measuring equipment and hooked the Predator 9500 to the 3KW shop heater, measured current and 21 amps. Then, added a couple of small electric heaters which on low are 800W, one on each 120V outlet on the generator. It won't hold them on low with the 5000W shop heater.
So, rated at 7600W continuous, the one I have trips overload at ~6600W - the 30A two-pole breaker does not trip on the 9500 - it cycles into "overload" electronically and goes offline.
It would probably run one of the DJ setups ok. However, the need to shut down to reset coupled with the underperforming output means it is getting replaced. As well, a good conventional generator will be clean enough to run PA gear the trade-off being a bit more noise. The noise difference is mechanical engine noise, mainly valve train clatter. The smaller Honda EB2800I inverter generator is an open frame type and having a "enclosed" type got me thinking. Yes the enclosed generators are going to be quieter. In the event of a malfunction access could be a problem. In the event of a fuel or oil leak or wiring/battery issue there could be problems as well that could result in an inferno that would be difficult to extinguish. As well, to diagnose and resolve potential startup problems an open frame type wins hands down
So, going to try a DuroMax XP12000E open frame conventional generator. For noise abatement on outdoor jobs, I take a steel cart that's 5'x30" with IO carpet on the bottom and lay it on it's side in front of the generator. I've decided to keep the small Honda EB2800I inverter generator as it's an open frame style and the two larger generators will be conventional open frame style.
When the DuroMax XP12000E arrives I'll do some testing and report results. Rated at 9500W continuous it should handle the tasks better with more margin or headroom.
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From my experience on the Honda and Yamaha generators they are expensive but last a long time
on all these harbor freight generac champion harbor freight a lot of these are using the exact same parts with different case pieces to make them
They look different but a lot of the parts on most of them are just Chinese clone Honda engines they're all about the same with different options on the panel and different look
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From my experience on the Honda and Yamaha generators they are expensive but last a long time
on all these harbor freight generac champion harbor freight a lot of these are using the exact same parts with different case pieces to make them
They look different but a lot of the parts on most of them are just Chinese clone Honda engines they're all about the same with different options on the panel and different look
Super happy with my Yamahas. The EF6300 even has an electric starter. Cheaper than the comparable honda and got better reviews.
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"Gears turning at bed time"? You are most welcome sir., always glad to help a brother out Yeah the price is pretty good and it's a decent rig. This type of gear fully qualifies as both GAS & TAS - Gear or Tool Acquisition Syndrome compatible.
One of the factors I looked at when selecting that model was the overall weight - it's a big boy - they had a floor model at a nearby Northern Tool store.
Do you think it's excessive that one would take his German Shepherd to the tool store shopping since he was a puppy and the staff all knew him - so when we walked in they automatically picked up a bag of beef jerky and hid it down random aisle's among the merchandise for him to search and locate, then consume?
Casey was really good at it.
We take our hounds to Home Depot and Coastl Farm & Ranch for socialization training. My other, better half is way into scent training. One hound is 1 leg away from Elite, the new little guy is just starting on Level 1.
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We take our hounds to Home Depot and Coastl Farm & Ranch for socialization training. My other, better half is way into scent training. One hound is 1 leg away from Elite, the new little guy is just starting on Level 1.
Yes indeed Socialization is most important especially when working with formidable dogs. Back "in the Day" the scent work I did was area searching for the bad guy - both air and ground scent. Casey was the first time I played with Article Detection Scent Work and it was lots of fun. Only used dog treats - hot dogs, jerky, milk bones, and such. Both at home and out in the places I took him in our travels, he would search - got pretty good at it - actually real good.
In the early days I considered a working dog more or less as a tool. It's much more than that, you gain access to their faculties - sight, hearing, scent, aggression - it's actually really awesome. Directed searching is very powerful where handler can direct where the dog searches as is directed aggression.