ahh found the site...well the issue is I have no where to put something that big. Not even a chance....so I am kind of back to the same issues.

http://kwicindustries.net/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=45&products_id=78

How about this unit looks good...I can fit that on my side yard....

Here is the link to Affordable Power,

http://stores.ebay.com/AFFORDABLE-POWER

Word of warning these are used generators that have not been rebuilt. Tested, serviced, and painted is what the website says.

And as rabagley suggests don't by a cheap gas generator. I would recommend a Yamaha or Honda, real Honda, not just a generator that has a honda motor on it. If you want to step up from there go for one of the engine driven welder/generators. The most well known being a Lincoln or Miller.

http://www.mylincolnelectric.com/Catalog/equipmentseries.asp?browse=101|400|

http://www.millerwelds.com/products/enginedriven/

If you know how to weld you could even make a little extra money with one of these. The welder generators have a higher resale value, and are also available in diesel.

If you want to see what generators in your area hold up the best go to a couple of tool rental companies and see what brands they rent, if it holds up to rental use and abuse it will last you a very long time. Tool rental companies are a spare parts source too, and if you have the same brand you will have greater options of where to get something when you really need it.

Any comments on that unit I linked to above?

I've seen those same gensets on craigslist in seattle for a whole lot cheaper. And for that price you could get a generac from costco with a transfer switch and have several hundred $$'s left over.

what is a generac? Is that a brand?

That chinese-built 1800rpm diesel generator actually looks pretty nice. They're about 90 minutes drive from me, so probably two hours for you. That means the opportunity to go down and take a long look before you buy.

Is this the guardian one you purchased?

Do you regret getting this versus a diesel?

Generac makes a number of generators including whole house generators which are usually propane or NG. Seem to be good quality and last a while. I left them out of my opinion just because i have not used one, take Izzy's advice on that.

As far as the china generators i don't know what to tell you, i have not used one, and i don't know anyone with one. If there is a place close enough that you can stop by for a visit and check it out, might be worth a trip.

So do you wish you would have gotten a diesel instead? Are you worried about a short lifespan with your gasoline version?

Do you have a link to the palce where you bought yours?