Portable generators.

[00tec]

A little different, but has anyone built their own? I can get a good sized generator head, and was thinking of putting on a steel yard cart with a small engine, belt (or chain) driven with an alternator on it as well. Would make a nice generator/jump starter. Water cooled would be even better.

[ChunkyMonkey]

Sparky should chime in on cost etc. I have been wanting to do this for awhile.

[Great-Kazoo]

A little different, but has anyone built their own? I can get a good sized generator head, and was thinking of putting on a steel yard cart with a small engine, belt (or chain) driven with an alternator on it as well. Would make a nice generator/jump starter. Water cooled would be even better.

There are a few places on line that do some interesting things. You can make a stick welder from a lawn mower, generator from a lawn edger etc.
Just depends on how involved and how mechanically inclined you are.

http://theepicenter.com/tow02077.html

http://ezinearticles.com/?Generator-...tor&id=4774983

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/528290..._solar_panels/


Regarding cheap vs, higher end. To me it means how much and the needs / use of an item you want to invest in. Having dealt with the Eu's this baby will surprise you between decibel output and performance, sure it is not cheap but that's your choice. I have a large 6500 unit that does most of the house less ac Due to size keeping a generator this size "quiet" is a lesson in mental masturbation. Can it be done, sure, but at what price money wise.
We've all tried to save a few dollars on projects and all said the same thing when completed. NEXT Time i'm just going to spend the money for one ready to go.
So decide if you want quiet and pay up front or mess around trying different kinds of sound proofing. It's your choice. me i don't care what it sounds like, as long as it works.