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Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: Oregonconversion on November 28, 2013, 11:10:34 PM

Title: Advice on buying a used generator
Post by: Oregonconversion on November 28, 2013, 11:10:34 PM
Looking for a used generator. Looking for about 4000 watts. Needs to be electric start.

I have seen some older Onan generators on CL here in Portland from $300-$600 range

like:
pro 4000E
4.0 BFA
emerald
emerald plus
emerald iii

What are the best out of these models? Any ones to stay away from? Maybe another brand?


Title: Re: Advice on buying a used generator
Post by: wg4t50 on November 29, 2013, 03:37:09 AM
The BFA model would be my pick IF it was in working order, Many generator take outs are dead, so would have to see it run and make AC.
Cheers
Title: Re: Advice on buying a used generator
Post by: Oregonconversion on December 19, 2013, 08:38:15 AM
Why the BFA model over the others?
Title: Re: Advice on buying a used generator
Post by: wg4t50 on December 19, 2013, 10:59:10 AM
It is fairly simple, no solid state stuff, can retrofit solid state ignition and they run.
Dave M
Title: Re: Advice on buying a used generator
Post by: TomC on December 19, 2013, 11:01:37 AM
BFA is an old gen design with exciter cranking (no starter motor-the alternator is motorized to crank). I had an Emerald III on my truck-it was a 6.5 commercial with PTO shaft out the back that I powered my sleeper A/C with. I always had a load on it-mainly the block heater. Except for having to adjust the carb when in altitude, was a good genset. I had over 12,000hrs on it when it crapped out. I bought an identical unit to replace it. Good Luck, TomC