Champion 201052 4750/3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Introducing the Champion Power Equipment 201052 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator, a seamless blend of versatility and convenience.

Whether you require power for your home essentials or upcoming projects, Champion Power Equipment ensures that energizing your life is now more convenient than ever before.

Featuring a convenient electric start complete with a battery, coupled with Cold Start Technology for quick ignition in chilly conditions, this generator prioritizes ease of use.

Keep tabs on power output and maintenance intervals effortlessly with the Intelligauge, enabling you to monitor voltage, frequency, and runtime hours.

Equipped with a low oil shut-off sensor and complemented by 0.6 quarts of 10W-30 oil, this unit ensures reliable operation.

Operate the Dual-Fuel generator seamlessly on gasoline or propane straight out of the box, facilitated by our patented fuel select dial for safe fuel switching.

Running on gasoline, the robust 224cc Champion engine delivers 4750 starting watts and 3800 running watts, offering a commendable runtime of 14 hours at 50% load with a full 4.7-gallon fuel tank.

Alternatively, utilizing a 20-pound propane tank yields 4275 starting watts and 3420 running watts, sustaining operation for 10.5 hours at 50% load, complemented by a 6.5-foot propane hose with an integrated regulator.

Despite its power, this generator maintains a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet, slightly louder than a vacuum cleaner, ensuring it’s suitable for home backup during outages.

Additionally, the Volt Guard™ shields your generator from electrical voltage spikes for added safety.

Featuring protected outlets including a 120V 30A (TT-30R) RV outlet, a 120V 30A outlet (L5-30R), and two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), this generator caters to various power needs.

Champion’s user-friendly packaging and clear instructions streamline setup, while the foldaway U-shaped handle facilitates effortless storage. Transport is made convenient with the included wheel kit boasting never-flat tires.

Champion 201052 Specifications

Generator Assembly

Setting up the Champion generator is a straightforward process that begins with installing the wheels and base legs onto the body.

Given its weight of 209 pounds, it’s advisable to have assistance from a strong friend or two to move it off a truck bed or trailer.

Placing the generator on a set of blocks can aid in gaining ground clearance for leg and wheel installation. Thanks to the wheel kit’s hub and cotter pin system, attaching the legs is quick and easy, requiring only flange bolts and lock nuts.

The folding handle comes pre-assembled, and once the wheels are in place, maneuvering the generator becomes effortless. After positioning it on a level surface, the final steps involve:

1. Filling the oil reservoir with the provided oil to the appropriate level.
2. Adding high-grade, ethanol-free fuel to the gas tank.
3. Connecting the two battery cables.

Operating the Generator

With the generator fully assembled, lubricated, and fueled, the next step was to familiarize myself with the controls and conduct a test run for thirty minutes.

I aimed to gauge its sound and performance before subjecting it to any significant load, and also to allow for a brief motor break-in period.

To my surprise, operating the controls was incredibly straightforward, to the point where I felt I might be overlooking a step.

Consulting the manual confirmed that this unit was indeed designed for ease of use. Featuring a fuel type dial, I effortlessly switched it to gasoline, engaged the ignition, and the generator started up promptly.

The simplicity and smoothness of this initial startup left me thoroughly impressed.

After shutting down the engine, I proceeded to connect the propane line.

Once again, the process was seamless, with the generator igniting without any hesitation or complications when the dial was switched to propane mode.

Following the startup procedures, the final task was to connect a power supply.

This step, like the rest of the setup process, was intuitive, with the digital power readings providing clear and easily visible feedback throughout.

Generator Performance

Upon powering up, the Champion generator promptly initiated energy production. Beginning with simple tasks, I connected various tools and appliances to assess its performance.

Running an extension cord to a drill and circular saw, the generator operated smoothly without any discernible hesitation.

Subsequently, connecting a portable camping refrigerator revealed consistent power output without any surging issues.

Encouraged by these results, I proceeded to connect my travel trailer’s 30-amp cord to the 120/240 outlet.

Over the course of several hours, the generator seamlessly powered all appliances within the trailer, demonstrating its capacity to handle sustained loads effectively.

Transitioning from gas to propane, I conducted a 3-hour trial run on the travel trailer, during which the generator continued to power appliances without interruption.

While the load, comprising a fridge, space heater, and lights, was moderate, it provided the generator with a modest challenge.

Notably, the generator successfully managed this workload without tripping any breakers, showcasing its reliability under varying load conditions.

Furthermore, my tests involving tools, appliances, and the travel trailer indicated that fuel consumption was minimal.

Even after a 4-hour test run, only a quarter of the gas tank was depleted, suggesting that the manufacturer’s claimed 10-hour runtime is indeed feasible.

This fuel efficiency makes the generator well-suited for prolonged usage, such as full shifts on construction sites, without the need for frequent refills.

Is the Champion dual-fuel generator a worthwhile investment?

With an 8,500-watt capacity, a price tag just above $1,000 appears reasonable, considering there are numerous comparable models priced within $100 of the Champion.

What sets this generator apart is its dual-fuel capability. Unlike many others in its price range that solely rely on gasoline, the Champion offers the added benefit of a secondary propane fuel line.

Additionally, some competing models lack wheels or stabilizing legs, instead featuring a cumbersome tubing frame.

While such designs may be manageable with assistance, they pose challenges for solo users or situations requiring frequent relocation.

This mobility factor is often underestimated, particularly in scenarios involving off-grid power or extensive cord reach.

Having a generator equipped with wheels significantly enhances convenience, particularly for extended use and individual projects.

Upon completing tests on the Champion Power Equipment 8,500-watt dual-fuel model, its superior construction and efficient engine performance became evident.

For individuals requiring power for larger appliances or heavy-duty equipment, this generator proves its worth.

However, for those with lighter electrical needs, alternative options that are lighter and less expensive may be more suitable.

Is the Champion dual-fuel generator the right choice for you?

The decision to invest in a dual-fuel generator hinges on your specific power needs and usage scenarios.

The versatility of having multiple fuel options proves invaluable when faced with fluctuating fuel prices or limited availability of a particular fuel type.

Moreover, this flexibility ensures optimal performance in diverse weather conditions, with gasoline excelling in cold climates and propane offering superior efficiency in hot environments.

Tailored to meet the demands of users requiring robust and prolonged power supply, the Champion Power Equipment 8,500-watt generator stands out.

It caters to contractors seeking reliable power for operating tile saws, charging tool batteries, and connecting various equipment types.

Additionally, it serves as an excellent companion for off-grid cabins and campsites, providing the necessary boost to run appliances, charge extensive battery banks, or serve as a reliable emergency energy source.

For those in search of a top-tier generator boasting ample power and adaptability to different climates, the Champion dual-fuel machine emerges as an exceptional choice.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Champion generator impresses with its ease of assembly, user-friendly operation, and reliable performance. Its dual-fuel capability adds versatility, making it suitable for a range of applications.

Whether for contractors needing power on the job site or for off-grid use, this generator offers excellent value and reliability.