Advice on buying a used generator

[Oregonconversion]

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?

[wg4t50]

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

[Oregonconversion]

Why the BFA model over the others?

[wg4t50]

It is fairly simple, no solid state stuff, can retrofit solid state ignition and they run.
Dave M

[TomC]

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