Anyone have experience with Northstar generators?

[Beuford]

I've been looking for options to a 100ft 240v extension cord, and someone suggested a generator.

I've been ignoring the big-box store brands like Northstar (Norhtern Tool), but I was there today and looked one over and it really seemed to be a nice unit. It had a Honda GX270RT2 engine and a Mecc Alte generator - both we'll established companies in their fields. I expect maybe a Honda motor and some no-name generator, so I was surprised to find a nice UL, CSA, VDE approved generator from an ISO 9001 company. I really expected to find no-name parts!

Does anyone have any direct experience with a Northstar generator that they can share?

Thanks!

Beuford

[aevald]

Hello Beuford, I have a Northstar 2700 watt generator that I use for powering a Milwaukee 3/4" drill that I've equipped with a 4" earth auger. I install sign posts for my wife's realty business with it. It has been a "first pull start" unit from the get-go and I purchased it second hand. I would have no reservations about purchasing another one if this one ever gives out. Best regards, Allan

[Beuford]

Here is a pic of the one I was looking at, and identification stickers from the system, motor, and generator:

[WorldPowerLabs]

I have the 10,500-watt model (Item# 165606). It's a good generator -- as you mentioned, these use Honda engines and quality generator heads (claimed 5% THD or less, copper windings). Engine has an automatic electrical fuel shut-off solenoid, which I like since I sometimes forget to shut off the tank valve. Generator head runs cool under load.

I'd been looking at the Generac models, but to get one with guaranteed THD specs, you have to pay a big premium. My dislikes with the NS? 1.) no fuel gauge; have to look into tank and guess. 2.) wheel kit is $100 extra purchase. 3.) Battery not included (I used a lawn tractor battery, works fine). 4.) mechanical governor is a bit slow to respond to large, stepped load changes (never been an issue in practice; just mentioning)

[Oscar]

the reviews on Northern Tool seem indicate they're pretty good.

[Ypop]

How many Watts/Amps are you needing in the garage? Will this be a permanent arrangement?

[storeman]

I have a NS 5500 watt (Honda engine). Bought it in 99 following a huge ice storm that taught me an 11 day no-power lesson. It certainly has not been babied but has remained reliable (providing I use the fuel cut off and run it dry after each use).

I now also have a military diesel generator hard wired.

Jerry

[BYW200]

When I was looking for a generator, I looked at the North star generator but decided to try the black max 7000 generator from SAMS. It has a Honda engine, electric start with Aux pull start, a 240 volt 30 amp twist lock with 6 120 volt outlets . So far It has worked very good and will run my 200 amp Inverter welder without a hickup at max output. I payed $1000.00 3 years ago, and now has around 300 hrs on it. So far I have been very satisfied.

[storeman]

When I was looking for a generator, I looked at the North star generator but decided to try the black max 7000 generator from SAMS. It has a Honda engine, electric start with Aux pull start, a 240 volt 30 amp twist lock with 6 120 volt outlets . So far It has worked very good and will run my 200 amp Inverter welder without a hickup at max output. I payed $1000.00 3 years ago, and now has around 300 hrs on it. So far I have been very satisfied.

My son in Northern VA has the same generator, 3-4 years old. In prep for this latest storm, he started and ran it. Produced random sparks in the exhaust. Oil fine. Any suggestions?
Jerry

[BYW200]

The spark arrestor may need to be cleaned if it has excessive carbon build up. It should have screws on the exhaust outlet to remove the screen. Reminds me of the old Briggs and Stratton engines muffler that would glow red and shoot sparks out.

[Beuford]

I ended up buying a used Gillette PP-50HGS generator off of Craigslist. Gillette makes the generator head right here in the USA, and uses Honda GX engines for the power source.

This one is only rated at 5000W, but so far my Hobart 210MVP runs fine with it in 240V mode. However, I've limited myself to running at less than full power on the welder; if I had the settings all the way up I would probably pop the breaker on the generator. No inrush/surge issues noticed so far.

REALLY nice generator, though - originally part of a house backup power system that included a manual transfer switch. The owner was selling the house, and didn't want to remove the transfer switch. I bought the generator alone.

Beuford